On paper, the M4 MacBook Air might look like a pretty standard iterative update. But diving into the details, it stands out as one of Apple’s easiest products to recommend, and two new changes specifically may offer the best reason yet for MacBook Pro users to switch to the Air.
#1: Proper dual-screen external display support
For years, Apple has pushed laptop shoppers to the MacBook Pro over the Air with one very important feature: external display support.
With the M1 and M2 MacBook Air, Apple only let you connect to a single display.
This meant if you preferred a two-monitor setup, you had to splurge for a MacBook Pro.
Things got slightly better with the M3 MacBook Air, which let you drive two external displays—but with the requirement that the Air’s lid be closed.
In other words, you were still limited to two displays total, and lost the Air’s built-in keyboard and trackpad.
Finally though, with the M4 MacBook Air, you can drive two external displays and keep the Air’s lid open.
No need to buy extra accessories so the lid can stay closed: you can simply use your MacBook Air as usual, including its built-in display, plus run two external monitors.
The feature that formerly pushed users to the MacBook Pro is now available on the Air.
#2: Growing price gap
At the same time as Apple removed a key reason some users were opting for the MacBook Pro—its external display advantages—the company made the Air’s price more compelling too.
The M4 MacBook Air dropped to a $999 starting price (and is currently only $849 on Amazon), while the M4 MacBook Pro’s price remains $1,599.
Certain users actually need the extra power provided by the MacBook Pro.
But for those who are on the fence, this growing price gap between devices is a great reason to try out the Air.
Will the gap decrease over time? Unlikely.
Looking at the iPad line, the M4 iPad Pro got significantly more expensive last year, and Air sales have benefited. With big MacBook Pro changes on the horizon, the Mac could follow that same trend.
M4 MacBook Air over MacBook Pro: wrap-up
There are all kinds of reasons the M4 MacBook Air is easy to recommend to just about anyone. Simply put, it’s one of Apple’s best all-around products when considering features, compromises, and price point.
If you truly need a MacBook Pro, you probably know exactly why the M4 MacBook Air won’t be good enough for you.
But if you own a MacBook Pro and you’re not quite sure whether the extra power or ports are actually necessary, Apple’s M4 MacBook Air could be a compelling alternative.
Have you switched from a MacBook Pro to MacBook Air? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments.
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