MacBook Air M1, 2020

The Apple MacBook Air "M1" 8-Core CPU/8-Core GPU 13-Inch (2020) model is driven by a 5-nm 3.2 GHz Apple M1 processor with 8 cores (4 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores), an 8-core GPU, a 16-core Neural Engine, 8 GB of onboard RAM, and a 512 GB onboard SSD. Both the RAM and SSD could be upgraded at the time of initial purchase, but not subsequently.

This is all enclosed in a slim, wedge-shaped aluminum case with an integrated 720p "FaceTime HD" webcam, Touch ID, a backlit "Magic Keyboard" featuring 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 was available in three color options—gold (pictured, left), silver, and a darker "Space Gray" (but not other colors)—and weighs 2.8 pounds (1.29 kg). Apple estimates a battery life of 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 appear nearly identical but feature a completely different internal architecture.

This higher-tier M1 MacBook Air, distinguished by its 8-core GPU and larger 512 GB SSD, offered a slight but noticeable improvement in graphics performance over the base model. This made it a better choice for users engaging in graphically intensive tasks like photo and video editing. It shared the same game-changing M1 architecture, which provided phenomenal speed, a fanless silent design, and exceptional battery life. While the base model offered better value for general users, this upgraded version was lauded as a powerful and highly capable machine for prosumers who could leverage the extra graphical horsepower.