Apple MacBook Air 13" M4 (16GB/256GB) vs Apple MacBook Air 15" M4 (16GB/256GB)
We compare the Apple MacBook Air 13" M4 (16GB/256GB) and Apple MacBook Air 15" M4 (16GB/256GB) head-to-head on performance, features, value, and more. Here's which one wins.
Apple MacBook Air 13" M4 (16GB/256GB)
Scored 9.5/10 in our testing
Apple MacBook Air 13" M4 (16GB/256GB)
Best MacBook for most people — faster than any Windows ultrabook at this price
Apple MacBook Air 15" M4 (16GB/256GB)
Best 15" laptop for people who want more screen without the MacBook Pro price
Score Breakdown
| Apple MacBook Air 13" M4 (16GB/256GB) | Category | Apple MacBook Air 15" M4 (16GB/256GB) |
|---|---|---|
| 9.3/10 | Performance | 9.3/10 |
| 9/10 | Features | ✓ 9.1/10 |
| 9.8/10 | Ease of Use | 9.8/10 |
| 9.5/10 ✓ | Value | 9/10 |
| 9.5/10 ✓ | Overall | 9.2/10 |
Specs Comparison
| Apple MacBook Air 13" M4 (16GB/256GB) | Spec | Apple MacBook Air 15" M4 (16GB/256GB) |
|---|---|---|
| Apple M4 (10-core CPU, 10-core GPU) | Chip | Apple M4 (10-core CPU, 10-core GPU) |
| 16GB unified memory | Memory | 16GB unified memory |
| 256GB SSD | Storage | 256GB SSD |
| 13.6" Liquid Retina, 500 nits | Display | 15.3" Liquid Retina, 500 nits |
| Up to 18 hours | Battery | Up to 18 hours |
Apple MacBook Air 13" M4 (16GB/256GB)
Pros
- + M4 chip outperforms all Windows ultrabooks at this price
- + 16GB base memory — finally adequate for modern use
- + 18-hour real-world battery life
- + Silent fanless design
Cons
- − 256GB storage is tight for heavy users — upgrade to 512GB
- − No ProMotion 120Hz display
- − Throttles under sustained extended workloads
Apple MacBook Air 15" M4 (16GB/256GB)
Pros
- + 15.3" display — more screen for the same chip price premium
- + 18-hour battery in a larger chassis
- + Same M4 performance as 13-inch Air
- + Louder 6-speaker sound system
Cons
- − Heavier than 13-inch at 3.3 lbs
- − 256GB storage is tight — upgrade to 512GB
- − No ProMotion 120Hz
Our Verdict
Based on our scoring, the Apple MacBook Air 13" M4 (16GB/256GB) comes out on top with an overall score of 9.5/10. The MacBook Air M4 sets the new standard for what a $999 laptop should be. The M4 chip is 30%+ faster than M3, the base model now ships with 16GB (not 8GB) of unified memory, and battery life is a genuine all-day 18 hours. The fanless design stays silent under all workloads — it only throttles under sustained heavy load, which the Air wasn't designed for anyway. For students, remote workers, and light to moderate creative professionals, this is the best laptop money can buy at any price.
Buy the Apple MacBook Air 13" M4 (16GB/256GB) on AmazonRead the full Best MacBooks 2026 guide for complete reviews of all 10 products.