Apple’s latest budget-friendly laptop, the 13-inch MacBook Air with the M3 chip, is seeing its price drop significantly. This has many Apple watchers wondering if it’s the perfect time to snag this sleek machine.

The M3 MacBook Air has been on the market for a while now, and its value proposition is only getting stronger. At its current price point, it’s becoming a very attractive option compared to its slightly more expensive sibling, the 13-inch M2 MacBook Air.

Here’s why:

M3 vs. M2 chip

The price difference between the base models of the M3 and M2 MacBook Air is just $100 (base models, the deal price compared as of Oct. 8th, 2024). For that, you get a machine with a slightly faster processor and a more modern storage solution. These improvements might not be earth-shattering for everyone, but they are there.

The best 13-inch M3 MacBook Air deals

• M3 MacBook Air (13-inch) 8GB/256GB — $849 at Amazon / Best Buy ($250 off).
• M3 MacBook Air (13-inch) 8GB/512GB — $1,049 at Amazon / Best Buy ($250 off)
• M3 MacBook Air (13-inch) 16GB/512GB — $1,249 at Amazon / Best Buy ($250 off)

The best 15-inch M3 MacBook Air deals

• M3 MacBook Air (15-inch) 8GB/256GB — $1,044 at Amazon / Best Buy ($255 off)
• M3 MacBook Air (15-inch) 8GB/512GB — $1,234 at Amazon / Best Buy ($265 off)
• M3 MacBook Air (15-inch) 16GB/512GB — $1,424 at Amazon / Best Buy ($275 off)

The best 13-inch M2 MacBook Air deals

• M2 MacBook Air (13-inch) 8GB/256GB — $749 at Amazon / Best Buy ($250 off)
• M2 MacBook Air (13-inch) 8GB/512GB — $949 at Amazon / Best Buy ($250 off)

The best 15-inch M2 MacBook Air deals

• M2 MacBook Air (15-inch) 8GB/256GB — $1,049 at Best Buy ($200 off)
• M2 MacBook Air (15-inch) 8GB/512GB — $1,199.99 at Best Buy ($299.01 off)

More than just speed

The M3 MacBook Air also boasts some additional features that weren’t present in the M2 model. This includes support for the next-gen Wi-Fi 6E standard and the ability to connect up to two external monitors even when the laptop lid is closed. However, it’s important to note that these features are quite specific. Unless you have a specific need for multiple monitors or the absolute latest Wi-Fi standard, you might not find these upgrades particularly useful.

Should you upgrade?

This depends on what you currently have. If you’re rocking an older Intel-based MacBook or even an M1 MacBook Air, the M3 MacBook Air is a compelling upgrade. It offers a noticeable performance boost and keeps you future-proof with the macOS Sequoia update.

On the other hand, if you already own an M2 MacBook Air, there’s probably no urgent need to upgrade. You’ll still receive the new macOS features, and the performance difference between the two machines is minimal for everyday tasks.

The M3 MacBook Air’s current price tag makes it a fantastic option for those looking for a powerful and portable Apple laptop without breaking the bank. It offers a good balance of performance, features, and future-proofing, making it a great choice for students, casual users, and professionals who don’t require heavy-duty processing power.

Disclaimer: Prices and promotions mentioned in this article are accurate at the time of writing and are subject to change based on the retailers’ discretion. Please verify the current offer before making a purchase.