Are you looking to buy a Macbook but can't make sense (understandably) of the various models and processors?
We are here to help!

What is the difference between Macbook Air & Macbook Pro?

• The Air models are designed for lighter use, as their limited size does not allow for as effective cooling, which means some tasks can push them to their limits. However, depending on the model, as we will see later, you will discover that they can handle really demanding use
• The Pro models have a much brighter/more intense screen, making them excellent for prolonged use where image quality is significantly important, such as professional video editing
• The Pro models offer more connectivity options such as additional USB ports, HDMI, and SD Card slots
• Finally, the Pro models have greater autonomy, as their larger size can support a bigger battery

What is the difference between the M1, M2, M3, M4 processors?

In 2020, Apple introduced the Apple M1 processor, replacing the Intel processors it had been using since 2006.

The result? A technological revolution! The performance of this processor far exceeded all previous ones, and now the M series is the new standard in Macbooks.

Today, we have reached the M4, which, like the M1, is divided into 3 versions depending on its power.

• M4
• M4 Pro
• M4 Max

The table below summarizes their differences

Does this mean I have to rush to get the M4 Max because it's the best?

No! The M series processors are very powerful, resulting in even the M1 being used by many YouTubers for editing their videos.

The truth is that you will need to do something very demanding like fast processing of gigantic AI models and real-time rendering of 3D graphics to be able to take advantage of all the benefits of the M4 Pro or Max.

For 90% of users, the simple M4 will be more than satisfactory!

What is the role of RAM and how much do I need?

RAM is temporary memory and works cooperatively with the processor. The more RAM you have, the more tasks your laptop can handle simultaneously and with greater speed.

The table below summarizes the RAM you need for most tasks

Before we continue, it's worth mentioning that obviously, you can do video editing with 16GB without any problem. The above values are indicative to ensure that everything will run quickly and smoothly, especially if this is your main activity with the laptop.

A professional, for example, who literally works all day with 3D graphics and time is money, might even prefer 128GB for maximum speed and productivity.

What should I finally get?

Let's summarize the best suggestions based on your usage

Browsing / Simple everyday use

If you want something to pass the time with and connect with your other Apple devices, the all-time classic and still powerful Apple Macbook Air M1 will leave you completely satisfied.

Multitasking / Use at school or the office

If you want something powerful enough to run many programs but also lightweight to always have with you, then the new Apple MacBook Air 13.6" M4 will meet all your needs, as unlike all previous entry models, it features 16GB RAM which is sufficient for 99% of cases in combination with the brand new M4 processor.

Photo editing / Amateur video editing

For this use, we would prefer the Apple MacBook Pro 14" M4 series, since we can take advantage of its superior display, the 24GB RAM, as well as the 1TB of storage, to get our work done easily and quickly!

Motion graphics & 3D rendering

For those of you who want it all while looking for a professional tool, the Apple MacBook Pro 16" M4 Max won’t get stuck anywhere, completing every task quickly and comfortably, thanks to its 14-core(!!!) processor and 36GB RAM. Finally, it features a 16" display for comfortable long hours of viewing.

Discover also:

• The best laptops for gaming
• The best laptops for students
• The best laptops for graphic designers & architects
• The new MacBook Pro M5