13-Inch MacBook Pro vs. MacBook Air: Which Apple Laptop Is Better in 2024?

Which one do you need? Lets help you decide.

Both laptops have their own strengths. If you’re deciding between them, consider your needs carefully. Here's a brief comparison to help you choose the right one.

MacBook Pro vs. MacBook Air Basics: What's the Difference?

The MacBook Air is the lightest Apple laptop at 2.7 pounds, compared to the 13-inch MacBook Pro's 3 pounds. The price difference is minimal, although the Air is generally the more affordable option with nearly the same hardware.

For most users, the Air's slightly larger 13.6-inch screen and modern features make it the better choice. However, if you need the slightly more powerful GPU in the 13-inch Pro, it may be worth the extra money.

MacBook Pro vs. MacBook Air Design and Features: Nuances and Knockouts

Both laptops have an all-metal chassis and Apple’s Magic Keyboard, but only the MacBook Pro has the Touch Bar. The Air’s 13.6-inch display is slightly larger than the Pro’s 13.3-inch screen, both with excellent colour and brightness. 

MacBook Pro vs. MacBook Air Components: Who Is Each Laptop For?

The MacBook Air is designed for portability and lighter workloads, with no cooling fan. The MacBook Pro has a fan, allowing it to handle more demanding tasks better. Both start with 8GB of memory, and a 256GB SSD, but the Pro can sustain higher performance due to its active cooling.

So, Which Is the Better 13-Inch MacBook to Buy?

If you’re looking for value and portability, the MacBook Air is the better choice. If you need more power for professional tasks and don’t mind the extra weight, the 13-inch MacBook Pro is ideal.

With the introduction of the 15-inch MacBook Air at the same price as the Pro, the 13-inch MacBook Pro's appeal has diminished somewhat, making the Air an even more attractive option for most users.

We often get refurbished MacBook Air's and refurbished MacBook Pro's for sale which will get you even more of a bargain rather than buying new, so head to our available products and buy with confidence with our 12 month warranty and free shipping!

If you'd like a more in depth comparison click here.