Best MacBooks of 2024: Which One is Right for You?
The world of laptops is constantly evolving, and Apple’s MacBook lineup continues to lead the pack with cutting-edge technology and sleek designs. As we step into 2024, the choices for the best MacBook can feel overwhelming, especially with the latest M2 and M3 versions of the MacBook Air and the powerful M3 Pro and M3 Max versions of the MacBook Pro. Whether you’re a student, a creative professional, or someone who just needs a reliable laptop for everyday tasks, there’s a MacBook that’s perfect for you. Let’s dive into the best options available this year and help you find the right one for your needs.
Best Overall MacBook: M3 MacBook Air (13-inch, 2024)
When it comes to finding the best overall MacBook, the 13-inch M3 MacBook Air stands out as the top contender. Not only is it our pick for the best overall MacBook, but it’s also considered one of the best laptops on the market. The M3 MacBook Air offers an incredible balance of performance, portability, and battery life, making it suitable for a wide range of users.
The M3 chip is at the heart of this device, delivering stellar performance that easily handles everyday tasks, multitasking, and even some light creative work. The 13.6-inch display strikes the perfect balance between screen space and portability, making it an ideal choice for students, professionals, and casual users alike. The lightweight design, coupled with a battery life that can last through an entire day of work or classes, makes the M3 MacBook Air a versatile option for anyone on the go.
Pricing and Availability: The 13-inch M3 MacBook Air starts at $1,099 at Apple, but savvy shoppers can often find it discounted on Amazon. For students, Apple offers an educational discount that brings the price down to $999, making it an even more attractive option.
Best Big-Screen, Budget MacBook: M3 MacBook Air (15-inch, 2024)
For those who need a larger screen but don’t want to break the bank, the 15-inch M3 MacBook Air is a fantastic choice. This model proves that you don’t need to invest in a MacBook Pro to get a bigger display. The 15.3-inch screen is perfect for users who require more real estate for multitasking, watching videos, or working on creative projects.
Powered by the same M3 chip as its smaller sibling, the 15-inch MacBook Air offers excellent performance while maintaining the slim and lightweight design that the Air series is known for. With a starting price of $1,299 at Apple and frequent discounts available online, this model provides great value for users who want a larger display without the added cost of a MacBook Pro.
Pricing and Availability: The 15-inch M3 MacBook Air starts at $1,299, but prices can drop as low as $1,099 during sales events. For those who need extra storage, the 512GB model is available, often discounted to around $1,389.
Best Budget MacBook: M1 MacBook Air (13-inch, 2020)
If you’re on a tight budget but still want the MacBook experience, the 13-inch M1 MacBook Air from 2020 remains a strong contender. Although it’s been surpassed by the newer M2 and M3 models, the M1 MacBook Air is still an incredibly capable machine, especially at its current discounted prices.
The M1 chip revolutionized the MacBook lineup when it was first introduced, offering significant improvements in performance, efficiency, and battery life over previous Intel-based models. While the newer models offer incremental upgrades, the M1 MacBook Air still delivers a smooth and responsive experience for everyday tasks, making it an excellent choice for students or budget-conscious shoppers.
Pricing and Availability: The M1 MacBook Air is now available for as low as $649 at Walmart, making it an unbeatable deal for those who need a reliable MacBook without spending a fortune.
Best MacBook for Creatives: M3 Pro MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2023)
For creative professionals who demand the best in performance and screen real estate, the 16-inch M3 Pro MacBook Pro is the ultimate choice. This powerhouse of a laptop is equipped with Apple’s latest M3 Pro chip, offering significant gains in processing power, especially for tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and graphic design.
The 16-inch Retina display is a dream for creatives, providing ample space to work on complex projects. The addition of the new space black color gives this model a sleek and professional look. Despite its power, the M3 Pro MacBook Pro manages to maintain impressive battery life, making it suitable for long work sessions without needing to be tethered to a power outlet.
Pricing and Availability: The 16-inch M3 Pro MacBook Pro starts at $2,499 at Apple, but discounts of up to $500 can often be found on Amazon, making it a more accessible option for professionals.
Here’s a comparison table for the best MacBooks of 2024:
| MacBook Model | Best For | Processor | Display Size | Starting Price | Battery Life | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M3 MacBook Air (13-inch, 2024) | Best Overall | M3 | 13.6 inches | $1,099 ($999 for students) | Up to 18 hours | Lightweight, powerful, great for everyday tasks and light creative work. |
| M3 MacBook Air (15-inch, 2024) | Best Big-Screen, Budget MacBook | M3 | 15.3 inches | $1,299 | Up to 18 hours | Larger display, great for multitasking, affordable compared to Pro models. |
| M1 MacBook Air (13-inch, 2020) | Best Budget | M1 | 13.3 inches | $649 (discounted) | Up to 18 hours | Exceptional value for money, still powerful for most everyday tasks, slim and portable. |
| M3 Pro MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2023) | Best for Creatives | M3 Pro | 16 inches | $2,499 (discounts up to $500) | Up to 11 hours | Top-tier performance, ideal for video editing, 3D rendering, and other heavy-duty tasks, larger screen for creative professionals. |
This table provides a clear comparison of the best MacBooks in 2024, highlighting key features and helping readers quickly identify the right MacBook for their needs
Factors to Consider When Buying a MacBook
Choosing the right MacBook involves considering a few key factors:
- Price: Your budget will significantly influence your choice. The entry-level M1 MacBook Air is a great option for those who need a reliable laptop without spending too much, while the more powerful M3 Pro MacBook Pro is geared toward those who need top-tier performance.
- Size and Display: If portability is a priority, the 13-inch MacBook Air models are lightweight and easy to carry around. For those who need more screen space, the 15-inch MacBook Air or 16-inch MacBook Pro offers larger displays, perfect for multitasking and creative work.
- Processor: The M1, M2, and M3 chips each offer different levels of performance. The M1 is more than capable for everyday tasks, while the M3 Pro and M3 Max are designed for heavy-duty work like video editing and 3D rendering.
- Memory and Storage: Consider how much RAM and storage you need. The base models start with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, but you can upgrade to higher configurations for better performance and more storage space. Remember, you cannot upgrade the RAM after purchase, so choose wisely.
- Portability vs. Power: If you’re always on the move, the lightweight MacBook Air models are ideal. However, if you need more power for professional work, the MacBook Pro models offer superior performance.
FAQs on Best MacBooks of 2024
1. Which MacBook is best for everyday use?
- The M3 MacBook Air (13-inch, 2024) is ideal for everyday use. It offers a perfect balance of performance, portability, and battery life, making it suitable for tasks like browsing, writing, and light creative work.
2. Is the M3 MacBook Air (15-inch, 2024) worth it?
- Yes, the M3 MacBook Air (15-inch, 2024) is worth it if you prefer a larger screen for multitasking and media consumption. It offers the same power as the 13-inch model but with a bigger display.
3. Can I still buy the M1 MacBook Air in 2024?
- Yes, the M1 MacBook Air (13-inch, 2020) is still available in 2024, often at discounted prices. It’s an excellent budget option that remains powerful for most tasks.
4. What MacBook should I get for video editing?
- The M3 Pro MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2023) is the best choice for video editing and other creative work. It offers top-tier performance, a larger display, and features tailored for professionals.
5. How long do MacBooks typically last?
- MacBooks are known for their longevity, often lasting 5-7 years or more with proper care. Regular software updates and the high build quality contribute to their extended lifespan.
6. Is the MacBook Air good for students?
- Absolutely. Both the M3 MacBook Air (13-inch, 2024) and the M1 MacBook Air (2020) are excellent choices for students. They offer great performance, long battery life, and are lightweight, making them easy to carry around campus.
7. What’s the difference between the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro?
- The MacBook Air is designed for portability and everyday tasks, offering a slim design and long battery life. The MacBook Pro is more powerful, with better performance for demanding tasks like video editing, coding, and graphic design, and it often features a larger, higher-quality display.
8. Can I get a discount on MacBooks?
- Yes, discounts are often available, especially for students, educators, and during sales events like Black Friday. The M1 MacBook Air is also frequently available at a lower price as newer models are released.
9. Should I wait for the next MacBook release?
- If you need a MacBook now, the current 2024 models are excellent. However, if you can wait, Apple typically releases new models annually, so you might get newer features or better performance in future releases.
10. What accessories should I get for my MacBook?
- Popular accessories include a protective case, an external hard drive or SSD for extra storage, a USB-C hub for additional ports, and a laptop stand for ergonomic use.
These FAQs help address common concerns and questions potential buyers might have when considering a new MacBook.
This 4 You
In 2024, Apple continues to offer a MacBook for every type of user. Whether you’re a student looking for a budget-friendly option, a creative professional needing a powerful workstation, or someone in between, there’s a MacBook that will meet your needs. The M3 MacBook Air is the best overall choice for most users, but depending on your specific requirements, other models may be a better fit.
No matter which MacBook you choose, you’re getting a laptop that’s built to last, with cutting-edge technology, and a user-friendly design. Keep an eye out for discounts, especially during major sales events, to get the best deal on your next MacBook.