Apple continues its tradition of yearly updates with the release of the 2025 MacBook Air 15, featuring the latest M4 chip. This sleek laptop remains the go-to choice for those needing a reliable device for office work, boasting impressive battery life and a stunning display. While it may not excel in gaming, the MacBook Air 15 is designed for productivity on the go, embodying the essence of a versatile and portable laptop.
The MacBook Air's consistent design has made it synonymous with the term "laptop." Weighing just 3.3 pounds, its thin and light profile is a testament to Apple's unibody aluminum craftsmanship, which is less than half an inch thick. This design not only contributes to its portability but also its clean aesthetic, with speakers cleverly integrated into the hinge for enhanced sound quality. The fanless configuration of the M4 chip further refines the laptop's sleek look and performance.
The keyboard and touchpad continue to set standards in the industry. The keyboard offers deep travel and reliable TouchID functionality, while the expansive touchpad ensures smooth navigation without accidental cursor movements. However, the port selection remains minimal, with two USB-C ports, a MagSafe connector, and a headphone jack, which might leave some users wanting more connectivity options.
The display on the MacBook Air 15 is a highlight, with a 15.3-inch, 1880p screen that covers 99% of the DCI-P3 color gamut and 100% of sRGB. It reaches a peak brightness of 426 nits, making it suitable for most indoor environments. While it doesn't match the prowess of an OLED screen, it's more than adequate for everyday use and entertainment.
Performance-wise, the MacBook Air is tailored for productivity rather than gaming. It handles multitasking effortlessly, thanks to the 32GB of RAM in the reviewed model. Light Photoshop work is manageable, but more intensive tasks like noise filtering in Lightroom may challenge its capabilities. The true strength of the MacBook Air lies in its battery life, surpassing Apple's claims with nearly 20 hours of local video playback. This makes it an ideal companion for travelers and professionals who need a reliable, long-lasting laptop.
Purchasing Guide
The MacBook Air (M4, Early 2025) is available now, starting at $999 for the 13-inch model and $1,199 for the 15-inch model reviewed here. Apple offers various configurations, allowing you to customize your device, with the top-tier 15-inch model with 32GB of RAM and a 2TB SSD priced at $2,399.
MacBook Air (M4, 2025) – Photos
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Design
In many ways, the MacBook Air has become the epitome of what a laptop should be. Its design remains unchanged from recent predecessors, yet it continues to impress with its thinness and lightweight construction. The unibody aluminum chassis, weighing just 3.3 pounds, is less than half an inch thick, making it incredibly portable. The speakers are cleverly hidden in the hinge, utilizing the lid as a natural amplifier for improved sound quality. The fanless design not only contributes to a cleaner aesthetic but also enhances the overall user experience.
Display
The MacBook Air's display is a standout feature, offering a 15.3-inch, 1880p screen that covers 99% of the DCI-P3 color gamut and 100% of sRGB. With a peak brightness of 426 nits, it's well-suited for indoor use and provides a vibrant viewing experience for everyday tasks and entertainment.
Performance
While the MacBook Air may struggle with gaming, it excels in productivity. The reviewed model, equipped with 32GB of RAM, handles multitasking with ease, even on battery power. Light Photoshop work is manageable, though more intensive tasks like noise filtering in Lightroom may push its limits. The MacBook Air's strength lies in its ability to perform day-to-day tasks efficiently, making it an ideal choice for professionals on the go.
Battery
Apple's claims of up to 18 hours of video streaming and 15 hours of web browsing are impressive, but the MacBook Air exceeds these expectations. In a local video playback test, it lasted nearly 20 hours, making it a perfect companion for long flights or extended work sessions without the need for constant charging.
