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Title: The best MacBook for 2025: Which Apple laptop should you buy?

Date: Thu, 21 Aug 2025 09:00:36 +0000
Link: https://www.engadget.com/computing/laptops/be...

AppleΓÇÖs next big to-do for 2025 will be the upcoming iPhone 17 event, which
will likely happen some time in September. Historically, the company uses
those events to announce new iPhones, AirPods and Apple Watches ΓÇö MacBooks
tend to get their own, separate shindig (though we do expect the new macOS 26
software to come out around that time). For now, the most recent MacBooks are
the M4 MacBook Air and the M4 MacBook Pro. Deciding between just two models
may seem easy, but there are still plenty of variables to consider before you
add one to your cart ΓÇö screen size, chip capabilities, price and memory
configurations will all come into play. WeΓÇÖve reviewed every MacBook model
to come out in the last 17 years or so, so we compiled this guide to help you
pick the best MacBook for you.

Table of contents

Best MacBooks for 2025

What about budget MacBooks?

Factors to consider when buying a MacBook

MacBooks specs comparison chart

Best MacBook FAQs

Best MacBooks for 2025

What about budget MacBooks?

Historically, Apple kept the previous yearΓÇÖs MacBook Air in its lineup as a
sort of budget option. But the company took a different approach with the
release of the M4 MacBook Air. Instead of continuing to sell the older model,
Apple discontinued the M3 Air and gave its newest computer a $100 price cut.

Now, if you can even find a brand new M3 MacBook Air (typically from
retailers like Amazon or B&H), itΓÇÖs often more expensive than the M4
version. During sales like Amazon Prime Day, weΓÇÖve seen the newest M4 Air
go for as little as $799. That effectively makes our overall pick a budget
pick as well.

Of course, $800 isnΓÇÖt exactly a small investment either for college
students or others on a budget. Especially when you can find some decent PCs
for under $500. If youΓÇÖre looking to save even more on a MacBook, we
recommend checking out refurbished options directly from Apple, or even third
party sellers like BackMarket. There are a few guidelines to keep in mind,
which we go over in our refurbished guide, but mainly, youΓÇÖll want to shop
from a reputable source that has a stated process and offers at least a year-
long warranty. Using your old gear as a trade-in will bring down your final
cost as well.

Factors to consider when buying a MacBook

Compared to PCs, Apple computers tend to have more streamlined
specifications. The company has long been known for this simplicity, and the
M-series ΓÇ£system-on-a-chipΓÇ¥ condenses things even further. Prior to the
M1 chip, Apple used Intel chips in its laptop and desktop computers. The M2
and M3 generations followed that first chip and currently sells MacBooks
equipped with M4-series chips. YouΓÇÖll find the standard M4 processor in the
Air and the base-model Pro and the upgraded M4 Max and M4 Pro chips as
options for the MacBook Pro (currently there is no M4 Ultra chip, as there
was with the M3 series in the Mac Studio). All M-series chips combine, among
other technologies, the CPU, graphics card and unified memory (RAM).
AppleΓÇÖs Neural Engine is included too, which is a specialized group of
processor cores that handles machine learning tasks such as image analysis
and voice recognition.

While a unified chip means you have fewer decisions to make when picking a
MacBook, there are still a few factors to consider, including specs like the
number of CPU cores, amount of RAM, storage capacity, screen size, and,
obviously, price. The finish color may be a minor consideration, but it's
worth pointing out that the Pro comes in just two colors (Silver or Space
Black) but the Air comes in four hues (Midnight, Starlight, Sky Blue and
Silver).

CPU cores

The lowest-specced chip in a current-lineup MacBook is the standard M4 chip,
which is found in all models of the MacBook Air and the base model MacBook
Pro 14-inch. That chip houses a 10-core CPU and either an 8- or 10-core GPU.
In total, there are three versions of the M4 chip: standard M4, M4 Pro and M4
Max (which are each a step up from their predecessors, the M3, M3 Pro and M3
Max chips). The burliest chip, the M4 Max is built with either a 14- or 16-
core CPU and a 32- or 40-core GPU.

Cores are, in essence, smaller processing units that can handle different
tasks simultaneously. Having more of them translates to the computer being
able to run multiple programs and applications at once, while also smoothly
processing demanding tasks like video and photo editing and high-level
gaming. In short, more cores allow for more advanced computing and better
performance. But if your processing power needs fall below professional-level
gaming and cinematic video and audio editing, getting the highest number of
cores is likely overkill ΓÇö and after all, more cores equals higher cost and
more power usage.

Photo by Devindra Hardawar/Engadget RAM

Your options for RAM, or in AppleΓÇÖs terminology, unified memory, varies,
but with the switch to the M4 chip in all laptops, the lowest amount of RAM
you can get is now 16GB. ThatΓÇÖs a necessary spec-bump to accommodate the
tech worldΓÇÖs favorite feature of the moment: AI or, in this case, Apple
Intelligence (still AI, but CupertinoΓÇÖs version). The M4 Pro chip has 24 or
48GB memory options, while the M4 Max chip supports 48, 64 or a whopping
128GB of RAM.

YouΓÇÖve likely heard the analogy comparing memory to the amount of workspace
available on a literal desktop surface, whereas storage is the amount of
drawers you have to store projects to work on later. The larger the worktop
surface, the more projects you can work on at once. The bigger the drawers,
the more you can save for later.

In addition to supporting Apple Intelligence, more RAM is ideal for people
who plan to work in multiple apps at once. And the more demanding each
program is, the more RAM will be required. Extra memory can also come in
handy if youΓÇÖre the type who likes to have infinite numbers of tabs open on
your browser. If your daily workflow doesnΓÇÖt involve simultaneously using a
vast number of memory-intensive programs, you can save yourself money and buy
the RAM configuration that youΓÇÖre most likely to actually use.

For a long time, Apple continued to offer MacBooks with just 8GB of RAM, and
we recommended upgrading to at least 16GB of RAM. With this being the
standard today, grabbing a base model should be fine for most non-pro-level
users. One thing to note is that, unlike most PCs, the RAM in a MacBook is
not user-upgradable since itΓÇÖs tied into the system-on-a-chip. If you think
you might end up needing more memory, you should go for the spec upgrade up
front.

Storage capacity (SSD)

Storage options range from 256GB of SSD for the base-model MacBook Air and
8TB of storage for the MacBook Pros with the M4 Max chip. If you want to
rotate between a long roster of game titles or keep lots of high-res videos
on hand, youΓÇÖll want more storage. If youΓÇÖre mostly working with browser-
and cloud-based applications, you can get away with a smaller-capacity
configuration. That said, we recommend springing for 512GB of storage or
more, if itΓÇÖs within your budget. YouΓÇÖll quickly feel the limits of a
256GB machine as it ages since the operating system alone takes up a good
portion of that space. Having 1TB will feel even roomier and allow for more
data storage over the life of your laptop.

When Apple announced the iPhone 15, the company also announced new iCloud+
storage storage plans, with subscriptions that allow up to 12TB of storage
shared among your iOS and MacOS devices. You could also transfer files to an
external storage device. But if you donΓÇÖt want to pay for a monthly
subscription and prefer the convenience of having immediate access to your
files, itΓÇÖs best to get the highest amount of storage space your budget
allows for at the outset.

Screen size

The MacBook Air comes in 13- or 15-inch sizes. Pro models have either 14- or
16-inch screens. A two-inch delta may not seem like much but, as EngadgetΓÇÖs
Nathan Ingraham noted when he reviewed the then-new 15-inch M2-powered
MacBook Air, a larger screen "makes a surprising difference.ΓÇ¥ ThatΓÇÖs
especially true if you plan to use your laptop as an all-day productivity
machine and wonΓÇÖt be using an external monitor. More space means you can
more clearly view side-by-side windows and have a more immersive experience
when watching shows or gaming.

But screen size is one of the main factors influencing weight. The 13-inch
MacBook Air M4 weighs 2.7 pounds, whereas the top-end 16-inch MacBook Pro
with the Max chip weighs 4.7 pounds. If you plan to travel a lot or swap your
work locations regularly, a smaller screen will make life easier in the long
run.

All MacBooks feature IPS LCD panels (in-plane switching, liquid crystal
display), which Apple markets as Retina displays. The MacBook Air M4 has a
Liquid Retina display and the Pro models have Liquid Retina XDR displays.
ΓÇ£LiquidΓÇ¥ refers to the way the lighted portion of the display ΓÇ£flowsΓÇ¥
within the contours of the screen, filling the rounded corners and curving
around the camera notch. ΓÇ£XDRΓÇ¥ is what Apple calls HDR (high dynamic
range).

You also get the option of a standard or nano-texture display on the MacBook
Pro. The glass, which reduces glare and is also available on the Studio
Display, iMac and iPad Pro, comes with a $150 price increase, but if you
really donΓÇÖt like reflections on your screen, it could be worth it.

Compared to most other laptops, MacBook displays are notably bright, sharp
and lush. But one feature worth pointing out is another Apple marketing term:
ProMotion. ItΓÇÖs the companyΓÇÖs term to describe a screen with a higher,
120Hz refresh rate, which results in smoother scrolling and more fluid-
looking graphics. Only MacBook Pros offer ProMotion; the Air maxes out at
60Hz, which is perfectly fine for everyday browsing and typical workdays. But
if you want buttery-smooth motion from your display, youΓÇÖll have to shell
out more money for an upgrade.

Operating systems

Software considerations wonΓÇÖt make much of a difference when deciding
between MacBook models ΓÇö all come with macOS installed. But if youΓÇÖre
switching from, say, a Windows PC, the operating system may be something to
factor into your decision ΓÇö though itΓÇÖs probably less of an issue than it
once was. Now that so much of the work we do on our computers is browser- and
cloud-based, the learning curve between the two platforms isnΓÇÖt as steep.
Apps and programs like Gmail perform similarly regardless of what computer
youΓÇÖre using. Apple machines have historically had more limited support of
AAA gaming titles, but even that is changing with more AAA games and better
graphics coming to Macs.

As for macOS, itΓÇÖs getting better too. With macOS Tahoe 26, the Spotlight
function is more advanced, making it easier to find apps and perform tasks
straight from your keyboard. The software also implements Apple's unifying
Liquid Glass design for a modern look that looks consistent across iOS and
iPad devices. New enhanced iPhone continuity features also make MacBooks and
the handset work better together. A revamped Shortcuts app is more powerful
as well, giving users custom automations that leverage Apple Intelligence
(the companyΓÇÖs own AI).

Price

When Apple announced the MacBook Air M4, it also delivered a bit of
refreshing news: The latest model now starts $100 cheaper than the previous
generation. So now, the least expensive MacBook is the 13-inch, M4-powered
Air with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage for $999. Alternatively, you can
spend up to $7,349 for the 16-inch MacBook Pro M4 Max with the nano-texture
glass, 128GB of RAM and 8TB of storage.

Chip type, screen size, memory and storage capacity all influence the final
price, which is why guides like this can help you determine just what you
need (and what you donΓÇÖt) so you can get the most cost-effective machine
for you. AppleCare is another cost to consider. The extended warranty plan
from Apple covers repairs from accidents and offers free battery replacement
and starts at $3.50 per month or $35 per year for MacBooks.

We recommend the MacBook Air M4 for most people, and thanks to that $100
price cut, itΓÇÖs also a good budget option. If you want something even
cheaper, we recommend looking at refurbished M-series models from Apple. We
think the 14- or 16-inch MacBook Pros are best for professionals. If you have
extra money to spare once youΓÇÖve picked your machine, we recommend
upgrading to at least 512GB of storage to make your machine as future-proof
as possible. Of course, if you're just after the M4 chip and want the
cheapest route to get it, you might consider the M4 Mac mini, which starts at
$599 (though you'll have to supply the screen, mouse and keyboard).

Best MacBooks spec comparison chart

Product

Superlative

Tested configuration

Tested battery life

Rated battery life

Apple MacBook Air M4 (13-inch)

Best MacBook overall

Apple M4, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD

18.25 hours

Up to 18 hours

Apple MacBook Pro M4 (14-inch)

Best MacBook for creatives

Apple M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD

34.25 hours

Up to 22 hours

Best MacBook FAQs What's the difference between MacBook Air and Pro?

Both the MacBook Air and Pro models come with the M4 chip. MBP models have
the option of more powerful M4 Pro or M4 Max chips. The Pro has a higher
resolution screen with a higher peak brightness that supports up to 120Hz
adaptive refresh rates and XDR (extreme dynamic range). The battery life on
most Pro models is longer than on the Air models as well. Pro models also
have more ports and more speakers. In short, the MacBook Air is aimed at
everyday users looking for good productivity and entertainment capabilities,
while Pro models are aimed at professionals who need a high-performance
computer.

What's the difference between macOS and Windows?

MacOS is the operating system developed by Apple and used in all of its
desktop and laptop computers. It can only be found in hardware made by Apple
including MacBooks and iMacs. MicrosoftΓÇÖs Windows operating system can be
found in the companyΓÇÖs own Surface laptops as well as computers made by a
wide array of manufacturers, like Acer, Asus, Dell and Razer.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at
https://www.engadget.com/computing/laptops/be...
140032524.html?src=rss

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