M4 vs M1 MacBook Air: Is it Worth Upgrading in 2025?

M4 MacBook Air vs M1 MacBook Air: A Comprehensive Upgrade

Design:

• The M4 MacBook Air retains the modern design introduced with the M2 model in 2022, featuring a sleek and uniform look. In contrast, the M1 model has a more classic tapered finish that some users may prefer.

Display:

• Sizes: M4 offers two display sizes—13.6 inches and 15.3 inches—compared to the M1's 13.3-inch screen.
• Brightness: The M4 screen is brighter at up to 500 nits, compared to 400 nits on the M1 model.
• Notch: The M4 introduces a notch, which may be a minor drawback for some users but generally goes unnoticed after initial use.

Processor:

• The M4 chip delivers significant performance improvements over the M1, including:
  • A 10-core CPU (up from 8 cores)
  • An up to 10-core GPU (up from 7 cores)
  • A more powerful 16-core Neural Engine
  • Up to 1.7x gains in daily productivity and 2.1x for demanding tasks like photo editing and gaming.
• The M4 supports more unified memory, starting at 16GB and maxing out at 32GB (M1 offers 8GB and 16GB).
• Additional features include hardware-accelerated ray tracing and ProRes support.

Camera, Microphone, and Speaker Improvements:

• Camera: The M4 model comes with a 12MP Center Stage camera that supports Desk View and 1080p HD video recording, while the M1 has a 720p FaceTime HD camera.
• Speakers: The M4 features a four-speaker sound system with Spatial Audio support, compared to stereo speakers on the M1.
• Microphone: The M4 includes Voice Isolation and Wide Spectrum modes for better clarity in calls.

Connectivity:

• Charging: The M4 supports MagSafe charging, freeing up Thunderbolt 4 ports and enabling fast charging with a 70W or higher USB-C adapter.
• External Displays: The M4 can drive two external monitors plus the built-in display, while the M1 only supports one.
• Wireless Connectivity: The M4 offers Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, compared to Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 on the M1.

Conclusion:

• If you want a faster, more modern MacBook Air with improved design, display, camera, speakers, connectivity, and ports, the M4 model is an excellent choice at $999. However, if your current M1 MacBook Air meets your needs, it remains a capable device.