How does the MacBook Air M4 compare to the MacBook Pro M4?

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nullThey both have the same M4 chip, so what's the extra $500-600 actually buying you?

The stuff that's identical: Both have the same 10-core CPU. For everyday tasks, web browsing, office work, and most creative applications, they feel the same.

Where the Pro pulls ahead:

Graphics: The Pro has 10 GPU cores versus the Air's 8. About 20-25% more graphics power. Noticeable in 3D rendering and gaming, less so for video editing or photo work.

Cooling is the big difference. The Air is completely fanless (silent). The Pro has active cooling. Push either machine hard for 20+ minutes with video exports or heavy compiling, and the Air starts to throttle. The Pro keeps going at full speed.

Battery: The Pro lasts longer. Around 18-22 hours versus the Air's 15-18 hours.

The display: The Pro has ProMotion (120Hz), making scrolling and animations noticeably smoother. It's also much brighter for HDR content.

Ports: The Pro adds a third Thunderbolt port on the right side, HDMI, and an SD card slot.

Bottom line: Most people should get the Air. It handles 90% of what people do, costs hundreds less, and weighs slightly less. The Pro makes sense for video professionals, people doing sustained heavy rendering, or anyone who really values the 120Hz display.

Compare MacBook Air M4 vs MacBook Pro M4 prices to see which offers better value for your needs.