The MacBook Air Choice: Newer Isn't Always Better
You're faced with a choice. A new MacBook Air. M1 or M2? 13-inch or 15-inch? The selection of MacBook Air models is overwhelming. You scroll through specs, compare prices, and read reviews. But here's what no one tells you: the latest isn't always the best choice . In fact, for 80% of users, an older model is often smarter.
Not because it's cheaper—that too—but because the differences between generations are smaller than Apple would have you believe. That M1 from 2020? It'll run effortlessly for years to come. Those extra cores in the M2? You'll only notice them during heavy video editing. At leapp, we see it every day: customers who are more satisfied with a refurbished MacBook that perfectly suits their needs than with the most expensive model they only half-use.
Useful links
M1 vs. M2: the practical differences
The choice between a MacBook Air with an M1 or M2 chip depends primarily on what you'll be using it for. For everyday use—think browsing, email, word processing, and Netflix—the difference is barely noticeable. The 2020 M1 opens programs just as quickly as its successor. Your Safari tabs load quickly, Word launches instantly, and your Zoom meetings run smoothly.
The real difference you'll only see with more demanding tasks. The M2 has about 20% more processing power, but you'll only notice that during intensive editing. Exporting a 4K video in Final Cut Pro? It'll save you a few minutes. Editing a RAW photo in Lightroom? The M2 applies filters a bit faster. However, these aren't everyday scenarios for the average user.
What's immediately noticeable: the M2 models have a newer design with thinner bezels and a MagSafe connector. The latter frees up an extra USB-C port for accessories. Convenient, but not a deal-breaker for most people.
13 inch or 15 inch: more than just size
The difference between the 13-inch and 15-inch models goes beyond screen size. The 15-inch models have better speakers as standard, with six drivers instead of four. The sound is fuller, with more bass. For those who watch a lot of videos or listen to music without headphones, this is a noticeable advantage.
Battery life is virtually unchanged despite the larger screen. Apple claims approximately 18 hours for both models. In practice, you'll easily get a full workday with normal use, regardless of the size. The weight difference—1.24 kg versus 1.51 kg—is noticeable in your backpack. This makes a difference for daily commuting by bike or public transport.
The 15-inch screen naturally offers a larger work surface. Placing two documents side by side is more convenient. It offers a better overview for spreadsheets or programming. But the 13-inch is more practical for use on a lap on the train or on a small bistro table.
Memory and storage: what do you really need?
Apple's base models come with 8GB of RAM. For many users, this is sufficient. Ten Chrome tabs open, Spotify running in the background, and editing a Word document? No problem. The system manages memory intelligently and switches quickly between tasks.
Upgrading to 16 GB is useful for specific scenarios. Do you work with large Excel files? Do you edit photos in Photoshop? Do you run multiple virtual machines for development work? Then the investment is worth it. For Netflix, social media, and standard office tasks, it's unnecessary.
A similar consideration applies to storage. The standard 256GB is sufficient for those who primarily work in the cloud. With iCloud, Google Drive, or OneDrive, you don't need to store everything locally. Photographers, videographers, or people with large music collections need more. An external SSD is often less expensive than Apple's internal upgrade.
Considering refurbished: smarter than you think
A refurbished MacBook Air often offers the best value for money. These devices have been professionally inspected, cleaned, and repaired where necessary. The battery is tested and only approved if it has sufficient capacity. Scratches or dents? You won't see those on A-grade models.
The price difference is significant. A refurbished 2020 M1 MacBook Air often costs half as much as a new M2. But that difference doesn't get you double the performance. The M1 will continue to receive software updates from Apple for years to come. macOS Sonoma runs smoothly on it, as do all current apps.
Sustainability also plays a role. Reusing an existing laptop saves raw materials and energy. The production of a new MacBook uses approximately 400 kg of CO2. By choosing refurbished, you avoid these emissions.
When to choose which model?
Choose the M1 13 inch if you:
- Mainly browsing, emailing and editing documents
- A compact, lightweight model for on the go
- Want the best for your budget
- No heavy photo or video editing
Choose the M2 15 inch if you:
- Works a lot with spreadsheets or programming
- Values better sound
- Regularly gives presentations
- Want the latest design
Always consider refurbished if you:
- Looking for maximum value for your money
- Finds sustainability important
- Don't need the very latest features
- Prefer to invest in more memory or storage
The practice: what users experience
In practice, users of older models are often just as satisfied as buyers of the latest model. A student with a refurbished M1 won't notice any difference from fellow students with an M2. They can attend lectures, write papers, and watch Netflix without a hitch.
Professional users with specific needs will notice a difference. A graphic designer who works with large files daily benefits from the M2's extra power. A programmer appreciates the larger 15-inch screen for code overviews. But these are exceptions, not the rule.
The key insight: most people don't fully utilize their MacBook. They pay for features they never use. By critically examining your own usage, you'll make a better choice. A model that perfectly suits you will be more satisfying than the most expensive one you only use halfway.
Choose the MacBook that suits you
The perfect MacBook Air doesn't exist – but the perfect match for your situation does . Whether you choose a refurbished M1 that can handle everything you need, or opt for that larger 15-inch screen, base your choice on what you actually do, not on what you might eventually do.
At Leapp, you'll find all models professionally inspected and guaranteed. This way, you get the exact MacBook you need, without paying for air.
