MacBook Air M1, 2020

The Apple MacBook Air "M1" 8-Core CPU/7-Core GPU 13-Inch (2020) model is powered by a 5-nm 3.2 GHz Apple M1 processor with 8 cores (4 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores), a 7-core GPU, a 16-core Neural Engine, 8 GB of onboard RAM, and a 256 GB onboard SSD. An education-only model with a 128 GB SSD was also available. Both the RAM and SSD could be upgraded at the time of initial purchase, but not afterward.

This is all housed in a slim, wedge-shaped aluminum case with an integrated 720p "FaceTime HD" webcam, Touch ID, a backlit "Magic Keyboard" with a "scissor mechanism," a large "Force Touch" trackpad, and a high-resolution 13.3-inch LED-backlit 2560x1600 (227 ppi, 400 nits) "Retina" display with True Tone technology.

The aluminum case is available in three color options—gold (pictured, left), silver, and a darker "Space Gray" (but no other colors)—and weighs 2.8 pounds (1.29 kg). Apple estimates battery life at 15-18 hours, depending on the task performed.

Connectivity includes 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5, two Thunderbolt 3/USB 4 ports (USB-C connector), and a 3.5 mm headphone jack.

Compared to its predecessor, the "2020, M1" MacBook Air models look nearly identical but feature a completely different internal architecture.

The M1 MacBook Air was revolutionary, marking a seismic shift in laptop performance and efficiency. The Apple M1 chip delivered breathtaking speed that ran circles around its Intel predecessors, all while remaining completely silent due to its fanless design. The battery life was extraordinary, easily lasting through more than a full day of heavy use. This entry-level model, with its 7-core GPU, was praised for offering incredible value, providing pro-level performance at a consumer price point. It was almost universally acclaimed as the best laptop for most people, redefining expectations for the category.