MacBook Pro (M5) vs. MacBook Air (M4): Performance, Battery & Price
MacBook Pro (M5) vs. MacBook Air (M4): Apple’s new M5 MacBook Pro (2025) has officially launched and is already making global headlines. It is designed for AI-focused processing and advanced on-device machine learning capabilities. Meanwhile, the MacBook Air (M4) remains popular for its lightweight and energy-efficient profile, especially among users prioritizing portability and cost. Below is a detailed comparison and global pricing analysis.
M5 MacBook Pro: Launch, Design, Power-Efficient Performance, and Key Updates
Apple unveiled its new 14‑inch M5 MacBook Pro on October 15, 2025, with sales starting from October 22.
According to the company, this Mac is the fastest AI-enabled MacBook yet, delivering 3.5x better performance for AI workflows.
Key Features
- M5 Chip (with Neural Accelerator): Each core is equipped with a Neural Accelerator, enabling on-device execution of LLMs (like ChatGPT-style models).
- GPU and Graphics: 1.6x faster graphics than the previous M4 model with 45% improved ray-tracing performance.
- AI and Machine Learning: 3.5x enhanced AI performance, particularly for data science and video analytics applications.
- Display: Liquid Retina XDR, 120Hz ProMotion, 1000 nits brightness with Nano-texture option.
- Battery: Up to 24 hours of backup, the longest battery life ever on a MacBook according to Apple.
- Connectivity: HDMI, SD Card Slot, 3× Thunderbolt 4, Wi‑Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3.
- Color Options: Space Black and Silver.
MacBook Air (M4, 2025): Lightweight Design, Power-Efficient Performance, and Key Updates
The MacBook Air M4, launched in March 2025, continues to be Apple’s most popular slim laptop series.
It is lightweight, fanless, and energy-efficient, designed for students, writers, and traveling professionals.
Main Specifications
- M4 Chip: 20% more efficient CPU performance for multi-threaded processing.
- Display: 13.6‑inch or 15‑inch Retina display, 60Hz refresh rate, 500 nits.
- Weight: 1.24 kg (approximately 300g lighter than the Pro).
- Battery: Up to 18 hours on a single charge.
- Ports: Two Thunderbolt ports and MagSafe charging.
- Fanless Design: Quiet operation, but may throttle during prolonged heavy tasks.
Global Price Comparison: MacBook Pro (M5) vs. MacBook Air (M4)
| Country | M5 MacBook Pro (14-inch) | MacBook Air (M4) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | $1,599 (base model) | $1,199 | Official Apple Store pricing |
| India | ₹1,74,900 (estimated) | ₹1,19,900 | Inclusive of taxes |
| Japan | ¥245,000 (≈ $1,590) | ¥150,000 (≈ $982) | Based on Apple JP listing |
| Vietnam | $1,420 (after tax refund) | $1,274 | Cheapest Air price in Vietnam |
| U.K. | £1,599 (≈ $1,899) | £1,199 (≈ $1,420) | Including 20% VAT |
| Australia | AU$2,499 (≈ $1,640) | AU$1,799 (≈ $1,180) | April tax update |
Apple products generally have the lowest prices in the U.S., while VAT in the U.K. and Europe increases costs by 15–20%.
MacBook Pro (M5) vs. MacBook Air (M4)
| Feature | M5 MacBook Pro (2025) | MacBook Air (M4, 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Apple M5 (10‑core CPU, 10‑core GPU) | Apple M4 (8‑core CPU, 10‑core GPU) |
| RAM | 16GB (expandable up to 48GB) | 8GB (expandable up to 24GB) |
| Display | 14‑inch Liquid Retina XDR, 120Hz | 13.6/15‑inch Retina, 60Hz |
| Storage Limit | Up to 8TB SSD | Up to 2TB |
| Battery Backup | 24 hours | 18 hours |
| Weight | 1.55 kg | 1.24 kg |
| Ports | HDMI, SD, 3×Thunderbolt 4, MagSafe | 2×Thunderbolt, MagSafe |
| Wi‑Fi & Bluetooth | Wi‑Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 | Wi‑Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Price (U.S.) | From $1,599 | From $1,199 |
Which Model is Right for You?
- Developers, Video Editors, or Data Scientists: Choose the M5 MacBook Pro. It offers superior performance for 8K rendering and AI model training.
- Students or Office Users: MacBook Air provides the best value — lightweight, quiet, and long battery life.
- Creative Professionals: The M5’s XDR display and higher RAM support make it ideal for photo and video editing.
Upcoming M5 Pro and M5 Max Models
Apple plans to launch M5 Pro and M5 Max versions in early 2026 (March).
These are expected to feature Wi‑Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and possibly 5G cellular connectivity.
Conclusion
The M5 MacBook Pro (2025) is the most advanced, AI-ready MacBook to date, designed for future professional applications.
However, if daily tasks, portability, and budget are priorities, the MacBook Air (M4) remains the most balanced and attractive option.
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