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Apple’s newest iteration of the MacBook Air, the M4 model, is finally here, and it’s bringing some much-needed upgrades that many users have been waiting for. With improved performance, new color options, and most importantly, the ability to connect multiple external displays, the M4 MacBook Air might just be the upgrade you’ve been waiting for. Here’s a breakdown of the features that make this new MacBook Air a significant step forward, especially for those using older Intel models.
Key Features of the M4 MacBook Air
Released on March 12, the M4 MacBook Air introduces several notable updates, both in design and functionality. The most obvious visual change is the addition of a striking sky blue version, which replaces the previously standard space gray. Additionally, there’s a subtle update to the mute key icon, a small but significant tweak that enhances the user experience.
Performance-wise, the M4 MacBook Air continues Apple’s trend of improving speed and efficiency with each new model. However, one area that has caught the attention of users, especially those who have been holding onto their Intel-powered MacBook Airs, is the external display support. With the M4, Apple has addressed one of the main shortcomings of the M1 and M2 MacBook Air models—the ability to use two external displays at once.
External Display Support: A Game Changer
One of the most glaring issues with the early M-series MacBook Airs was their inability to support multiple external displays without complex workarounds. While the Intel MacBook Airs of the past were capable of driving two external displays with ease, the switch to Apple’s silicon chips resulted in the M1 and M2 MacBook Airs being limited to just one external display.
For users like myself, who upgraded from an Intel MacBook Pro to the M1 MacBook Air in 2020, this was a noticeable step backward. While the performance and battery life improvements were remarkable, the inability to connect a second 4K monitor at my desk was a frustration.
That said, Apple did make strides with the M3 MacBook Air, which allowed for dual display support, but only when the laptop’s lid was closed—still not a perfect solution. The big shift comes with the M4 MacBook Air, which now supports dual external displays while also utilizing the built-in laptop display. This finally puts the M4 on par with the older Intel MacBook Air in terms of external monitor capability, removing the need for compromises.
Performance, Price, and Overall Value
In addition to the external display improvements, the M4 MacBook Air brings better performance, longer battery life, and a sleeker design that continues to improve on the formula Apple started with the M2. While Apple’s M-series MacBook Pro models have always been able to support dual monitors, their higher prices and larger form factors made them less desirable for users who wanted the portability of the MacBook Air.
The M4 MacBook Air retains the portability and pricing advantages that make it one of the most attractive options for users who need a lightweight, capable laptop. And with the ability to now handle multiple external displays, it’s a much more well-rounded choice for professional use.
What Undercode Says: A Critical Look at the M4 MacBook Air
The M4 MacBook Air is a welcome improvement over its predecessors, particularly in its support for dual external monitors. Apple’s shift from Intel to Apple Silicon has had its pros and cons, with the performance boost being undeniable, but the early sacrifices, like external display support, were major drawbacks for power users.
What makes the M4 a true game-changer is how it restores some of the core functionality that users once enjoyed with the Intel MacBook Air models. The Intel models were known for their versatile connectivity options, including the ability to drive two external monitors simultaneously, a feature that made them popular among multitaskers and professionals.
With the M4 MacBook Air, Apple has closed the gap by allowing users to have a more flexible setup, where they can connect two external displays and use the laptop’s built-in screen. This is crucial for those who rely on multiple monitors for their workflow, such as designers, programmers, and video editors. By restoring this feature, Apple is showing that it’s listening to its users and improving the balance between performance and usability.
However,
The price point of the M4 MacBook Air also continues to make it a fantastic value proposition for those who want the power of Apple Silicon without breaking the bank. It’s clear that Apple is positioning the MacBook Air as a premium laptop for a wide range of users, and with the new dual-display support, it’s no longer just a compromise for casual users.
Fact Checker Results
- Intel MacBook Air vs M4: The Intel MacBook Air does indeed support dual external displays, unlike earlier M-series MacBook Air models.
- External Display on M4: The M4 MacBook Air now supports dual external monitors with the built-in screen, a significant step forward from previous models.
- M4 Price and Performance: The M4 MacBook Air delivers an improved balance of performance, portability, and price compared to earlier models.
References:
Reported By: https://9to5mac.com/2025/03/10/intel-macbook-air-users-can-finally-upgrade-without-giving-up-a-feature
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