MacBook Air 15-inch (M2) vs MacBook Pro 14-inch (2023): Which should you choose

Apple have released several models of MacBooks in 2023. The most popular among them are the MacBook Air 15-inch (M2) and MacBook Pro 14-inch (2023). Before choosing which model to buy, it is recommended to examine the characteristics of each model. 

In this article we'll tell you about the features, similarities, and differences of the new MacBook Air vs. MacBook Pro 14. You'll also learn about the microprocessors available for these models and which MacBook model is the best one for different tasks.

Also: MacBook Pro 2018 vs. MacBook Air 2020: which should you buy

MacBook Air (M2) vs MacBook Pro 14-inch 

To compare the different features and functionality of the Apple MacBook Air M2 vs. MacBook Pro 14, we have created a comparison table. If you are still undecided about which MacBook model to buy, compare the features of both and decide the best option that suits your needs. 

Comparison chart: Pricing, availability, and specs

Design and specs

MacBook Air 15-inch (M2) dimensions: weight— 1.51 kg, thickness — 1.15 cm, length — 34.04 cm. The model is available in four colors: pale gold, space gray, blue, and silver.

MacBook Pro 14-inch (2023) dimensions: weight — up to 1.63 kg, thickness — 1.55 cm, length — 31.26 cm. This model is available in two colors: silver and space gray.

To summarize, MacBook Air vs. MacBook Pro 14: MacBook Pro is thicker and heavier due to more advanced components and a fan, which MacBook Air does not have. Both models have a similar design. They feature an aluminum chassis, Magic Keyboard, a backlit scissor keyboard, and a Touch ID fingerprint scanner. 

Touchpads of both devices support Force Touch, a motion, and pressure recognition technology that is especially useful for designers and artists. For example, by varying the pressure force, you can change the thickness and styles of brushes in graphic editors.

Display

The MacBook Pro features an XDR (wide dynamic range) display with LED backlight. This gives you a high refresh rate for improved detail, smooth motion in games and dynamic video, and maximum brightness and color. MacBook Pro has a higher pixel density than Air which also affects picture sharpness. 

MacBook Pro has a peak brightness of 1600 nits, while MacBook Air displays have a peak brightness of 500 nits. For this reason, you may prefer the Pro models for video content, graphics, and design.

Overall, MacBook Air vs. MacBook Pro 14: MacBook Air screen also has its advantages. Like MacBook Pro models, it can process 1 billion colors. It also has True Tone, a technology that optimizes white balance. That is, regardless of the lighting conditions when, for example, the screen is exposed to sunlight, the picture remains sharp and clear, with minimal and invisible loss of brightness and contrast.

Performance and battery

MacBook Air has an Apple M2 chip, and MacBook Pro comes in two versions—Apple M2 Pro or M2 Max. To choose the best option for your tasks, let's look at the characteristics of these processors.

• Apple M2 is an 8-core CPU: 4 performance cores and 4 power efficiency cores, 100GB/s memory bandwidth.
• Apple M2 Pro is a 12-core CPU: 8 performance cores and 4 power efficiency cores, with 200GB/s memory bandwidth.
• The M2 Max is a 12-core CPU: 8 performance cores and 4 power efficiency cores, with a memory bandwidth of 400GB/s.

The most powerful and productive chip is the M2 Max, so for intensive applications, such as 3D modeling, design, and video processing, it's better to choose this model. For simple everyday tasks, study, text processing, and video streaming, you can buy a MacBook with Apple M2 and M2 Pro.

Battery life varies depending on the configuration and usage of your MacBook. All models offer up to 18 hours of battery life. Battery life also lasts up to 18 hours for watching movies on Apple TV. 

Apple MacBook Air M2 vs. MacBook Pro 14: up to 15 hours of wireless Internet use on MacBook Air and up to 12 hours on MacBook Pro.

Choosing between MacBook Air M2 and MacBook Pro 14 depends on your needs and budget. If you need a lightweight and portable notebook for everyday tasks, MacBook Air M2 is a good option. If you need a more productive and functional laptop with advanced features and you are willing to pay extra money for it, then MacBook Pro 14 may be a better option. Either way, it is advisable to consider your needs, expectations, and degree of usage before making a final decision.

Any MacBook, even the latest model with the most advanced configuration, may require repair and upgrade in the future. To ensure that your device works reliably, without hardware and driver conflicts, it is necessary to buy only original parts. You can purchase certified Apple brand components on the AppleParts website.

We have original parts that are tested in the special technical department. When you buy Apple parts from us, you get a 100% guarantee that your device will operate in accordance with the declared specifications. In addition, you will enjoy affordable prices and fast delivery within the US and other countries.