Apple has unveiled the M4 MacBook Air, bringing significant performance upgrades, a new AI-powered experience, and improved display capabilities—all while maintaining the same ultra-thin, fanless design. But how does it compare to its predecessor, the M2 MacBook Air (2024)?
If you’re wondering whether to upgrade from M2 to M4 or which model to buy in 2025, this detailed comparison breaks down all the key differences.
M4 vs M2 MacBook Air: Quick specs comparison
| Feature | M4 MacBook Air (2025) | M2 MacBook Air (2024) |
| Processor | M4 chip (10-core CPU, up to 10-core GPU) | M2 chip (8-core CPU, 10-core GPU) |
| Performance Boost | Up to 2x faster than M1 Air | 18% CPU boost over M1 |
| Neural Engine | 16-core Neural Engine (AI-focused) | 16-core Neural Engine |
| RAM (Unified Memory) | 16GB base model (up to 32GB) | 8GB base model (up to 24GB) |
| Storage Options | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB |
| Battery Life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 18 hours |
| Camera | 12MP FaceTime HD (Center Stage, Desk View) | 1080p FaceTime HD |
| External Display Support | Two external 6K displays (with lid closed) | One external 6K display |
| Color Options | Sky Blue, Midnight, Starlight, Silver | Midnight, Starlight, Silver, Space Gray |
| AI & Apple Intelligence | Yes (Optimized for AI) | Limited AI support |
| macOS | macOS Sequoia | macOS Sonoma (upgradable) |
| Starting Price | $999 (13-inch) / $1,199 (15-inch) | $1,099 (13-inch) / $1,299 (15-inch) |
M3 iPad Air (2025) vs M2 iPad Air (2024) vs M1 iPad Air (2022)
M4 MacBook Air: What’s new and improved?
Apple has skipped the M3 chip for the MacBook Air and jumped directly to M4, offering massive performance gains over the M2 model. Here’s what makes the M4 MacBook Air a better device:
1. Up to 2x faster performance
The M4 chip brings:
- A 10-core CPU (vs. M2’s 8-core CPU)
- A 10-core GPU with ray tracing support
- Up to 2x the speed of the M1 MacBook Air
- AI-powered optimizations for creative tasks
M4 vs. M2 performance gains:
- 7x faster spreadsheet calculations in Excel
- 2x faster photo editing in Adobe Photoshop
- 8x faster video editing in iMovie vs. Intel-based MacBook Air
If you multitask, edit videos, or play games, the M4 MacBook Air is a clear winner.
2. AI-powered Apple Intelligence
Apple is pushing AI hard, and the M4 MacBook Air is designed for it. Key AI-driven features include:
- Image Playground: Instantly generate AI-created images
- Genmoji: Customize emoji with AI
- Advanced Siri + ChatGPT integration
- Real-time AI enhancements in Photos, Video Calls, and Text Editing
M2 MacBook Air users won’t get Apple Intelligence, so if you want the future of AI on Mac, M4 is the way to go.
3. Better camera & desk view mode
The M4 MacBook Air now features a 12MP FaceTime HD camera, up from the M2’s 1080p camera.
- Center Stage support automatically keeps you in frame
- Desk View mode lets you show your desk in video calls
If you frequently use FaceTime or Zoom, you’ll notice a big improvement in call quality with the M4 model.
4. Dual external display support
One of the biggest limitations of M2 MacBook Air was external display support—it could only support one external 6K display.
The M4 MacBook Air now supports two 6K external displays, making it a much better laptop for professionals who need multiple monitors.
Who benefits the most? Stock traders, video editors, software developers, and business users who need extra screen space.
5. New color: Sky Blue
Apple has introduced a new color option:
- Sky Blue (A light metallic gradient blue)
- Midnight, Starlight, Silver (Same as M2)
Space Gray is no longer available. If you love blue, the M4 MacBook Air is for you!
6. Lower starting price
- M4 MacBook Air starts at $999 (13-inch) and $1,199 (15-inch)
- That’s $100 cheaper than the M2 MacBook Air at launch
- The education price drops even further to $899 for students
If you’re buying a MacBook Air for school or work, M4 is a much better deal.
Should you upgrade from M2 to M4?
Upgrade to M4 MacBook Air if:
✔️ You need better performance for video editing, coding, or gaming
✔️ You want Apple Intelligence and AI features
✔️ You use multiple external displays
✔️ You do a lot of video calls (12MP camera & Desk View mode)
✔️ You love the new Sky Blue color
✔️ You want a more future-proof MacBook
Stick with M2 MacBook Air if:
❌ You already have an M2 Air and just use it for basic tasks
❌ You don’t need AI features or dual monitors
❌ You don’t care about the new color or minor camera upgrades
Final verdict: M4 vs. M2 MacBook Air
The M4 MacBook Air is the best MacBook Air ever—it’s faster, AI-powered, and cheaper than the M2 model.
Which one should you buy?
- Buy M4 MacBook Air if you want cutting-edge performance, AI features, and multi-display support.
- Stick with M2 MacBook Air if you already own one and only do basic tasks.
If you’re buying a new MacBook Air, get the M4—it’s cheaper, smarter, and more powerful.
Featured image credit: Apple
