Macbook: MacBook Air or MacBook Pro: Which one should you buy?

In the ever-evolving landscape of laptops, Apple has once again raised the bar with the new MacBook Pro, powered by the M3 processors. Having said that, the MacBook Air lineup also boasts formidable options. There might be a lot of buyers who would be wondering which one would suit their needs — a MacBook Pro or a MacBook Air? Here we look at all Apple has to offer when it comes to MacBook Pro and MacBook Air and give reasons to buy or not to buy.

MacBook Air (2023):

What models are available?

There are three options available for MacBook Air buyers. The 13-inch MacBook Air (with M1 processor), the 13-inch MacBook Air (M2 processor) and the 15-inch MacBook Air (M2 processor). The 13-inch M1 MacBook Air starts at Rs 99,900, the 13-inch M2 MacBook Air starts at Rs 1,14,900 whereas the 15-inch variant starts at Rs 1,34,900.

Why you should buy the MacBook Air

Because it is ultralight and ultra-portable:

The MacBook Air continues its legacy of being incredibly light and thin, making it the right choice for users who prioritise portability. It has a sleek design, the weight varies from 1.24 kg to 1.51 kg (depending on the variant) and ensures easy mobility without compromising on performance.

Power-packed performance:

The MacBook Air is equipped with Apple’s latest M2 chip, delivering a silent yet powerful performance. The M2 chip ensures faster processing speeds, improved graphics, and enhanced energy efficiency, contributing to a seamless user experience. Even the M1 MacBook Air has all that most ‘routine’ buyers want from a laptop.

Long-lasting battery life:

The MacBook Air is renowned for its remarkable battery life, and the 2023 model is no exception. With optimisations in both hardware and software, users can expect all-day productivity on a single charge, making it a great choice for those constantly on the move.

Why you should not buy the MacBook Air

While the MacBook Air excels in many areas, its integrated graphics may not meet the demands of users engaged in graphic-intensive tasks such as video editing or 3D rendering. The MacBook Pro, with dedicated graphics options, might be a better fit for such users.

The MacBook Air tends to prioritise its slim design over an abundance of ports. With only a couple of USB-C ports and a headphone jack, users may find themselves in need of dongles or adapters for connecting multiple peripherals simultaneously.

MacBook Pro (2023):

Like the MacBook Air, the MacBook Pro is also available in many configurations. The MacBook Pro is available in 14-inch and 16-inch variants and all are powered by the M3 series of processors. The 14-inch MacBook Pro (M3) starts at Rs 1,69,900. The 14-inch MacBook Pro (M3 Pro or M3 Max) starts at Rs 1,99,900. The 16-inch MacBook Pro (M3 Pro or M3 Max) starts at Rs 2,49,900.

Why you should buy the MacBook Pro

Pro-Grade performance:

The MacBook Pro caters to professionals and power users with its more robust hardware configuration. The inclusion of the M3 Pro or M3 Max chip, depending on the variant, ensures superior processing power, making it suitable for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D modeling, and software development.

Enhanced graphics capabilities:

One of the significant advantages of the MacBook Pro over the Air is its dedicated graphics options. The M2 Pro and M2 Max chips come with powerful GPUs, providing a substantial boost in graphics performance for creative professionals and gamers.

More ports and connectivity

The MacBook Pro boasts a more versatile port selection, including Thunderbolt ports for high-speed data transfer and external display support. Additionally, the return of MagSafe charging offers a convenient and secure way to power up the laptop.

Why you should not buy the MacBook Pro Reasons Not to Buy

Heavier and thicker:

While the MacBook Pro’s larger size contributes to its enhanced performance, it comes at the cost of increased weight and thickness. Users prioritising ultimate portability might find the MacBook Air more appealing.

It costs more:

The enhanced features of the MacBook Pro come with a higher price tag. For users with less demanding computing needs or those on a budget, the MacBook Air provides a more cost-effective option without compromising too much on performance.
Ultimately, the choice between the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro boils down to individual preferences and use cases. The MacBook Air excels in portability and everyday computing, while the MacBook Pro is tailored for professionals and power users who demand top-tier performance. Both are excellent machines that are designed to last long and give impressive performance.