Apple’s latest MacBook Air M4 13-inch model balances performance and efficiency, making it an appealing choice for the broad consumer base. Although it retains the familiar design and display features from the M2 era, key upgrades in price and hardware position it as a rational laptop choice in 2025.
Starting at approximately $1,100 (converted from Rp 16,799,000), Apple lowered the entry price while simultaneously increasing the baseline RAM to 16 GB. This shift is significant because it addresses one of the most critical user demands for better multitasking, especially compared to previous 8 GB configurations.
Design and Display Consistency
The MacBook Air M4 continues with the slim, lightweight aluminum chassis weighing around 1.24 kg. The 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display maintains a 60 Hz refresh rate, delivering sharp visuals and satisfactory brightness, although this refresh rate is beginning to lag behind competing models introducing 120 Hz panels.
Connectivity remains unchanged with two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports, MagSafe charging, and a 3.5 mm headphone jack. While this setup suits everyday users, professionals relying on multiple external connections may still require adapters. Additionally, the introduction of Sky Blue as a new soft metallic color adds an elegant yet subtle aesthetic option.
Webcam and Audio Improvements
One of the notable hardware upgrades is the 12 MP webcam equipped with Center Stage, which offers improved image clarity especially in well-lit environments. This camera surpasses the previous 1080p version, enhancing video conferencing quality.
The quad-speaker system retains its class-leading position in thin laptops, producing clear and well-separated sound. Complementing this, three studio-quality microphones ensure crisp voice capture for calls and recordings.
M4 Chip Performance and Efficiency
The M4 chip, built on a second-generation 3 nm fabrication process, powers this MacBook Air with improved efficiency and modest performance gains over the M3 chip. The base model includes a 10-core CPU paired with options for either an 8-core or 10-core GPU, starting with 256 GB storage.
Users upgrading from Intel-based or M1 MacBooks will notice significant responsiveness improvements. Multitasking with numerous browser tabs, messaging apps, music streaming, and light photo editing can run smoothly without bottlenecks.
The M4’s GPU now supports advanced features like ray tracing and mesh shading, previously exclusive to Pro models. This enables casual gaming and creative workflows, although demands for high-end continuous workloads still favor MacBook Pro devices.
Integration of AI and Apple Intelligence
The new chip plays a crucial role in running macOS features such as Apple Intelligence seamlessly. Tools like AI-powered Writing Tools, photo Clean Up, and ChatGPT-enhanced Siri bring practical productivity enhancements rather than superficial gimmicks. These AI-driven features position the MacBook Air as a smart assistant for everyday users.
Enhanced Multi-Display Support
A remarkable upgrade in connectivity is the ability to support two external monitors simultaneously without closing the built-in screen. Users can connect one 6K and one 5K display at the same time, expanding workspace flexibility—a key benefit for professionals using multiple applications and windows.
Battery Life and Thermal Design
Apple maintains its reputation for excellent battery life with estimated browsing times of up to 15 hours under ideal conditions. Real-world use with moderate to heavy workloads yields about 12-13 hours per charge. The efficient M4 chip also runs cool without the need for a fan, contributing to silent and comfortable operation.
Rationality Behind the MacBook Air M4
Although the MacBook Air M4 does not introduce flashy new materials, ultra-high refresh rate screens, or extra ports, its pragmatic hardware and software refinements make it one of Apple’s most sensible laptops to date. The lowered price, increased standard memory, efficient processor, and extended battery life create a value proposition hard to ignore.
For users transitioning from MacBook Intel or M1 machines, this model offers a meaningful upgrade. Meanwhile, M3 owners might find less incentive to switch immediately. For first-time buyers, the MacBook Air M4 embodies a mature Apple laptop experience—balanced, reliable, and perfectly suited to most daily computing needs.
This model defines a practical approach amid evolving user demands, delivering performance and efficiency without unnecessary complexity. Such an approach aligns well with the expectations of modern consumers seeking a capable yet affordable laptop.
