The Apple MacBook Air “M3″ 8 CPU/8 GPU 13” (2024) is a lightweight powerhouse that blends efficiency and modern design. With Apple’s advanced M3 chip, stunning Liquid Retina display, and long battery life, it remains one of the most capable ultraportables in its class.
Design and Build
This MacBook Air features a unibody aluminum chassis available in Midnight, Starlight, Space Gray, and Silver. The Midnight color includes a new fingerprint-resistant anodized seal, a first in Apple’s lineup. Measuring 0.44 inches thick and weighing just 2.7 pounds (1.24 kg), it’s built for portability and silent fanless operation.
Full Technical Specifications
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Processor (CPU) | 4.05 GHz Apple M3 chip with 8 cores (4 performance, 4 efficiency), 3 nm architecture |
| Graphics (GPU) | Integrated 8-core GPU, with optional upgrade to 10-core GPU when configured with 16/24 GB RAM or larger SSDs |
| Neural Engine | 16-core Apple Neural Engine for machine learning and AI workloads |
| RAM (Unified Memory) | Default: 8 GB until Oct 30, 2024 → 16 GB after that. Configurable up to 24 GB (non-upgradeable post-purchase) |
| Storage Options | 256 GB SSD (default), configurable to 512 GB, 1 TB, or 2 TB. Larger SSDs trigger 10-core GPU upgrade |
| Display | 13.6″ Liquid Retina Display, 2560 x 1664 resolution (224 PPI), 500 nits brightness, Wide color (P3), True Tone, 1B colors, IPS technology |
| Camera | 1080p FaceTime HD with image signal processor in M3 chip |
| Audio | Quad-speaker system with Spatial Audio, three studio-quality microphones |
| Battery & Power | Up to 15 hrs wireless web, 18 hrs Apple TV playback. 52.6 Wh lithium-polymer battery, 30W MagSafe (35W or 70W optional) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Ports | 2 x Thunderbolt 3 / USB 4 (USB-C), 3.5 mm headphone jack |
| External Display Support | One external display up to 6K at 60Hz (open lid); two displays (6K + 5K) with lid closed |
| Keyboard & Trackpad | Backlit Magic Keyboard with Touch ID, Force Touch trackpad |
| Operating System | Ships with macOS Sonoma 14.4, supports current and future macOS versions |
| Model Info | Identifier: Mac15,12; Model No: A3113; EMC: 8611 |
| Original Price (USD) | $1099 (8 GB RAM), same for 16 GB RAM after October 2024 |
What Makes It Stand Out
The MacBook Air “M3” builds upon the M2’s design but enhances performance and usability:
- Improved AI performance thanks to the upgraded Neural Engine.
- Expanded external display support (now up to two displays with lid closed).
- Higher memory bandwidth of 100 GB/s ensures faster multitasking.
- Smoother macOS experience, especially with Sonoma’s new features and widgets.
Additionally, its fanless build keeps operations silent, even under load, making it perfect for writers, students, professionals, and developers.
Battery, Charging & Power Adapters
The battery provides between 15–18 hours, depending on usage. The standard configuration includes a 30W USB-C adapter, but you can upgrade to:
- 35W Dual USB-C Port Adapter (great for charging multiple devices)
- 70W USB-C Fast Charger (enables fast charging capabilities)
These upgrades cost $20 extra, but are bundled free when configuring with higher SSD tiers (512 GB or more).
Final Thoughts
The Apple MacBook Air “M3″ 8 CPU/8 GPU 13” is an excellent machine for users who demand a premium blend of speed, portability, and design. Whether you’re upgrading from the M1 or M2, or switching from Windows, the M3 Air delivers improved GPU rendering, advanced AI processing, and high-resolution visual clarity—without the bulk.
If you’re seeking a capable laptop for content creation, code development, media consumption, or business tasks, this MacBook Air is one of 2024’s best lightweight choices.
