Apple MacBook Air 13.6″ with M3 Chip (Early 2024) – Midnight, 8-Core / 10-Core, 16GB, 30W Adapter, 256GB SSD
- Processor: Apple M3 Chip with 8-Core CPU and 10-Core GPU
- Display: 13.6-inch Liquid Retina, 2560 x 1664 resolution, 500 nits brightness
- Memory: 16GB Unified RAM
- Storage: 256GB SSD
- Battery Life: Up to 18 hours video playback, 15 hours wireless web browsing
- Connectivity: Two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports, MagSafe 3 charging port
- Color: Midnight
- Power Adapter: 30W USB-C Power Adapter included
With years of experience testing computers and tablets, I understand what makes a device stand out. This review of the Apple MacBook Air 13.6″ with M3 Chip (Early 2024) is based on thorough research and hands-on use. I have carefully examined its speed, display quality, and battery life to provide you with honest and clear insights. My goal is to help you make a smart choice when buying this laptop. Trust this review to guide you through the key features and real performance of this powerful and stylish MacBook Air.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Powerful M3 chip with 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU
- ✅ Bright and crisp 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display
- ✅ Long battery life up to 18 hours
- ✅ Versatile connectivity with Thunderbolt/USB 4 and MagSafe 3
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Limited storage with 256GB SSD
- ❌ Only two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports available
- ❌ 30W adapter may charge slower compared to higher wattage
Who Should Buy This
The Apple MacBook Air 13.6″ with M3 Chip is perfect for students, professionals, and everyday users who want a fast and lightweight laptop. It works great for tasks like browsing the web, writing documents, watching videos, and light photo or video editing. The long battery life and sharp Retina display make it easy to use all day, whether at home, school, or work. If you value a quiet, fanless design and need a computer that starts up quickly, this MacBook Air is a good choice.
If you need a laptop for heavy gaming, advanced video editing, or 3D rendering, this model might not be the best fit. It has a smaller storage space of 256GB, which could fill up quickly if you store many large files. Also, if you prefer a laptop with many ports or want to upgrade parts later, consider other options. This MacBook Air is best if you want a simple, stylish, and efficient computer for everyday use.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: Apple
- Model: MacBook Air 13.6″ with M3 Chip (Early 2024)
- Size: 11.97″ x 8.46″ x 0.44″
- Weight: 2.7 pounds (1.22 kg)
- Material: 100% Recycled Aluminum Enclosure
- Color Options: Midnight
- Processor: Apple M3 Chip with 8-Core CPU and 10-Core GPU
- Memory: 16GB Unified RAM
- Storage: 256GB SSD
- Display: 13.6-inch Liquid Retina Display, 2560 x 1664 pixels, 500 nits brightness
- Battery: Up to 18 hours wireless web usage
- Power Adapter: 30W USB-C Power Adapter
- Ports: Two Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports, 3.5mm headphone jack
- Wireless: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
- Operating System: macOS Ventura (pre-installed)
- Special Features: MagSafe 3 Charging, FaceTime HD Camera, Magic Keyboard, Touch ID
- Audio: Four-speaker sound system with Spatial Audio support
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty with 90 days complimentary technical support
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first unboxed the Apple MacBook Air 13.6″ with the M3 chip, I was immediately drawn to its sleek Midnight finish. It felt light and smooth in my hands, which made me excited to start testing. Setting it up was quick and easy, and the bright, sharp Liquid Retina display caught my eye right away. The colors were vivid and the screen looked perfect for both work and watching videos.
Daily Use
Using the MacBook Air every day was a joy. I worked on multiple projects at once—browsing the web, editing photos, and streaming music—and I barely noticed any lag. The M3 chip’s speed made multitasking smooth, and the keyboard was comfortable for long typing sessions. I also appreciated how quiet the laptop stayed, even during heavier tasks. The battery lasted through my typical workday without needing a charge, which was a big plus when I was out and about.
Key Features in Action
The most impressive feature was definitely the speed from the 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU. Opening apps and switching between them felt instant. I also noticed the hardware-accelerated ray tracing when editing some graphics—it made the visuals look sharper and more realistic. The 13.6-inch display with 500 nits brightness was great for creative work and watching movies, especially in bright rooms. Plus, the 30W adapter charged the laptop quickly when I needed to top up.
Long-Term Performance
After using the MacBook Air for several weeks, it still feels as fast and responsive as day one. The battery continues to hold up well, easily lasting me through long days of mixed use. The lightweight design means I don’t mind carrying it everywhere, and the Midnight color still looks fresh without any noticeable wear. Overall, this MacBook Air has been a reliable and powerful companion for both work and play.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Apple MacBook Air 13.6″ with M3 Chip (Midnight) | MacBook Air 13-inch M3 (Space Gray) | MacBook Air 13-inch M3 (Silver) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | High-performance with 16GB unified memory, enhanced graphics using hardware-accelerated ray tracing, and a vivid 13.6″ Liquid Retina display delivering 500 nits brightness and 2560×1664 resolution. | Strong performance with 8GB unified memory and M3 chip, same 13.6″ Liquid Retina display with 500 nits brightness; slightly less memory may impact heavy multitasking. | Identical to Space Gray model with 8GB unified memory, powerful M3 chip, and 13.6″ Liquid Retina display; premium build quality and lightweight design. |
| Features | 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU with hardware-accelerated ray tracing, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, 30W adapter, up to 18 hours Apple TV playback, 15 hours wireless web browsing. | 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, backlit keyboard, Touch ID, Apple Intelligence system for enhanced productivity and privacy. | Same as Space Gray model: 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, backlit keyboard, Touch ID, Apple Intelligence. |
| Best For | Users needing extra memory and graphics power for demanding multitasking, creative projects, and long battery life in a stylish Midnight finish. | General users wanting a portable, lightweight MacBook Air with solid performance and Apple Intelligence features in Space Gray. | Users who prefer a lightweight, portable MacBook Air with strong performance and Apple Intelligence in a classic Silver color. |
In my opinion, this Apple MacBook Air 13.6″ with M3 Chip (Early 2024) – Midnight, 8-Core / 10-Core, 16GB, 30W Adapter, 256GB SSD stands out because it offers a significant memory upgrade with 16GB RAM and enhanced graphics capabilities including hardware-accelerated ray tracing, which the competitors lack with only 8GB RAM. This makes it better suited for power users, creatives, and those who require seamless multitasking and more vivid visuals. If you’re like me and prefer a laptop that balances portability with extra performance and a unique finish, this is the better choice.
Customer Feedback on Apple MacBook Air 13.6″ with M3 Chip (Early 2024) – Midnight, 8-Core / 10-Core, 16GB, 30W Adapter, 256GB SSD
Overall Satisfaction
Customers generally express high satisfaction with the MacBook Air M3, praising its performance and sleek design, though some note minor issues with battery life and price.
Most Praised Features
- Impressive speed and efficiency thanks to the new M3 chip
- Lightweight and stylish midnight color appeals to many users
- Bright and clear 13.6-inch Retina display for excellent visuals
Common Concerns
- Battery life is good but not significantly improved compared to previous models
- Some users find the 256GB SSD limiting for heavy storage needs
Who Loves It Most
Students, professionals, and casual users who value portability and speed appreciate this model, especially those invested in the Apple ecosystem looking for a reliable everyday laptop.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
The Apple MacBook Air 13.6″ with M3 Chip is priced at a premium compared to many ultrabooks in its category. However, considering the advanced M3 chip and Apple’s ecosystem, the price remains competitive and justified for users seeking performance and reliability.
Value Features
- Incredible Speed – The 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU deliver smooth multitasking and impressive graphics, making it ideal for demanding applications.
- Stunning Display – The 13.6-inch Liquid Retina screen with 500 nits brightness offers vibrant visuals that enhance both creative work and media consumption.
- All-Day Battery – Up to 18 hours of video playback ensures extended use without frequent recharging, perfect for professionals on the go.
- Seamless Connectivity – Two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports plus MagSafe 3 provide versatile and fast connectivity options, reducing the need for additional adapters.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to other laptops in the ultraportable segment, the MacBook Air M3 offers superior performance and battery life but at a higher price point. Competitors may offer lower prices but often lack the same level of optimization and build quality.
Final Verdict
If you prioritize speed, display quality, and battery life in a sleek design, the MacBook Air M3 provides excellent value for the price. It is a solid investment for users within the Apple ecosystem or those needing reliable, high-performance portability.