MacBook Air Early 2015

The Apple MacBook Air "Core i5" 1.6 11-Inch (Early 2015/Broadwell) is powered by a 14-nm "Broadwell ULT" 1.6 GHz Intel "Core i5" processor (5250U), which integrates two independent processor "cores" on a single chip, a 3 MB shared level 3 cache, 4 GB of onboard 1600 MHz LPDDR3 SDRAM (upgradable to 8 GB at the time of purchase, but not subsequently), either 128 GB or 256 GB of PCIe-based flash storage, and an "integrated" Intel HD Graphics 6000 graphics processor that shares system memory.

All of this is enclosed in a slim (0.11-0.68 inch), 2.3-pound aluminum case featuring an integrated 720p "FaceTime HD" webcam, a backlit full-size keyboard, and an 11.6-inch widescreen TFT LED-backlit active-matrix "glossy" display with a native resolution of 1366x768.

Connectivity options include 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, analog audio out, a single "Thunderbolt" 2 port, and two USB 3.0 ports.

Compared to its predecessor, this model appears virtually identical but incorporates a more advanced processor and architecture, superior graphics, longer stated battery life, and support for Thunderbolt 2. It also has some different identifiers.

The Early 2015 update brought the Broadwell processor to the 11-inch MacBook Air, resulting in slightly improved CPU performance and, more notably, a more powerful Intel HD 6000 graphics chip. The addition of a Thunderbolt 2 port increased its connectivity potential for high-speed peripherals. While the external design remained unchanged, these internal upgrades kept the compact machine feeling capable and modern. It was praised for refining an already excellent formula, maintaining its status as a favorite choice for those who prioritized maximum portability without significant performance compromises.