The Apple MacBook Air 2018 model (see the lowest price) is a gorgeous laptop that has an impressive build quality and a nearly perfect screen. But comparing this one with the 2017 model, in terms of price, it doesn’t make it easy for itself.
Specs
Processor: Intel Core i5-8210Y – 1.6 GHz – 2 Cores
RAM: 8 GB
Storage: 128 GB SSD
Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 617
Screen: 13.3″
Resolution: 2560 x 1600
OS: Mac OS
Weight: 1.23 kg
Dimensions: 30.4 x 21.3 x 1.26 cm
USB 2.0: none
USB 3.0: none
USB-C: 2
HDMI: none
Ethernet port: no
Backlit keyboard: yes
Drives: no
Separate numeric keypad: no
Touchscreen: no
Benefits
This laptop comes with an Intel Core i5 processor, a 128 GB SSD and 8 GB of RAM. Given the fact that it’s made entirely from aluminum, which Apple says is 100% recycled, it’s impressive that it weighs so little. Just a bit over 1.2 kg.
Although a speedy laptop, it’s not as fast as some might suggest because the Core i5 processor in this laptop is a low-power one. This means that it’s excellent at tasks like emailing, watching videos, internet browsing and working with documents. But if you want to do more intensive tasks like converting videos and photos, this laptop is not well suited for that. This laptop is less powerful than a MacBook Pro or a Microsoft Surface laptop.
The keyboard and touchpad both may need some getting used to. Both of them now have the looks and feel of the Latest MacBook Pro. Although they’re beautiful, gorgeous and responsive, they might not appeal to everybody.
The screen is better than almost every laptop in its price range. Its colours are vibrant, and the screen is also sharp and bright. A small downside may be the glossy coating. It picks more reflections and fingerprints compared to the matte-coated older model screen.
The speakers deliver crisp and clear dialogue, and good bass. A small problem is the harshness of the sound if the volume is up to maximum, but you need no to worry. You can easily use the laptop speakers without the need of headphones or speakers.
You can log in and wake up this laptop with a single press thanks to the fingerprint scanner built in the power button.
Downsides
The battery life varies wildly and it’s a step down from the 2017 model. It varies from seven to nine hours. Well below the 12 hours that Apple was claiming. Even worse is the fact that the only slightly more expensive and more powerful MacBook Pro models have batteries that last more than on this model.
You only get three ports with this laptop. That is including the 3.5 mm headphone jack. If will need to buy an adapter if you have older USB devices.
Verdict
If you should buy it is not an easy question to answer even though this model is among the best buys. You should think about the fact that the MacBook Pro is only slightly more expensive and you get faster performance and a better screen. And also that you can spend way less and get the MacBook Air 2017 model that has a way better battery and more connecting options.
The facts above mean that the 2018 MacBook Air is for a small group of people. The new Air won’t disappoint you but you have to think if it serves all your needs for the money you pay for it.
See The Lowest Price On This MacBook Air Machine
For information on how to choose a laptop, check out our laptop buying guide.
