If you struggled with the base, 128 GB storage on a previous MacBook, though, get the 512 GB SSD upgrade for $200. Storage: Even here, the base configuration is going to be enough for most people.Unfortunately, you can’t upgrade this later. However, if you do professional-level editing work, you might want to spring for the 16 GB RAM upgrade ($200). Memory: For most, the fast, 3733 MHz LPDDR4X RAM is going to be enough, as macOS is very good at memory management.The $250 Core i7 upgrade, though, is overkill for most people. The faster multitasking and future-proofing are worth the extra $100. Processor: We’ve already made the case for the Core i5 upgrade.We suggest you go with the base model, and then add whatever is necessary. This time around, all upgrades are available for both models. The MacBook Air comes in two models: the $999 base configuration, and the $1,299 build with the Core i5 chip and 512 GB storage. That’s the best $100 you can spend to increase the overall lifespan of your computer. The biggest reason to upgrade to the Core i5 model is that only costs an additional $100. 2018 MacBook Air (Core i5): Single-core: 790.Here are the results of the Geekbench 5 benchmark, which tests the system and CPU performance (via Six Colors and Apple Insider): It’s also fantastic for people who primarily use their computers for surfing the web or performing basic tasks.įirst, let’s look at this computer purely from the performance standpoint, and compare the Core i3 and i5 CPUs from the 2020 MacBook Air with the previous generation.
Given its price and form factor (it weighs just 2.8 pounds), the 2020 MacBook Air is a great option for students and frequent travelers. Is it for you? And, if so, which configuration should you get? Who Should Buy a 2020 MacBook Air? Apple However, before you press that Buy button, there are two questions we need to answer. On the surface, this all sounds like a great deal. It’s priced right, the keyboard’s been fixed, the performance has improved, and the storage has doubled. So, finally, the MacBook Air can serve as the default option for most Mac-lovers. 6K external monitor support: You can connect an external monitor with up to 6K resolution and run it at a smooth, 60 Hz refresh rate.The new model features 3,733 MHz LPDDR4X memory (the previous model had 2,133 MHz LPDDR3, for comparison). High-performance RAM: While you’re still stuck with the 8 and 16 GB RAM options, the RAM itself is faster.