Windows laptops have made a significant impact this year. From the launch of Snapdragon X chips in the Copilot+ PC line to compete with the MacBook Air, to the impressive AMD Ryzen 300 AI chips powering laptops like the Zenbook S 16, the competition is fierce. Windows laptops are no longer just alternatives to MacBooks; they stand on their own as some of the best laptops on the market.
However, one MacBook still stands unrivaled by this new wave of Windows laptops – the M2 MacBook Air. Despite being two years old, this laptop remains a highly attractive device. Priced at $999 for the base model with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, it may seem underwhelming compared to other options like the Surface Laptop 7th Edition, which starts at the same price but offers double the memory.
But here’s the catch – you can now purchase the same configuration of the 13-inch M2 MacBook Air for as low as $799, available at retailers like Best Buy and Amazon. This $200 discount is substantial, equivalent to the cost of upgrading your RAM with Apple. And while all laptops in the Copilot+ PC line require 16GB of RAM, there are no options under $999.
Although the $200 difference may not seem significant, it plays a crucial role in this price range. Despite being an older model, the M2 MacBook Air shares the same chassis and features as the newer M3 model released this year. While the M3 offers better GPU performance, the M2 is still a solid choice for everyday tasks.
Alternatively, you can consider the M1 MacBook Air, now available for $649. However, for a MacBook, the M2 model is recommended for its superior display, webcam, speakers, and port selection, making the extra $150 well worth it.
The affordability of the M2 MacBook Air has even made Chromebooks a less compelling option in comparison. Despite Qualcomm hinting at cheaper Snapdragon X PCs in the future, for now, Apple maintains a stronghold in the laptop market, especially under $1,000.
Ultimately, the M2 MacBook Air remains unmatched by Windows laptops under $1,000.
