### Apple MacBook Air M4: What Reviewers Loved and What They Didn’t

Apple has recently launched the **MacBook Air M4**, generating buzz among technology aficionados eager to discover the details about the newest version of Apple’s most budget-friendly laptop. Reviews from **CNET, MKBHD, Ars Technica**, and various others have emerged, shedding light on the features that elevate this model—and the areas where it misses the mark.

In **Mashable’s hands-on review**, Stan Schroeder commended Apple for finally incorporating **16GB of RAM** in the base model while preserving the elegant and ultraportable aesthetic that characterizes the MacBook Air series. Although the M4 largely enhances prior iterations rather than making drastic changes, it still introduces substantial advancements.

So, what do reviewers admire about the MacBook Air M4? And what elements left them feeling underwhelmed? Let’s break it down.

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## **4 Things Reviewers Loved About the MacBook Air M4**

In general, the **MacBook Air M4** has garnered overwhelmingly favorable reviews. Apple is known for its polished and well-rounded offerings, and this model upholds that reputation. Here are the key features that reviewers found commendable.

### **1. If It Ain’t Broke, Don’t Fix It**

Apple typically updates its **MacBook Air chassis** just once every few years, so it’s no shock that the M4 appears strikingly similar to its forerunners, the **M3 and M2 models**. While some critics suggest that Apple’s design is becoming dated, the majority of reviewers were content with the familiar appearance and feel.

– **Gizmodo** remarked that the **display, speakers, and overall construction quality** continue to impress.
– **PCMag** expressed appreciation for Apple’s decision to maintain the **fanless design**, ensuring a silent operation.
– **Wired** pointed out that Apple refined the **MacBook Air design** with the M3, and the M4 successfully carries this tradition forward.

The only persistent grievance? The **notch** for the front-facing camera has not changed and remains just as prominent as before.

### **2. Long-Awaited Spec Upgrades**

Performance enhancements were anticipated with the **M4 chip**, and benchmarks reveal that it provides **significant speed boosts**, especially in **AI-related tasks**.

– **PCMag** emphasized the **M4’s advancements in AI performance** compared to the M3.
– **SixColors** conducted benchmarks showing that the M4 is **noticeably quicker** than its predecessor.

However, the **most substantial upgrade** wasn’t the chip; it was the **addition of 16GB of RAM** in the base model.

For years, Apple’s entry-level MacBook Air versions came equipped with **merely 8GB of RAM**, a limitation many users encountered. With modern applications demanding more memory—particularly **AI tools and web browsers**—this enhancement was widely lauded.

### **3. Enhanced Camera and Display Support**

Among the most apparent hardware upgrades is the **front-facing camera**, now upgraded to **12 MP** (in contrast to the 1080p camera on the M3).

– The new webcam features **Center Stage**, ensuring users remain centered during video chats.
– **Desk View** enables users to display both their **face and desktop** simultaneously.
– **SixColors** observed that the camera works **better in low-light situations**.

Additionally, the **MacBook Air M4 supports dual external 6K displays at 60Hz** without the need to deactivate the internal display—another appreciated enhancement.

### **4. The Price Remains Competitive**

Apple maintained the **starting price** consistent with the **MacBook Air M3**:

– **$999** for the **13-inch model**
– **$1,199** for the **15-inch model**

This stability was welcomed, particularly since Apple had previously increased the **MacBook Air M2’s price to $1,199** before lowering it for the M3.

Most reviewers concurred that the **MacBook Air M4 provides the best value** for general users, with the **MacBook Pro** being necessary only for individuals with **demanding workloads**.

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## **4 Things Reviewers Didn’t Like About the MacBook Air M4**

No product is flawless, and the **MacBook Air M4** has some shortcomings. While none of these issues are deal-breakers, they warrant consideration prior to a purchase.

### **1. The “Sky Blue” Color Is Underwhelming**

Apple introduced a new **Sky Blue** color option, but many reviewers found it **too understated**.

– **Mashable** remarked that the blue tint is **hardly noticeable** and appears more like **silver** under certain lighting conditions.