MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Pro (2020, Intel)
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MacBook Air (M1 series)
Starting at
£426.31£999.00 new
MacBook Pro (2020, Intel)
Starting at
£374.10£1,299.00 newWhat's the difference between the MacBook Air (M1 series) and MacBook Pro (2020, Intel)?
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) comes down to the weight. Refurbished, the MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) starts at £374.10, £52.21 less than the MacBook Air (M1 series).
Refurbished from
Weight
- The MacBook Air (M1 series) has a lighter build: 1290 g vs 1400 g.
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) specs
The MacBook Air (M1 series) and the MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) were both released in 2020 and offer solid performance for everyday use. The MacBook Air suits users who want faster processor speed and larger built-in storage options, making it a good choice for handling demanding tasks and storing plenty of files. The MacBook Pro fits those who value a brighter screen and the Touch Bar for quick access to controls, as well as slightly lighter weight for portability.
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) price
Colour
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) battery life and software updates
Each runs on macOS with maximum OS support differing slightly, which may influence how long you can keep the device current.
Operating System Support
The MacBook Air (M1 series) supports up to macOS Tahoe, while the MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) supports up to macOS Sequoia.
Maximum operating system supported
Year of release
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) performance
Performance varies mainly in processor speed and storage capacity, with both models offering 8 GB RAM to keep everyday apps running smoothly. Storage options also differ, affecting how much data you can keep on the device.
Processor Speed and Brand
The MacBook Air (M1 series) features an Apple processor running at 3.2 GHz, which suits users needing faster processing for tasks like photo editing or multitasking. The MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) has an Intel processor at 1.7 GHz, providing reliable performance for standard computing needs.
Storage Capacity Options
MacBook Air (M1 series) stock options include 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB, and 2 TB SSDs. The MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) offers 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB, and 4 TB SSDs. If you require larger storage, both models provide options, but the MacBook Pro includes up to 4 TB stock options.
Graphic card
Macbook architecture
Processor brand
Processor speed ghz
RAM
Storage type
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) screen
Both models have a 13 inch Retina IPS display with the same 2560 by 1600 resolution and True Tone technology, suited for sharp and colour-accurate viewing. They differ in screen brightness, which affects visibility in various lighting conditions.
Screen Brightness
The MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) offers 500 nits brightness, which is well suited for bright environments or outdoor use. The MacBook Air (M1 series) provides 400 nits brightness, which is good for indoor use and typical office lighting.
Ips
Resolution
Retina
Screen brightness
Screen size
Screen type
True tone
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) camera
Both devices include a 720p front camera and stereo speakers, with differences in speaker capabilities that may affect audio experience during calls or media playback.
Speakers
The MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) features stereo speakers with high dynamic range, offering richer and more detailed sound. The MacBook Air (M1 series) has stereo speakers suitable for everyday listening but without the enhanced dynamic range.
Front camera definition
Microphone
Speakers
Webcam
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) size and design
Both laptops share many miscellaneous features such as Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi support, and USB-C ports. Differences in weight, Touch Bar presence, and screen touch capability may influence which device fits your working style and portability needs.
Touch Bar and Touch
The MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) includes a Touch Bar, which offers contextual controls and shortcuts that can speed up common tasks. Both devices have Touch support, but the MacBook Air (M1 series) does not have the Touch Bar, suiting users who prefer a simpler keyboard layout.
Weight
The MacBook Air (M1 series) weighs 1290 g, making it lighter and potentially easier to carry for long periods. The MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) weighs 1400 g, which is still portable but slightly heavier.
Wi-Fi Technology
The MacBook Air (M1 series) supports Wi-Fi 6 802.11ax, which offers faster and more efficient wireless connections where supported. The MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) has Wi‑Fi 802.11ac, providing reliable connectivity on commonly found networks.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth version
Card slot
Charger compatibility
Depth
Display
Hdmi output
Height
Jack plug
Keyboard language type
Microphone specifications
Neural engine
Promotion
Release date
Touch
Touch bar
Turbo boost
Usb typec thunderbolt 4 ports
Usba port
Usbc port
Webcam definition
Weight
Width
Wifi technology
MacBook Air (M1 series) or MacBook Pro (2020, Intel): which should you buy?
Buy the MacBook Air (M1 series) if
- you want a lighter build (1290 g vs 1400 g)
Buy the MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £374.10, £52.21 less than the MacBook Air (M1 series)
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) FAQs
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) comes down to the weight. The MacBook Air (M1 series) has a lighter build: 1290 g vs 1400 g.
The MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) is cheaper refurbished, from £374.10 compared with £426.31 for the MacBook Air (M1 series).
Refurbished, the MacBook Air (M1 series) comes in 256GB, 512GB, 1TB and 2TB, and the MacBook Pro (2020, Intel) in 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB and 4TB.
