MacBook Air (M4, Early 2025) Review

Apple consistently updates the MacBook Air with a new System on a Chip (SoC) each year, and the 2025 model is no exception. The new MacBook Air 15, equipped with the M4 chip, continues to be the go-to laptop for professionals seeking a sleek, portable device with exceptional battery life and a stunning display. While it may not be optimized for PC gaming, the MacBook Air remains the ideal choice for those needing a reliable laptop for everyday tasks and office work.

The MacBook Air's design continues to epitomize what many envision when thinking of a laptop. Its lightweight and thin profile, weighing only 3.3 pounds, is achieved through a robust unibody aluminum chassis that's less than half an inch thick. This design not only enhances portability but also maintains a clean aesthetic, with speakers cleverly integrated into the hinge to enhance sound quality and utilize the lid as a natural amplifier. The fanless design, enabled by the M4 chip, contributes to a seamless and sleek look, free from vents or grills.

The keyboard remains a standout feature, offering deep travel and a reliable Touch ID sensor for quick and secure access. The expansive touchpad provides excellent palm rejection, ensuring smooth navigation. However, the port selection could be more comprehensive, with only two USB-C ports and a MagSafe connector on one side, and a headphone jack on the other.

The 15.3-inch display of the MacBook Air delivers vibrant colors and brightness, covering 99% of the DCI-P3 color gamut and 100% of sRGB. While it may not match the OLED displays of some competitors, it's more than sufficient for everyday use and entertainment, making it perfect for streaming shows or casual viewing.

Performance-wise, the MacBook Air isn't designed for heavy gaming, as evidenced by its struggles with games like Total War: Warhammer 3 and Assassin's Creed Shadows at 1080p. However, it excels as a productivity machine. With 32GB of RAM, it handles multitasking effortlessly, making it ideal for office work, browsing, and light photo editing. Its ability to manage day-to-day tasks without breaking a sweat is a testament to its efficiency.

Battery life is another strong point, with the MacBook Air exceeding Apple's claims of 18 hours of video streaming. In our tests, it lasted over 19 hours, making it perfect for long flights or extended work sessions without needing a recharge. This makes the MacBook Air an excellent choice for travelers who value portability and long-lasting power.

Purchasing Guide

The MacBook Air (M4, Early 2025) is available now, with the 13-inch model starting at $999 and the 15-inch model at $1,199. For those looking to enhance their system, options are available to upgrade to 32GB of RAM and a 2TB SSD for $2,399, catering to users who need more power and storage.

MacBook Air (M4, 2025) – Photos

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