MacBook Neo (A18 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel)
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MacBook Neo (A18 series)
Starting at
£639.00
"Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel)
Starting at
£254.00What's the difference between the MacBook Neo (A18 series) and "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel)?
MacBook Neo (A18 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) comes down to the screen type and weight. Refurbished, the "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) starts at £254, £385 less than the MacBook Neo (A18 series). The MacBook Neo (A18 series) is the newer model, released in 2026.
Refurbished from
Screen type
Weight
- Screen type: Liquid Retina Display on the MacBook Neo (A18 series), Retina display on the "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel).
- The MacBook Neo (A18 series) has a lighter build: 1230 g vs 1290 g.
MacBook Neo (A18 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) specs
The MacBook Neo (A18 series) and the "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) offer distinct differences suited to different users. The MacBook Neo features an Apple processor and a 5-core GPU, fitting those who want a modern graphics experience and the option of 256GB or 512GB storage. Meanwhile, the MacBook Air supports a wider range of storage options up to 2TB and has a higher screen resolution, benefitting users who value sharper visuals and more storage flexibility. The Neo has a brighter Liquid Retina display and a higher definition front camera, making it suitable for video calls and media in brighter environments.
MacBook Neo (A18 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) price
Colour
- IndigoSold out
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Storage
- 256GBSold out
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MacBook Neo (A18 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) battery life and software updates
Their maximum operating systems differ, which reflects the software each can run.
Operating System Support
The MacBook Neo supports macOS Tahoe, while the MacBook Air supports macOS Sequoia.
Maximum operating system supported
Year of release
MacBook Neo (A18 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) performance
Performance varies mainly by processor brand and graphics. Storage and memory options also differ, which can influence your choice based on how you use your MacBook.
Processor and Graphics
The MacBook Neo has an Apple processor paired with a 5-core GPU, ideal if you want a system designed by Apple with integrated graphics. The MacBook Air uses an Intel processor with Intel Iris Plus graphics, suitable for users familiar with Intel-based machines.
Memory and Storage Options
Both devices come with 8 GB of RAM, which supports smooth everyday use and multitasking. The MacBook Neo offers SSD storage options of 256GB or 512GB, while the MacBook Air includes a wider range of storage capacities from 128GB up to 2TB, allowing for more flexibility if you need larger storage.
Graphic card
Macbook architecture
Processor brand
Processor speed ghz
RAM
Storage type
MacBook Neo (A18 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) screen
Screen quality affects your viewing experience for work and entertainment. Both have 13-inch Retina IPS displays but differ in resolution, brightness, and screen type.
Resolution and Display Type
The MacBook Air has a higher resolution at 2560 x 1600 pixels, delivering sharper images and text. Its Retina display offers clear visuals. The MacBook Neo has a 2408 x 1506 Liquid Retina Display, which supports rich colours and smooth gradients.
Brightness and True Tone
The MacBook Neo offers 500 nits of brightness, which suits well-lit environments or outdoor use. The MacBook Air has 400 nits brightness. Both devices feature True Tone technology, which adjusts the display colours for comfortable viewing in different lighting.
Ips
Resolution
Retina
Screen brightness
Screen size
Screen type
True tone
MacBook Neo (A18 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) camera
Audiovisual features influence video calls, recordings, and media playback. The two MacBooks provide different camera resolutions and speaker setups.
Camera Resolution
The MacBook Neo has a 1080p front camera, delivering higher definition video for clearer video calls. The MacBook Air features a 720p camera, suitable for everyday video conferencing.
Speakers and Microphones
MacBook Neo includes side-firing speakers, which can offer a more immersive sound direction. It has a dual-mic array for audio input. The MacBook Air uses stereo speakers and has three microphones, which may provide different audio capture characteristics.
Front camera definition
Microphone
Speakers
Webcam
MacBook Neo (A18 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) size and design
Additional features include connectivity, weight, and input options which affect daily use and portability.
Connectivity and Ports
Both MacBooks have two USB-C ports and a headphone jack. The MacBook Neo supports Bluetooth 6, which is a newer version than the MacBook Air's Bluetooth 5.0, potentially offering improved wireless performance. Both support Wi-Fi but differ in standards, with the Neo using Wi-Fi 6 802.11ax and the Air using Wi-Fi 802.11ac.
Weight and Touch Features
The MacBook Neo weighs 1230 g, making it lighter than the MacBook Air at 1290 g, which can be noticeable when carrying the laptop around. Both devices have a touch screen but do not include a Touch Bar.
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 Neo (A18 series) or "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel): which should you buy?
Buy the MacBook Neo (A18 series) if
- you want a lighter build (1230 g vs 1290 g)
- you want the newer model (2026)
Buy the "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £254, £385 less than the MacBook Neo (A18 series)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the MacBook Neo (A18 series) often mention it feels just like new with excellent condition and performance. Many appreciate its lightweight design, fast operation, and reliable battery life after hours of use. The higher resolution camera and bright screen are likely appreciated during video calls and daily work. Reviewers consistently report satisfaction with the Neo's refurbished quality and overall user experience.
The "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) is praised for looking new and running well. Customers highlight its good battery, screen quality, and solid performance for everyday tasks. Some note minor cosmetic marks like small dents or scratches but find these acceptable given the device's price. Users mention the MacBook Air's reliability and recommend it for those seeking a dependable refurbished laptop. Some also appreciate the wider storage options when choosing this model.
Both devices suit buyers who want a well-maintained refurbished MacBook. The Neo may appeal more to those valuing newer graphics and camera features, while the Air fits users who want flexible storage and a slightly higher screen resolution.
MacBook Neo (A18 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) FAQs
MacBook Neo (A18 series) vs "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) comes down to the screen type and weight. Screen type: Liquid Retina Display on the MacBook Neo (A18 series), Retina display on the "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel). The MacBook Neo (A18 series) has a lighter build: 1230 g vs 1290 g.
The "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) is cheaper refurbished, from £254 compared with £639 for the MacBook Neo (A18 series).
The MacBook Neo (A18 series) adds a lighter build (1230 g vs 1290 g). Refurbished, it costs £385 more (from £639 vs £254).
Refurbished, the MacBook Neo (A18 series) comes in 256GB and 512GB, and the "Obsolete" MacBook Air (2020,Intel) in 256GB, 512GB, 1TB and 2TB.
