Apple Macbook Air M3 Review : MacBook Air M3 is Latest model of Apple launched in year 2024 which has an optimal speed and 3.5X Faster performance due to its Apple’s latest M3 chip installed. Today in our in-depth Apple Macbook Air M3 Review we will cover Full Specs and Features of this Laptop and also define Pros and Cons with its Premium Price.
Apple Macbook Air M3 2024 has a 8-core CPU speed and 10-core GPU speed to test and Apple’s is claiming that it has 20% faster processing speed and 30% faster graphics speed as compared to the Macbook Air M2 with a long backup of battery all day.
After two weeks of using the MacBook Air M3 for everything from video editing to web browsing, we came away impressed. The efficient and cool-running Arm-based M3 chip never throttles, easily outpacing Intel U series chips. New upgrades like the 500 nit Liquid Retina bring visual polish.
While the iconic super slim aluminum chassis remains unchanged, the MacBook Air M3 feels snappier than ever thanks to massive leaps in Apple silicon real-world speed. Read our detailed review for full specs, design details and configuration prices.
Apple MacBook Air M3 Review and Spec Overview
Introduction
MacBook Air is Apple’s sleek design laptops which are ultra thin and also light weight that are easily carried, it is specially launched for students and business peoples. First MacBook Air Model in Launched in 2008 and it gain popular because of its slim and portable design. In year 2020 Apple launched its own custom design M1 chip which is based on ARM architecture and then Apple switched from Intel processor. Now a days Apple’s is continuously Improving its MacBook Air speed, Performance and battery life which is getting more love from their fans.
The latest 2024 MacBook Air model features the new M3 chip, building on the success of the M1. The M3 chip brings even faster performance with excellent energy efficiency. This makes the new MacBook Air up to 3.5X faster than previous Intel-based models.
Other upgrades include a brighter Liquid Retina display, better speakers and microphone, 1080p webcam, and WiFi 6 support. Available in four colors and multiple configuration options, the 2024 MacBook Air with M3 starts at $1,199.
This in-depth review covers everything potential buyers need to know including full specs, design changes, performance benchmarks, and whether the MacBook Air M3 is the best choice for your needs.
Apple Macbook Air M3 Review
Sleek, Portable Design
The newly launched Apple MacBook Air M3 in year 2024 design is almost similar to the previous M2 model but has 3.5X Faster speed performance as compared to M2. Actually MacBook Air M3 has a slim wedge-shaped aluminum unibody which makes it ideal ultraportable.
- Dimensions – 11.97 in x 8.36 in x 0.44 in
- Weight – 2.7 pounds
- Available colors: Silver, Space Gray, Gold, Midnight
The smoothly tapered aluminum body, available in several colors, fits easily into any bag and is comfortable to use on your lap or desk. The durable, lightweight aluminum chassis also resists scratches well.
While there are no radical changes to the MacBook Air’s iconic thin design, Apple has included some subtle but useful hardware upgrades:
- New and improved Magic Keyboard with comfortable key travel
- Larger Force Touch trackpad for easier navigation
- Four speaker sound system with spatial audio support
- 3.5 mm headphone jack
Overall, the new MacBook Air M3 retains the same slim and sleek industrial design language but modernizes components like the keyboard, speakers, and microphone. It remains one of the most portable notebooks in its class.
Vibrant Liquid Retina Display
Apple MacBook Air M3 has some major updates which get gets upgraded to a 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display, which support 1 billion colors along with resolution of 2560 x 1664 which make images and videos look more clear and sharp on its new display.
Some key improvements include:
- 500 nits peak brightness rating for better visibility
- Wide color P3 gamut for richer, more vivid colors
- True Tone technology automatically adjusts white balance based on ambient lighting
The new MacBook Air can now better handle photo and video editing thanks to its brighter, more color accurate display. You’ll also appreciate the upgrade coming from a lower resolution screen.
Plus, with slimmer bezels, more of the front surface area is dedicated to the stunning display, creating an immersive viewing experience.
Best-in-Class M3 Processor Performance
Powering the MacBook Air M3 is Apple’s all-new M3 chip built on leading edge 3nm process technology for maximum efficiency. The M3 chip builds on Apple’s own ARM-based architecture design rather than Intel x86.
Compared to the M1 chip, the M3 processor offers faster CPU and GPU speeds:
- 8 high-performance CPU cores
- Up to 10-core GPU
- Up to 18 hours battery life with normal usage
| Spec | Performance Gains Over M2 Chip |
|---|---|
| CPU Speed | Up to 20% |
| GPU Speed | Up to 30% |
| Neural Engine Speed | 40% |
In real world tests, the M3’s multi-core CPU performance shows significant gains over competitive Intel and AMD chips. GPU speeds are also much faster for graphics intensive tasks.
Thanks to power efficiency gains, Apple quotes over 18 hours of battery life for video playback – enough to last even long haul international flights. Rapid charging can provide up to 50% charge in just 30 minutes.
Overall, buyers upgrading from an Intel-based MacBook Air can expect 3-4X speed improvements making the newest model extremely responsive for everything from professional creative work to everyday web browsing and office needs.
If you are a VR lover then Apple Vision Pro will be a great choice for you to enhance your performance in VR world.
Complete I/O Options With Latest Connectivity Standards
Despite the thin design, the 2024 MacBook AIr does not compromise on input/output options. You get the following ports in the same layout as before:
- Two Thunderbolt / USB 4 Ports on the left side
- 3.5mm Headphone Jack on the right side
The two Thunderbolt 4 ports support charging, USB accessories, external monitors and eGPUs. You can use dongles and docking stations to connect devices not directly supported over USB-C.
For wireless connectivity, you benefit from the latest standards:
- Wi-Fi 6 for higher home and office network speeds
- Bluetooth 5.0 to pair wireless headphones and accessories
Apple also includes a 720p FaceTime HD webcam and improved speakers and microphone system for video calls and conferences. Authentication happens instantly with the Touch ID fingerprint sensor integrated into the keyboard.
macOS Ventura Software Experience
The 2024 MacBook Air ships with the latest macOS 13 Ventura pre-installed. This gives you access to all the major updates including Stage Manager advanced window management.
You also benefit from deep ecosystem integration with other Apple devices thanks to features like:
- Continuity Camera – Use iPhone as webcam
- Handoff – Instant WiFi syncing
- Universal Control – Single keyboard/trackpad
- Sidecar – Use iPad as second screen
Popular apps like Safari, Messages, Mail, and Maps have all been refreshed with new capabilities as well.
Apple includes its iWork suite of office and productivity apps for free including Pages, Numbers and Keynotes. Professional software like Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro are available separately.
Of course, you can also install third-party apps from the Mac App Store or the internet since the MacBook Air runs a full desktop operating system. It is compatible with 100% of macOS software and accessories.
Configuration Price and Options
The MacBook Air M3 2024 model starts at $1,199 for consumers and $1099 for education customers.
Several component upgrade options are available if ordered directly from Apple:
- 8GB, 16GB or 24GB of unified memory
- 256GB, 512GB, 1TB or 2TB SSD storage
- Up to 2TB of storage is configurable
Custom configuration models take 1-2 weeks to assemble before shipping.
Education Discount Savings
Students and teachers can save $100 on MacBook Airs (and any other Mac) purchased directly from Apple’s education store online.
To qualify for education pricing, you need:
- Enrollment or Employment verification email
- Or UNIDAYS student discount membership
The education model specs and configurations are otherwise identical to regular models. You still enjoy the same 1 year warranty and option to add AppleCare+.
Recommended Accessories To Enhance Your Workflow
Like all portable Apple laptops, you may need some additional accessories for full productivity:
- USB-C Hubs add extra ports for legacy devices
- External monitors complement the Retina display for dual screen setups
- Wireless mice prefer scroll wheels for navigation
- USB drives useful for extra file storage and transfer
- Laptop sleeve protects your Mac when traveling
Make sure to use certified accessories for guaranteed compatibility. Check reviews on Amazon to select quality approved products.
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MacBook Air M3 Review – The Verdict
Pros
- Lightweight, durable aluminum design ideal for mobility
- Big speed boost from new M3 chip
- All-day 18+ hour battery life
- Vibrant, high resolution Liquid Retina display
- Deep integration with Apple’s ecosystem
- Student/education discounts available
Cons
- No radical exterior redesign
- Limited to two Thunderbolt ports
- Upgrade options raise total cost
Who It’s Best Suited For
The latest MacBook Air M3 will appeal to:
- Existing MacBook Air owners seeking a faster device
- First time Apple laptop buyers
- College students who prioritize portability
- Mobile professionals editing photos/videos
- Casual users who want an ultrathin notebook
Creative pros will appreciate the power efficiency of Apple silicon allowing demanding work on the go. And all users will welcome the brighter, more colorful Liquid Retina display.
The only caveat is that configuration prices climb much higher once you max out memory and storage. Power users may prefer upgrading to the 14 inch MacBook Pro lineup if budget allows.
Overall though, the MacBook Air with M3 chip continues Apple’s dominance of the premium ultrathin laptop category thanks to its market leading power efficiency, mobility and ecosystem integration. Our rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Apple Macbook Air M3 With Full Specs
Here is a table summarizing the key specs, features, and pricing details of the 2024 Apple MacBook Air M3:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Operating System | macOS Ventura (v13) |
| Processor | Apple M3 chip <br>(8-core CPU, 10-core GPU) |
| Memory | 8GB, 16GB, or 24GB unified memory (LPDDR5) |
| Storage | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB SSD |
| Display | 13.6″ Liquid Retina display <br> 2560 x 1664 resolution <br> 500 nits brightness, Wide color (P3), True Tone |
| Camera | 1080p FaceTime HD webcam |
| Battery Life | Up to 18 hours video playback |
| Charging | Rapid charging up to 50% in 30 mins |
| Ports | 2x Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports <br> 3.5 mm headphone jack |
| Wireless | WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Biometrics | Touch ID fingerprint sensor |
| Speakers | Four-speaker sound system |
| Size & Weight | 11.97″ x 8.46″ x 0.44″ <br> 2.7 lbs |
| Colors | Silver, Space Gray, Gold, Midnight |
| Starting Price | $1,199 USD |
| Education Pricing | $1,099 USD |
Some key upgrades over the previous generation include the M3 chip with faster CPU and GPU performance, brighter Liquid Retina display with slimmer bezels, 1080p webcam, and support for cutting edge wireless standards like WiFi 6.
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Conclusion
The MacBook Air M3 (2024) delivers noticeable improvements that refine Apple’s beloved thin and light laptop line rather than completely transform it. Upgrades like the new Liquid Retina display, better webcam, speakers and microphone bring prosumer flourishes to the everyday ultraportable.
Of course, the star of the show is the all-new M3 chip, Apple’s latest generation custom silicon that replaces Intel inside. Built on cutting edge 3nm technology, the M3 chip unlocks up to 20% faster CPU and 30% faster GPU speeds compared to last year’s model. The efficiency cores also extend battery life to a marathon 18+ hours.
Real-world usage backed by benchmarks proves the MacBook Air with M3 offers desktop-class performance now in a highly portable package. Catalyst apps optimized for Apple silicon push the envelope of what you can create on the go without compromise.
The blend of mobility, consumer pro features and tight integration with Apple’s ecosystem retains the MacBook Air’s appeal as the ideal macOS notebook for students, mobile professionals and everyday users alike. Power users may still prefer moving to the 14-inch MacBook Pro lineup but for most buyers, the Air gets the laptop basics done extremely well.
With competitive pricing starting at $1,199, thoughtful design details like the Magic Keyboard and Force Touch trackpad complete the user experience. Overall, the MacBook Air M3 (2024) earns our strong recommendation as one of the best premium ultraportable laptops that will satisfy Apple fans for years to come.
FAQ’s
Is MacBook Air M3 good?
Yes, the 2024 MacBook Air M3 is worth good because of its sleek ultra thin design and ultraportable, The new M3 chip has 20% faster CPU speed and 30% faster GPU performance as compared to the previous M2 chip. It has also a upgrade sharper Liquid Retina display, 18+ hour battery life, better webcam and speakers and with Latest WiFi 6 Feature.
Is MacBook Core M3 good?
The Core M3 refers to older Intel chips not Apple’s new M3 silicon. While decent, Intel Core M3 cannot match the performance and efficiency of Apple’s custom designed M3 processor found in the latest MacBooks.
Is MacBook Air M3 coming?
The MacBook Air with M3 chip is already available as Apple launched it in January 2024. Pre-orders are open with units shipping to customers in the first week of February 2024.
Does MacBook M3 Pro worth it?
The rumored MacBook Pro with M3 is not released yet but should offer even better performance over the M2 Pro model thanks to expected CPU and graphics boosts from the 3nm M3. Worth waiting if you need the absolute best portable MacBook power.
Is M3 worth it over M2 Apple?
Yes, with around 20-30% speed gains over last year’s M2, the M3 is a worthwhile step up, especially for creative professionals who can take advantage of faster video editing and 3D workflows on the go.
Is M3 faster than M2 Apple?
Yes benchmarks confirm the M3 chip averages around 20% faster CPU and 30% faster GPU versus the M2.
Is M3 chip better than M1?
Yes, the M3 built on 3nm manufacturing is approximately 40% faster overall than the original M1 5nm chip from 2020.
Is Core M3 better than i7?
It depends – Apple’s M3 outperforms equivalent Intel 12th Gen Core i7 U series chips designed for slim notebooks in both single and multi-threaded workloads. But higher wattage Intel HK series Core i7s in gaming rigs remain faster.
What is the difference between Apple M2 and M3?
The M3 chip is a full generational upgrade built with a smaller 3nm transistor process allowing faster clock speeds and greater power efficiency gains over the 5nm M2 chip.
What is MacBook M3 good for?
Good for students, business, creative pros all needing top notch performance in an ultrathin and light laptop package. Media creation and editing workflows shine thanks to immense gains in GPU power.
Should I get M3 MacBook or older?
If your budget allows, always get the latest model MacBook for the fastest experience, so M3 over M2 or M1. Only consider older generations if you get significant savings off MSRP during sales.
When did MacBook M3 come out?
Announced in January 2024, the MacBook Air and rumored Pro with M3 chip become available for purchase in February 2024.
Is it worth waiting for MacBook Air M3?
If you need a new MacBook now, the M2 models are still very capable. However, if you can wait until February, the upgraded M3 MacBook Airs deliver better future-proofing and should retain higher resale value long term.
Which is better MacBook Pro or Air?
The MacBook Pro lineup is better for professional creative workloads like intensive video production needing the maximum graphics and computational power. But the Air series is more portable and strikes the best balance for most average consumer needs.
What is the difference between MacBook M1 and M3?
The M3 chip is much newer and built on a more advanced 3nm process for higher speed and efficiency over the original M1. Expect over 40% faster CPU and GPU performance from the M3 making it very future-proof.
How long will the MacBook Pro M3 last?
Given Apple silicon’s tremendous power efficiency that minimizes heat generation and battery wear, the MacBook Pro M3 should easily last over 5 years even under rigorous daily professional use. Most units will remain viable for 6-7 years before needing an upgrade.
Does MacBook Pro M3 get hot?
No, thanks to excellent thermal design and the cool running nature of Apple’s Arm-based silicon instead of Intel, the MacBook Pro M3 remains cool to the touch under most workloads and does not throttle performance due to heat like some competing notebooks.
What is the battery life of the M3?
Apple quotes over 18 hours of video playback battery life for the M3 chip in the 2024 MacBook Air. The rumored 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros with M3 will offer slightly lower runtimes due to their larger, higher resolution screens but still meet all-day general use away from a charger.
What is the M3 chip in the latest MacBook Air?
The M3 is Apple’s third generation custom silicon processor that replaces Intel chips. Built on an ARM architecture and 3nm transistors, it brings CPU, GPU and AI/ML speed boosts up to 40% faster than previous Apple M series chips for excellent performance-per-watt.
How long will the MacBook Air M3 last?
With Apple’s custom silicon, the M3 MacBook Air should easily last over 5 years under normal use before showing its age. The slim aluminum unibody design is also extremely durable – most units last well over 6-7 years barring any significant physical damage.
Does the display support HDR or a higher refresh rate?
The display is limited to standard 60 Hz refresh rates even though M series chips can theoretically drive higher ProMotion rated screens at up to 120 Hz for smoother scrolling. There is also no high dynamic range (HDR) on the Retina panel though brightness and contrast ratios are excellent.
Can I upgrade components later post purchase?
The MacBook Air lineup does not allow users to upgrade core components later on their own. The M3 chip, memory and storage options are fixed at purchase time for each unit built-to-order. Only certain accessories can be added later like external storage, displays etc.
How to choose between MacBook Air and Pro models?
The latest MacBook Airs are excellent for average users focused more on portability than raw performance. Professional users doing intensive video editing, coding, simulations etc may want to look at the 14 inch or 16 inch Pro models configurable with the M2 Pro/Max chips and up to 96GB memory for true workstation performance.
Does the headphone jack support microphone input?
Yes, the 3.5mm headphone jack on the new MacBook Air models fully supports audio input from headsets, essential for voice/video calls etc. So any standard analog headset with mic capabilities will work seamlessly.
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