Apple Launches the M4 Chip: Which MacBook Is Right for You?

Apple has recently introduced the new M4 chip, boosting the performance of its MacBook lineup. The two most prominent models featuring this advanced processor are the MacBook Air M4 and the MacBook Pro M4. Although both laptops incorporate state-of-the-art technology, they target different user needs. Understanding their key differences can help you decide which one best suits your lifestyle.

Design and Portability

The overall weight and design of a laptop are critical factors—especially for frequent travelers who need to carry their device around.

• MacBook Air M4
  • Light and Travel-Friendly:
    • 13-inch model: Weighs 1.24 kg
    • 15-inch model: Weighs 1.51 kg
  • Features an aluminium body with a slim design
  • Available in four colours
• MacBook Pro M4
  • More Robust and Powerful:
    • 14-inch model: Weighs 1.55 kg
    • 16-inch model: Heavier than the 14-inch version
  • Sports an aluminium body with a premium design

Display

A high-quality display is important, particularly for professionals who work with graphics, videos, or need high-definition visuals.

• MacBook Air M4
  • Comes with 13.6-inch and 15.3-inch Liquid Retina displays
  • Brightness: 500 nits
  • Suitable for most users
• MacBook Pro M4
  • Offers 14-inch and 16-inch Liquid Retina displays
  • Brightness: Up to 1,000 nits
  • 120Hz refresh rate for smoother visuals
  • Ideal for video editors and designers

Performance and Cooling

Performance is essential for those running demanding applications, and an efficient cooling system helps maintain that performance.

• MacBook Air M4
  • Powered by the M4 chip
  • Uses a passive cooling system, which may heat up during heavy use
  • Adequate for students, office work, and light tasks
• MacBook Pro M4
  • Available in higher-performance options with M4 Pro and M4 Max variants
  • Equipped with more CPU and GPU cores for intensive tasks
  • Uses an active cooling system to sustain maximum performance
  • Best suited for video editing, coding, and 3D modelling

Battery Life

Long battery life is a key consideration for those on the move or working extended hours.

• MacBook Air M4
  • Offers a full day of regular usage on a single charge
• MacBook Pro M4
  • The 16-inch model can run for over 20 hours on one charge

Connectivity and Ports

The number and type of ports available determine how many external devices and accessories can be connected.

• MacBook Air M4
  • Two Thunderbolt/USB-C ports
  • MagSafe 3 charging port
  • Lacks an SDXC card slot and an HDMI port
• MacBook Pro M4
  • Three Thunderbolt/USB-C ports
  • Includes an HDMI port and an SDXC card slot
  • Also features a MagSafe 3 charging port
  • More versatile for connecting multiple peripherals and external displays

Pricing

The pricing of each model reflects their intended functions and performance capabilities. Below are the converted prices in Indian Rupees (₹), US Dollars (USD), and Nigerian Naira (NGN).
(Conversion rates: 1 ₹ ≈ $0.012 and 1 ₹ ≈ NGN 9.24)

• MacBook Air M4
  • 13-inch model:
    • ₹99,900
    • ≈ $1,200
    • ≈ NGN 923,000
  • 15-inch model:
    • ₹124,900
    • ≈ $1,500
    • ≈ NGN 1,153,000
• MacBook Pro M4
  • 14-inch model:
    • ₹169,900
    • ≈ $2,040
    • ≈ NGN 1,570,000

Conclusion

Choosing between the MacBook Air M4 and the MacBook Pro M4 depends on your specific needs:

• MacBook Air M4
  • Best for students, office professionals, and general users who need a lightweight, sleek laptop with good battery life and sufficient performance for everyday tasks.
• MacBook Pro M4
  • Ideal for creative professionals and power users who demand higher performance, superior display quality, and more connectivity options.

Ultimately, knowing your usage habits and requirements is key to selecting the perfect MacBook that will serve you well in both work and play.