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- Best overall: Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M4 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD)
- Best budget: Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M3 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD)
- Best premium: Apple 15-inch MacBook Air M4 (24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD)
- Best for travel: Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M4 (24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD)
- Apple MacBook Air M4 models are the better fit for buyers who want a newer chip, a 12MP Center Stage camera and support for two external displays while the laptop is open.
- Apple MacBook Air M3 models remain appealing when a comparable configuration costs less and the older camera and display setup meet your needs.
- The 13-inch models prioritize portability, while the 15-inch models provide a larger workspace and six-speaker sound.
- Compare memory and storage alongside the processor: 16GB unified memory suits everyday use, while 24GB is a stronger choice for heavier workloads.
The Apple MacBook Air M4 and Apple MacBook Air M3 are both thin, fanless laptops with long battery-life ratings, but the right Black Friday 2026 pick depends on configuration and priorities. We researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to separate the meaningful differences from the familiar Air features both generations share.
My pick for most people is the 13-inch Apple MacBook Air M4 with 16GB unified memory and a 256GB SSD: it combines a portable size with the newer chip, a 12MP camera and 18 hours of rated video playback. The Apple MacBook Air M3 is a sensible value alternative when its lower-generation features fit your workload and the configuration offers the better overall value.
How We Picked
- Compared Apple MacBook Air M4 and Apple MacBook Air M3 chip generations, memory options and everyday performance positioning.
- Considered 13-inch portability against 15-inch screen space, speakers and desk-use comfort.
- Checked published battery-life ratings, camera specifications and external-display support.
- Prioritized configurations with enough unified memory and storage for their intended users.
- Used specifications, professional reviews and owner feedback to identify practical strengths and limitations without claiming research.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Display size | Unified memory | Battery rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M4 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD) | Portable everyday computing | 13.6 inches | 16GB | Up to 18 hours |
| Apple 15-inch MacBook Air M4 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD) | A larger screen without a Pro model | 15.3 inches | 16GB | Up to 18 hours |
| Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M4 (24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD) | Power users who travel | 13.6 inches | 24GB | Up to 18 hours |
| Apple 15-inch MacBook Air M4 (24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD) | A roomy screen and extra memory | 15.3 inches | 24GB | Up to 18 hours |
| Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M3 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD) | Everyday use at a value-oriented configuration | 13.6 inches | 16GB | Up to 18 hours |
| Apple 15-inch MacBook Air M3 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD) | A larger screen on an M3 configuration | 15.3 inches | 16GB | Up to 18 hours |
| Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M3 (24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD) | M3 buyers needing extra memory and storage | 13.6 inches | 24GB | Up to 18 hours |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1 · Top pick
Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M4 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD)
The Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M4 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD) is the best everyday MacBook Air for students and mobile users, with an 18-hour rated video-playback battery life.
Best for: Portable everyday computing
- Display
- 13.6-inch Liquid Retina
- Unified memory
- 16GB
- Storage
- 256GB SSD
- Battery rating
- Up to 18 hours
- M4 chip and 16GB memory suit everyday multitasking
- 12MP Center Stage camera
- Two external displays supported while the laptop is open
- 256GB storage is limiting for large local libraries
Is the Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M4 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M4 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD) is worth considering for portable everyday work. The Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M4 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD)'s 16GB memory, 12MP camera and support for two external displays make it a versatile choice in a compact 13.6-inch design.
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#2
Apple 15-inch MacBook Air M4 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD)
The Apple 15-inch MacBook Air M4 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD) is the best large-screen everyday MacBook Air for home and office users, with a 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display.
Best for: A larger screen without a Pro model
- Display
- 15.3-inch Liquid Retina
- Unified memory
- 16GB
- Storage
- 256GB SSD
- Battery rating
- Up to 18 hours
- Spacious screen for documents and split-screen work
- Six-speaker sound system
- M4 camera and external-display improvements
- Larger body is less convenient for frequent travel
Is the Apple 15-inch MacBook Air M4 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple 15-inch MacBook Air M4 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD) is a good fit for buyers who value screen space over the smallest travel footprint. The 15.3-inch display and six-speaker system suit home offices, coursework and media.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#3
Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M4 (24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD)
The Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M4 (24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD) is the best compact upgrade for demanding multitaskers, with 24GB unified memory for heavier everyday workloads.
Best for: Power users who travel
- Display
- 13.6-inch Liquid Retina
- Unified memory
- 24GB
- Storage
- 512GB SSD
- Battery rating
- Up to 18 hours
- More memory for demanding multitasking
- 512GB storage gives more room for files
- Compact size with M4 features
- Higher-capacity configuration is more than basic users need
Is the Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M4 (24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M4 (24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD) is a worthwhile configuration for buyers who keep many apps and browser tabs open. The 24GB memory and 512GB SSD provide more headroom without giving up the portable 13.6-inch form.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#4
Apple 15-inch MacBook Air M4 (24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD)
The Apple 15-inch MacBook Air M4 (24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD) is the best large-screen Air for demanding multitaskers, with 24GB unified memory and a 15.3-inch display.
Best for: A roomy screen and extra memory
- Display
- 15.3-inch Liquid Retina
- Unified memory
- 24GB
- Storage
- 512GB SSD
- Battery rating
- Up to 18 hours
- Large display suits multitasking
- 24GB memory supports heavier workflows
- 512GB SSD offers useful local storage
- Less portable than the 13-inch configuration
Is the Apple 15-inch MacBook Air M4 (24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple 15-inch MacBook Air M4 (24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD) is a strong option for people who want a spacious screen and added memory in one laptop. The configuration suits demanding multitasking, while the 512GB SSD gives more room for work files.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#5
Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M3 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD)
The Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M3 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD) is the best value-focused compact Air for everyday users, with a 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display and 16GB unified memory.
Best for: Everyday use at a value-oriented configuration
- Display
- 13.6-inch Liquid Retina
- Unified memory
- 16GB
- Storage
- 256GB SSD
- Battery rating
- Up to 18 hours
- Portable design for study and commuting
- 16GB memory fits common everyday tasks
- 1080p FaceTime HD camera
- External-display support requires the laptop lid to be closed for two displays
Is the Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M3 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M3 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD) is worth considering when a value-oriented configuration matters more than the M4 camera and display improvements. The 16GB memory and compact display make it capable for routine study, browsing and office work.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#6
Apple 15-inch MacBook Air M3 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD)
The Apple 15-inch MacBook Air M3 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD) is the best large-screen M3 pick for everyday home users, with a 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display.
Best for: A larger screen on an M3 configuration
- Display
- 15.3-inch Liquid Retina
- Unified memory
- 16GB
- Storage
- 256GB SSD
- Battery rating
- Up to 18 hours
- Large workspace for documents and video
- Six-speaker sound system
- 16GB memory supports everyday multitasking
- Two external displays require the laptop lid to be closed
Is the Apple 15-inch MacBook Air M3 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple 15-inch MacBook Air M3 (16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD) is a practical choice for home users who want a large built-in screen. The 15.3-inch display and six-speaker system make it comfortable for coursework, documents and entertainment.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#7
Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M3 (24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD)
The Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M3 (24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD) is the best higher-capacity M3 option for mobile multitaskers, with 24GB unified memory.
Best for: M3 buyers needing extra memory and storage
- Display
- 13.6-inch Liquid Retina
- Unified memory
- 24GB
- Storage
- 512GB SSD
- Battery rating
- Up to 18 hours
- 24GB memory helps with heavier multitasking
- 512GB SSD suits larger local file collections
- Portable 13.6-inch design
- M4 models have newer camera and external-display features
Is the Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M3 (24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD) worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M3 (24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD) is worth a look for mobile users who need extra memory and storage but prefer the M3 generation. The Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M3 (24GB unified memory, 512GB SSD)'s 24GB memory and 512GB SSD provide a more capable configuration than the base model.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
Which is better, the MacBook Air M4 or MacBook Air M3?
The Apple MacBook Air M4 is the better all-round pick for buyers who want newer features, while the Apple MacBook Air M3 is a sensible alternative when its configuration offers stronger value. Both generations have fanless designs, Liquid Retina screens and battery-life ratings of up to 18 hours of video playback.
The M4 models add a 12MP Center Stage camera and support two external displays while the laptop remains open. The M3 models have a 1080p FaceTime HD camera, and connecting two external displays requires closing the lid. For video calls and a multi-monitor desk setup, the M4 has a clear practical edge. For browsing, writing, streaming and common office work, the M3 remains capable.
Is the MacBook Air M4 worth choosing over the M3?
The Apple MacBook Air M4 is worth choosing over the Apple MacBook Air M3 when its newer camera, chip and open-lid dual-display support matter to your daily routine. The 12MP Center Stage camera keeps you framed during compatible video calls, while the M4 allows two external displays without closing the laptop.
The Apple MacBook Air M3 remains a useful choice for straightforward tasks and buyers who do not need those upgrades. Processor generation alone should not decide the purchase: compare the exact screen size, memory and storage configuration, then weigh the feature differences against the overall value. Skip it if you need a more capable graphics workstation or a laptop with a built-in fan for sustained intensive workloads.
Should you choose a 13-inch or 15-inch MacBook Air?
The 13-inch Apple MacBook Air M4 and Apple MacBook Air M3 suit commuters, students and travelers, while the 15-inch versions offer a larger 15.3-inch workspace. Both sizes use Liquid Retina displays, so the decision is primarily about portability versus screen area rather than choosing a different class of laptop.
The 13.6-inch models fit smaller bags and crowded desks more easily. The 15-inch models give documents, spreadsheets and side-by-side apps extra room, and include a six-speaker sound system. People who often work at a fixed desk can prefer the larger display; frequent travelers generally benefit from the smaller body. Check the full configuration as well, since memory and SSD capacity affect long-term usefulness.
How much memory and storage should a MacBook Air have?
A 16GB Apple MacBook Air configuration is a good starting point for everyday browsing, schoolwork and office tasks, while 24GB is a better fit for heavier multitasking. Unified memory is shared across the system, so buyers who keep many applications, browser tabs and large files active benefit from extra capacity.
A 256GB SSD works for people who rely on cloud storage or keep a modest collection of local files. A 512GB SSD provides more room for downloaded media, photo libraries and project folders. Memory and storage are chosen at purchase, so decide based on how you actually work rather than choosing the lowest configuration by default. Neither upgrade changes the display size or rated battery life.
What should you compare for Black Friday 2026?
The Apple MacBook Air M4 and Apple MacBook Air M3 are easiest to compare for Black Friday 2026 by matching screen size, unified memory and SSD capacity first. A lower-priced configuration is not a direct comparison if it has less memory or storage, or if it switches from a 15-inch display to a 13-inch display.
Check the full model name, chip generation, condition, keyboard layout, return terms and warranty coverage before choosing a retailer. Compare the final configuration across sellers rather than relying on a headline alone. For most buyers, 16GB memory is a sound everyday baseline; choose 24GB for heavier workloads, and select 512GB storage when substantial files need to stay on the laptop.
Buying Guide
Choose the chip generation
Select an Apple MacBook Air M4 for the 12MP Center Stage camera and two-display support with the laptop open. Choose an Apple MacBook Air M3 when its capabilities meet your needs and the complete configuration is a stronger value.
Match the screen to your routine
Pick a 13.6-inch Apple MacBook Air for commuting and travel. Choose a 15.3-inch Apple MacBook Air for more workspace, a larger built-in display and six-speaker sound.
Set a memory baseline
Choose 16GB unified memory for common school, browsing and office tasks. Consider 24GB for heavier multitasking, large projects and a longer-term configuration with more headroom.
Choose storage for local files
A 256GB SSD suits cloud-first users with modest local libraries. A 512GB SSD makes more sense for people who keep large photo collections, media files or work projects on the laptop.
Compare like-for-like listings
Check model generation, display size, memory, SSD capacity, condition and seller terms together. A fair comparison uses the same configuration rather than comparing a base model with an upgraded laptop.
FAQ
What is the main difference between MacBook Air M4 and M3?
The Apple MacBook Air M4 adds a 12MP Center Stage camera and supports two external displays while the laptop is open. The Apple MacBook Air M3 has a 1080p FaceTime HD camera and requires its lid to be closed for a two-external-display setup.
Is the MacBook Air M3 still worth buying in 2026?
The Apple MacBook Air M3 is still worth considering for everyday work when its screen, memory and storage meet your needs. The Apple MacBook Air M4 offers newer camera and display features, so compare full configurations and choose based on which differences matter to you.
Is the 13-inch or 15-inch MacBook Air better?
The 13-inch Apple MacBook Air is better for buyers who prioritize a compact travel laptop. The 15-inch Apple MacBook Air is better for people who want a larger workspace and six-speaker sound. Both sizes are offered with M4 and M3 chips.
How much memory should I get in a MacBook Air?
Choose 16GB unified memory in an Apple MacBook Air for common browsing, coursework and office work. Choose 24GB for heavier multitasking or large projects. Match that decision with storage capacity, since memory and SSD size address different needs.
Does the MacBook Air M4 support two external monitors?
The Apple MacBook Air M4 supports up to two external displays while its built-in laptop display remains open. The Apple MacBook Air M3 supports two external displays with the laptop lid closed, making the M4 more flexible for a multi-monitor desk.
Which MacBook Air is the best Black Friday 2026 pick?
The Apple 13-inch MacBook Air M4 with 16GB unified memory and a 256GB SSD is the best balanced pick for many buyers. Choose an M3 configuration when its features suit your needs and the comparable model offers better overall value.