# M5 MacBook Air vs M4 MacBook Pro: Which should I choose?

> Comparing Apple's latest Air against the previous Pro generation

*Published: 2026-03-19 | Updated: 2026-03-19 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/answers/m5-macbook-air-vs-m4-macbook-pro-which-choose*

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## Product: Apple MacBook Air 2025 13-inch with M4 Chip
**Brand:** Apple

This is a fascinating comparison because the [M5 MacBook Air](https://www.amazon.com/Apple-MacBook-13-inch-Unified-Storage/dp/B0DZDC3WW5?tag=shopsavvy00-20) is actually faster than the M4 MacBook Pro in raw benchmark performance. But there's more to consider.

## The Air Is Actually Faster

The M5 chip is newer than the M4:
- M5 single-core: approximately 4,190
- M4 Pro single-core: approximately 3,800
- M5 multi-core: approximately 17,073
- M4 Pro multi-core: approximately 15,000

For most everyday tasks, the M5 Air wins on pure speed.

## Where the Pro Maintains Advantages

**Display Quality:**
The Pro's display is dramatically superior:
- ProMotion 120Hz refresh (versus 60Hz)
- Mini-LED with HDR and XDR brightness
- Better for creative work and media consumption

**Sustained Performance:**
The Pro has fans. The Air doesn't. During extended heavy workloads, the Air eventually slows to cool itself. The Pro maintains full performance.

**Port Selection:**
- Pro: 3 Thunderbolt, HDMI, SD card, MagSafe
- Air: 2 Thunderbolt, MagSafe

For professional workflows requiring multiple peripherals, the Pro wins easily.

**Configuration Ceiling:**
The Pro goes up to 128GB RAM and 8TB storage. The Air maxes at 32GB and 4TB.

## Who Should Choose the M5 Air?

- Portability is the priority (Air is lighter)
- Display quality isn't critical for your work
- Sustained heavy workloads are rare
- Budget matters ($500+ cheaper)
- 90% of work is productivity, coding, or light creative tasks

## Who Should Choose the M4 Pro?

- Professional creative work is your focus
- ProMotion display matters for your workflow
- You need more than 2 Thunderbolt ports
- Sustained heavy workloads are common
- You want the premium experience regardless of cost

## The Bottom Line

For most users, the M5 Air offers better value. The Pro is for professionals who genuinely need sustained performance, the superior display, or extensive port selection.

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*Where this comes from: This answer is based on ShopSavvy's product database, real-time pricing from thousands of retailers, and analysis of user reviews to give you a well-rounded picture.*