Battery life is another area where these models differ slightly. In rigorous testing, the MacBook Pro M4 retained 74% of its battery after a full day of use, compared to the Air’s 68%. Despite its higher performance capabilities, the Pro benefits from a larger battery and an efficient cooling system, which contribute to its longer runtime.

Apple rarely offers you more for less, especially in its most popular products with the broadest appeal. It has perfected the measured, iterative year-over-year product cycle. But for the 13- and 15-inch M4 MacBook Airs, Apple has put new chips in its established design while shoring up the device’s biggest flaws and dropping the price by $100.