Apple MacBook Pro M5 Max vs Apple MacBook Air 2023
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Apple MacBook Pro M5 Max leads Apple MacBook Air 2023 overall by 13 points (70 vs 57 out of 100).
- Apple MacBook Pro M5 Max stands out on Memory capacity: 128 GB, Storage capacity: 8,192 GB, Display resolution: 3024 × 1964 px.
- Best value: Apple MacBook Air 2023 (from $1,299) — the strongest score-per-dollar of the two.
Apple MacBook Pro M5 Max leads overall
$3,599 at launch
Apple MacBook Pro M5 Max
70
Apple MacBook Air 2023
57
Best value: Apple MacBook Air 2023 ($1,299)
Why it stands out
- Memory capacity: 128 GB
- Storage capacity: 8,192 GB
- Display resolution: 3024 × 1964 px
In-depth analysisAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Jun 2026.
Apple MacBook Pro M5 Max
AI analysis isn't ready yet
We haven't generated an in-depth write-up for Apple MacBook Pro M5 Max yet. The specs, scores and strengths profile above still cover it — check back later for the AI summary.
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
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 Pro M5 Max
Apple MacBook Air 2023
Battery capacity
Larger cell — a hardware spec, not battery life
Apple MacBook Pro M5 Max72.4 Wh
Apple MacBook Air 202352 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 Pro M5 MaxApple MacBook Air 2023
Apple MacBook Pro M5 Max is 0.38 kg (31%) heavier than Apple MacBook Air 2023.
Review Videos
Hand-picked expert reviews for each product
Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side