Apple MacBook Air 15-Inch Review: Bigger Screen at an Affordable Price

In this review, we take a closer look at the Apple MacBook Air 15-inch, a new addition to the MacBook Air lineup. With its larger screen size and affordable price, it aims to provide a compelling option for users who desire more screen real estate without breaking the bank.

The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch: A Bigger Display with Familiar Performance

The MacBook Air 15-inch features Apple’s powerful M2 processor, which exceeds the requirements of most creative professionals. While it doesn’t offer any significant performance enhancements over its 13-inch counterpart, it delivers fast and reliable performance for everyday tasks and more demanding applications.

Advantages of the Apple MacBook Air 15-Inch:

1. Big 15.3-inch screen size: The larger display offers an immersive visual experience and makes multitasking more convenient. Whether you’re working on multiple documents side by side or enjoying your favorite movies, the expanded screen real estate provides a more enjoyable viewing experience.
2. Fast M2 processor: The MacBook Air 15-inch is equipped with the same impressive M2 processor found in the 13-inch model, ensuring snappy performance. From browsing the web to running resource-intensive applications, this laptop can handle it all with ease.
3. Affordable price: Compared to its MacBook Pro counterparts, the 15-inch Air comes at a significantly lower price point. It provides an opportunity for users to enjoy a larger display without the premium cost associated with the Pro models.

Disadvantages of the Apple MacBook Air 15-Inch:

1. Limited ports: Despite its larger size, the 15-inch Air disappointingly offers only two Thunderbolt USB-C type ports, a MagSafe charger port, and a headphone jack. For users who rely heavily on peripheral devices or need more connectivity options, the lack of additional ports may pose a challenge.
2. Lack of performance boost: The 15-inch Air doesn’t provide any significant performance improvements over the 2022 13-inch Air. While it still delivers excellent performance, those looking for a substantial upgrade in power may be disappointed.

Design: Thin and Large

The MacBook Air 15-inch maintains the sleek and thin design that has become synonymous with the Air lineup. It feels notably thin and lightweight despite its larger footprint. The thinness combined with the bigger display creates a unique visual experience. Using it on the lap gives a sense of using a substantial, high-end laptop.

One standout feature of the MacBook Air 15-inch is its fanless design. Unlike traditional laptops that rely on fans for cooling, this model remains silent and heat-free. It’s a relief not to worry about venting airflows or the discomfort of a hot lap during prolonged usage.

The 1080p camera on the MacBook Air 15-inch delivers good video quality, similar to its 13-inch counterpart. This ensures that your video calls and conferences are clear and professional. Apple retains the camera notch, which houses the top menu bar, providing a familiar interface. While the notch may seem slightly large considering the absence of Face ID technology, it does not hinder the overall experience.

The speakers on the 15-inch Air are hidden, leaving extra space around the keyboard area. Apple utilizes this space by incorporating a positively gigantic trackpad, which is as responsive and accurate as the trackpads found in other MacBook models. The keyboard features Touch ID, providing a convenient and secure way to unlock the device and authorize transactions.

Screen and Audio: More than Satisfactory

The 15 inch display on the MacBook Air 15-inch is not equipped with the mini-LED technology found in the Pro models. However, it delivers a vibrant and crisp visual experience. Apple’s Liquid Retina screen technology ensures accurate colors, sharp details, and ample brightness. The display also benefits from True Tone technology, which adjusts the color temperature based on ambient lighting conditions, providing a more comfortable viewing experience.

The new speaker upgrade on the 15-inch model enhances the audio quality compared to its 13-inch counterpart. The speakers deliver punchier bass and overall improved audio performance. While it may not match the audio quality of dedicated speakers, it certainly enhances the multimedia experience on the MacBook Air 15-inch.

Price Considerations: Choosing Between the 15-Inch and 13-Inch

The price difference between the MacBook Air 15-inch and 13-inch models is worth considering when making a purchasing decision. The step-up version of the 15-inch MacBook Air with 8GB RAM and 512GB storage costs ₹1,54,900, while its 13-inch equivalent is priced at ₹1,44900. The ₹10,000 difference seems reasonable for those seeking a larger screen and a more comfortable viewing experience.

However, it’s important to note that the 13-inch Air offers greater portability and a more compact lap feel, making it preferable for users who prioritize mobility. The 15-inch Air, on the other hand, provides a significant advantage when it comes to productivity and multitasking. Users who spend extended hours working at a desk may find the 15-inch model more suitable.

Conclusion: The MacBook Air 15-Inch, a Reliable Option

In 2023, the MacBook Air lineup continues to impress, with both the 15-inch and 13-inch models offering an excellent balance of performance and affordability. The 15-inch Air caters to users who desire a larger screen without compromising on performance. While it shares similarities with its 13-inch counterpart, such as the M2 processor and design, the bigger display provides a more immersive experience for work and entertainment.

Whether you opt for the MacBook Air 15-inch or the 13-inch model, both are safe and reliable choices in Apple’s laptop lineup. These laptops offer a cost-effective way to enjoy a larger screen without the premium price tag of the 16-inch MacBook Pro. With Apple’s impressive M-series chips, the MacBook Airs continue to deliver fantastic speed and performance, making them a worthy investment for users in need of a capable and affordable MacBook.