The MacBook Air with M3 chip made a splash when it landed, and while it’s no longer the “new kid on the block,” it remains a contender in the ultraportable laptop arena. But in 2025, with newer models and evolving tech, is the MacBook Air M3 still a worthwhile purchase? We’re revisiting this popular machine, looking back at its initial hype, examining how it holds up today, and considering who it’s still a good fit for.
When the MacBook Air with M3 launched, it promised a compelling combination of speed, efficiency, and all-day battery life, all within Apple’s signature sleek design. And for many users, it delivered. The M3 chip offered a noticeable performance boost over its predecessor, making everyday tasks feel snappier and enabling light creative work. The exceptional battery life quickly became a talking point, solidifying its reputation as a true portable powerhouse.
- LEAN. MEAN. M3 MACHINE — With a powerful 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU, the blazing-fast MacBook Air with M3 chip is a supe…
- BUILT FOR APPLE INTELLIGENCE—Apple Intelligence is the personal intelligence system that helps you write, express yourse…
- PORTABLE DESIGN — Lightweight and under half an inch thin, so you can take MacBook Air anywhere you go.
Disclosure
Quick Specs Overview
- Processor: Apple M3 chip
- RAM: 8GB (base model), upgradeable to 16GB
- Storage: 256GB SSD (base model), upgradable to 512GB or more
- Display: 13.6-inch Liquid Retina (2560 x 1664 resolution)
- Battery Life: Up to 18 hours
- Weight: 1.24 kg (2.7 lbs)
- Ports: Two Thunderbolt USB-C ports
- Operating System: macOS Sonoma
What Makes the MacBook Air with M3 Special?
1. The M3 Chip is Lightning Fast
We tested everyday tasks like multitasking between 20 browser tabs, editing photos in Lightroom, and even dabbling in Final Cut Pro. The verdict? This thing is a beast. The M3 chip handles it all without breaking a sweat.
“I upgraded from the M1 Air, and wow, the M3 feels noticeably snappier. It’s perfect for my daily workflow—email, video calls, and occasional Photoshop. Zero lag.” – Reddit User
Even power users on X (formerly Twitter) praise its responsiveness, saying it’s one of the smoothest machines for productivity apps. That said, if you’re gaming or diving into heavy video editing, the base model’s 8GB RAM might bottleneck performance.
2. Ultraportable Without Compromising on Style
Weighing just 1.24 kg (2.7 lbs), the MacBook Air is ridiculously portable. It slips into a backpack without adding bulk, making it perfect for commuters, students, or anyone constantly on the go.
“It’s so light that I actually forgot it was in my bag. Plus, the sleek, minimalist design gets compliments every time I pull it out.” – Amazon Reviewer
The all-metal unibody construction feels as premium as ever. No flex, no creaks—this thing is built to last.
3. Battery Life That Just Won’t Quit
Apple claims up to 18 hours of battery life, and from our research, that’s not just marketing fluff. Most users report getting anywhere from 15–17 hours of mixed-use—web browsing, Netflix binges, and light work.
“I’ve been using it for a full day of lectures and note-taking, and I still have 30% battery left when I get home. It’s insane!” – Reddit User
For travelers or anyone working remotely, this is a game-changer.
4. The Display is Pure Eye Candy
The 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display is as vibrant as it gets. Colors pop, text is razor-sharp, and it’s a joy for everything from spreadsheets to streaming your favorite shows.
“Editing photos on this display feels so much more immersive. The details and clarity are unreal.” – Amazon Reviewer
However, it’s not OLED, so don’t expect those deep blacks you’d get on pricier MacBook Pro models.
Disclosure
Where It Falls Short
1. The Base Model’s RAM Could Be a Bottleneck
The 8GB RAM in the base model is fine for casual users—think emails, browsing, and light apps. But if you’re someone who keeps 30 Chrome tabs open while editing a video, you’ll want to upgrade to 16GB.
“The 8GB version started to stutter when I pushed it hard. Upgrading to 16GB made a night-and-day difference.” – Reddit User
2. It’s Pricey Compared to Windows Laptops
There’s no sugarcoating this—at its starting price, the MacBook Air with M3 is more expensive than similarly specced Windows laptops. While the performance and build quality justify the cost, budget-conscious buyers might find better value elsewhere.
“You’re paying for the Apple logo, sure, but you’re also getting insane efficiency and a laptop that will last for years.” – Reddit User
3. External Monitor Support is Limited
If you’re someone who relies on dual monitors, this might be a dealbreaker. Users on Reddit have reported issues with external monitor compatibility, especially when trying to run multiple monitors or mirror the display.
Real User Praise and Critiques
- Pros:
- The keyboard feels fantastic—typing for hours is a breeze.
- The speakers are shockingly good for a laptop this thin.
- macOS Sonoma + M3 chip = butter-smooth performance.
- Cons:
- I wish it had one more USB-C port. Two just isn’t enough sometimes.
- Why no support for two external monitors, Apple? It’s 2025!
- The price jump for higher storage and RAM upgrades feels a bit steep.
Who Should Buy the MacBook Air with M3?
Buy If:
- You want a lightweight, stylish laptop for work, travel, or school.
- You’re already in Apple’s ecosystem and love macOS.
- Long battery life and great performance are your top priorities.
Consider Alternatives If:
- You need a gaming laptop or something for heavy video editing.
- Budget is a concern—you can find more affordable options with similar specs.
- Dual-monitor support is a non-negotiable feature for your setup.
Our Final Verdict
The MacBook Air with M3 is a phenomenal ultraportable laptop. It excels in performance, battery life, and design, making it ideal for students, professionals, and anyone always on the move. But with limitations like base model RAM and external monitor support, it’s not perfect for everyone.
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ½ (4.5/5 stars)
Price and Where to Buy
Find the best deals on the MacBook Air with M3 at:
- LEAN. MEAN. M3 MACHINE — With a powerful 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU, the blazing-fast MacBook Air with M3 chip is a supe…
- BUILT FOR APPLE INTELLIGENCE—Apple Intelligence is the personal intelligence system that helps you write, express yourse…
- PORTABLE DESIGN — Lightweight and under half an inch thin, so you can take MacBook Air anywhere you go.
