The Apple MacBook Air M1 revolutionized the laptop market with its powerful Apple M1 chip, offering incredible speed, efficiency, and battery life. Launched as Apple’s first Mac with an ARM-based processor, it set a new benchmark for ultraportable laptops. Whether for students, professionals, or casual users, the MacBook Air M1 delivers seamless performance in a sleek and lightweight design.
Performance
The M1 chip, built on a 5-nanometer process, features an 8-core CPU (4 high-performance cores and 4 high-efficiency cores) and an 8-core GPU, delivering up to 3.5x faster CPU performance and 5x faster graphics compared to previous Intel-based models. It also integrates a 16-core Neural Engine, optimizing machine learning tasks for apps like photo and video editing.
With fanless cooling, the MacBook Air M1 remains silent while handling intensive workloads. It supports macOS Big Sur and later updates, ensuring smooth performance, enhanced security, and optimized app compatibility.
Features
- Retina Display: 13.3-inch IPS Retina Display (2560×1600 resolution) with P3 wide color and True Tone for stunning visuals.
- Battery Life: Up to 18 hours of battery life per charge, making it ideal for all-day usage.
- Storage & Memory: Configurable with 8GB or 16GB of unified RAM and 256GB to 2TB SSD storage for fast performance.
- Magic Keyboard & Touch ID: Backlit Magic Keyboard and Touch ID for secure unlocking and Apple Pay transactions.
- Ports & Connectivity: 2 Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports, a 3.5mm headphone jack, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0.
- Camera & Audio: 720p FaceTime HD camera, three-microphone array, and stereo speakers with wide stereo sound.
Release Date & Price
Apple launched the MacBook Air M1 on November 10, 2020, with sales starting on November 17, 2020. The base model was priced at $999 for 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD, while the 512GB SSD variant started at $1,249. Prices have since dropped with newer models available.
Current Pricing:
- Vietnam: In December 2024, authorized Apple retailers in Amazon reduced the price of the MacBook Air M1 to approximately (around $650 USD). This model is now considered Apple’s most affordable laptop in the Amazon market.
- United States: Refurbished units have become increasingly popular, with prices dropping to $514.99 for a grade-A refurbished 2020 MacBook Air 13.3″ with an M1 chip. This reflects a significant discount from its original price of $1,499. nypost.com
Availability:
The MacBook Air M1 has been officially discontinued by Apple, leading to limited stock availability. Retailers anticipate that remaining inventories will be depleted by Lunar New Year 2025.
The MacBook Air M1 remains one of the best lightweight and powerful laptops, offering exceptional performance, efficiency, and portability. Whether for work, study, or creativity, it’s a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable MacBook at an affordable price.
As of March 2025, the Apple MacBook Air M1, originally launched in 2020, remains a viable option for budget-conscious consumers, though its availability is diminishing. The introduction of newer models, such as the M2 and M3 versions, has led to significant price reductions for the M1 variant.
Considerations:
While the M1 model offers affordability, potential buyers should weigh the benefits against the advancements found in newer models. The latest iterations provide enhanced performance, updated designs, and extended support lifespans, which may justify the higher investment for some users.
The MacBook Air M1 continues to serve as an economical choice for those seeking a reliable laptop experience. However, with its discontinuation and dwindling availability, prospective buyers should carefully consider their long-term computing needs and the advantages of newer models before making a purchase.
