M4 MacBook Air review: Apple’s entry-level laptop gets a power-packed upgrade at a student-friendly price

Apple has introduced a new iteration of the MacBook Air, now featuring the M4 chip. This model is positioned as a portable laptop and includes updates to its internal components, such as a powerful new chip and an increase in base memory. This popular device also now comes at a lower price point, making it more accessible than ever before. But, is it a true bang for your buck?

Pro-level Performance

The M4 chip represents the central upgrade in this MacBook Air model. Based on Apple's silicon architecture, the M4 is designed to deliver improved processing and graphical performance. Standard computing tasks, such as web browsing, document creation, and media consumption, are handled efficiently. But, what’s fascinating is that the chip also demonstrates capability in more demanding workflows.

A notable characteristic of the M4 MacBook Air is its fanless thermal design. This configuration allows the device to operate silently under various load conditions, which means a less intrusive user experience in quiet environments. The absence of active cooling is a factor in the laptop's thin and lightweight form factor, enhancing its portability.

The M4 chip includes an updated 16-core Neural Engine, meant to accelerate machine learning and processing for AI-related tasks directly on the device.

The increase in base memory configuration is a practical move, giving users the additional capacity for multitasking and potentially improving performance in memory-intensive applications.

The performance of the M4 chip, given the thermal constraints of a fanless design, are noteworthy. The capacity to handle tasks such as video editing, typically associated with more powerful, actively-cooled machines, indicates the performance advancements of the M4 silicon for a product positioned at the base level of the MacBook lineup.

Light but Powerful

The design of the MacBook Air maintains its established aesthetic, which is characterised by a slim and portable chassis. Subtle design refinements can be spotted this time around. A new "Sky Blue" colour option has been introduced, which means no more “space grey” MacBook Airs.

While the M4 MacBook Air offers significant improvements, here are a few things that must be also be mindful of before purchasing this laptop:

• Performance Under Sustained Load: Due to the fan-less design, the M4 chip's performance may be subject to thermal throttling during prolonged periods of maximum computational load to manage internal temperatures. While performance remains high for typical tasks and burst workloads, sustained demanding operations may see reduced performance compared to actively cooled systems.

• Base Storage Capacity: The standard storage configuration may be 256GB. Depending on user requirements for software installations, media storage, and data files, this capacity may mean one needs to rely on external storage or invest in a higher-capacity internal SSD.

That said, it’s important not to get carried away with the M4’s overperformance and to bear in mind that it is still an entry level machine which can surprisingly carry out high end tasks like graphic and video editing. For even more complex tasks, there is always the MacBook Pro.

A key aspect of the M4 MacBook Air's value proposition in the Indian market is its durability and projected longevity. Apple products are generally recognized for their robust build quality, which contributes to the device's ability to withstand regular use and maintain its condition over time. The integration of macOS with Apple Silicon is designed for optimized performance and a longer period of consistent software support compared to many Windows-based systems. This potential for extended operational life and sustained performance can contribute to a competitive total cost of ownership over several years, despite the slightly higher initial purchase price. Although, this year the M4 MacBook Air is officially available for Rs, 89,900 for students and with other discounts and cashbacks one could even get a good deal for under Rs 80,000.

Compared to numerous Windows laptops available in the Indian market at a similar price point, the M4 MacBook Air distinguishes itself through its integrated hardware-software ecosystem, build quality, silent operation, battery efficiency, and the expectation of long-term performance and software updates.

The verdict

The M4 MacBook Air represents an advancement in Apple's MacBook lineup. The integration of the M4 chip, the enhanced Neural Engine, increased base memory, lightweight form factor and the fanless design contribute to a capable and efficient portable computer suitable for a broad range of everyday tasks and even some more demanding applications. In the Indian market, the initial investment is a significant factor. However, the device's reputation for durability, longevity, and consistent performance over an extended period presents a compelling argument for its long-term value when compared to many competing Windows laptops available at a comparable price. Ultimately, the M4 MacBook Air delivers performance that is likely far more power than most users need for everyday tasks, making it a remarkably capable and valuable PC.