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- Best overall: Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 512GB SSD
- Best budget: Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M1 chip, 8-core CPU, 7-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD
- Best premium: Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 1TB SSD
- Best for travel: Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 8-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD
- Apple MacBook Air models with M2 bring a brighter display, a 1080p camera and MagSafe charging.
- Apple MacBook Air with M1 remains a capable choice for everyday browsing, writing and streaming.
- Choose a 16GB memory configuration for heavier multitasking and longer-term headroom.
- Compare the exact screen size, memory and storage configuration before choosing a Black Friday 2026 laptop.
Black Friday 2026 is a good time to compare Apple MacBook Air models with M1 and M2 processors by configuration, not just by chip name. I researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to identify options for different budgets, workloads and screen-size preferences. The M2 generation adds a larger, brighter display, a sharper webcam and MagSafe charging, while the M1 model remains a straightforward everyday laptop.
My pick for most people is a 13-inch Apple MacBook Air with M2 and 16GB of unified memory: the display and camera updates are useful, and extra memory supports heavier multitasking. A well-configured M1 remains a sensible value pick for basic tasks. Compare memory and storage alongside the processor, and choose a seller and configuration that match your needs.
How We Picked
- Compared Apple’s published processor, display, memory, storage, camera, port and battery specifications.
- Reviewed owner feedback and expert reviews for recurring notes about performance, portability and everyday usability.
- Prioritized configurations with enough unified memory and storage for their intended workloads.
- Included both 13-inch and 15-inch M2 models to cover compact and large-screen preferences.
- Selected distinct configurations so shoppers can compare M1 value against M2 upgrades without treating every listing as identical.
Comparison Table
Best Picks Reviewed
#1
Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M1 chip, 8-core CPU, 7-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M1 chip, 8-core CPU, 7-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD is the best entry-level pick for everyday laptop users who want a light Apple notebook. The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M1 chip, 8-core CPU, 7-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD's 13.3-inch Retina display and 18-hour rated battery life suit browsing, documents and video.
Best for: Everyday use on a tighter budget
- Display
- 13.3-inch Retina
- Memory
- 8GB unified
- Storage
- 256GB SSD
- Battery rating
- Up to 18 hours
- Lightweight, fanless design
- Strong everyday performance
- Long rated battery life
- Older 720p camera and no MagSafe charging
Is the Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M1 chip, 8-core CPU, 7-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M1 chip, 8-core CPU, 7-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD is worth considering for everyday browsing, schoolwork and streaming. The compact 13.3-inch display and up-to-18-hour rated battery suit users who value portability.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#2
Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M1 chip, 8-core CPU, 7-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 512GB SSD
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M1 chip, 8-core CPU, 7-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 512GB SSD is the best M1 configuration for multitaskers who prefer the older design. The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M1 chip, 8-core CPU, 7-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 512GB SSD's 16GB of unified memory gives more room for multiple apps and browser tabs than the base model.
Best for: M1 buyers who need more memory
- Display
- 13.3-inch Retina
- Memory
- 16GB unified
- Storage
- 512GB SSD
- Battery rating
- Up to 18 hours
- 16GB memory supports heavier multitasking
- 512GB storage accommodates more files
- Compact fanless aluminum build
- Older webcam and charging design
Is the Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M1 chip, 8-core CPU, 7-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 512GB SSD worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M1 chip, 8-core CPU, 7-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 512GB SSD is a sound choice for users who want M1 performance with more multitasking headroom. The 512GB SSD also gives a larger local file library than the 256GB version.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#3
Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 8-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 8-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD is the best compact M2 pick for students and commuters. The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 8-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD's 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display reaches 500 nits and pairs with a 1080p FaceTime HD camera.
Best for: Compact M2 performance and updated features
- Display
- 13.6-inch Liquid Retina, 500 nits
- Memory
- 8GB unified
- Storage
- 256GB SSD
- Camera
- 1080p FaceTime HD
- Brighter, larger display than the M1 Air
- 1080p camera for video calls
- MagSafe charging port
- 8GB memory limits demanding multitasking
Is the Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 8-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 8-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD is worth considering for portable everyday work. The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 8-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD's 13.6-inch, 500-nit display, 1080p camera and MagSafe charging improve the overall package over the M1 design.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#4 · Top pick
Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 512GB SSD
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 512GB SSD is the best all-round M2 choice for work and study. The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 512GB SSD's 16GB memory and 10-core GPU make it better suited to heavier multitasking and graphics tasks than base configurations.
Best for: Balanced performance and portability
- Display
- 13.6-inch Liquid Retina, 500 nits
- Memory
- 16GB unified
- Storage
- 512GB SSD
- GPU
- 10-core
- 16GB memory for broader multitasking
- 512GB storage for projects and media
- Bright display and 1080p camera
- Not designed for sustained high-end workloads
Is the Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 512GB SSD worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 512GB SSD is worth buying for a balanced mix of portability and capability. The 16GB memory, 512GB SSD and 10-core GPU suit users with busy workflows and larger projects.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#5
Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 1TB SSD
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 1TB SSD is the best compact option for creators with sizable local files. The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 1TB SSD's 1TB SSD provides twice the capacity of the 512GB configuration while retaining a 13.6-inch display.
Best for: Portable work with larger local files
- Display
- 13.6-inch Liquid Retina, 500 nits
- Memory
- 16GB unified
- Storage
- 1TB SSD
- GPU
- 10-core
- 1TB storage reduces reliance on external drives
- 16GB memory supports creative multitasking
- Compact, bright-screen design
- Fanless cooling is less suited to sustained intensive work
Is the Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 1TB SSD worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 1TB SSD is a strong fit for portable workflows with large photo, video or project libraries. The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 1TB SSD's 1TB SSD and 16GB unified memory make it more flexible than entry-level configurations.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#6
Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD
The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD is the best large-screen pick for home, school and office use. The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD's 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display gives more workspace while keeping the lightweight, fanless Air design.
Best for: A larger screen at a compact-laptop weight
- Display
- 15.3-inch Liquid Retina, 500 nits
- Memory
- 8GB unified
- Storage
- 256GB SSD
- GPU
- 10-core
- Large display for split-screen work
- 1080p camera and MagSafe charging
- Six-speaker sound system
- 8GB memory is restrictive for demanding workloads
Is the Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD is worth considering for people who prefer a large screen for documents, browsing and video. The 15.3-inch display adds workspace, while the 8GB memory is best for routine workloads.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#7
Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 512GB SSD
The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 512GB SSD is the best large-screen M2 configuration for multitasking. The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 512GB SSD's 16GB unified memory and 512GB SSD balance workspace, app capacity and local storage for work or study.
Best for: Large-screen multitasking
- Display
- 15.3-inch Liquid Retina, 500 nits
- Memory
- 16GB unified
- Storage
- 512GB SSD
- Battery rating
- Up to 18 hours
- Spacious display and strong rated battery life
- 16GB memory handles more simultaneous apps
- 512GB storage suits larger work files
- Larger footprint than 13-inch Air models
Is the Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 512GB SSD worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 512GB SSD is worth buying for users who want a spacious display and stronger multitasking capacity. The 15.3-inch screen, 16GB memory and 512GB SSD make a balanced work-and-study setup.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#8
Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 1TB SSD
The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 1TB SSD is the best premium Air pick for users who need a broad workspace and substantial local storage. The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 1TB SSD's 1TB SSD and 16GB memory support larger everyday creative projects.
Best for: Large-screen creative work and file libraries
- Display
- 15.3-inch Liquid Retina, 500 nits
- Memory
- 16GB unified
- Storage
- 1TB SSD
- GPU
- 10-core
- Large display for editing and multitasking
- 1TB SSD for extensive local storage
- 16GB unified memory
- Less portable than the 13-inch models
Is the Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 1TB SSD worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M2 chip, 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB unified memory, 1TB SSD is a good premium choice for a large screen and roomy local storage. The 15.3-inch display, 16GB memory and 1TB SSD suit creative projects and broad multitasking.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
What is the difference between MacBook Air M2 and MacBook Air M1?
The Apple MacBook Air with M2 has a 13.6-inch display, 1080p camera and MagSafe charging. The Apple MacBook Air with M1 has a 13.3-inch display and 720p camera.
Both handle everyday tasks quietly. The M2 offers newer graphics, while the M1 suits lighter workloads. Neither is built for sustained high-end rendering.
Which MacBook Air is the best Black Friday 2026 pick?
The Apple MacBook Air with M2, 16GB unified memory and 512GB SSD is a balanced choice for school and office use, with a larger display, improved camera and MagSafe charging.
Is the M2 MacBook Air worth choosing over the M1?
The Apple MacBook Air with M2 adds a 13.6-inch display, 1080p camera and MagSafe charging. A 15.3-inch model is also available; the Apple MacBook Air with M1 remains suitable for everyday computing.
Choose 16GB unified memory for heavier multitasking and 512GB storage for larger files. External storage can supplement a smaller SSD.
Should you buy a 13-inch or 15-inch MacBook Air?
The Apple MacBook Air with M1 has a 13.3-inch screen. The 13-inch Apple MacBook Air with M2 has a 13.6-inch screen, while the 15-inch Apple MacBook Air with M2 has a 15.3-inch display for split-screen work.
Choose a 13-inch model for travel or the 15-inch model for documents, spreadsheets and desk-based work.
How much memory and storage should a MacBook Air have?
Choose 16GB unified memory for frequent multitasking, creative projects or large documents. An 8GB configuration suits browsing, email, documents and streaming.
A 256GB SSD suits cloud-based files; choose 512GB for more apps and documents or 1TB for extensive local media and project files.
Buying Guide
Choose M1 or M2 by the features you use
The Apple MacBook Air with M1 suits routine tasks. The Apple MacBook Air with M2 adds a 13.6-inch display, 1080p camera and MagSafe charging; 15-inch models are also available.
Prioritize memory for multitasking
Choose 16GB unified memory for many open apps, large documents or creative work. An 8GB model suits basic web, office and media use.
Match storage to your files
Choose a 256GB SSD for cloud-based files, 512GB for everyday use or 1TB for larger local collections. MacBook Air storage is not user-upgradable.
Pick your screen size before comparing configurations
The 13-inch models prioritize portability; the 15-inch Apple MacBook Air with M2 offers more workspace. Displays measure 13.3 inches on the M1, 13.6 inches on the 13-inch M2 and 15.3 inches on the 15-inch M2.
Check the exact listing and return terms
Confirm the chip, memory, storage, color and condition. Review seller reputation, warranty coverage and return terms before ordering during Black Friday 2026.
FAQ
Is the MacBook Air M2 better than the MacBook Air M1?
The Apple MacBook Air with M2 is better for shoppers who value a 13.6-inch display, 1080p camera and MagSafe charging. The Apple MacBook Air with M1 remains capable for everyday tasks. Memory, storage and intended workload should guide the final choice.
Is the MacBook Air M1 still good for school?
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M1 is still suitable for schoolwork such as writing, research, web browsing, video calls and streaming. A 16GB memory configuration is a better fit for students who keep many apps and browser tabs open at once.
Is 8GB memory enough for a MacBook Air?
The Apple MacBook Air with 8GB unified memory is suitable for browsing, documents, email and streaming. Users who multitask heavily, work with large files or use creative software should choose a 16GB configuration for more memory headroom.
Does the MacBook Air M2 have MagSafe?
The Apple MacBook Air with M2 includes a MagSafe 3 charging port and two Thunderbolt or USB 4 ports. The Apple MacBook Air with M1 charges through one of its two Thunderbolt or USB 4 ports and does not include MagSafe.
Is the 15-inch MacBook Air M2 good for travel?
The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch with M2 is a capable travel laptop for people who prefer a large 15.3-inch display for work and entertainment. The 13-inch Air is the more portable fit for smaller bags and frequent movement.
What is the best MacBook Air M2 configuration to buy?
The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M2, 16GB unified memory and 512GB SSD is the best balanced configuration for many users. The 16GB memory supports multitasking, 512GB storage suits common work files, and the 13.6-inch screen keeps the laptop portable.