For those seeking a reliable, high-performance laptop at a lower cost, renewed MacBook Air models present a compelling choice. The Apple MacBook Air Late 2020 with M1 chip stands out as the best overall due to its impressive performance and durability. The 2022 MacBook Air with M2 chip offers a notable upgrade for users needing the latest features, while the 2026 MacBook Air with M5 chip targets power users with its advanced specs. These options highlight the main tradeoffs: price versus performance, and the balance between newer hardware and budget savings. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each model’s strengths and tradeoffs to find your perfect fit.
Key Takeaways
- The M1-based MacBook Air remains the best overall choice for its performance and reliability at a lower price point.
- Models with the latest M2 and M5 chips offer future-proofing but come at a higher renewal cost.
- Storage options vary significantly; users needing more space should prioritize models with 512GB SSD or higher.
- Design differences, like screen size and display quality, impact usability depending on user needs.
- Price differences often reflect hardware age and capabilities, with newer chips commanding premium prices even in renewed condition.
| renewed macbook air laptop | Processor | Storage | Memory | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple MacBook Air Late 2020 wi | Apple M1 Chip | 256GB SSD | 8GB RAM | Up to 18 hours |
| Apple MacBook Air Late 2020 wi | Apple M1 Chip | 256GB SSD | — | Up to 18 hours |
| Apple MacBook Air | Apple M1 Chip | 128GB SSD | — | — |
| Apple 2022 MacBook Air Laptop | Apple M2 chip | 256GB SSD | 8GB RAM | Up to 18 hours |
| Apple MacBook Air | Intel 1.6GHz dual-core i5 | 128GB SSD | — | — |
| Apple 2026 MacBook Air 13-inch | M5 chip | 512GB SSD | 16GB Unified Memory | Up to 18 hours |
| Apple MacBook Air | 8th-generation Intel Core i5 dual-core 1.6GHz | 128GB SSD | 8GB | — |
| Apple 2022 MacBook Air with M2 | Apple M2 Chip | 256GB SSD | 8GB RAM | — |
| Apple MacBook Air | Apple M1 chip | 256GB SSD | 8GB | Up to 18 hours |
| Apple 2026 MacBook Air 15-inch | M5 chip | 512GB SSD | 16GB Unified Memory | Up to 18 hours |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Apple MacBook Air Late 2020 with M1 Chip (13-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) – Silver (Renewed)
This model stands out for offering the most balanced mix of speed, battery life, and portability among the renewed options. Equipped with Apple’s M1 chip, it outperforms earlier Intel-based models like the 13-inch Retina MacBook Air with dual-core i5, especially in demanding tasks and multitasking, despite its limited 8GB RAM. Its impressive 18-hour battery life and Retina display make it ideal for those who need power on the go without sacrificing weight. While the lack of upgrade options and potential longevity concerns exist, these tradeoffs are minor considering its performance edge in a portable form factor. Compared to the newer M2 models, it remains a reliable, cost-effective choice for most users.
Pros:- Powerful M1 chip delivers fast performance for demanding tasks
- Long battery life of up to 18 hours supports all-day use
- High-quality Retina display with P3 wide color
Cons:- Limited to 8GB RAM, restricting heavy multitasking
- No dedicated graphics card, limiting graphics-intensive workflows
- Renewed product may have reduced longevity compared to new
Best for: Creative professionals and students who prioritize reliable performance in a lightweight package
Not ideal for: Power users needing extensive multitasking or dedicated graphics, or those wanting the latest chip technology
- Model Year:Late 2020
- Processor:Apple M1 Chip
- Display Size:13.3 inches
- Display Type:Retina
- Memory:8GB RAM
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Battery Life:Up to 18 hours
Our verdict“This MacBook Air is perfect for users seeking a portable, high-performance machine with excellent battery life on a budget.”
Apple MacBook Air Late 2020 with M1 Chip (13.3 inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) – Space Gray (Renewed)
Compared with the Silver version, this Space Gray model offers the same core performance benefits thanks to the M1 chip, with the added appeal of a stylish, darker finish. Its performance and battery life match the Silver model, making it equally suited to students and professionals who need a reliable machine for everyday tasks. The limited two-port setup may require adapters, but this doesn’t significantly hamper mobility. The main tradeoff is the same: 8GB RAM restricts heavy multitasking, and the lack of dedicated graphics limits gaming or creative workflows. It’s a solid choice for those prioritizing style and portability without the need for extensive upgrades.
Pros:- Powerful M1 chip provides excellent daily performance
- Sleek, stylish Space Gray finish stands out
- Long battery life of up to 18 hours supports all-day use
Cons:- Only two ports can limit connectivity options
- Limited to 8GB RAM, not ideal for demanding multitasking
- No dedicated GPU for graphics-heavy tasks
Best for: Students and casual users who want a sleek, portable laptop with reliable performance
Not ideal for: Heavy multitaskers or users requiring multiple ports or graphics-intensive work
- Model Year:Late 2020
- Display Size:13.3 inch
- Processor:Apple M1 Chip
- RAM:8GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Battery Life:Up to 18 hours
Our verdict“This MacBook Air balances style and performance well for everyday users on the go.”
Apple MacBook Air (2020, M1, 13.3-inch, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD) Space Gray (Renewed)
This version retains the powerful M1 chip but offers less internal storage—128GB—making it a more affordable option for light users or students with minimal storage needs. Its performance remains strong, comparable to the 256GB models, but the limited storage can be a bottleneck for larger files or extensive app libraries. It weighs only 2.8 pounds, making it an excellent choice for those prioritizing portability. Compared to the 256GB variants, this model sacrifices storage space for a lower price, which can be ideal for basic tasks but less suitable for power users or heavy multitasking.
Pros:- Powerful M1 chip ensures fast, efficient performance
- Ultra-lightweight for maximum portability
- Retina display with True Tone technology delivers crisp visuals
Cons:- Limited to 128GB storage, which may be restrictive
- No dedicated GPU, limiting graphics performance
- Potentially less future-proof with minimal storage
Best for: Students and casual users who need a lightweight, portable machine with basic storage needs
Not ideal for: Power users or those handling large files, as storage may quickly fill
- Model Year:2020
- Display Size:13.3 inches
- Processor:Apple M1 Chip
- RAM:8GB
- Storage:128GB SSD
- Display Technology:Retina with True Tone
Our verdict“This lightweight MacBook Air offers strong performance for basic tasks, especially for budget-conscious users.”
Apple 2022 MacBook Air Laptop with M2 Chip (13.6-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Starlight) – Renewed
This model introduces the M2 chip, offering notable performance boosts over the M1, especially in graphics with up to a 10-core GPU and support for larger RAM configurations. The 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display is more vibrant and spacious, appealing to creative users. Its battery life remains impressive at up to 18 hours, matching the M1 models, but its limited 256GB storage might be restrictive for users with larger media libraries. Compared to the earlier M1 models, this pick provides higher performance ceilings and better graphics, but at a higher initial cost and with limited storage options.
Pros:- Powerful M2 chip offers faster CPU and GPU performance
- Vibrant 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display
- Lightweight and portable with long battery life
Cons:- Limited to 256GB storage, which may be restrictive
- Renewed product may have limited warranty
- No dedicated GPU option for high-end graphics tasks
Best for: Creative professionals and future-focused buyers who value performance and display quality
Not ideal for: Users needing large storage or those seeking the most budget-friendly options
- Display:13.6-inch Liquid Retina
- Processor:Apple M2 chip
- Memory:8GB RAM
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Battery Life:Up to 18 hours
- Ports:MagSafe, two Thunderbolt 3, headphone jack
Our verdict“This MacBook Air caters to users looking for a future-proof, high-performance ultraportable with excellent display quality.”
Apple MacBook Air (13-inch Retina display, 1.6GHz dual-core Intel Core i5, 128GB) – Gold (Renewed)
Compared with the M1 models, this Intel-based MacBook Air offers a familiar design and Retina display, but it falls behind in raw performance, especially concerning battery life and speed. It features a dual-core Intel Core i5, which is less capable than the M1 and M2 chips in handling demanding apps, but still suitable for basic productivity, web browsing, and media consumption. Its 128GB SSD limits storage, making it less ideal for those with large files or applications. Its lower price point makes it attractive for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize basic functionality over future-proofing or high performance.
Pros:- High-resolution Retina display with vibrant visuals
- Touch ID for secure login
- Lightweight and portable design
Cons:- Limited storage capacity at 128GB
- Older Intel processor may lag behind M1/M2 in speed
- Limited ports, only two available
Best for: Business travelers and students needing a lightweight laptop for simple tasks
Not ideal for: Power users or creative professionals requiring fast processing or large storage
- Model Year:2020
- Display Size:13.3 inches
- Processor:Intel 1.6GHz dual-core i5
- Graphics:Intel UHD Graphics 617
- Storage:128GB SSD
- Weight:2.8 pounds
Our verdict“This Intel-based MacBook Air offers decent performance for basic tasks at a lower price but lacks the speed and longevity of newer M1 or M2 models.”
Apple 2026 MacBook Air 13-inch Laptop with M5 Chip, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Liquid Retina Display, Midnight
This model stands out for combining the latest M5 chip with a stunning Liquid Retina display in a lightweight package, making it ideal for both demanding tasks and portability. Compared to the M2-equipped 2022 MacBook Air, the M5 offers enhanced AI capabilities and potentially better future-proofing, though at a higher price. Its long 18-hour battery life makes it suitable for heavy daily use, especially for students and professionals needing power on the go. The limited external display support (two) and premium price are tradeoffs that may deter budget-conscious buyers. This pick makes the most sense for users seeking cutting-edge performance in a highly portable form factor.
Pros:- Powerful M5 chip with advanced AI capabilities
- Bright, high-resolution Liquid Retina display
- Long battery life of up to 18 hours
- Lightweight and portable at 2.71 pounds
Cons:- Premium price may be prohibitive for some buyers
- Limited to only two external displays
- No included accessories or adapters specified
Best for: Power users who need AI-enhanced performance and excellent battery life in a portable design
Not ideal for: Budget shoppers or those requiring multiple external displays beyond two
- Display:13.6-inch Liquid Retina
- Processor:M5 chip
- Memory:16GB Unified Memory
- Storage:512GB SSD
- Battery Life:Up to 18 hours
- Ports:Two Thunderbolt 4, MagSafe, headphone jack
- Wireless:Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6
- Weight:2.71 pounds
Our verdict“This laptop is perfect for professionals and students seeking top-tier performance and portability with future-ready features.”
Apple MacBook Air (13-inch Retina display, 1.6GHz dual-core Intel Core i5, 128GB) – Space Gray (Renewed)
This refreshed MacBook Air offers a high-resolution Retina display and a reliable dual-core Intel i5 processor, making it a solid choice for everyday tasks at a lower price point. Compared to the newer M2 or M5 models, it’s less powerful but still capable for web browsing, document editing, and media consumption. The 128GB SSD may be limiting for users with large files or multiple applications, which is a key tradeoff. Its lightweight build and Touch ID enhance convenience, though the older processor and limited storage make it less suitable for intensive multitasking. This model makes the most sense for students or casual users prioritizing affordability over raw power.
Pros:- High-resolution Retina display with True Tone technology
- Fast SSD storage for quick access
- Touch ID for secure login
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Cons:- Limited to only 128GB storage, which can quickly fill up
- Older 8th-generation Intel processor may lag behind newer models
- Renewed product may have limited warranty coverage
Best for: Budget-conscious students or casual users needing a reliable, portable MacBook
Not ideal for: Power users or professionals who require more storage or processing power
- Display:13.3-inch Retina
- Processor:8th-generation Intel Core i5 dual-core 1.6GHz
- Storage:128GB SSD
- Memory:8GB
- Color:Space Gray
- Features:Touch ID, Apple-designed keyboard
Our verdict“This MacBook Air is best suited for budget-conscious users who need portability and decent performance for everyday tasks.”
Apple 2022 MacBook Air with M2 Chip, 13-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Midnight (Renewed)
This model makes a strong case for users who want a lightweight yet powerful machine, thanks to the M2 chip and a vibrant 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display. Compared with the M1-powered late 2020 model, the M2 provides faster processing and graphics, ideal for creative work or multitasking. Its 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD are adequate for most routine tasks, but for heavy users, the limited RAM might be a bottleneck. The device’s sleek design and durable all-aluminium build are attractive, though the renewed status may imply some warranty limitations. This pick best suits those seeking a balance of speed, display quality, and portability for daily productivity or entertainment.
Pros:- Vibrant, bright Retina display with True Tone
- Powerful M2 chip for fast performance
- Lightweight at 2.7 pounds
- All-aluminium durable design
Cons:- Limited to 256GB storage, which may fill up quickly
- Renewed product may have limited warranty
- No dedicated GPU option available
Best for: Creative professionals or power users needing a compact, fast MacBook with excellent display quality
Not ideal for: Heavy multitaskers or users with large media libraries needing more storage or RAM
- Display:13.6-inch Liquid Retina
- Processor:Apple M2 Chip
- Memory:8GB RAM
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Weight:2.7 pounds
- Connectivity:MagSafe, 2 Thunderbolt ports, headphone jack
Our verdict“This MacBook Air balances performance and portability, perfect for creative users and those who prioritize display quality.”
Apple MacBook Air (Late 2020, M1, 13.3-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Space Gray)
This model remains a compelling choice for those valuing proven performance, thanks to the M1 chip and an impressive 18-hour battery life. Compared to the newer M2 and M5 models, it offers slightly less processing power but excels in stability and efficiency. Its 13.3-inch Retina display provides crisp visuals, and the 256GB SSD supports everyday storage needs. The M1 chip’s efficiency means less heat and quieter operation, ideal for prolonged use. However, the lack of a dedicated GPU and absence of newer ports like Thunderbolt 4 may limit its appeal for advanced users. This MacBook Air suits users seeking dependable performance and battery longevity at a more accessible price.
Pros:- Powerful M1 chip delivers fast, smooth performance
- Battery life up to 18 hours for all-day use
- Retina display with True Tone technology
- Lightweight and portable
Cons:- No dedicated graphics card for intensive creative tasks
- Limited to 8GB RAM, restricting heavy multitasking
- No Thunderbolt 4 or HDMI ports
Best for: Long-haul commuters or students needing reliable, long-lasting battery performance
Not ideal for: Power users requiring the latest processing features or extensive external connectivity
- Display:13.3-inch Retina
- Processor:Apple M1 chip
- Memory:8GB
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Battery Life:Up to 18 hours
- Weight:2.7 pounds
Our verdict“This MacBook Air excels for users prioritizing long battery life and reliability over cutting-edge features or maximum power.”
Apple 2026 MacBook Air 15-inch Laptop with M5 Chip, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Liquid Retina Display, Midnight
This larger 15.3-inch MacBook Air is ideal for those who need a bigger display without sacrificing portability, thanks to the M5 chip’s AI features and 16GB RAM. Compared with the 13-inch M2 model, it offers a more expansive viewing experience, suitable for multitasking, creative work, or media consumption. Its 512GB SSD provides ample storage, and the 18-hour battery life supports all-day use. The heavier weight at 3.32 pounds is a compromise for the larger screen, making it less suited for frequent travel. This device makes the most sense for users who want a bigger display for productivity or entertainment but still value portability.
Pros:- Large, vibrant Liquid Retina display
- Powerful M5 chip with AI capabilities
- 16GB RAM for smooth multitasking
- Supports Wi-Fi 7 and multiple external displays
Cons:- Heavier at 3.32 pounds, less portable
- Premium price might be high for some users
- Limited to two external displays
Best for: Professionals or students needing a large display for multitasking and media work on the go
Not ideal for: Travelers or those seeking the lightest possible laptop
- Display:15.3-inch Liquid Retina
- Processor:M5 chip
- Memory:16GB Unified Memory
- Storage:512GB SSD
- Battery Life:Up to 18 hours
- Camera:12MP Center Stage
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, Thunderbolt 4
- Weight:3.32 pounds
Our verdict“This MacBook Air is best for users who prioritize a larger screen and high performance in a portable package for professional or academic use.”
