MacBook Air (M3 series) vs MacBook Air (M5 series)
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MacBook Air (M3 series)
Starting at
£796.06£1,099.00 new
MacBook Air (M5 series)
Starting at
£1,885.24What's the difference between the MacBook Air (M3 series) and MacBook Air (M5 series)?
MacBook Air (M3 series) vs MacBook Air (M5 series) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. Refurbished, the MacBook Air (M3 series) starts at £796.06, £1089.18 less than the MacBook Air (M5 series). The MacBook Air (M5 series) is the newer model, released in 2026.
Refurbished from
RAM
Screen size
Screen type
Weight
- The MacBook Air (M3 series) has more RAM: 24 GB vs 16 GB.
- The MacBook Air (M5 series) has a bigger screen: 15 inch vs 13 inch.
- Screen type: Liquid Retina IPS on the MacBook Air (M3 series), Liquid Retina Display on the MacBook Air (M5 series).
MacBook Air (M3 series) vs MacBook Air (M5 series) specs
The MacBook Air M3 series and M5 series both run macOS Tahoe and offer solid performance with Apple processors and 10-core GPUs. The M3 series provides more RAM at 24 GB and a choice of 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB, or 2 TB SSD options, while the M5 series offers faster processor speeds and larger maximum storage options up to 4 TB but starts with 16 GB RAM. The M3 has a 13-inch Liquid Retina IPS screen at 2560 x 1664 resolution, while the M5 offers a larger 15-inch Liquid Retina Display and a higher resolution option of 2880 x 1864. The M5 series also features the newer Bluetooth 6.0 and a heavier weight. Choose the M3 series for more memory and a compact size, or the M5 series for a bigger screen, faster CPU, and expanded storage choices.
MacBook Air (M3 series) vs MacBook Air (M5 series) price
Colour
MacBook Air (M3 series) vs MacBook Air (M5 series) battery life and software updates
Durability considerations focus on software compatibility and operating system support.
Operating System Support
This means both devices will handle current macOS features equally well, supporting users who want a consistent software experience.
Maximum operating system supported
OS at launch
Year of release
MacBook Air (M3 series) vs MacBook Air (M5 series) performance
Performance differences come down to processor speed, RAM, and storage options. Both models use Apple processors with a 10-core GPU and 64-bit architecture, but their specific configurations suit different needs.
Processor Speed
The MacBook Air M5 series runs at 4.6 GHz, providing a faster processor speed than the M3 series at 4.05 GHz. Users with demanding tasks or who prioritise speed in apps will notice quicker responses on the M5 series.
Memory Capacity
The M3 series comes with 24 GB of RAM, which is ideal for users who keep many apps open or work with large files. The M5 series has 16 GB RAM, which suits everyday multitasking and general use while leaving some headroom for heavier tasks.
Storage Options
Storage on the M3 series includes 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB, and 2 TB SSD options, offering flexibility for most users. The M5 series offers 512 GB, 1 TB, and 4 TB SSD options, allowing buyers to choose storage sizes that match their specific needs, especially for those requiring very large capacities.
Graphic card
Macbook architecture
Processor brand
Processor speed ghz
RAM
Storage type
MacBook Air (M3 series) vs MacBook Air (M5 series) screen
Screen quality differences centre on size and resolution. Both models have Retina displays with True Tone and 500 nits brightness, making them suitable for working in various lighting conditions.
Screen Size
The MacBook Air M3 series features a 13-inch screen, which is more compact and easier to carry. The M5 series offers a larger 15-inch screen, providing more workspace and a roomier display for video or multitasking.
Screen Resolution
The M3 series has a resolution of 2560 x 1664 pixels, while the M5 series offers this resolution and a higher 2880 x 1864 option. The higher resolution on the M5 series is suited for users who want sharper images and more detailed visuals.
Screen Type
The MacBook Air M3 series uses a Liquid Retina IPS display, while the M5 series features a Liquid Retina Display. Both provide excellent colour accuracy and clarity, supporting creative work and media consumption.
Ips
Resolution
Retina
Screen brightness
Screen size
Screen type
True tone
MacBook Air (M3 series) vs MacBook Air (M5 series) camera
Front camera definition
Microphone
Speakers
Webcam
MacBook Air (M3 series) vs MacBook Air (M5 series) size and design
Additional features highlight connectivity, weight, and usability aspects, which can influence daily comfort and device compatibility.
Bluetooth Version
The M3 series supports Bluetooth 5.3, while the M5 series upgrades to Bluetooth 6.0. Bluetooth 6.0 may offer improvements in wireless performance and future device compatibility for users who rely on Bluetooth accessories.
Weight
Weighing 1240 g, the MacBook Air M3 series is lighter and more portable. The M5 series weighs 1510 g, reflecting its larger screen and possibly sturdier build, better suited for users prioritising screen size over maximum portability.
Promotion Feature
The M3 series includes a Promotion display feature, which can enhance screen responsiveness and smoothness, benefiting users who value fluid visuals during use. The M5 series does not include this feature.
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 (M3 series) or MacBook Air (M5 series): which should you buy?
Buy the MacBook Air (M3 series) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £796.06, £1089.18 less than the MacBook Air (M5 series)
- you want more RAM (24 GB vs 16 GB)
- you want a lighter build (1240 g vs 1510 g)
Buy the MacBook Air (M5 series) if
- you want a bigger screen (15 inch vs 13 inch)
- you want the newer model (2026)
MacBook Air (M3 series) vs MacBook Air (M5 series) FAQs
MacBook Air (M3 series) vs MacBook Air (M5 series) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. The MacBook Air (M3 series) has more RAM: 24 GB vs 16 GB. The MacBook Air (M5 series) has a bigger screen: 15 inch vs 13 inch.
The MacBook Air (M3 series) is cheaper refurbished, from £796.06 compared with £1885.24 for the MacBook Air (M5 series).
The MacBook Air (M5 series) adds a bigger screen (15 inch vs 13 inch). Refurbished, it costs £1089.18 more (from £1885.24 vs £796.06).
Refurbished, the MacBook Air (M3 series) comes in 256GB, 512GB, 1TB and 2TB, and the MacBook Air (M5 series) in 512GB and 1TB.
