MacBook Air M1, M2 and M3: Which to Buy in Kenya
Apple's MacBook Air is among the easiest laptops to recommend. It is thin, silent and offers excellent battery life. The main question is which generation makes sense for your budget.
MacBook Air M1
The M1 Air is the bargain. Its 13.3-inch Retina screen and fanless design still feel excellent, and Apple's M1 chip remains fast for everyday tasks, photo editing, and light video work. Apple advertised up to 18 hours of video playback. Its webcam is only 720p, and it has an older wedge-shaped design.
MacBook Air 15-inch M2
The 15-inch M2 model gives you a much larger screen in a slim body. It is excellent for people who want more space for documents without moving up to a heavier machine. It has a 1080p webcam and MagSafe charging, freeing up both USB-C ports.
MacBook Air M3
The M3 model brought a faster chip and support for two external displays when the lid is closed. It supports Apple Intelligence, as do all Macs with M-series chips.
How much memory should you choose?
MacBook memory is built in and cannot be upgraded. 8GB is workable for basic tasks, but 16GB is much better for many tabs, heavy apps and longevity. Apple moved base configurations to 16GB in later updates. If you are considering an older 8GB configuration, be sure it meets your needs.
Storage also cannot be upgraded internally. Choose carefully, or use an external SSD for large files.
Ports
The Air has very few ports. You may need a USB-C hub for HDMI, USB-A, or a memory card reader. Budget for this if you present on projectors or use older accessories.
Software compatibility
Most popular applications run natively on Apple silicon. Before you buy, check any specialist Windows-only software you need, such as certain accounting, engineering or government tools. Some university courses require Windows applications.
Which one is best value?
- Best price: M1, ideally with 16GB if you can find it.
- Biggest screen: 15-inch M2.
- Most future-proof: M3 or later.
Ex-UK and new units
Check the battery cycle count under System Settings, General, About, System Report, Power. Check for Activation Lock, and make sure the Mac is not enrolled in a company device management programme, which can lock it unexpectedly. Our Ex-UK laptop checklist gives more details.
If you want more power or ports, see our MacBook Pro guide, or the iMac guide if you would like a desktop.
In the shop now
Current prices and stock from our catalogue.
Macbook Air 15 inch M5
From KSh 218,999 + VAT
Macbook Air 13 inch M5
From KSh 185,000 + VAT
MacBook Air M3 (2023)
From KSh 160,000 + VAT
Macbook Air M1 chip
From KSh 68,999 + VAT
Buying from FancyTech
Visit us at Rehema House, Standard Street, Nairobi, or order online for delivery in 1–3 hours in Nairobi and next day countrywide. Delivery is KSh 300 in Nairobi and KSh 600 to other counties, and free on orders above KSh 150,000. Each listing states its condition and warranty. See our returns policy or contact us with any question.
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