MacBook Air (M2 series) vs MacBook Air (M3 series)
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MacBook Air (M2 series)
Starting at
£621.35£1,249.00 new
MacBook Air (M3 series)
Starting at
£796.06£1,099.00 newWhat's the difference between the MacBook Air (M2 series) and MacBook Air (M3 series)?
MacBook Air (M2 series) vs MacBook Air (M3 series) comes down to the RAM and screen type. Refurbished, the MacBook Air (M2 series) starts at £621.35, £174.71 less than the MacBook Air (M3 series). The MacBook Air (M3 series) is the newer model, released in 2024.
Refurbished from
RAM
Screen type
- The MacBook Air (M3 series) has more RAM: 24 GB vs 8 GB.
- Screen type: Liquid Retina Display on the MacBook Air (M2 series), Liquid Retina IPS on the MacBook Air (M3 series).
MacBook Air (M2 series) vs MacBook Air (M3 series) specs
The MacBook Air M2 and M3 series share many features like screen size, resolution, and basic functionality, but differ mainly in performance and some hardware details. The M3 offers a more powerful 10-core GPU and significantly more RAM options up to 24 GB, making it better suited for multitasking and demanding applications. The M2's 8-core GPU and 8 GB RAM cater well to everyday use and lighter workloads. Both models support the same maximum macOS version and have similar portability and connectivity. If you want more memory and a stronger graphics setup, the M3 is the choice. For reliable daily computing with solid performance, the M2 fits well and often at a lower price point.
MacBook Air (M2 series) vs MacBook Air (M3 series) price
Colour
MacBook Air (M2 series) vs MacBook Air (M3 series) battery life and software updates
Durability involves how long the devices will support software updates and their release context. Both MacBook Air models support the same macOS version, giving similar longevity in terms of operating system updates.
Operating System Support
Both MacBook Air M2 and M3 series support macOS Tahoe, ensuring you have access to the same latest software updates and security patches. This means you can expect a similar lifespan of software compatibility regardless of which model you choose.
Release Year Context
The MacBook Air M2 was released in 2022 and the M3 in 2024. While this does not affect durability directly, it provides context on when each device entered the market.
Maximum operating system supported
Year of release
MacBook Air (M2 series) vs MacBook Air (M3 series) performance
Performance differences mainly come down to graphics power and RAM capacity. Both use Apple processors with 64-bit architecture and SSD storage, supporting a range of storage sizes to suit various needs.
Graphics Power
The MacBook Air M2 has an 8-core GPU, which handles everyday graphics and light creative work smoothly. The M3 steps up with a 10-core GPU, offering more power for graphics-intensive tasks like video editing or gaming. Choose the M3 if you want stronger graphics performance.
Memory Capacity
RAM options vary significantly. The M2 comes with 8 GB RAM, suitable for everyday apps and general multitasking. The M3 offers up to 24 GB RAM, which keeps more applications and browser tabs open simultaneously, benefiting users who work with larger projects or run demanding software.
Storage Options
Both devices offer the same SSD storage options from 256GB to 2TB. This range provides flexibility to choose storage that fits your files, apps, and media needs without differences between models.
Graphic card
Macbook architecture
Processor brand
Processor speed ghz
RAM
Storage type
MacBook Air (M2 series) vs MacBook Air (M3 series) screen
Screen quality is consistent between the two MacBook Air models, with identical size, resolution, and brightness. Slight differences in screen technology do not affect the core viewing experience.
Display Technology
Both MacBook Air M2 and M3 feature a 13 inch Liquid Retina display with 2560 x 1664 resolution and 500 nits brightness. The M2 uses Liquid Retina Display, while the M3 specifies Liquid Retina IPS. Both include True Tone technology and Retina quality, providing sharp, vibrant visuals suited for everyday use, photo editing, and video watching.
Ips
Resolution
Retina
Screen brightness
Screen size
Screen type
True tone
MacBook Air (M2 series) vs MacBook Air (M3 series) camera
Audiovisual features are the same across the MacBook Air M2 and M3, supporting smooth video calls and good sound quality for meetings and media.
Camera Quality
Both models have a 1080p front camera, delivering clear video quality for conferencing and streaming. This resolution is well suited for professional and casual video calls.
Speaker System
The four-speaker sound system on both MacBook Air M2 and M3 offers balanced audio for music, videos, and calls. This setup supports immersive sound within a slim laptop design.
Front camera definition
Microphone
Speakers
Webcam
MacBook Air (M2 series) vs MacBook Air (M3 series) size and design
Other features like connectivity, design dimensions, and input options differ slightly, affecting the user experience in specific ways.
Bluetooth Version
The MacBook Air M2 uses Bluetooth 5.0, while the M3 upgrades to Bluetooth 5.3. The newer Bluetooth version in the M3 may improve connection stability and efficiency with compatible accessories.
Screen Promotion
The MacBook Air M3 includes a screen promotion feature, which can make animations and scrolling appear smoother. This benefits users who value fluid visuals during daily use.
Physical Dimensions and Ports
Both MacBook Air models share identical dimensions and weight, making them equally portable. Each includes two USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports, a headphone jack, and supports MagSafe 3 and USB-C charging, ensuring familiar connectivity options for users.
Touch and Keyboard
Both devices feature a touch-enabled screen and a QWERTY English keyboard without a Touch Bar, providing straightforward input suited to most users.
Neural Engine
Each MacBook Air has a 16-core Neural Engine, supporting machine learning tasks equally well across both models.
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
Usb typec thunderbolt 4 ports
Usbc port
Webcam definition
Weight
Width
Wifi technology
MacBook Air (M2 series) or MacBook Air (M3 series): which should you buy?
Buy the MacBook Air (M2 series) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £621.35, £174.71 less than the MacBook Air (M3 series)
Buy the MacBook Air (M3 series) if
- you want more RAM (24 GB vs 8 GB)
- you want the newer model (2024)
What our customers say
Customers appreciate the MacBook Air M2 for its smooth performance in daily tasks and reliable storage options. Many report it runs software well for work, streaming, and photo editing, with battery life lasting through the day for typical use. The M2's condition is often described as looking like new or with only minimal marks. Some note the keyboard feel takes a short adjustment but is comfortable. A few mention the speakers are quiet in video calls and the screen brightness is best indoors. Overall, users find it a solid choice for everyday computing needs.
Reviews for the MacBook Air M3 highlight its faster speed and increased storage, with users pleased by the smooth operation of work apps and large file handling. The midnight and starlight finishes are popular, with many devices appearing almost new or with only minor marks. Battery life is consistently described as lasting through a full workday. Some users find the screen a bit dim in bright outdoor light, and a few mention speaker volume is quieter than expected. Typing comfort and performance are rated highly.
Both MacBook Air M2 and M3 suit users looking for a lightweight laptop with strong performance. The M2 fits well for everyday tasks and solid multitasking, while the M3 appeals to those needing more memory and graphics power for heavier workloads.
MacBook Air (M2 series) vs MacBook Air (M3 series) FAQs
MacBook Air (M2 series) vs MacBook Air (M3 series) comes down to the RAM and screen type. The MacBook Air (M3 series) has more RAM: 24 GB vs 8 GB. Screen type: Liquid Retina Display on the MacBook Air (M2 series), Liquid Retina IPS on the MacBook Air (M3 series).
The MacBook Air (M2 series) is cheaper refurbished, from £621.35 compared with £796.06 for the MacBook Air (M3 series).
The MacBook Air (M3 series) adds more RAM (24 GB vs 8 GB). Refurbished, it costs £174.71 more (from £796.06 vs £621.35).
Both come in 256GB, 512GB, 1TB and 2TB refurbished.
