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URLhttps://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/why-the-m1-macbook-air-is-still-a-great-buy/
Last Crawled2026-01-29 07:53:03 (2 months ago)
First Indexed2021-09-25 13:14:46 (4 years ago)
HTTP Status Code200
Meta TitleWhy the M1 MacBook Air is still an excellent buy today - Digital Trends
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The M1 MacBook Air is almost a year old. Before it launched in 2020, we all eagerly anticipated just how the new M1 Apple Silicon would transform the humble MacBook Air into a fairly powerful laptop. As we discovered, its transformation was rather magical. Recommended Videos You know what’s even more magical? Today, nearly a full year later, the M1 MacBook Air remains a fantastic purchase, and it will stay that way throughout the rest of 2021. The M1 still reigns Mark Coppock/Digital Trends / Digital Trends The M1 was Apple’s first attempt at its own custom ARM chip for Macs, and it was an overwhelming success. But the devices themselves, weren’t anything new. The MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and Mac mini all got the same M1 chip, but that doesn’t mean the jump in performance was equivalent. The MacBook Air was had featured an underpowered, 15-watt Intel chip. It wasn’t fanless, and it had a hard time keeping up with anything beyond basic computing. A Zoom call would make the fans spin up and the surface temperatures rise, and ultimately, the MacBook Air just didn’t have the performance to be worth the $999 price. The M1 changed all that. The MacBook Air finally had the performance it needed to make spending $999 on it feel like a steal. Compared to Windows laptops of the same price, the MacBook Air flies. You can play games like Fortnite on it with absolutely zero fan noise. The same goes for video calls. All of a sudden, the MacBook Air became the go-to college laptop again. Compared to the MacBook Air, the MacBook Pro , was now the one that felt underpowered. It’s every bit as powerful — and the graphics performance are slightly better — but the $300 price difference didn’t feel justified. It left the MacBook Air as the most impressive M1 device at launch, and made sure that it had legs to last all the way through 2021. Its sequel is a ways out Image credit: Jon Prosser Image used with permission by copyright holder We recently wrote about why you shouldn’t buy the MacBook Pro right now . Both the 14-inch and 16-inch models are about to get a significant redesign, as well as huge performance bump thanks to the rumored M1X chip . Buying the 13-inch MacBook Pro now would leave you regretting your purchase in just a few months. The MacBook Air, on the other hand, is in a completely different position. There is, undoubtedly, a new MacBook Air in the works. Leaks from earlier this year point to a redesign that will change the keyboard and bezels to white to match the 24-inch iMac , as well as offer new chassis colors. Even if this rumor turned out to be true, from what we can tell, it won’t come out until well into 2022. And even then, I could see Apple offering the old M1 configuration as a cheaper option. So, if you’re considering the M1 MacBook Air right now or even sometime in the next few months, you can be sure it’s a safe purchase that will make you happy for many years to come.
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[Home](https://www.digitaltrends.com/) 2. [Computing](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/) 3. [s](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/) # Why the M1 MacBook Air is still an excellent buy today By [Luke Larsen](https://www.digitaltrends.com/users/llarsen/) Published April 21, 2022 [![Add as a preferred source on Google](https://www.digitaltrends.com/content/themes/dt-stardust/assets/images/google_preferred_source.webp)](https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=https://www.digitaltrends.com "Add as a preferred source on Google") Save The [M1 MacBook Air](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/apple-macbook-air-m1-review/) is almost a year old. Before it launched in 2020, we all eagerly anticipated just how the new M1 Apple Silicon would transform the humble MacBook Air into a fairly powerful laptop. As we discovered, its transformation was rather magical. Recommended Videos You know what’s even more magical? Today, nearly a full year later, the M1 MacBook Air remains a fantastic purchase, and it will stay that way throughout the rest of 2021. ## The M1 still reigns ![Macbook Air M1](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7) Mark Coppock/Digital Trends / Digital Trends The M1 was Apple’s first attempt at its own custom ARM chip for Macs, and it was an overwhelming success. But the devices themselves, weren’t anything new. The MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and Mac mini all got the same M1 chip, but that doesn’t mean the jump in performance was equivalent. The MacBook Air was had featured an underpowered, 15-watt Intel chip. It wasn’t fanless, and it had a hard time keeping up with anything beyond basic computing. A Zoom call would make the fans spin up and the surface temperatures rise, and ultimately, the MacBook Air just didn’t have the performance to be worth the \$999 price. The M1 changed all that. The MacBook Air finally had the performance it needed to make spending \$999 on it feel like a steal. Compared to Windows laptops of the same price, the MacBook Air flies. You can play games like *Fortnite* on it with absolutely zero fan noise. The same goes for video calls. All of a sudden, the MacBook Air became the [go-to college laptop](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/best-laptops-for-college/) again. [Compared to the MacBook Air, the MacBook Pro](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/macbook-pro-13-inch-vs-macbook-air-13-inch/), was now the one that felt underpowered. It’s every bit as powerful — and the graphics performance are slightly better — but the \$300 price difference didn’t feel justified. It left the MacBook Air as the most impressive M1 device at launch, and made sure that it had legs to last all the way through 2021. ## Its sequel is a ways out ![](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7) Image credit: Jon Prosser Image used with permission by copyright holder We recently wrote about [why you shouldn’t buy the MacBook Pro right now](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/dont-buy-a-macbook-pro-right-now/). Both the 14-inch and 16-inch models are about to get a significant redesign, as well as huge performance bump thanks to the [rumored M1X chip](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/macbook-pro-2021-rumors-news-price-release-date/). Buying the [13-inch MacBook Pro](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/apple-macbook-pro-13-m1-review/) now would leave you regretting your purchase in just a few months. The MacBook Air, on the other hand, is in a completely different position. There is, undoubtedly, a [new MacBook Air](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/apple-is-redesigning-its-high-end-macbook-air/) in the works. Leaks from earlier this year point to a redesign that will change the keyboard and bezels to white to match the [24-inch iMac](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/apple-imac-24-inch-m1-review/), as well as offer new chassis colors. Even if this rumor turned out to be true, from what we can tell, it won’t come out until well into 2022. And even then, I could see Apple offering the old M1 configuration as a cheaper option. So, if you’re considering the M1 MacBook Air right now or even sometime in the next few months, you can be sure it’s a safe purchase that will make you happy for many years to come. ![Luke Larsen](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7) [Luke Larsen](https://www.digitaltrends.com/users/llarsen/) Former Senior Editor, Computing [linkedin](https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-larsen-a0a40251) [twitter](https://twitter.com/lalarsen11) Luke Larsen is the Senior Editor of Computing, managing all content covering laptops, monitors, PC hardware, Macs, and more. Topics - [Apple](https://www.digitaltrends.com/topic/apple/) - [Laptops](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/laptops/) - [Mac](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/mac/) - [Computing](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/) The viral Clawdbot AI agent can do a lot for you, but security experts warn of risks How an AI assistant built for automation can become an attacker’s shortcut ![clawdbot-moltbot-security-risks](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7) Clawdbot, the AI agent that took the tech world by surprise, became one of the fastest-climbing projects on GitHub because it promised something unusual. Instead of just chatting, Clawdbot can interact with your files, send messages, schedule calendar events, and automate tasks on your own computer, all without sending your data off to a big server. [Read more](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/the-clawdbot-ai-agent-can-do-a-lot-for-you-but-security-experts-warn-of-risks/) - [Computing](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/) This mini PC deal is a clean way to upgrade your desk without buying a full tower A 10-core Intel-powered mini PC drops to \$459.99, and it’s built for real multitasking ![KAMRUI Hyper H2 mini PC deal](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7) If your current computer is starting to feel sluggish, you don’t necessarily need a bulky desktop to fix it. A good mini PC can give you that “everything feels faster” jump while staying quiet, compact, and easy to tuck behind a monitor. The KAMRUI Hyper H2 is on sale for \$459.99, down from \$769.00, a 40% discount. For the specs you’re getting, this is the kind of deal that makes a lot of sense for home offices, student setups, and anyone who wants a capable daily driver without the footprint. get the deal [Read more](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/mini-pc-deal/) - [Computing](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/) MSI’s sleek Prestige laptops finally hit the shelf with Intel Panther Lake chips With Panther Lake performance, OLED touchscreens, and ultra-light designs, MSI's new Prestige laptops target professionals seeking premium productivity without compromising portability or battery life. ![MSi Prestige 14-inch flip screen laptop.](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7) MSI's new Prestige series with Intel Panther Lake chips is now available in the United States. The company first showcased these laptops at the Consumer Electronics Show 2026. The lineup consists of premium business and productivity laptops designed for professionals. On the display front, MSI's latest laptops feature OLED screens with up to a 120Hz refresh rate (with VRR support) and DisplayHDR True Black 1000 certification. Both the 14-inch and 16-inch variants feature flip-style touchscreens and support the MSI Precision Pen stylus. [Read more](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/msis-sleek-prestige-laptops-finally-hit-the-shelf-with-intel-panther-lake-chips/) ![Branding Logo](https://www.digitaltrends.com/uploads/2025/11/Digital-Trends-Newsletter-Module-Update.jpg) **Upgrade your inbox: sign-up for our newsletters** Check your inbox\! 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Readable Markdown
The [M1 MacBook Air](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/apple-macbook-air-m1-review/) is almost a year old. Before it launched in 2020, we all eagerly anticipated just how the new M1 Apple Silicon would transform the humble MacBook Air into a fairly powerful laptop. As we discovered, its transformation was rather magical. Recommended Videos You know what’s even more magical? Today, nearly a full year later, the M1 MacBook Air remains a fantastic purchase, and it will stay that way throughout the rest of 2021. ## The M1 still reigns ![Macbook Air M1](https://www.digitaltrends.com/tachyon/2020/12/macbook-air-m1-8-scaled.jpg?resize=720%2C720) Mark Coppock/Digital Trends / Digital Trends The M1 was Apple’s first attempt at its own custom ARM chip for Macs, and it was an overwhelming success. But the devices themselves, weren’t anything new. The MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and Mac mini all got the same M1 chip, but that doesn’t mean the jump in performance was equivalent. The MacBook Air was had featured an underpowered, 15-watt Intel chip. It wasn’t fanless, and it had a hard time keeping up with anything beyond basic computing. A Zoom call would make the fans spin up and the surface temperatures rise, and ultimately, the MacBook Air just didn’t have the performance to be worth the \$999 price. The M1 changed all that. The MacBook Air finally had the performance it needed to make spending \$999 on it feel like a steal. Compared to Windows laptops of the same price, the MacBook Air flies. You can play games like *Fortnite* on it with absolutely zero fan noise. The same goes for video calls. All of a sudden, the MacBook Air became the [go-to college laptop](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/best-laptops-for-college/) again. [Compared to the MacBook Air, the MacBook Pro](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/macbook-pro-13-inch-vs-macbook-air-13-inch/), was now the one that felt underpowered. It’s every bit as powerful — and the graphics performance are slightly better — but the \$300 price difference didn’t feel justified. It left the MacBook Air as the most impressive M1 device at launch, and made sure that it had legs to last all the way through 2021. ## Its sequel is a ways out ![](https://www.digitaltrends.com/tachyon/2021/05/macbook-air-keyboard-leak-jon-prosser.jpg?resize=720%2C720) Image credit: Jon Prosser Image used with permission by copyright holder We recently wrote about [why you shouldn’t buy the MacBook Pro right now](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/dont-buy-a-macbook-pro-right-now/). Both the 14-inch and 16-inch models are about to get a significant redesign, as well as huge performance bump thanks to the [rumored M1X chip](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/macbook-pro-2021-rumors-news-price-release-date/). Buying the [13-inch MacBook Pro](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/apple-macbook-pro-13-m1-review/) now would leave you regretting your purchase in just a few months. The MacBook Air, on the other hand, is in a completely different position. There is, undoubtedly, a [new MacBook Air](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/apple-is-redesigning-its-high-end-macbook-air/) in the works. Leaks from earlier this year point to a redesign that will change the keyboard and bezels to white to match the [24-inch iMac](https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/apple-imac-24-inch-m1-review/), as well as offer new chassis colors. Even if this rumor turned out to be true, from what we can tell, it won’t come out until well into 2022. And even then, I could see Apple offering the old M1 configuration as a cheaper option. So, if you’re considering the M1 MacBook Air right now or even sometime in the next few months, you can be sure it’s a safe purchase that will make you happy for many years to come.
Shard94 (laksa)
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