Apple recently announced their new 2019 MacBook Air, the notebook comes with a range of upgrades over the previous model. This latest iteration of the MacBook Air aims to provide users with a more refined experience, featuring enhancements in display technology, keyboard design, and overall performance.
Performance and Storage
According to a recent report by French Apple site Consomac, this year’s model with the 256GB SSD actually has a slower SSD than last year’s model. This revelation has sparked discussions among tech enthusiasts and potential buyers about the trade-offs between cost and performance in the new MacBook Air.
They tested out the new MacBook Air with the 256GB SSD and got write speeds of 1GB/s and read speeds of 1.3GB/s. Last year’s model had write speeds of 920 MB/s and read speeds of 2GB/s, so the read speeds have dropped quite a bit, around 35%. This significant reduction in read speed could impact tasks that require rapid data access, such as loading large files or booting up the system.
They also tested the new MacBook Air with 128GB of storage, on this they managed write speeds of 500 MB/s and read speeds of 1.3 GB/s, this is similar performance to last year’s model. This consistency in the 128GB model suggests that the performance drop is more pronounced in the higher capacity SSDs.
Price and Value
Apple has made this year’s MacBook Air slightly cheaper than the previous model, the notebook now starts at $1,099 whereas last year’s model started at $1,199. This $100 price reduction makes the MacBook Air more accessible to a broader audience, potentially attracting students and professionals looking for a reliable yet affordable laptop.
However, the decrease in SSD performance raises questions about the overall value proposition of the new MacBook Air. While the lower price point is appealing, users who prioritize high-speed storage might find the performance trade-off less desirable. It’s essential to consider what aspects of the laptop are most critical to your needs before making a purchase decision.
In addition to the SSD performance, the new MacBook Air features a Retina display with True Tone technology, which adjusts the color temperature based on the ambient lighting. This results in a more natural viewing experience, reducing eye strain during prolonged use. The keyboard has also been updated with the latest butterfly mechanism, designed to provide a more comfortable and reliable typing experience.
Despite the slower SSD, the new MacBook Air still offers several improvements over its predecessor. The inclusion of the T2 security chip enhances data protection and enables features like secure boot and on-the-fly encryption. The battery life remains impressive, with up to 12 hours of web browsing or 13 hours of video playback, making it a suitable choice for users who need a portable device for extended periods.
The 2019 MacBook Air presents a mixed bag of upgrades and compromises. While the slower SSD might be a drawback for some, the overall enhancements in display, keyboard, and security features make it a compelling option for many users. As always, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons based on your specific requirements and usage patterns.
Image Credit Consomac
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