Summary: For a considerable amount of time, the Apple MacBook Air M1 has been one of the preferred MacBook models among users. The new MacBook Air M2 has undergone a significant redesign, featuring the latest M2 processor from Apple. The price for M1 and M2 Macs differs too. So let's find out whether the new device is worth it by comparing M1 vs. M2 Macbook Air.
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People who need a portable Apple laptop at a more reasonable price often choose the MacBook Air, which boasts a lightweight build that is significantly cheaper than the top-tier MacBook Pro models. The MacBook Air is often considered the ideal choice for individuals searching for a reliable and high-performing laptop for daily use.
Additionally, the 2020 version of the MacBook Air delivered exceptional performance thanks to its first-generation M1 system-on-chip. In 2022 Apple introduced a refreshed MacBook Air featuring the latest generation M2 chip. The M2 Macs claimed to be way better than its forerunner, so let’s review the differences and analyze whether M2 Mac is a more profitable choice.
Similarities of M1 and M2 Macs
Before proceeding to the advantages of the new M2 Mac, we will review the resemblances with the M1 version.
Although they have distinct designs, there are still numerous significant similarities between the two MacBook Air models:
- The first, and probably the most obvious, is Touch ID.
- Two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports.
- 13-inch Retina display with P3 True Tone is also the same.
- Considering the headphone jack, it’s 3.5mm for both models.
- Apple silicon chip with 8-core CPU.
- As to battery cycles, Apple provides up to 18 hours of battery life.
- Last but not least is that both M1 and M2 Macs are available in Silver and Space Gray colors.
Now, we’ll move on to Apple’s new features in M2 Macs versus M1 Macs.
M1 Mac vs M2 Mac Differences
I. Design
The most prominent contrast between the two MacBook Air models is their designs. The latest model features a new design with a bigger display and fresh color options. The design of the M1 MacBook Air follows the previous models’ tapered, wedge-shaped form. With a uniform thickness and a flat top with rounded edges at the bottom, the M2 model mimics the design of the newest 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro models.
The M2 MacBook boasts a slimmer and lighter design than its predecessor, the M1 MacBook. With the reintroduction of MagSafe to the MacBook Air, the comparison between it and the M2 becomes much clearer. The 3.5mm headphone jack enhancement has resulted in better compatibility with high-impedance headphones.
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II. Display
The display size significantly differentiates between the MacBook M1 and M2. The M2 model features a 13.6-inch screen, which is bigger than the 13.3-inch display of the M1 variant.
In contrast to the Retina display on the MacBook M1, the MacBook M2 incorporates a Liquid Retina display that distinguishes itself with superior contrast ratios, expanded color gamut support, and a higher pixel density.
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The MacBook M2 features a 1080p FaceTime camera, a significant improvement over the 720p camera on the MacBook M1. The higher-resolution camera will offer better video call quality.
A notable design distinction is the inclusion of a full-height function key row and a revised Touch ID scanner design in the M2 MacBook Air, contrasting with the half-height row and previous scanner of the M1 model.
III. Dimensions and Weight
Both laptops have the same width, allowing a full-size keyboard to be included. The M2 model has a slightly greater depth to accommodate a larger screen; on average, it is narrower than its predecessor. However, it lacks the tapered edges, resulting in a less slim appearance.
Despite enabling the development of a lightweight laptop, the tapered design also had drawbacks, such as reducing the external port space and limiting the device’s heat dissipation capacity. Despite the distinct designs, neither model incorporates fans, potentially posing a disadvantage for users requiring high computing performance.
Although the M2 MacBook Air’s portability remains largely unchanged, its reduced weight and volume will likely be appreciated by users who frequently carry around their device.
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IV. Performance
The MacBook M1 remains dependable for everyday use and will suffice for numerous individuals. At the same time, the MacBook M2 offers faster performance than the MacBook M1.
- The M2’s most remarkable performance improvement compared to the M1 can be attributed to the upgraded media engine. According to Apple, this results in a significant acceleration of video workflows on the newest MacBook Air, enabling users to play back an increased number of 4K and 8K video streams and convert video projects to ProRes much faster than before.
- The MacBook M2 processor includes two additional GPU cores compared to the M1 chip, transitioning from an 8-core CPU to a 10-core GPU. The M2 chip can utilize up to 24GB of unified memory. As a result, the new chip enables Macs to consume a smaller amount of power and execute more tasks.
- The heat spreader on M2 Mac vs. M1 Mac is significantly reduced in size. While both laptops lack an effective cooling fan, the MacBook M1 has a considerably larger metal heatsink.
- Even though the MacBook M1 and M2 have the identical initial memory configuration of 8GB Unified Memory, their performance varies. The amount of memory has the most significant impact. The maximum memory capacity for the MacBook Air M2 is 24GB, while the MacBook Air M1 can only support up to 16 GB.
V. Prices
Let’s look into prices: the initial M1 MacBook Air, which is priced at $999/£999 and features a 7-core GPU, and the new M2 MacBook Air, which is priced at $1,199/£1,249. The MacBook M2 is an excellent deal, costing just $200 more compared to the MacBook M1. You’ll get a larger screen, a new processor with an extra 2 GPU cores, and a completely new design.
If you have a budget of under $1,000, the MacBook M1 is the top choice.
While MacBooks are generally not considered affordable, the M1 is the optimal choice for those seeking an entry-level model.
Wrapping Up
Sure, M1 and M2 Macs have a lot in common; nevertheless, Apple implemented many new features. M2 has a more modern design of uniform thickness, reduced volume and weight, a larger display with slimmer borders, and a full-height function row bound to create a sleeker, more contemporary aesthetic. In addition, several practical enhancements significantly enhance the user experience, including the MagSafe port, fast charging, brighter display, 1080p FaceTime HD camera, and four-speaker sound system.
The M2 MacBook Air is undoubtedly a more valuable option than its predecessor. Nevertheless, the M2 MacBook Air is worth the additional cost compared to its predecessor, mainly if you use it frequently or for professional purposes such as photo or video editing.
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