Apple has recently introduced many small updates that, at first glance, didn't seem particularly exciting. The M4 MacBook Air is a similar story. But a closer look reveals that this update is anything but insignificant. Two changes in particular make the new model extremely attractive for existing MacBook Pro owners. Switching to the M4 MacBook Air is suddenly a viable option for many users.
On paper, the M4 MacBook Air looks like a typical update. A new generation of chips, minor tweaks, and a familiar look. But two changes stand out. Apple has not only improved one of the most important features previously reserved for the MacBook Pro, but has also made the Air's price advantage even greater. If you currently use a MacBook Pro and are considering switching, you should take a close look at the new details.
Support for two external displays – finally without compromise
For a long time, it was a clear disadvantage of the MacBook Air: If you wanted to connect more than one external monitor, you had to buy a MacBook Pro. The M1 MacBook Air and the M2 model officially only supported a single external display. For many users, this was a real dealbreaker. Apple improved this somewhat with the M3 MacBook Air. Here, you could connect two external displays – but only when the lid of your MacBook Air was closed. This meant you had to do without the integrated keyboard and trackpad. This wasn't practical.
The M4 MacBook Air puts an end to this once and for all. You can now connect two external monitors and leave the laptop lid open. This means you can use the integrated screen together with two additional displays. No adapter tricks, no docking stations, no restrictions. The feature that previously drove many users to the MacBook Pro is now fully available on the Air. For anyone who wants to use their laptop at their desk with multiple monitors, this is a real improvement. And it makes the MacBook Air significantly more attractive for many applications.
Significant price difference to the MacBook Pro
While Apple is improving the functionality of the M4 MacBook Air, the price gap between the M4 and the MacBook Pro is growing. The M4 MacBook Air starts at €1,199. You can currently find it on Amazon for 999 eurosThe new MacBook Pro with the M4 chip, on the other hand, costs €1,899. The difference is at least €700 or more. Of course, there are users who really need the performance of the MacBook Pro. For example, those who regularly render videos, edit huge image files, or do professional music production will continue to choose the Pro.
But if you've only used a MacBook Pro for the ability to connect multiple monitors or because of a perceived excess of performance, switching to the M4 MacBook Air is now more worthwhile than ever. It's also unlikely that this price difference will narrow any time soon. With iPads, Apple has already shown that its Pro models are significantly more price-conscious, while its Air models remain attractive. A similar trend is now emerging with MacBooks.
M4 MacBook Air: The better choice for many users
The M4 MacBook Air is one of the most balanced products Apple currently offers. You get powerful performance, flexible connectivity, and a significantly better price than the MacBook Pro. If you know you need the maximum performance of the MacBook Pro, you'll naturally stick with that model. But if you're unsure whether you really need the extra power or the additional ports, the M4 MacBook Air is a viable alternative. It offers everything you need in most cases, at a significantly lower price, and finally with true multi-monitor support. Looking for the best accessories? Visit our Amazon Storefront and discover a variety of products from top providers, including HomeKit! (Image: Shutterstock / encierro)
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