The MacBook Air has forever been one of Mac’s most well-known Macs, while the iMac is likely the most renowned. Many things are common in these laptops, but a lot separates them.
On one side we have two MacBook Airs with M2 chips that join the lineup in July 2022 and slot in close with a M1 MacBook Air from 2020. On the opposite side are 3 iMacs all of which feature the M1 chip. If you are picking another MacBook Air or iMac, then again if you are thinking about changing from iMac to MacBook Air or MacBook Air to iMac and remain curious as to whether it would be a nice move, read on. In this article, we’ll look at what is something similar and what is different so, you should have confidence to go with the most ideal choice.
There are various considerations, but the greatest will most likely be whether you should pick the Mac with the freshest chip the M2 powered MacBook Air-instead the right around two-year-old M1. We’ll address the differences between the M2 and M1 below, really focusing on the advantages the design of the iMac can bring contrasted with the design of the MacBook Air.
We’ll begin with a look at the design differences before moving on to the cost and specs of these varieties.
Differences between MacBook Air and MacBook Pro and iMac
MacBook Air:
Portability: The MacBook Air is known for its extreme portability. It’s incredibly lightweight and slim, making it a fantastic decision for clients who need a PC for quick use, like students and regular travelers.
Design: The MacBook Air includes a smooth, wedge-shaped design with a tapered profile. It’s known for its minimalist aesthetics.
Performance: While the MacBook Air offers great performance for regular use like web perusing, email, and document editing, it isn’t as strong as the MacBook Pro. It is outfitted with lower-power processors, making it less reasonable for resource-intensive tasks like video editing or 3D rendering.
Retina Display: Ongoing MacBook Air models accompany a Retina display, which offers sharp and vibrant visuals. This is perfect for general use and media consumption.
Battery Life: The MacBook Air is known for its impressive battery duration, frequently enduring an entire day on a single charge, because of its energy-efficient parts.
Price: MacBook Air models are generally more affordable than their MacBook Pro partners, making them a cost-effective choice for clients with basic computing needs.
MacBook Pro:
Performance: MacBook Pro PCs are intended for better performance. They accompany all the more remarkable processors, dedicated graphics choices, and more RAM, making them reasonable for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D displaying, and software development.
Different Sizes: The MacBook Pro arrived with different sizes, including 13-inch and 16-inch models. This allows you to pick the size that best suits your requirements and needs.
Display: MacBook Pro models include high-resolution Retina displays. It has broad range of color gamuts, making them best for creative professionals who require exact color representation.
Ports: MacBook Pro models frequently have more versatile port choices, including Thunderclap 3/USB-C ports, which allow many connectivity choices and backing for external displays and peripherals.
Keyboard: Recent MacBook Pro models include further developed keyboards, tending to a portion of the issues related to earlier iterations.
Price: MacBook Pro laptops are generally more costly than MacBook Air models because of their better-quality hardware and features.
iMac
The iMac is an all-in-all PC. It has an immense, high-resolution display, major areas of strength for a chip, and a built-in webcam and receiver. The iMac is great for creative professionals, students, and any person who needs areas of strength for upscale personal computers.
Display: The iMac has a 24-inch 4.5K Retina display. It has a wide variety range and supports HDR content. The display is ideal for innovative work, like photo editing, visual communication, and video editing.
Performance: The iMac has a strong M1 chip. This implies that it can deal with even the most requested tasks effortlessly.
Built-in webcam and microphone: The iMac has a built-in webcam and receiver. This makes it simple to video chat with loved ones, or to make video content.
Design: The iMac has a smooth and stylish design. It is made of aluminum and has a thin profile.
Operating system: The iMac runs on macOS. MacOS is a strong and easy-to-understand operating and it has a large number of features and applications accessible.
MacBook Air versus iMac and MacBook Pro: Design
The M1 iMac arrived in 2021 with the latest look and another size. The old 21.5-inch iMac, with its aluminum frame that hadn’t changed in more than 10 years, developed into a 24-inch iMac that arrived in seven distinct colors. There is a choice of green, yellow, orange, red, purple, blue or silver, with the tone on the back a darker shade than that on the front.
The MacBook Air with M1 chip has the same design that Apple has used starting around 2018, but the M2 MacBook Air, which was introduced in June 2022 and goes on sale in July, boasts another look. Some had been expecting the MacBook Air to follow the design lead of the iMac, with a comparative scope of bright colors. That didn’t occur, but two new shades that are bringing the number of colors completed you can browse to four: noon (blue/dark), Starlight (gold), Space Gray and silver.
For the 2022 redesign the MacBook Air loses the tapered wedge-like plan, but all at once it’s still super narrow and light. If you need a compact Mac laptop it can’t be bested. As laptops go, it’s one of the most attractive laptops you can purchase. On account of the MacBook Air (and every other Mac Apple makes, the display is encircled by a dark line).
The MacBook Pro design is an exemplary one that has developed after some time; but it has consistently stayed consistent with its core principles of simplicity, elegance, and usefulness. The latest MacBook Pro models include a smooth and moderate plan with a flat-edged chassis, adjusted corners, and a unibody aluminum development. The display is a Fluid Retina XDR display with a high goal and wide color gamut, making it ideal for creative professionals.
Read more: iPhone 15 Cheat Sheet: Your Complete Guide to the Latest Apple Phones
One of the most notable design features of the MacBook Pro is its Magic Keyboard. The Magic keyboard features scissor switches with a 1mm travel, which gives a more responsive and material composing experience than the past butterfly keyboard. The MacBook Pro also includes an enormous Force Touch trackpad, which upholds an assortment of multi-touch motions.
Other notable design features of the MacBook Pro include:
• A Touch Bar, which is a thin OLED display that replaces the capability keys. The Touch Bar can be used to get to easy routes for frequently used tasks and applications.
• A fingerprint sensor, which is incorporated into the Touch Bar and can be used to open the MacBook Pro and confirm payments.
• A dedicated speaker system with six speakers and woofers, which gives magnificent sound quality.
• Different ports, including Thunderclap/USB 4 ports, HDMI ports, and earphone jacks.
MacBook Air versus iMac and MacBook Pro: CPU and RAM
There once was a time when the desktop variations would take off with the show here. But thanks to the ever-shrinking Apple silicon chip, it’s undeniably less obvious than it used to be. Apple’s latest central processors are very efficient, and that implies performance is continuously outstanding across these machines. However, this doesn’t necessarily translate into a highly contrasting performance comparison, though.
The 24-inch iMac comes with Apple’s M1 silicon chip. There are three different models of the iMac, which contrast in SSD storage and the GPU cores of the M1 chip. The lower-end model features an 8-core computer chip and 7-center GPU M1 processor, while spending $200 more can get you an 8-core central processor, and 8-core GPU model. The distinction isn’t substantial, but it’s worth considering if you are planning to do graphics-intensive work.
The 16-inch MacBook Pro has an M1 Pro or M1 Max chip, with a 10-core computer processor and a 16- or 32-center GPU, depending on your chip decision. Then again, the Macbook Air also comes with Apple’s original M1 silicon chip with an 8-core computer processor and 7-center GPU. You can move up to the better quality M1 model (8-core computer chip and 8-core GPU) for an extra $250.
The Macbook Air is also powered by Apple’s M1 silicon chip, and that implies it has performance close to the iMac. The most important thing here is its portability since you can get comparable performance in a much smaller machine.
In terms of processing power, while the Macbook Pro enjoys the benefit due to a more high-powered processor, you’re probably not going to see the difference unless you have power-intensive tasks, for example, video editing, graphics processing, and so on. For daily use (surfing the web, composing reports, and so on) the thing that difference is negligible.
The 24-inch iMac and 13-inch Macbook Air come with a quality 8GB of RAM, which you can move up to 16GB for an extra $200. You can’t update the RAM beyond 16GB. Then again, the Macbook Pro go along with 16GB of RAM as standard, with additional charges for upgrades to 32GB ($400) and 64GB ($800).
MacBook Air versus iMac and MacBook Pro: Storage, SSDs
Here’s where the comparison begins to get interesting since the MacBook range led to the SSD upset quite a while back with the arrival of the MacBook Air. SSDs solid-state drives are capacity devices that use memory chips rather than moving parts to store information.
The 13-inch Macbook Air, 16-inch Macbook Pro, and 24-inch iMac accompany worked in SSDs that can be redesigned relying upon your everyday use. The 24-inch iMac and Macbook Air have 256GB of best storage, which can be subsequently updated to a limit of 1TB ($400) for the iMac and 2TB ($800) for the Macbook Air. You’ll get more space for your money in a Macbook Pro. In any case, if cash is no item, you can update any model to basically a 1TB SSD.
However, the 16-inch Macbook Pro showed up with 512GB of storage, which can be redesigned the whole to an 8TB SSD for an incredible more $2400.
MacBook Air versus iMac and MacBook Pro: Ports and Portability
If you’ve followed Apple’s hardware choices of late, you’ll know that most MacBooks have short ports than any that preceded it. Apple selected to strip all but a stereo output and 4 USB-C ports from the Macbook Air, MacBook Pro, and 24-inch iMac before finally introducing the HDMI port, SDXC card space, and MagSafe charging with the new 16-inch MacBook Pro.
This means you’ll have to depend on connectors and if you get a MacBook Air or iMac and need to use regular USB type-A connectors, drive a HDMI monitor, plug in a memory card, or interface with a wired organization. Both the Macbook Air and Pro can be powered through USB-C, though the MacBook Pro additionally offers MagSafe. The Macbook Air has two USB-C ports, while the 16-inch Macbook Pro features 3 USB-C ports and a HDMI port for more connectivity.
The iMac also has 2 USB-C models naturally, but there’s a trick, you can move to the best quality 4-port model for $200 extra, which features 2 USB-C and two USB-3 ports.
This implies you’ll have best connectivity and won’t have to use numerous dongles. The updated model even transfers a gigabit Ethernet port, something the MacBook range dropped years ago.
The two-port iMac is also viable with similar adapters and docks, empowering HDMI and DVI out or similar with Mini DisplayPort and Thunderbolt 2 devices with an adapter. You will not need to convey this adapter with you either, since your iMac lives on a desk.
MacBook Air versus iMac and MacBook Pro: Cost
There are three standard 24-in iMac choices to look over. You can make alterations at the retail location to increase things like RAM and storage. Here’s what’s on offer:
24-inch iMac:
M1, 8-center computer processor/7-core GPU
8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Retina 4.5K display, for $1,299/£1,249
M1, 8-center computer processor/8-center GPU
8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Retina 4.5K display, for $1,499/£1,449
M1, 8-center computer chip/8-center GPU
8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Retina 4.5K display, for $1,699/£1,649
MacBook Air:
M1, 8-center computer processor/7-center GPU
8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, for $999/£999
M2, 8-center computer processor/8-center GPU
8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, for $1,199/£1,249
M2, 8-center computer processor/10-center GPU
8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, for $1,499/£1,549
MacBook Pro:
The cost of a MacBook Pro shifts depending on the model, design, and retailer. However, the following table shows the starting costs for each MacBook Pro model:
| Model | cost | 13-inch MacBook Pro | $1,299 |
| 14-inch MacBook Pro | $1,999 |
16-inch MacBook Pro: $2,499 |
The cost of a MacBook Pro can increase essentially depending upon the design. For example, the 16-inch MacBook Pro with the M1 Max chip, 64GB of RAM, and 8TB of storage costs $6,099.
If you were wondering which Mac offered the best incentive for cash out of the iMac and MacBook Air the comparison above makes it understood. You can save £250/$300 by purchasing the 8-core central processor/7-core GPU M1 MacBook Air rather than the identically specced M1 iMac.
Generally, desktop computers have bigger and more superior parts inside them – but in the case of the 24-inch iMac and the least expensive MacBook Air, the parts are the very same. Apple hasn’t designed an alternate variant of the M1 chip for the iMac. But desktops are commonly more upgradable than laptops, at the same time, on account of the iMac this Mac isn’t more upgradable – as a matter of fact, it’s even less upgradable than the past generation of iMac was.
The MacBook Air is slight and lightweight, which is a benefit if you need a definitive in portability, but it suggests that there is less room inside the case for things like cooling and speakers.
Hence the MacBook Air has no fan while the iMac has two. Hence the speakers in the MacBook Air, while completely OK, are not going to compare with the six-speaker sound system inside the iMac.
If you need a portable Mac, the MacBook Air is great. But there are benefits related to spending a little more on a desktop.
MacBook Air vs. Pro vs. iMac: Everything Else
There are a couple of different areas you probably won’t consider while shopping and, though they’re not deal-breakers, they’re still worth highlighting.
Keyboard
While the MacBook Air and Pro have a built-in keyboard, the iMac comes with Apple’s Magic Keyboard. You can also opt to ditch these and plug in any keyboard you need, something that checks out on the iMac.
Mice, Trackpads, and Touch Gestures
Apple has designed macOS with various touch-based gestures in mind. These incorporate two-finger scrolling, swipes from left to right to change between desktop spaces, and fast reveal gestures for running applications and the desktop. macOS is preferred with a trackpad over it is with a mouse.
Apple MacBooks have a giant trackpad front and center. Force Touch means you can hold harder to access a third context-dependent input, just like 3D Touch on the Apple Watch.
The iMac comes with a Mouse 2 by default. If you need the best macOS experience, you’ll need to upgrade to a Magic Trackpad 2 for $50 at checkout.
Touch ID
Touch ID is a finger impression scanner that works much like Touch ID on iOS. This is standard on every one of the three models (the Macbook Air and Macbook Pro through the built-in keyboard) and the iMac (using the Magic Keyboard). You can use your fingerprint to store login certifications, unlock your Mac, and generally speed up daily approval events.
iMac pros:
• Strong performance, particularly with the M1 chip
• Large and high-resolution display
• All-in-one design, so you don’t have to worry about purchasing separate peripherals like a monitor, keyboard, and mouse
• Affordable price contrasted to other all-in-one PCs with comparable specs
iMac cons:
• Not portable
• Limited upgradeability
• A few clients have reported problems with the webcam and speakers
Generally speaking, the iMac is an extraordinary desktop computer for clients who need strong performance and a large, high-resolution display. It’s also a good value at the cost. However, if you want a portable computer or you should have the option to upgrade your computer parts from now on, then the iMac isn’t the most ideal choice.
MacBook Air Pros:
• Thin, light, and portable
• Long-lasting battery life
• Wonderful Retina display
• Strong M1 or M2 chip
• Affordable Price value contrasted with other very good quality laptops
MacBook Air cons:
• Limited upgradeability
• Just two USB-C ports
• Notch at the highest point of the display (on newer models)
Overall, the MacBook Air is a great all-around PC for users who need a strong and portable machine. It’s also a decent incentive at the cost. However, if you need a laptop with upgradability choices or multiple USB-C ports, then, at that point, the MacBook Air isn’t the best choice.
MacBook Pro Pros:
• Strong performance, particularly with the M2 Pro or M2 Max chip
• Wonderful Liquid Retina display with ProMotion innovation
• Long-lasting battery duration
• Adaptable port choice, including Thunderclap 4, HDMI, and MagSafe 3
• Durable aluminum chassis
• Wide variety of accessories available
MacBook Pro cons:
• Expensive
• Heavy
• Limited upgradeability
• Touch Bar is divisive
• Some users disapprove of the keyboard and display
In general, the MacBook Pro is a great laptop for clients who need strong performance, a beautiful display, and a long battery duration. It’s also a decent decision for creative professionals and different clients who need a versatile and durable PC. However, it’s critical to take note that the MacBook Pro is costly and heavy, and it has limited upgradeability choices.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
The current 24-inch iMac is much cheaper than the 16-inch MacBook Pro. In any case, it still packs Apple’s M1 processor, a greater screen, more storage space, and an incredible exhibit of ports. You also have the option to update the RAM and storage to your needs.
But the 16-inch MacBook Pro is certainly the most powerful Mac of the bunch, with its M1 Pro or M1 Max chip, but the cost makes it a prohibitive choice for the vast majority. What’s more, you just need that excessive amount of power for intensive tasks like 3D modeling or video editing.
The Macbook Air also remains strong, with its significantly smaller form factor and efficient M1 performance. The portability of the 13-inch Macbook Air implies it’s more designed for students or businessmen who need to have a capable machine in a hurry. You wouldn’t believe the distinction a 13-inch machine and a 16-inch machine make in a bag — both size and weight.
For pricing, Mac’s Macbook Air right now costs $999 for the base model, while the iMac 24-inch and 16-inch Macbook Pro cost $1,299 and $2,499 individually. While you’re paying an extra $1,500 for the 16-inch Macbook Pro you should ask yourself: do you require all that power in a portable machine?
If you want as much power in the field as possible, the MacBook Pro is your smartest option at this stage. Simply ensure you settle on enough SSD to see you to your next upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does the iMac compare with the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro regarding performance?
iMacs for the most part offer better performance compared with MacBook Air models but can vary depending on the particular setups. MacBook Pro models, particularly the better-quality ones, frequently give the best performance among all Mac PCs.
2. What is the key difference between the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro?
The MacBook Air is intended for portability and general use, while the MacBook Pro is outfitted for better performance and is reasonable for tasks that require more computing power.
3. What is the contrast between an iMac and a MacBook?
An iMac is a desktop computer, while a MacBook is a PC. iMacs are generally more impressive than MacBooks, but they are also less portable. MacBooks are more portable, but they may not be as strong as iMacs.
4. Which Mac is good for me?
The good Mac for you depends on your requirements and budget. If you are looking for the most powerful desktop computer, a MacBook Pro is the best option. If you are looking for a more affordable and portable computer a MacBook Air is the best choice.
5. What is the best iMac for students?
The best iMac for students is the 24-inch iMac with the M1 chip. It is reasonable and strong enough for most student needs.
6. What is the best iMac for professionals?
The best iMac for professionals is the 27-inch iMac. This Apple device comes with the Intel Center i7 processor and 16GB of RAM. It is strong enough for most professional tasks, like video editing purposes and graphic designing.
7. What is the difference between the iMac and the iMac Pro?
The iMac is a useful desktop computer, while the iMac Pro is a high-end PC for professionals. The iMac Pro has an all the more powerful processor, more RAM, and more storage than the iMac.
8. What is the best MacBook Air for students?
The best MacBook Air for students is the 13-inch MacBook Air with the M2 chip. It is reasonable and lightweight, making it simple to carry around campus.
9. What is the best MacBook Air for professionals?
The best MacBook Air for professionals is the 13-inch MacBook Air. This MacBook has the M2 chip and 16GB of RAM. It is strong enough for most professional work, for example, word processing and email.
10. What is the difference between the MacBook Air and the MacBook Pro?
The MacBook Air is a general-purpose laptop, and the MacBook Pro is a very good quality computer for professionals. The MacBook Pro has an all the more impressive processor, a better display, and a bigger number of ports than the MacBook Air.
11. What is the best MacBook Pro for students?
The best MacBook Pro for students is the 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M1 Pro chip. It is strong enough for most student needs, like video editing and graphic design.
12. What is the best MacBook Pro for professionals?
The best MacBook Pro for experts is the 16-inch MacBook Pro with the M1 Max chip. It is the most powerful MacBook Pro accessible and is best for professionals who need a lot of force, like video editors and graphic designers.
13. What is the difference between the MacBook Pro and the MacBook Air?
The MacBook Pro is a top-of-the-line PC for professionals, while the MacBook Air is best for everyday use PC. The MacBook Pro has an all the more impressive processor, the best display, and a bigger number of ports than the MacBook Air.
