There are now four main models to choose from in the MacBook line-up. The MacBook Air is the cheapest, and there are three Pro models to choose from. Out of the Pro models, the 13" model is the cheapest, lightest and smallest - there are also two higher-end Pro models, coming in 14" and 16" screen sizes. They are both similar when it comes to specifications, and include more than the two or four USB-C ports found on the Air and 13-inch Pro.
MacBook Air
The newest MacBook Air model is the MacBook Air (M1, 2020). It's key features include Touch ID, LED-backlit Retina display, the powerful M1 chip and up to 2TB storage. The Air is the lowest price out of the MacBook models, but doesn't compromise on performance. The MacBook Air is lightning-fast due to Apple's M1 chip and accompanied by 8GB of RAM, it outperforms its Windows rivals and mostly matches the MacBook Pro 13". Battery life is also superb, and most users find they can use it without charge for around 14 hours (although Apple states up to 18 hours battery life).
The MacBook Air is a great option for most people, however, if USB-C ports are something you require a lot of, then prepare to use a dongle as this model features just two USB-C ports. The MacBook Air is available in three colours (Silver, Gold and Space Grey) and costs £999.
MacBook Pro 13”
The smallest out of the three Pro models, the Pro 13" features Apple's M1 chip with 8‑core CPU, 8GB unified memory, 256GB SSD storage, 13-inch Retina display with True Tone, Magic Keyboard, Touch Bar and Touch ID, Force Touch trackpad and Two Thunderbolt / USB 4 ports. The MacBook Pro 13" (M1, 2020) is 2.8 times faster than the previous Pro model it's replaced as well as longer battery life.
If you're choosing between the MacBook Pro 13" or the MacBook Air, the key distinction is the fan - the MacBook Pro 13" still has a fan, while the Air doesn't. This means the MacBook Air is limited in how long it can run intensive tasks for before its performance is throttled in order to prevent overheating, due to there being no fans to cool it down. If you’re going to have your machine working for hours on end on rendering tasks, then the MacBook Pro 13"will be worth the extra outlay.
MacBook Pro 14" and 16"
The 14" and 16" models are the newest Pro models. The key thing to keep in mind when choosing between these two, is the bigger the size the better the performance - but also, the bigger the size the higher the price! The 14" configurations start with M1 Pro with 8-core CPU and 14-core GPU, while 16" configurations start with M1 Pro with 10-core CPU and 16-core GPU. 14" has 17 hours of battery life while 16" has 21 hours.
The higher-end models offer great performance on offer, provide stunning high-res screen, and enjoy huge battery life, plus are incredibly quiet and cool. The downside to these models may be if you're on the move as these are pretty large and heavy. The 14" is priced at £1,899 and the 16" is £2,399.
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