Tech head-to-head
Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M2, 2022)vsApple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M1 Pro, 2021)
Two Apple models that average 8.6 and 8.8. Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M1 Pro, 2021) takes Performance, 9.2 to 8.4.
The redesigned Air with MagSafe, a better camera, and a bigger screen. Check the base SSD speed.
Price and availability change constantly, so we don't quote them here — the link opens current listings on eBay. eBay listings come from individual sellers: condition, battery health, and what's in the box differ from one to the next, so read the listing and the return terms before you buy.
The used Mac that gives the most for the money. Its mini-LED screen and ports still feel current.
Price and availability change constantly, so we don't quote them here — the link opens current listings on eBay. eBay listings come from individual sellers: condition, battery health, and what's in the box differ from one to the next, so read the listing and the return terms before you buy.
Where they diverge
The widest gap is Performance, Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M1 Pro, 2021) ahead 9.2 to 8.4. They come closest on Value, 8.6 to 8.2. Left of center is Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M2, 2022), right is Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M1 Pro, 2021).
Which one to pick
Take the Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M2, 2022)
- You want the current Air design without paying for the M3
- Video calls are frequent; the 1080p camera is a visible step up from the M1's
- A cord someone trips over pops off MagSafe instead of dragging the laptop down
Take the Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M1 Pro, 2021)
Leads on Performance and Value.
- Photo and video editing, where the XDR panel and 16GB floor both pay off
- You plug into an SD card, HDMI, or two external displays without a dongle
- You want a laptop that stays fast for many more years
Durability, Ease of use and Design score identically, so those axes can't break the tie.
What each one gets wrong
Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M2, 2022)
- The listing is the 256GB base model and you move large files; its SSD is slower
- You need two external displays; this supports one
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M1 Pro, 2021)
- You carry it all day; it's the heaviest here by close to a pound
- The notch in the menu bar would bother you every time you open it
Specs, side by side
| Spec | Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M2, 2022) | Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M1 Pro, 2021) |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 13.6-inch Liquid Retina (LCD) | 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR (mini-LED, ProMotion up to 120Hz) |
| Chip | Apple M2 (8-core CPU) | Apple M1 Pro (8- or 10-core CPU) |
| Memory | 8GB, 16GB, or 24GB | 16GB or 32GB |
| Ports | 2x Thunderbolt / USB 4, MagSafe 3, headphone jack | 3x Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, SDXC, MagSafe 3, headphone jack |
| Camera | 1080p FaceTime HD | — |
| Battery | Up to 18 hrs movie playback | Up to 17 hrs movie playback |
| Weight | 2.7 lb | 3.5 lb |
Rankings they both appear in
Questions
- Both are Apple. Which one do I want?
- Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M1 Pro, 2021) leads on Performance and Value, and there is no axis where Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M2, 2022) comes out ahead. Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M2, 2022) averages 8.6 and Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M1 Pro, 2021) averages 8.8, over the 5 axes Tech is scored on.
- Where do the two Apple models actually differ?
- Performance is the widest gap, Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M1 Pro, 2021) ahead 9.2 to 8.4. Durability, Ease of use and Design come out level, so they won't help you choose.
- Which one ranks higher in "Refurbished MacBooks: five Apple-silicon picks on eBay"?
- Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M1 Pro, 2021) sits at #1 in "Refurbished MacBooks: five Apple-silicon picks on eBay", Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M2, 2022) at #3.