For years, Apple nudged multi-monitor users toward the MacBook Pro due to the Air’s restrictive external display capabilities. The M1 and M2 MacBook Air models supported only a single external display, while the M3 Air allowed two external displays but required the laptop’s lid to be closed, disabling its built-in keyboard and trackpad. This forced users to choose between a dual-monitor setup or the convenience of the Air’s own display.
The M4 MacBook Air breaks this barrier. It can now drive two external displays while keeping the lid open, enabling a true three-screen setup. This upgrade, previously exclusive to higher-end MacBook Pros, makes the Air a viable option for professionals who rely on multiple monitors for productivity, such as coders, designers, or financial analysts. Bloomberg reports confirm this feature aligns with the base M4 MacBook Pro’s capabilities, leveling the playing field significantly.
Price Gap Widens: More Value for Less
The second compelling reason is the growing price disparity between the MacBook Air and Pro. At $999 (and currently discounted to $849 on Amazon), the M4 MacBook Air offers substantial value, especially with its 16GB RAM standard configuration. In contrast, the M4 MacBook Pro’s $1,599 starting price reflects its focus on power users who need advanced performance for tasks like video editing or 3D rendering. However, for many, the Air’s capabilities are more than sufficient.
This price trend mirrors Apple’s iPad lineup, where the M4 iPad Pro’s price hike boosted Air sales. With potential MacBook Pro price increases looming due to upcoming tariffs, as noted by Reuters, the Air’s affordability becomes even more attractive. The M4 chip, with its 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, and 16-core Neural Engine, delivers up to 1.7x faster performance for daily tasks and 2.1x for demanding workflows compared to the M1, per Apple’s claims. This makes the Air a strong contender for users who don’t require the Pro’s extra horsepower.
Why It Matters for MacBook Pro Users
The M4 MacBook Air’s upgrades aren’t just incremental—they address practical pain points. The ability to use two external displays without sacrificing the built-in screen is a productivity boost, particularly for those working in hybrid or remote setups. The $600 price difference (or more with discounts) allows users to reallocate funds to peripherals, software, or even AppleCare+ without compromising on performance for most tasks.
However, the MacBook Pro still holds an edge for specific use cases. Its M4 Pro and Max chips offer superior performance for intensive workloads, and features like Thunderbolt 5 ports and mini-LED displays cater to professionals with niche demands. If you’re editing 8K video or training AI models, the Pro remains the better choice. But for the average MacBook Pro user—think writers, marketers, or casual creators—the Air now covers the bases at a fraction of the cost.
A Broader Trend in Apple’s Lineup
The M4 MacBook Air’s appeal reflects Apple’s strategy of minimizing compromises in its consumer-focused products. As 9to5Mac notes, the Air’s $999 price point, combined with features like a 12MP Center Stage camera, MagSafe charging, and up to 18 hours of battery life, positions it as “one of Apple’s best all-around products.” This aligns with the M4 Mac mini’s success, which also balances price and performance, suggesting Apple is doubling down on value-driven offerings.
Looking ahead, the MacBook Pro may see a major overhaul in 2026 with OLED displays and M6 chips, per Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. But for now, the M4 MacBook Air’s immediate availability and robust feature set make it a compelling alternative. If you’re a MacBook Pro owner questioning whether the extra power justifies the cost, the Air’s latest upgrades might just tip the scales.
The M4 MacBook Air isn’t just a refresh—it’s a statement. By offering dual external display support and a significantly lower price, it challenges the MacBook Pro’s dominance for all but the most demanding users. Whether you’re a Pro owner looking to downsize or a new buyer seeking value, the Air delivers performance, versatility, and affordability in a sleek package. As Apple continues to refine its lineup, the M4 MacBook Air stands out as a device that’s hard to overlook.
