Apple MacBook Air 13-inch: Apple M1 Chip with 8 Core CPU and 8 Core GPU 512GB storage - Silver MGNA3X/A review

The MacBook Air (M1, 2020) is easily one of the most exciting Apple laptops of recent years. Its M1 chip is a real game-changer, and the ability to run both legacy apps, new M1-optimized apps and iOS apps is very impressive. Battery life is also great, and performance is excellent as well.

macOS Big Sur is fast and responsive; Battery life is great; Silent in use; Keyboard remains very good

No new design; Fanless design could impact performance

Apple MacBook Air 13-inch: Apple M1 Chip with 8 Core CPU and 8 Core GPU 512GB storage - Silver MGNA3X/A review

The M1-equipped MacBook Air now packs far better performance than its predecessors, rivaling at times the M1-based MacBook Pro. At $999, it’s the best value among macOS laptops.

Good value; especially for a MacBook; Much-improved performance; thanks to Apple’s new M1 processor; Exceptional battery life; Sleek; portable metal design; High-quality keyboard; touchpad; and display; Multiple color options

Port selection limited to two USB Type-C connections; Still no touch-screen option

Apple MacBook Air 13-inch: Apple M1 Chip with 8 Core CPU and 8 Core GPU 512GB storage - Silver MGNA3X/A review

In a week of testing, I have pushed this computer and its new Apple-made processor to its limits and found that those limits exceeded my expectations on nearly every level.

Fast; Intel-based apps work well; Excellent battery life

Awful webcam; iOS apps are a whiff; It’s time to admit Macs would be better with touchscreens

Apple MacBook Air 13-inch: Apple M1 Chip with 8 Core CPU and 8 Core GPU 512GB storage - Silver MGNA3X/A review

Reviewing hardware is an act of minutia. Occasionally something new or potentially earth-shattering comes along, but on the whole, it’s about chipping away. Documenting small, gradual changes designed to keep product lines fresh and — if you play your cards right — differentiating yourself from the...