M5 MacBook Air vs. M4 MacBook Air: The differences Apfelpatient

Apple has unveiled a new MacBook Air with the M5 chip. Externally, much remains familiar, but technically there are some targeted improvements. Apple has particularly boosted performance, storage, and wireless capabilities. The question is, how significant is the difference compared to last year's M4 MacBook Air?.

This report is based on Apple's official press release announcing the M5 MacBook Air, as well as the company's technical comparisons to the previous model with the M4 chip. All performance figures and specifications mentioned here are taken from these manufacturer's data.

Apple positions the new MacBook Air as an evolution of the existing model. It is not a redesign, but a technically updated device with clearly defined improvements.

The M5 chip as a central upgrade

The most important new feature in the MacBook Air is the M5 chip. Apple equips the device with a 10-core CPU, which it claims is the fastest CPU core in the world, promising significantly improved responsiveness. This is complemented by a GPU with up to ten cores and a powerful Neural Accelerator in each core.

Apple is particularly emphasizing the AI performance. According to the manufacturer, the MacBook Air with the M5 processor performs AI tasks up to four times faster than the M4 MacBook Air. Compared to the M1 MacBook Air, the performance is said to be up to 9.5 times higher. This makes the device explicitly aimed at users who utilize Apple Intelligence in apps and system functions or run large language models directly on the device, for example, in enterprise environments.

For classic tasks like web browsing, office work, or media consumption, the M4 MacBook Air was already fast enough. The performance advantage of the M5 is most noticeable in computationally intensive and AI-based applications. Those who already own an M4 model will likely notice only limited differences in everyday use. The upgrade is significantly more relevant for owners of an M1 MacBook Air or even older devices.

More storage out of the box and higher SSD speed

In addition to the new chip, Apple is also changing its storage strategy. The M5 MacBook Air starts at €1,199, the same price as last year's M4 model. However, buyers now receive double the base capacity. Instead of 256 GB, 512 GB of storage is now standard.

Furthermore, the new MacBook Air can be configured with up to 4 TB of storage. The M4 model was limited to a maximum of 2 TB. Apple also states that the SSD in the M5 model offers twice the read and write speeds compared to the previous generation.

This applies not only to large file transfers, but also to demanding workflows such as video or photo editing. A faster SSD can also offer noticeable advantages with virtual machines or AI applications. The combination of higher base capacity and increased speed is therefore one of the most practical innovations of the M5 MacBook Air.

N1 wireless chip with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6

Another technical difference lies in the new N1 wireless chip. While the M4 MacBook Air supported Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax), the M5 MacBook Air now offers Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be). Additionally, the Bluetooth version has been upgraded from 5.3 to Bluetooth 6.

Wi-Fi 7 enables higher data rates, lower latency, and more stable connections, especially in heavily congested networks. Bluetooth 6 is designed to be more efficient and reliable, which can be noticeable when using wireless accessories.

Apple also points out that the N1 chip improves the performance and stability of cross-platform features like AirDrop and Personal Hotspot. This can lead to more reliable use, especially in environments with multiple Apple devices.

What remains unchanged

Aside from the points mentioned, the MacBook Air remains largely identical to the M4 model. The industrial design is unchanged. Color options and size variants also remain the same. Battery life is still up to 18 hours. The 12 MP center-stage camera and general feature set are also unchanged.

Visually, the two generations are practically indistinguishable. The advancements take place exclusively on the inside.

M5 MacBook Air vs. M4 MacBook Air: The most important differences at a glance

The MacBook Air with the M5 chip is a technical evolution of the M4 model. The most significant improvements include enhanced AI performance, double the base memory, a faster SSD, and modern wireless standards with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6.

For owners of an M1 MacBook Air or older models, the new model represents a significant upgrade. Those already using an M4 MacBook Air will experience measurable performance improvements, but not a fundamental technological leap.

Overall, the MacBook Air remains true to its principles: slim design, long battery life, and solid improvements in the details. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those compatible with HomeKit. (Image: Apple / Apfelpatient)

FAQ: M5 MacBook Air vs. M4 MacBook Air – Frequently Asked Questions

What is the biggest difference between the M5 MacBook Air and the M4 MacBook Air?

The most significant difference lies in the new M5 chip. According to Apple, it offers significantly higher AI performance, with up to four times faster performance in AI tasks compared to the M4. Additionally, there are improvements to the base memory, SSD speed, and wireless standards.

Is the M5 MacBook Air faster than the M4 model?

Yes, the M5 MacBook Air is more powerful. The advantage is particularly noticeable with AI applications and computationally intensive tasks. However, the difference is less pronounced in everyday office work, web browsing, and streaming.

Is it worth upgrading from the M4 MacBook Air to the M5?

For many users, probably not. Those who already own an M4 MacBook Air will see measurable performance improvements, but not a fundamental technological leap. The upgrade makes much more sense for owners of an M1 MacBook Air or older models.

How much storage does the new MacBook Air offer as standard?

The M5 MacBook Air starts with 512 GB of storage. The M4 model had 256 GB. Furthermore, the new model can be configured with up to 4 TB, whereas the M4 was limited to a maximum of 2 TB.

Is the SSD in the M5 MacBook Air faster?

Yes. Apple states that the SSD in the M5 model offers twice the read and write speeds compared to the previous generation. This can be noticeable with large files and demanding workflows.

Does the M5 MacBook Air support Wi-Fi 7?

Yes. The new model features Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be). The M4 MacBook Air only supported Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax). Additionally, the M5 offers Bluetooth 6 instead of Bluetooth 5.3.

Has the design of the MacBook Air changed?

No. The industrial design, color options, and size variants remain unchanged. The battery life of up to 18 hours and the 12 MP center-stage camera are also the same.

Who is the M5 MacBook Air particularly suitable for?

Especially for users of older MacBook Air models, such as those with an M1 chip, as well as for users who use AI applications or computationally intensive programs and want to benefit from more storage.

How long does the battery last on the M5 MacBook Air?

The battery life remains up to 18 hours, matching that of the M4 MacBook Air.