Apple 2024 MacBook review
There comes a moment when a computer transitions from being a valuable tool to a hindrance to your productivity. This is exactly where I find myself with my Intel-powered 16-inch MacBook Pro, which I rely on for work. Evaluating the new MacBook Airs equipped with Apple’s M3 chips has only highlighted the performance limitations of my current machine. Apple has a valid reason for comparing the M3’s advancements to the older M1 and Intel-based MacBook Airs: the users of these older models have the most to gain from an upgrade.
The M3 silicon does bring improvements over the M2, albeit with modest overall performance gains. However, graphics performance sees a significant enhancement, akin to the upgrades seen in the 14- and 16-inch M3 MacBook Pro models reviewed last year. The entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro is equipped with the same M3 chip that now comes standard in the updated 15-inch MacBook Air and serves as an upgrade for the 13-inch version. While those seeking substantial power boosts might prefer the M3 Pro or Max chips, the regular M3 is a great match for the Air’s highly portable design, and it far outperformed my Intel MacBook Pro.
The remainder of the M3 MacBook Air impresses just as much and remains largely consistent with the M2 versions. This continuity makes it an attractive upgrade option for users still using M1 or older models.
