MacBook Air (M4 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel)
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MacBook Air (M4 series)
Starting at
£967.50£999.00 new
"Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel)
Starting at
£254.00What's the difference between the MacBook Air (M4 series) and "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel)?
MacBook Air (M4 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. Refurbished, the "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) starts at £254, £713.50 less than the MacBook Air (M4 series). The MacBook Air (M4 series) is the newer model, released in 2025.
Refurbished from
RAM
Screen size
Screen type
Weight
- The MacBook Air (M4 series) has more RAM: 16 GB vs 8 GB.
- The MacBook Air (M4 series) has a bigger screen: 15 inch vs 13 inch.
- Screen type: Liquid Retina Display on the MacBook Air (M4 series), Retina display on the "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel).
MacBook Air (M4 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) specs
The MacBook Air M4 series and the 2020 Intel MacBook Air differ notably in performance, screen size, and supported macOS versions. The M4 series suits users who want faster processing, more RAM, and a larger, brighter display, ideal for multitasking and media. The 2020 Intel model is a solid option for everyday tasks with a smaller screen and lower RAM but offers storage up to 2TB. Camera and audio are better on the M4 series, while the Intel model is lighter. Your choice depends on whether you prioritise speed and screen space or a lower weight and a wider range of storage sizes.
MacBook Air (M4 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) price
Colour
- MidnightStarting at £967.50
- Sky BlueStarting at £967.50
- SilverStarting at £967.50
- StarlightStarting at £967.50
- Space GraySold out
- SilverSold out
- GoldSold out
Storage
- 256GBSold out
- 512GBSold out
- 1TBSold out
- 2TBSold out
MacBook Air (M4 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) battery life and software updates
Durability covers how long each MacBook Air supports the latest software and the device's release year. This affects how long you can expect to receive system updates and new features.
Operating System Support
The MacBook Air M4 series supports macOS Tahoe, the newer operating system version. This means it will receive software updates and improvements for a longer period. The 2020 Intel MacBook Air supports macOS Sequoia, which is an earlier version. This suits buyers who do not need the latest OS features or plan to use software compatible with that version.
Release Year
The MacBook Air M4 series was released in 2025, while the Intel model came out in 2020.
Maximum operating system supported
Year of release
MacBook Air (M4 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) performance
Performance is key for how smoothly your MacBook Air runs apps and handles multitasking. Here you can see differences in processor speed, RAM, graphics, and storage options.
Processor Speed and Brand
The MacBook Air M4 series has an Apple processor running at 4.41 GHz, making it well suited for demanding apps and multitasking. The 2020 Intel MacBook Air uses an Intel processor at 1.1 GHz, which works well for everyday use and lighter tasks. Choose the M4 series if you need faster processing power.
Graphics Capability
The M4 series features a 10-core GPU, which supports more graphics-intensive tasks like video editing or gaming. The Intel MacBook Air has Intel Iris Plus graphics, suitable for general tasks and media consumption. If you use creative software or want sharper visuals, the M4 series may be better.
RAM Capacity
With 16 GB of RAM, the MacBook Air M4 series can keep more apps open and manage heavier workflows smoothly. The Intel MacBook Air has 8 GB of RAM, which still supports everyday apps well. If you run multiple applications or browser tabs at once, the M4 series is likely more comfortable.
Storage Options
Both devices come with SSD storage for faster access. The M4 series is stocked with 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB options. The Intel model adds a 2TB option for those needing extra space for files and media. Choose the Intel MacBook Air if you want more storage capacity choices.
Graphic card
Macbook architecture
Processor brand
Processor speed ghz
RAM
Storage type
MacBook Air (M4 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) screen
Screen quality affects your viewing experience for work and entertainment. Differences in size, brightness, and resolution change how you see images and text.
Screen Size and Resolution
The MacBook Air M4 series has a larger 15 inch Liquid Retina Display with a resolution of 2880 by 1864. This offers more space for windows and sharper images. The 2020 Intel MacBook Air has a 13 inch Retina display at 2560 by 1600, which suits users who prefer a more compact screen.
Brightness and Display Type
The M4 series screen reaches 500 nits brightness, making it easier to see in brighter conditions. The Intel model's screen has 400 nits brightness. The Liquid Retina Display on the M4 series provides vibrant colours, while the Intel MacBook Air features a Retina display, both with True Tone technology for natural colours.
Ips
Resolution
Retina
Screen brightness
Screen size
Screen type
True tone
MacBook Air (M4 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) camera
Audiovisual features influence your video calls, recordings, and sound quality. These differences matter if you use your MacBook Air for communication or media.
Front Camera Quality
The MacBook Air M4 series offers a 1080p front camera, providing clearer video for calls and recordings. The Intel MacBook Air has a 720p front camera, suitable for standard video chatting. If video clarity is important, the M4 series is the better choice.
Speakers
The M4 series has a four speaker sound system that delivers richer and more immersive audio. The Intel MacBook Air has stereo speakers, which are good for everyday listening. For better sound while watching videos or music, the M4 series stands out.
Front camera definition
Microphone
Speakers
Webcam
MacBook Air (M4 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) size and design
Miscellaneous features include connectivity, ports, weight, and other extras that affect everyday use.
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
The MacBook Air M4 series supports Bluetooth 5.3 and Wi-Fi 6 802.11ax, offering improved wireless connectivity and speed. The Intel MacBook Air uses Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi-Fi 802.11ac, which are still reliable for most connections but a generation older.
Charging and Ports
The M4 series charges via MagSafe 3 or USB-C, offering flexible options. The Intel model uses Thunderbolt 3 for charging and data transfer. Both have two USB-C ports and a headphone jack, giving you familiar connectivity.
Weight
The Intel MacBook Air weighs 1290 g, making it lighter and possibly easier to carry. The M4 series weighs 1510 g, which is slightly heavier but comes with a larger screen and more powerful components.
Touch and Keyboard
Both MacBook Airs feature touch input and the same QWERTY English keyboard layout. Neither has a Touch Bar. Both have three microphones for audio capture.
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 (M4 series) or "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel): which should you buy?
Buy the MacBook Air (M4 series) if
- you want more RAM (16 GB vs 8 GB)
- you want a bigger screen (15 inch vs 13 inch)
Buy the "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £254, £713.50 less than the MacBook Air (M4 series)
- you want a lighter build (1290 g vs 1510 g)
What our customers say
Customers say the MacBook Air M4 series looks clean with only minor marks and runs smoothly for college assignments, study, and daily work. It is praised for fast startup, solid performance, and a screen that suits browsing and work. The midnight and silver finishes appeal to different tastes, and the battery life meets study session needs. Some mention light scratches but find these do not affect use. Overall, it is seen as reliable and good value for those wanting speed and a larger screen.
For the 2020 Intel MacBook Air, customers report it looks like new and runs well for everyday tasks. The laptop is described as fast enough and in great physical shape, with battery life that meets regular use. Colours like rose gold and space grey are appreciated. Some mention small dents or marks but find performance comparable to new. Users value its neat appearance and smooth operation, recommending it for those looking for a dependable, simpler MacBook Air.
The M4 series suits buyers who want a larger screen, faster processor, and higher RAM for multitasking or creative work. The 2020 Intel MacBook Air is a good match for users who prefer a lighter device with a smaller screen and a wider range of storage sizes for everyday use.
MacBook Air (M4 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) FAQs
MacBook Air (M4 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) comes down to the RAM, screen size and screen type. The MacBook Air (M4 series) has more RAM: 16 GB vs 8 GB. The MacBook Air (M4 series) has a bigger screen: 15 inch vs 13 inch.
The "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) is cheaper refurbished, from £254 compared with £967.50 for the MacBook Air (M4 series).
The MacBook Air (M4 series) adds more RAM (16 GB vs 8 GB) and a bigger screen (15 inch vs 13 inch). Refurbished, it costs £713.50 more (from £967.50 vs £254).
Refurbished, the MacBook Air (M4 series) comes in 256GB, 512GB and 1TB, and the "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) in 256GB, 512GB, 1TB and 2TB.
