MacBook Air (M1 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel)
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MacBook Air (M1 series)
Starting at
£426.31£999.00 new
"Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel)
Starting at
£254.00What's the difference between the MacBook Air (M1 series) and "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel)?
The MacBook Air (M1 series) and "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) share the same main specs, so price and condition decide it. Refurbished, the "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) starts at £254, £172.31 less than the MacBook Air (M1 series).
Refurbished from
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) specs
The MacBook Air M1 series and the Intel MacBook Air 2020 both offer solid performance and design for everyday use but differ in key areas that suit different needs. The M1 series features a faster Apple processor with a 7-core GPU and higher maximum storage options, making it suitable for users who need more power and space for demanding tasks. The Intel model uses an Intel processor with Intel Iris Plus graphics and offers a wide range of storage choices up to 2TB, which fits users comfortable with Intel architecture and those looking for varied storage sizes. Both have the same screen quality, webcam, and Bluetooth version, but the M1 supports Wi-Fi 6. Choose the M1 for speed and storage or the Intel for a familiar processor and storage flexibility.
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) price
Colour
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Storage
- 256GBSold out
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MacBook Air (M1 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) battery life and software updates
Durability is important for device longevity and software support. This affects how long each device stays current with new software features and security improvements.
Latest Update Compatibility
This means both devices remain supported for everyday use in terms of operating system updates.
Maximum Operating System
The MacBook Air M1 series supports macOS Tahoe, while the Intel model supports macOS Sequoia.
Maximum operating system supported
Year of release
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) performance
Performance shapes how smoothly your MacBook handles tasks. Differences in processor speed, graphics, and storage options influence the kind of work each device suits, from everyday browsing to heavier applications.
Processor Speed and Brand
The MacBook Air M1 series runs on an Apple processor at 3.2 GHz, offering faster processing power. The Intel MacBook Air has an Intel processor at 1.1 GHz. If you need quicker response times for demanding tasks, the M1 series is better suited. The Intel model is still capable for everyday activities.
Graphics Performance
Graphics are handled by a 7-core GPU in the M1 series, while the Intel model uses Intel Iris Plus graphics. The M1's GPU can support more graphic-intensive work, which benefits users working with creative applications or media.
RAM
Both models come with 8 GB of RAM, which keeps everyday apps running smoothly and supports multitasking well.
Storage Capacity
Storage options for the MacBook Air M1 series range from 256GB to 2TB, with 1000 GB noted in the specs. The Intel MacBook Air offers storage from 128GB to 2TB, with 512 GB seen in the verified specs. Larger storage suits users handling large files or many applications, while smaller storage fits lighter use.
Graphic card
Macbook architecture
Processor brand
Processor speed ghz
RAM
Storage type
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) screen
Screen quality impacts how you view content, from work documents to videos. Both devices have the same display specs, providing a consistent experience no matter which you choose.
Display Features
Both MacBook Air models have a 13 inch Retina display with IPS technology, 2560 x 1600 resolution, 400 nits brightness, and True Tone. This combination offers sharp, colour-accurate visuals suitable for photo editing, video streaming, or general use.
Ips
Resolution
Retina
Screen brightness
Screen size
Screen type
True tone
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) camera
Audio and video features affect calls, media, and recordings. Both MacBook Air models offer the same capabilities, ensuring reliable audiovisual performance.
Camera and Speakers
Each MacBook Air includes a 720p webcam and stereo speakers. These features support clear video calls and good sound quality for meetings, entertainment, or casual recording.
Front camera definition
Microphone
Speakers
Webcam
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) size and design
Other features like connectivity, ports, and design details round out your user experience. Both MacBook Airs share many specs but have some differences that could influence daily use.
Connectivity and Ports
Both devices have Bluetooth 5.0 and two USB-C ports. The MacBook Air M1 uses USB Type-C chargers, while the Intel model is compatible with Thunderbolt 3 chargers. Both support Wi-Fi, but the M1 offers Wi-Fi 6 802.11ax for potentially faster wireless connections, compared to Wi-Fi 802.11ac on the Intel MacBook Air.
Physical Dimensions
Both models share identical size and weight: 30.41 cm wide, 21.24 cm deep, 1.61 cm high, and weighing 1290 g. This means portability and handling feel the same across both devices.
Additional Features
Both MacBook Airs have a headphone jack, Touch, and use a QWERTY English keyboard. Neither includes a Touch Bar or HDMI output. These features support common daily tasks and multimedia use.
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 "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel): which should you buy?
Buy the "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £254, £172.31 less than the MacBook Air (M1 series)
MacBook Air (M1 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) FAQs
The MacBook Air (M1 series) and "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) share the same main specs, so price and condition decide it.
The "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) is cheaper refurbished, from £254 compared with £426.31 for the MacBook Air (M1 series).
Both come in 256GB, 512GB, 1TB and 2TB refurbished.







