MacBook Air 13-Inch, M3, 2024

The Apple MacBook Air "M3" 8-Core CPU/10-Core GPU 13-Inch (2024) model is powered by a 4.05 GHz Apple M3 processor with 8 cores (4 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores), a 10-core GPU, a 16-core Neural Engine, a default of 8 GB, 16 GB, or 24 GB of "unified" onboard RAM (the 8 GB option was discontinued and the 24 GB option was introduced as a default on October 30, 2024), and a default 512 GB onboard SSD. Both the RAM and SSD can be configured with higher capacities at the time of initial system purchase, but neither can be upgraded subsequently.

This is all housed in a uniformly thin aluminum case with an integrated 1080p "FaceTime HD" webcam, a four-speaker sound system, Touch ID, a backlit "Magic Keyboard," a large "Force Touch" trackpad, and a high-resolution 13.6-inch LED-backlit 2560x1664 (224 ppi, 500 nits) "Liquid Retina" display with Wide color (P3) and True Tone technology.

The aluminum case is available in four color options—dark blue "Midnight" (pictured, left), a warm gray "Starlight," a darker "Space Gray," and classic silver. It weighs 2.7 pounds (1.24 kg). Apple estimates a battery life of 15-18 hours, depending on the task performed. By default, it shipped with a MagSafe 3-equipped 35W Dual USB-C Port Compact Power Adapter, but it could also be configured with a single fast-charge 70W USB-C Power Adapter at no extra cost.

Connectivity includes 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, two Thunderbolt 3/USB 4 ports (USB-C connector), and a 3.5 mm headphone jack.

Compared to their M2 predecessors, the MacBook Air "M3" models use the same housings but have a faster architecture, increased external display support, faster Wi-Fi, and microphone improvements. The dark blue "Midnight" color option also features a new "anodization seal to reduce fingerprints."

The M3-equipped MacBook Air with a 10-core GPU was recognized as a potent refinement of the M2 design. The M3 chip provided a noticeable boost in both CPU and graphics performance, particularly in tasks leveraging hardware-accelerated ray tracing and mesh shading. A key new feature was the ability to support two external displays when the laptop lid is closed, a welcome upgrade for power users. Faster Wi-Fi 6E and improved microphone quality were also praised. It was considered a solid, if iterative, update that made an already great laptop even more capable for creative and professional work.