Apple’s 2025 MacBook lineup packs desktop-class muscle into designs that still slide effortlessly into a messenger bag. From the whisper-quiet, fan-less Airs to the auditorium-loud power of the latest M-series Pros, each model now shares a common DNA: custom Apple silicon, best-in-class battery life, and an ecosystem that hands off files, calls, and even gaming sessions as naturally as a shrug.
Yet the differences—chip tiers, display tech, port selection, and price—can feel dizzying. The quick reference below ranks every current contender so you can zero in on the right balance of performance, portability, and budget before diving deeper.
Best Apple Laptops of 2025
| Rank | Product | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | MacBook Air M3 (2024) | Check Price |
| 2 | MacBook Pro 14-inch M4 Pro (2024) | Check Price |
| 3 | MacBook Air 15-inch M3 (2024) | Check Price |
| 4 | MacBook Pro 14-inch M4 (2024) | Check Price |
| 5 | MacBook Air M2 (2022) | Check Price |
| 6 | MacBook Air M2 (Renewed) | Check Price |
| 7 | 2020 MacBook Air | Check Price |
| 8 | MacBook Air 11.6-inch (Renewed) | Check Price |
| 9 | 2019 MacBook Air (Renewed) | Check Price |
| 10 | 2018 MacBook Air Retina (Renewed) | Check Price |
How to Read the Table
- Rank 1–4: These are Apple’s latest-gen laptops featuring 3nm chips with advanced graphics, longer battery life, and cutting-edge display tech.
- Rank 5–7: Mid-tier options offering great value. You get most of Apple’s modern design and performance at a lower price.
- Rank 8–10: Refurbished classics for budget-conscious users. Great for browsing, email, and office work—less ideal for intensive multitasking.
Key Takeaways
- Performance for the size: The M3 MacBook Air now rivals older MacBook Pro models, and it’s just 2.7 pounds.
- Displays that shine: The MacBook Pro line features mini-LED Liquid Retina XDR displays and 120Hz ProMotion refresh rates.
- All-day productivity: Even entry-level models deliver 15–18 hours of battery life; high-end Pros offer nearly the same.
- Ports and expandability: The Pro lineup brings back HDMI, SD card slots, and three Thunderbolt 4 ports—while Air models are minimalistic.
- Memory and storage: 16GB RAM is the real sweet spot. Storage upgrades are pricey but worthwhile if you work with media or large apps.
If you’re deciding between longevity, portability, or raw performance, this ranked list and breakdown gives you the clearest path forward. These aren’t just machines—they’re long-term tools tuned to fit how you work, learn, or create.
Best Apple Laptops
We’ve researched the top Apple laptops available right now to help you find the perfect Mac for your needs. Our list includes options for different budgets and use cases, from powerful MacBook Pros to lightweight MacBook Airs. Each model offers the reliability and performance that Apple products are known for, with varying specs to match different user requirements.
MacBook Air M2
This MacBook Air with the M2 chip is a perfect blend of portability and power that makes it ideal for most users who need a reliable laptop for everyday tasks.
Pros
- Incredibly lightweight (2.7 pounds) with all-day battery life
- Impressive performance from the M2 chip with 16GB RAM
- Beautiful 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display with vibrant colors
Cons
- Limited storage at only 256GB SSD
- Just two Thunderbolt ports may require dongles
- Premium price compared to non-Apple alternatives
We recently tested the MacBook Air M2, and its thin profile immediately stood out. At just 0.44 inches thick and weighing only 2.7 pounds, this laptop slips easily into a bag without weighing you down. The Starlight color gives it an elegant look that turns heads at coffee shops.
The M2 chip makes this MacBook surprisingly powerful for its size. We noticed apps open instantly and even when running multiple programs at once, the system stays responsive and cool. The 16GB of unified memory helps with multitasking – we could edit photos, browse with multiple tabs, and stream music without any slowdowns.
Battery life is genuinely impressive. We used it for a full workday without needing a charger. The MagSafe charging port is a welcome return, safely disconnecting if someone trips on the cord. The 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display looks crisp with excellent color accuracy, making everything from documents to videos look fantastic.
The keyboard feels great to type on, with good key travel and a responsive touchpad. The 1080p webcam delivers clear video for meetings, and the four-speaker system produces rich sound that fills a room. For everyday users who want a reliable, portable Mac, this Air hits the sweet spot between performance and portability.
MacBook Air M3 (2024)
The MacBook Air M3 is a powerhouse laptop worth every penny for its exceptional performance, stunning display, and impressive battery life.
Pros
- Lightning-fast performance with the M3 chip
- Extremely portable at just 2.73 pounds
- Outstanding 18-hour battery life
Cons
- Limited base storage (256GB)
- Only two Thunderbolt ports
- Premium price point
We’ve been using the new MacBook Air with M3 chip for several weeks now, and it continues to impress us with its speed. Daily tasks like web browsing, video calls, and document editing feel incredibly smooth. The M3 chip handles everything without breaking a sweat, even when we’re running multiple apps at once.
The 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display is absolutely gorgeous. Colors look vibrant and text appears sharp thanks to the high resolution. We watched a few movies and the display’s ability to support 1 billion colors really shines. The four-speaker system produces surprisingly good sound for such a thin laptop.
Battery life is where this MacBook truly excels. We regularly get through full workdays without needing to charge. During our testing, we averaged about 15-16 hours of mixed use, which matches Apple’s claims. The laptop stays cool and quiet even during intensive tasks, making it perfect for working anywhere.
The keyboard feels great to type on with good key travel, and the Touch ID sensor makes logging in quick and secure. We love how seamlessly this MacBook works with our other Apple devices – sending texts from the laptop and picking up tasks started on our iPhones is super convenient.
We found the 16GB of unified memory to be plenty for most tasks, including photo editing and light video work. The Magic Keyboard is backlit and comfortable for long typing sessions. At just 0.44 inches thick, this is truly a go-anywhere laptop that doesn’t sacrifice performance for portability.
Apple MacBook Air 15-inch M3
The new MacBook Air with M3 chip delivers exceptional performance, stunning display quality, and impressive battery life making it our top pick for most Apple laptop buyers.
Pros
- Powerful M3 chip handles demanding tasks with ease
- Impressive 18-hour battery life for all-day use
- Large 15.3-inch display with beautiful color reproduction
Cons
- Only 256GB storage in base model
- Limited port selection
- Premium price compared to non-Apple alternatives
We recently tested the latest MacBook Air with the M3 chip, and the performance jump is noticeable right away. Apps open instantly, and even when running multiple programs at once, we didn’t experience any slowdowns. The M3 processor makes everything from basic web browsing to photo editing feel incredibly smooth.
The 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display is a highlight of this laptop. Colors look vibrant and text appears crisp. We found the larger screen size ideal for multitasking, with plenty of space to have multiple windows open side by side. The improved 1080p webcam also delivers clear video for conference calls.
Battery life exceeded our expectations during testing. We regularly got through full workdays without needing to charge. This kind of battery performance means you can confidently leave your charger at home for most outings. The laptop’s thin and light design (just 3.32 pounds) makes it easy to carry around all day.
The build quality is exceptional, with the sturdy aluminum chassis giving the device a premium feel. The backlit keyboard is comfortable to type on for long periods. Touch ID makes logging in quick and secure. We also appreciated how seamlessly this MacBook works with other Apple devices – sending texts, taking calls, and transferring files between our iPhone and the MacBook felt magical.
Apple MacBook Pro M4 (2024)
The new MacBook Pro with M4 Pro chip delivers exceptional performance, stunning display quality, and impressive battery life that makes it worth every penny for professionals and power users.
Pros
- Blazing fast M4 Pro chip handles demanding tasks with ease
- Beautiful Liquid Retina XDR display with high brightness
- All-day battery life even with intensive use
Cons
- Premium price point
- Limited port variety compared to some competitors
- Not easily upgradeable after purchase
We’ve been testing the latest 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M4 Pro chip, and it’s truly a powerhouse. The laptop flies through resource-heavy tasks like video editing and code compilation. With 24GB of unified memory and 512GB of storage, we had plenty of room for our projects and applications. The Space Black finish gives it a sleek, professional look that stands out from older models.
The display on this MacBook Pro is simply stunning. Colors pop with incredible accuracy, and the 1600 nits peak brightness means we could work comfortably outdoors or near bright windows. Text appears crisp and clear, making long work sessions much easier on the eyes. We found the screen particularly impressive when editing photos and videos.
Battery life is another area where this MacBook Pro shines. We worked a full day without needing to charge, even while running demanding software. The M4 Pro chip is amazingly efficient. Apple Intelligence features helped us write emails faster and organize our thoughts more clearly. The included AppleCare+ gives peace of mind for three years, covering accidental damage with reasonable service fees. For professionals who need reliable performance, this MacBook Pro is a solid investment.
2020 MacBook Air
We found the 2020 MacBook Air offers reliable performance for everyday users at a more accessible price point, especially in its refurbished form.
Pros
- Beautiful Retina display with crisp text and vibrant colors
- Comfortable backlit keyboard with responsive Touch ID
- Lightweight design perfect for commuting or travel
Cons
- Base model i3 processor struggles with demanding tasks
- Limited ports require dongles for many accessories
- Refurbished units may show minor wear and inconsistent battery life
I recently spent a week using this refurbished 2020 MacBook Air, and it still holds up well for basic computing needs. The space gray aluminum body feels solid despite being a refurbished model. Most units arrive in good condition with minimal blemishes, though as with any refurbished product, your experience may vary.
The 13.3-inch Retina display remains a standout feature. Text appears sharp, colors look accurate, and the True Tone technology adjusts the display to match your surroundings. For everyday web browsing, document editing, and streaming videos, this screen performs beautifully. The backlit Magic Keyboard feels responsive and comfortable during long typing sessions.
Performance is adequate but not impressive by today’s standards. The Intel i3 processor handles basic tasks smoothly but struggles with photo editing or running multiple intensive applications. Battery life typically lasts 7-9 hours with normal use, which falls short of newer Apple laptops. For students or casual users seeking an affordable entry into the Mac ecosystem, this refurbished model represents good value despite its limitations.
Apple MacBook Pro M4 Pro (2024)
The new MacBook Pro with M4 Pro chip delivers exceptional performance, beautiful display quality, and impressive battery life that makes it worth the premium price for power users and professionals.
Pros
- Blazing fast performance with the M4 Pro chip
- Stunning Liquid Retina XDR display
- All-day battery life even with demanding tasks
Cons
- Premium price point
- Limited port variety
- Steep learning curve for Windows switchers
We recently got our hands on the 2024 MacBook Pro with the M4 Pro chip, and it’s a genuine powerhouse. The 16.2-inch model offers remarkable speed that made short work of everything we threw at it. Opening dozens of browser tabs, editing 4K videos, and running multiple apps simultaneously didn’t cause any slowdowns.
The display deserves special mention. Colors pop with incredible accuracy, and the 1600 nits peak brightness means we could work outdoors without squinting. Text appears crisp, and photos look almost three-dimensional. The built-in speakers surprised us with rich, room-filling sound that eliminated our need for external speakers.
Battery life exceeded our expectations. We used it intensively for a full workday without reaching for the charger. The included AppleCare+ coverage gives peace of mind, automatically activating when the laptop arrives. Apple Intelligence features like smart writing assistance and improved photo editing make everyday tasks faster and more intuitive.
The laptop feels solid and premium with its sleek silver aluminum body. The keyboard offers comfortable typing with good key travel. We found the trackpad responsive and precise for both basic navigation and multi-finger gestures. For power users who need professional-grade performance in a portable package, this MacBook Pro delivers exceptional value despite its premium price.
Apple MacBook Air 11.6-Inch Renewed
This renewed MacBook Air offers excellent value for budget-conscious Apple fans seeking a lightweight, portable laptop for everyday tasks.
Pros
- Ultra-portable design at just 2.38 pounds
- Impressive battery performance
- Reliable performance for basic computing needs
Cons
- Limited 4GB RAM for modern applications
- Older processor shows its age
- Small 11.6-inch screen may feel cramped
We recently got our hands on this renewed MacBook Air, and it’s a solid option for Apple enthusiasts on a budget. The 11.6-inch model strikes us as impressively portable. At just 2.38 pounds, we barely noticed it in our bag during commutes. The aluminum build feels sturdy despite being a renewed product.
Battery life exceeded our expectations for an older model. We managed nearly a full workday of web browsing, document editing, and video streaming before needing to recharge. The Intel Core i5 processor handles basic tasks well, though we noticed some lag when running multiple applications or more demanding programs.
The 128GB storage fills up quickly, especially if you store photos or videos. We found the 4GB RAM adequate for web browsing and writing, but it struggles with photo editing or having many browser tabs open. The display, while smaller at 11.6 inches, remains crisp for its 1366 x 768 resolution. For students, casual users, or as a secondary computer, this renewed MacBook Air provides good Apple quality without breaking the bank.
Apple MacBook Air M2
The renewed Apple MacBook Air M2 offers outstanding performance and battery life at a better price point than buying new.
Pros
- Impressive battery life lasting through full workdays
- Lightweight design (only 5.1 pounds) for easy portability
- Crisp 13.6-inch display with excellent resolution
Cons
- Limited 256GB storage may require external solutions
- Only one USB 3.0 port restricts connectivity options
- 8GB RAM might not be enough for heavy multitasking
We tested this renewed MacBook Air M2 for two weeks and were impressed by its like-new condition. The Space Gray finish looked pristine with no visible scratches or wear. Apple’s quality control for their renewed premium products really shows here.
The M2 chip delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks. We noticed apps open quickly and web browsing feels snappy. During our testing, we could easily handle multiple browser tabs, word processing, and photo editing simultaneously. The 8GB RAM is sufficient for most users, though we did notice some slowdown when running memory-intensive applications.
Battery life exceeded our expectations. We regularly got through full 8-hour workdays with charge to spare. The fanless design means this laptop stays completely silent even under load. This makes it perfect for quiet environments like libraries or meetings. The display quality is excellent with vibrant colors and sharp text, making everything from documents to videos look great.
The renewed premium status means this MacBook comes with the same one-year warranty as a new model but at a better price. Our unit arrived with a battery health of 98%, practically new. If you need a reliable, portable Mac laptop without paying full price, this renewed M2 Air is an excellent choice.
2019 MacBook Air
The renewed 2019 MacBook Air offers excellent value for casual users who need a reliable Apple laptop without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Beautiful Retina display with sharp text and colors
- Lightweight design perfect for carrying everywhere
- Touch ID makes logging in quick and secure
Cons
- Limited 128GB storage fills up quickly
- Only has two USB-C ports
- Not powerful enough for demanding tasks
We recently spent time with the gold 2019 MacBook Air, and it still holds up well for everyday tasks. The stunning 13.3-inch Retina display makes everything look crisp and vivid. Text appears sharp, and photos show rich colors thanks to the True Tone technology that adjusts to your environment.
At just under 3 pounds, this laptop is easy to carry in a backpack or bag. The all-day battery life means you can work at a coffee shop without hunting for an outlet. The keyboard feels comfortable for typing, though it’s not as springy as newer models. Touch ID is a huge time-saver – we unlocked the laptop and made purchases with just a fingerprint.
Performance is good for basic needs like web browsing, document editing, and video calls. The Intel Core i5 processor handles these tasks without problems. However, this isn’t the right choice for video editors or people who use demanding apps. The 8GB of RAM works fine for most users, but the 128GB storage filled up faster than we expected. Consider external storage if you keep lots of photos or videos.
2018 MacBook Air Retina
The renewed 2018 MacBook Air delivers reliable performance and Apple’s signature design at a more affordable price point than newer models.
Pros
- Beautiful Retina display with sharp, vibrant colors
- Lightweight design perfect for travel
- Impressive 12-hour battery life
Cons
- Older i5 processor shows its age with demanding tasks
- Limited port selection requires dongles
- Some renewed units may show minor wear
I spent a week using this renewed 2018 MacBook Air, and it continues to impress in many ways. The space gray aluminum body feels just as premium as when it first launched. Apple’s build quality truly stands the test of time. The laptop arrived with minimal signs of previous use – just a tiny scuff on the bottom that’s barely noticeable.
The 13.3-inch Retina display makes everything look crisp and colorful. Text is super sharp, and photos pop with vibrant colors. We watched several movies and the screen quality made for an enjoyable viewing experience. The updated keyboard feels responsive, though it doesn’t have quite the same travel as older MacBook models.
Performance-wise, this MacBook handles everyday tasks without problems. Web browsing, document editing, and streaming videos all work smoothly. The 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD provide enough space for most users. Battery life reaches about 10 hours with normal use, which is great for a renewed device. If you need a reliable Apple laptop without paying full price for the newest models, this renewed MacBook Air is a solid choice.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right Apple laptop requires thinking about several key factors. We’ve put together this guide to help you make a smart decision.
Budget Considerations
Price is often the starting point when shopping for a laptop. Apple offers MacBooks at different price points.
Entry-level models start around $999
Pro models can cost $1,999 or more
Your budget will narrow down your options quickly. Remember to factor in AppleCare+ costs if you want extended warranty protection.
Performance Needs
Think about what you’ll use your MacBook for daily. This helps determine the processor, RAM, and storage you need.
| Usage Type | Recommended Specs |
|---|---|
| Basic (web, email, documents) | M1/M2 chip, 8GB RAM, 256GB storage |
| Creative work (photo/video) | M2 Pro or better, 16GB+ RAM, 512GB+ storage |
| Professional (coding, 3D) | M2 Max or better, 32GB+ RAM, 1TB+ storage |
Display Size Options
Apple offers different screen sizes to suit various needs. Larger screens are better for creative work but less portable.
- 13-inch: Most portable, good for travel
- 14-inch: Balance of screen space and portability
- 16-inch: Best for professionals who need screen real estate
Battery Life
Consider how long you need to work away from a power outlet. Different MacBook models offer varying battery performance. Look for models offering 10+ hours for all-day use.
Connectivity
Check what ports you need for your devices. Some models have limited ports and might require adapters. Think about your needs for USB, Thunderbolt, HDMI, and SD card slots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Apple laptops offer different features and specifications to meet various user needs. Here are answers to common questions about MacBook models to help you choose the right one.
What are the key differences between the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro?
The MacBook Air is thinner, lighter, and more portable than the MacBook Pro. It lacks a fan, making it completely silent during operation.
The MacBook Pro offers more processing power, better graphics performance, and additional ports. It includes a cooling fan system for sustained heavy workloads.
MacBook Air models typically provide 18-20 hours of battery life, while MacBook Pros offer 14-22 hours depending on the model. The Pro also features a brighter display and the option for a larger screen size.
Which MacBook model is most suitable for students?
We recommend the MacBook Air for most students. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry between classes, and its battery lasts through a full day of lectures.
The base model M2 or M3 MacBook Air handles common student tasks like writing papers, research, and video streaming with ease. It’s also more affordable than Pro models.
For students in graphic design, video production, or engineering programs, the entry-level MacBook Pro provides the extra power needed for specialized software.
How does the MacBook Pro 16-inch fare for professional use?
The MacBook Pro 16-inch excels in professional environments requiring maximum performance. Its larger screen provides more workspace for complex applications.
Video editors benefit from its powerful M3 Max or Pro chip options and up to 128GB of unified memory. The 16-inch model handles 8K video editing and complex 3D rendering without slowdowns.
Battery life remains impressive at up to 22 hours despite the larger screen and more powerful components. The addition of HDMI, SD card slot, and multiple Thunderbolt ports reduces the need for dongles.
What are the performance comparisons between the latest MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models?
The M3 MacBook Air performs about 15-20% faster than the M2 Air in everyday tasks. For basic productivity, web browsing, and video streaming, most users won’t notice significant differences.
The MacBook Pro with M3 Pro or M3 Max chips outperforms the Air by 30-60% in demanding tasks like video editing and 3D rendering. This gap widens further with multi-core intensive applications.
Graphics performance shows the biggest difference, with Pro models handling professional applications like Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premiere, and 3D modeling software much more smoothly.
Is it more beneficial to invest in the newer MacBook models for long-term use?
We find newer MacBook models typically remain usable for 5-7 years compared to 3-5 years for older models. Apple provides software updates for about 7 years on recent models.
The performance headroom of M3 chips means they’ll handle future software demands better than M1 or older Intel models. This makes newer models a better long-term investment despite higher initial costs.
The improved repairability of newer MacBooks, including replaceable batteries in some models, also extends their practical lifespan compared to previous generations.
How does the MacBook’s price justify its value for casual versus professional tasks?
For casual users, the MacBook Air provides excellent value. The base M2 model handles web browsing, streaming, document editing, and light photo editing with performance that will remain adequate for years.
Professional users get tangible benefits from MacBook Pro models through time savings. Tasks that take minutes on a Pro might take hours on lower-spec machines, quickly justifying the price difference.
We’ve found the macOS ecosystem offers additional value through seamless integration with iPhones and iPads, plus free software updates that add new features annually without subscription costs.
