Apple has introduced the MacBook Air with the M5 chip, continuing the annual update of the company’s most popular laptop lineup. Externally, the new Air is almost indistinguishable from last year’s model. That’s why many users immediately started wondering whether there’s any real reason to upgrade from MacBook Air M4 to MacBook Air M5. The question is extremely relevant.
What are the real differences between last generation and current generation MacBook Air? Image: 9to5mac.com
At first glance, it seems like Apple simply updated the processor. But along with the new chip, the company added a faster storage drive, a new wireless module, and improved artificial intelligence task performance. Let’s break down how MacBook Air M5 differs from MacBook Air M4, how much faster it is, and who should actually consider upgrading.
How MacBook Air M5 Differs from MacBook Air M4
If you place the MacBook Air M5 and MacBook Air M4 side by side, it’s virtually impossible to tell them apart. Apple kept the same thin aluminum body, the same dimensions, and the same fanless cooling system. The laptops are available in the same colors and feature the same Liquid Retina display.
The main changes are inside the device. The new M5 chip features an updated architecture and a more powerful Neural Engine for artificial intelligence tasks. Additionally, Apple increased the base storage capacity and added a new N1 wireless module that supports more modern connectivity standards.
| Parameter | MacBook Air M5 | MacBook Air M4 |
| Processor | Apple M5 | Apple M4 |
| Process Node | 3 nm | 3 nm |
| CPU | 10-core | 10-core |
| GPU | up to 10 cores | up to 10 cores |
| Neural Engine | accelerated AI tasks | previous generation |
| RAM | 16–32 GB | 16–32 GB |
| SSD | 512 GB – 4 TB | 256 GB – 2 TB |
| Display | Liquid Retina | Liquid Retina |
| Battery Life | up to 18 hours | up to 18 hours |
| Ports | MagSafe, 2× Thunderbolt | MagSafe, 2× Thunderbolt |
| External Display Support | up to 2 monitors | up to 2 monitors |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) | Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 6 | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Weight | 1.24 kg | 1.24 kg |
In summary, MacBook Air M5 vs MacBook Air M4 differ primarily in the processor, storage, and wireless technologies. Externally, the laptops are identical. This is a typical annual Apple update without design changes.
How Much Faster Is MacBook Air M5 Than MacBook Air M4
The main innovation of the new laptop is the architecture of the Apple M5 chip. The processor features faster computing cores and an improved Neural Engine. Apple claims that the new MacBook Air can perform artificial intelligence tasks up to four times faster than the M4 model.
The M5 chip is the main innovation of the new Air. Image: 9to5mac.com
In everyday use, the difference isn’t as noticeable. When using a browser, office applications, or video calls, the laptops perform at roughly the same level. However, when editing photos, video editing, or working with code, the MacBook Air M5 delivers more consistent performance.
It’s also worth noting the improved AI task performance. The new Neural Engine speeds up image processing, text recognition, and running local models. This is also important for Apple Intelligence features that Apple is actively integrating into macOS.
Display, Design, and Battery Life of MacBook Air M5 and M4
In terms of MacBook Air M5 design, it’s no different from the MacBook Air M4. Apple kept the same body, the same thickness, and the same size options of 13 and 15 inches. This means the new laptop retains the same advantages: lightweight build, compactness, and silent operation.
The camera remains in the familiar notch, and even the body colors stayed the same. Image: tomsguide.com
The Liquid Retina display also remains unchanged. It offers high pixel density, good color accuracy, and sufficient brightness for working indoors and outdoors. The 12 MP Center Stage camera, speakers, and Magic Keyboard also remained the same.
Battery life still stands at around 18 hours. The new M5 processor is slightly more energy-efficient, but Apple uses this headroom to boost performance. Therefore, the battery life remains at the same level.
MacBook Air M5 or MacBook Air M4: Which Is Better to Buy
If you already own a MacBook Air M4, upgrading to M5 doesn’t make sense. There is a performance improvement, but it’s not significant enough to fundamentally change the everyday user experience. Only those who regularly work with demanding tasks or local AI will notice the difference.
As before, 13-inch and 15-inch options are available. Image: imore.com
For owners of MacBook Air M1, M2, or M3, the situation is completely different. In that case, the MacBook Air M5 will be significantly faster, and the difference will be noticeable to the naked eye. Such an upgrade will feel much more substantial.
If you’re buying a new laptop in 2026, a lot depends on the price. The MacBook Air M5 costs slightly more but offers a faster and larger SSD, an improved processor, and Wi-Fi 7 support. Even with a $100 price difference, it makes more sense to choose the newer model.
Ultimately, the MacBook Air M5 is an evolutionary update, not a radically new model. It’s primarily intended for owners of older MacBook Air models. For M4 users, this is definitely not a device worth considering for an upgrade.
