If you were having a hard time choosing between the new MacBook Air and MacBook Pro with M2 technology, some information has come to light that could push the undecided over the edge, after it was revealed that the new MacBook Air limits its own performance. to 25% under prolonged workloads.
These results come from The Verge's review (opens in a new tab) of the new MacBook Air, which cycled through the multi-core test for 30 minutes to more accurately describe how the device would cope with long and demanding tasks. instead of using a benchmarking app like Cinebench R23. These benchmarks are useful, but given their short duration, they may not accurately reflect actual performance.
The fanless design is likely to blame, as the machine is forced to throttle its own performance to reduce the risk of overheating, and it's worth noting that the M13-powered 2-inch MacBook Pro didn't experience the same performance issues. during the same tests, as it has a single cooling fan to help reduce temperatures under load.
Another thing to consider if you're on the fence is that the MacBook Air M2 has slower SSD speeds, which is probably trying to keep manufacturing costs down, but combined with the performance loss, that should make it clear that they contain the same chip. , Air and Pro are different for a reason. If you need to run applications longer, like editing and rendering video footage, you're better off buying the 13-inch MacBook Pro (M2, 2022) or even the 1- or 1-inch M14 Pro and M16 Max. Models
Review: Don't overlook the MacBook Pro M1
This news is likely to upset some Apple fans, as the MacBook Air was arguably the most hyped model of the two M2 releases, but don't let a very specific area of its performance stop you from buying one, whenever it is. really the right one for your needs.
If you're looking for an affordable entry-level Macbook, you're better off getting the older version of the MacBook Air (M1, 2020), especially if you can wait for Black Friday sales. It was previously down to $799 from its original MSRP of $999 / £999 / AU$1599, and given that the new MacBook Air M2 starts at $1199 / £1249 / AU$1899. AU$ it's still a solid buy for the price. .
If you need more power, go for the older MacBook Pro models as mentioned above, or wait until they get their own inevitable M2 Pro and M2 Max upgrade. In a sense, the new MacBook Air should only appeal to those who want a fresh look, who need a little more power than the original M1 Air, or if you're the kind of person who likes to have it all. a contraption
It's as if Apple has already fallen victim to its own generational versions in this situation. When the launch of the M1 was so good, it's hard to follow that success in such a short time, especially for a company that is relatively new to processor development. The M2 simply won't offer enough of a performance boost for most people to justify its higher MSRP, and given the laptop's proposed longevity, it's unlikely current users of the M1 device will definitely need an upgrade for a while.
Remember that there are other devices on the market that might work for you too, and many of the best laptops on the market aren't Macbooks, though there are very few that offer the same performance and features as the old M1-powered MacBook. Air for the same price.
Today's best laptop deals
Via WCCFTech (Opens in a new tab)