Apple MacBook Air 2023 vs Apple MacBook Air M4 13
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Apple MacBook Air 2023 and Apple MacBook Air M4 13 are closely matched overall (within 1 points).
- Apple MacBook Air 2023 stands out on Display Size: 15.3 in, Display Screen-to-body ratio: 85.3%, Sound Number of speakers: 6.
- Apple MacBook Air M4 13 counters with Integrated graphics model: Apple M4 GPU, Memory capacity: 16 GB, Storage Socket type: Soldered.
- Best value: Apple MacBook Air M4 13 (from $999) — the strongest score-per-dollar of the two.
Apple MacBook Air 2023 and Apple MacBook Air M4 13 are closely matched
$1,299 at launch
Apple MacBook Air 2023
57
Apple MacBook Air M4 13
57
Best value: Apple MacBook Air M4 13 ($999)
Where Apple MacBook Air 2023 stands out
- Display Size: 15.3 in
- Display Screen-to-body ratio: 85.3%
- Sound Number of speakers: 6
Where Apple MacBook Air M4 13 stands out
- Integrated graphics model: Apple M4 GPU
- Memory capacity: 16 GB
- Storage Socket type: Soldered
In-depth analysisAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Jun 2026.
Apple MacBook Air 2023
The 2023 Apple MacBook Air expands the lightweight laptop family by introducing a larger 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display while keeping a highly portable, fanless build. It is powered by the Apple M2 system-on-a-chip, designed to deliver efficient performance for everyday productivity. This model targets users who want a larger screen canvas without the premium price tag or physical bulk of the MacBook Pro series.
Best for all-day battery-powered productivity on the goBest for multitasking with side-by-side windows on a larger screenBest for silent computing in noise-sensitive environments
Pros
- Larger 15.3-inch display provides significantly more screen real estate than previous models
- Completely silent operation due to its fanless thermal design
- Highly efficient M2 silicon ensures long-lasting battery performance
- Sturdy yet impressively thin aluminum chassis
Cons
- Soldered solid-state drive and memory cannot be upgraded by the user after purchase
Apple MacBook Air M4 13
The Apple MacBook Air M4 13 is a highly portable, fanless subnotebook designed for everyday consumer use and lightweight productivity. It is powered by the Apple M4 system on a chip and features a 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display. Running macOS, this model offers a silent computing experience with hardware improvements over its predecessors.
Best for Users seeking a silent and highly portable laptop for remote work or studyBest for Buyers wanting modern macOS performance at a more accessible entry price
Pros
- Completely silent operation due to its fanless thermal design
- Sturdy yet lightweight aluminum chassis that is highly portable
- Improved overall value with a lower introductory price point
- Sharp and vibrant 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display
Cons
- Soldered storage and unified memory prevent any post-purchase hardware upgrades
- Highly limited physical port selection
Value for Money
Which is the better deal for the price
Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.
Apple MacBook Air 2023
Apple MacBook Air M4 13
Performance
Higher benchmark score = faster
Apple MacBook Air 202315,400
Apple MacBook Air M4 1322,000
Benchmark score — a measured indicator of raw performance, not a guarantee of real-world speed.
Battery capacity
Larger cell — a hardware spec, not battery life
Apple MacBook Air 202352 Wh
Apple MacBook Air M4 1352 Wh
Capacity is the raw battery size. Real-world battery life depends just as much on the processor, software and display.
Physical Comparison
Weigh them up, then compare real dimensions in 3D
Apple MacBook Air 2023Apple MacBook Air M4 13
Apple MacBook Air 2023 and Apple MacBook Air M4 13 weigh about the same.
Review Videos
Hand-picked expert reviews for each product
Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side