Apple has officially introduced the new MacBook Air powered by the M5 chip. The updated laptop comes with a slightly higher starting price but also doubles the base storage and offers faster wireless connectivity.

M5 MacBook Air is $100 More Expensive, But Storage is Doubled

The new MacBook Air starts at $1,099, which means a $100 increase compared to the previous MacBook Air (M4) model.

However, Apple has upgraded the base storage from 256GB to 512GB. The laptop also offers faster SSD performance and can now be configured with up to 4TB, which is double the previous maximum storage capacity of 2TB.

Memory options remain unchanged; 16GB, 24GB, and 32GB configurations are available.

Apple now offers 16GB of RAM as standard; this is a significant improvement compared to the older MacBook Air models that only came with 8GB in this price range.

MacBook Air Comes with New M5 Chip and AI Enhancements

The new laptop is powered by Apple’s M5 chip, which includes a faster CPU and a next-generation GPU. According to Apple, each core now features a Neural Accelerator designed to improve AI workloads and support features powered by Apple Intelligence.

These enhancements should help the MacBook Air manage creative workflows, productivity tasks, and on-device AI operations more efficiently.

Faster Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connectivity

Apple has also updated the wireless connectivity with the new model:

  • Wi-Fi 7 replaces Wi-Fi 6E
  • Bluetooth 6 replaces Bluetooth 5.3

These updates are supported by Apple’s N1 wireless chip, which is also featured in the company’s latest devices.

Same Design as Previous Mac with New Charger

The MacBook Air retains its sleek aluminum design, Liquid Retina display, and fanless architecture.

Other key features include:

  • 12MP Center Stage camera
  • Spatial Audio speakers
  • Support for two external displays
  • Two Thunderbolt 4 ports
  • Up to 18 hours of battery life

Apple provides a 40W Dynamic Power Adapter (maximum 60W) in the box, replacing the previous 30W or 35W chargers.

Should You Upgrade from MacBook Air M4 to Mac M5?

Compared to the MacBook Air with the M4 chip, the new M5 model offers a slight update rather than a major redesign. The main differences are the newer M5 processor, faster unified memory, support for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6, and doubled base storage of 512GB with faster SSD speeds.

However, the overall design, display, battery life, and most hardware features remain unchanged. For most users already using the M4 model, an upgrade may not be necessary, as the improvements are relatively minor. However, those using older MacBook Air models may see more significant gains in performance, storage capacity, and connectivity when considering an upgrade.

New MacBook Air Sizes, Colors, and Availability

The M5 MacBook Air will continue to be available in 13-inch and 15-inch models, with color options including: Sky Blue, Midnight, Starlight, and Silver.

Pre-orders for the new MacBook Air will start on March 4, and general sales will begin on March 11.

Apple states that the new MacBook Air is designed for students, professionals, and business users looking for a lightweight yet powerful laptop, along with macOS Tahoe and Apple Intelligence features.