It's not as easy to choose between a MacBook Air and a MacBook Pro as it would first seem. There are three distinct MacBook Air sizes offered by Apple: 13.3, 13.6, and 15.3 inches. Similarly, Apple's MacBook Pro also available in three sizes: 13.3, 14.2, and 16.2-inches.

Another factor that makes choosing a MacBook difficult is the fact that Apple still sells certain models with M1 processors, even though the most current models have M2, M2 Pro, and M2 Max processors. This is one feature that sets the Apple MacBook Pro apart from the MacBook Air; only the Pro versions come with the more powerful 'Pro' or 'Max' chipsets.

This comparison of features, performance, battery life, and other factors will help you choose which Apple laptop is the best fit for you.

MacBook Air Series - Specifications

MacBook Air (M1)

Pros:

The M1 processor in the MacBook Air gives exceptional performance and a battery life of over 14 hours, which makes the MacBook Air one of the most durable laptops available—even longer than its successor.

Touch ID is a feature that simplifies password replacement, secure payment methods, and system unlocking. The M1 processor improved the performance of the MacBook Air's 720p camera, which won't be able to compete with the finest external webcam but does enable iOS and iPadOS applications.

The MacBook Air is more portable than the 13.5-inch Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 but bigger than the Dell XPS 13.

Cons:

Most people won't be able to utilize only two USB-C connections, so be prepared to purchase a dongle. The MacBook Air is neither the smallest nor the lightest 13-inch laptop. The MacBook Air has been around for around 3 years and is beginning to show its age, yet Apple still sells it and will continue to support it.

MacBook Air (M2, 2022)

Pros:

The new MacBook Air is 20% smaller than the previous model. This laptop now has a larger display, a new pair of speakers, and a 1080p webcam from Apple.

However, Apple's M2 CPU, which provides excellent performance for an ultraportable laptop, is the true star of the show. It is perfect for anybody searching for a super-light workhorse since it is quicker and more powerful than the previous model. It offers a rapid charging feature and a battery life of over 14 hours. Sharp details and an explosion of color are shown on the M2's screen.

Any medium-sized handbag, messenger bag, or backpack can easily fit this MacBook Air inside.

Cons:

Although the battery life of almost 14 hours is unquestionably a plus, it is still a little less than that of the previous generation. That's not a big deal, but if you want to squeeze every last drop of power out of your MacBook, the M1 MacBook Air could be more appealing.

With the M2 Air, Apple's lightest laptop continues the tradition of having few ports. You still only get a couple of Thunderbolt 4 ports and a headphone jack to deal with, so you may need a dongle or two, even if the MagSafe charger is there again.

MacBook Air 15 (M2)

Pros:

The MacBook Air 15 will be a great alternative for business travelers or college students who value a bigger laptop without adding bulk to their laptop bag at 3.3 pounds and 0.45 inches thick. This Apple MacBook has a battery life of over 14 hours.

Although it has the same M2 chip as the 13-inch Air, it is a little bit more potent and has a faster SSD write speed.

Cons:

As it has the same pair of Thunderbolt 3/USB 4 ports, MagSafe charger, and headphone/mic jack as the considerably smaller MacBook Air 13-inch, the port issue is a little irksome.

MacBook Pro Series - Specifications

MacBook Pro (13-inch, M2)

Pros:

With its M2 CPU, the 13-inch MacBook Pro packs a lot of power into a thin and light chassis. It even has a nice keyboard. The MacBook Pro has the same M2 processor as the MacBook Air, but since it includes an internal fan for cooling, this Apple computer can do demanding tasks for a longer period of time. 

Even though it is somewhat heavier than a MacBook Air, this device offers a longer battery life and an identical M2 CPU. Because of its longer battery life than its rivals—18 hours and 20 minutes—the MacBook Pro stands out from other computers.  

Apple added a Touch ID sensor and the Touch Bar to the MacBook Pro. Additionally, the 13-inch MacBook Pro has a stunning appearance, an incredibly fast SSD, and an upgraded 720p camera. 

Cons:

The new MacBook Pro 14 and 16 have more Thunderbolt 4 ports than the original model MacBook Pro, which only has two. Although it has its supporters, the Touch Bar has been removed from every subsequent MacBook, which means that software support is declining. Due to its large bezels and outdated rounded form, this is the only current MacBook that has not received a design upgrade.

MacBook Pro (14-inch, M2 Pro/Max)

Pros:

The 14-inch MacBook Pro is one of the finest laptops available in the UAE. Among the quickest and most power-efficient CPUs ever created for portable computing are Apple's M2 Pro and M2 Max processors.

While the basic model is more than sufficient for the majority of users, the additional performance specifications are equally outstanding, and you can configure it up to 96GB of RAM and an 8TB SSD. The battery lasts 14 hours.

One of the brightest laptop displays ever is the one on this Apple MacBook. Despite the power it has within, the 14-inch MacBook Pro is still portable at 12.3 inches by 8.7 inches by 0.6 inches and 3.5 pounds.

A 1080p webcam, Touch ID, a pair of six speakers, and a keyboard sans a Touch Bar are some more attractive features.

Cons:

This MacBook Pro features a cutout at the top center of the display, much like the iPhone. However, because of the bigger display, it isn't too distracting. Despite the size of the cutout, maybe even more aggravating is the absence of Face ID.

MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2023)

Pros:

The big 16-inch display of the 14-inch MacBook Pro is its best feature. It has up to 96GB of RAM and an 8TB SSD in addition to the same M2 Pro and M2 Max processors. However, this model's battery life is more than 18 hours.

Cons:

The 14-inch MacBook Pro offers everything featured in the 16-inch variant for less money, with the exception of battery life and display size. Get this 16-inch MacBook Pro if you need a bigger panel. If so, the price trade-off usually won't be worthwhile.

If you often carry your laptop around, it's also worth taking into account the 16-inch MacBook Pro, which is bigger than the 14-inch model and weighs 4.7 pounds.