Apple's MacBook Air, consistently hailed as one of the best laptops for the majority of users, is now more accessible than ever, with the M3 and M2 models hitting their lowest prices to date. The entry-level M3 MacBook Air, featuring a 13-inch display, has seen a reduction to $999 on platforms like Amazon and B&H, presenting a $100 saving compared to Apple's retail price. This discounted rate applies to the versions with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, albeit limited to the Midnight and Space Gray colour options. Potential buyers should be aware of shipping delays on Amazon, while B&H has announced the promotion will conclude on March 28.
Additional configurations also benefit from significant discounts. B&H offers a model with 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD at $1,399, marking a $100 reduction. For those preferring a larger display, the 15-inch variant of the M3 Air is available on Amazon for $1,204, a $95 saving that represents the best price since the product's launch earlier this month.
For shoppers considering older technology to save further, the last-generation MacBook Air with the M2 chip is available at B&H for an all-time low of $849, which is $150 off the standard price. The offer expires on March 28. A high-end configuration of the 15-inch M2 Air, equipped with 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD, has also reached a record low of $1,499.
The M3-powered MacBook Air models have earned a commendable score of 90 in reviews, praised for their slim and sturdy design, comfortable keyboards and trackpads, precise displays, 1080p webcams, and substantial battery life. The latest iterations introduce a marginally faster processor, support for Wi-Fi 6E, and the ability to connect to two external monitors. The 15-inch version, in particular, offers enhanced GPU performance and superior speakers. Both sizes feature two Thunderbolt USB-C ports, a MagSafe charging port, and a headphone jack despite a limited selection of ports.
The release of the M3 models has made the M2 versions more appealing price-wise. The performance difference between the M2 and M3 Airs is subtle for everyday tasks, making the M2 a viable option for those looking to upgrade from older models or save $150. The base M3 Air boasts a faster SSD, which may appeal to users who frequently handle large files. However, configurations with 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD are best suited for lighter workloads to prevent overheating.
Notably, the 2020 M1 MacBook Air is now available for $699 at Walmart, an attractive price for those seeking a capable MacBook at the lowest possible cost. Nonetheless, for most users, the improvements in the M2 version justify the additional expense over the M1 model. Recent discoveries of a hardware-level security exploit affecting all M-series Macs pose a low real-world risk but are worth considering for informed decision-making. With these price reductions, now is an opportune time for those contemplating a MacBook upgrade to make their move.
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