In 2025, Apple’s transition to its own silicon is no longer news—it’s reality. The M1 MacBook Air, launched in late 2020, was a watershed moment: it redefined what an entry-level laptop could do. But five years on, with rumors of an M4 chip swirling and new models emerging every year, a critical question arises: Is the M1 MacBook Air still a smart buy today?
The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It depends on your needs, budget, and how long you plan to keep the device. While newer chips offer undeniable improvements, the M1 remains impressively capable. Let’s examine real-world performance, software support timelines, resale value, and whether waiting for the M4 makes financial or practical sense.
Performance That Still Holds Up
The M1 chip introduced an architectural leap in efficiency and performance per watt. With an 8-core CPU, 7- or 8-core GPU, and 16-core Neural Engine, it outperformed many Intel-based laptops at launch—and it hasn’t aged poorly.
For everyday tasks like web browsing, email, video conferencing, document editing, and media streaming, the M1 MacBook Air delivers snappy responsiveness. Even moderate creative work—such as photo editing in Lightroom, coding in VS Code, or light video editing in iMovie—runs smoothly. Users report minimal slowdowns even after four years of regular use, thanks to macOS optimization and SSD reliability.
However, more demanding workflows reveal limitations. 4K video editing in Final Cut Pro can struggle without sufficient RAM, especially when multitasking. Developers compiling large codebases or running multiple Docker containers may notice bottlenecks compared to M2 or M3 systems. But for students, remote workers, and casual creators, the M1 remains entirely functional.
Software Support Timeline: How Long Will It Last?
One of the most important factors in deciding whether to buy an older Mac is expected software support. Apple typically supports its Macs with macOS updates for around six to seven years from release.
The M1 MacBook Air debuted with macOS Big Sur (11.0) in November 2020. As of 2025, it runs macOS 15 (codename \"Sequoia\") without issue. Based on Apple's pattern, it will likely receive one more major OS update—possibly macOS 16 in 2026—before being phased out.
This means the M1 Air will have approximately six years of free OS upgrades, aligning with Apple’s standard support window. For users planning to keep their laptop until 2027 or beyond, this cutoff matters. By 2027, security patches will slow, app compatibility may degrade, and new features won't be available.
“Even if hardware lasts, software obsolescence is the true end-of-life marker for Macs.” — David Ng, Senior Analyst at TechInsider Reports
M4 Rumors vs. Reality: Should You Wait?
Rumors about the M4 chip have been circulating since early 2024, with expectations pointing toward a late 2025 or early 2026 launch. Expected upgrades include:
- Next-gen 3nm+ process for better efficiency
- Improved neural engine for AI-driven macOS features
- Faster unified memory bandwidth
- Better integrated graphics performance
- Potential support for larger base RAM configurations
Apple is also expected to integrate on-device generative AI tools into macOS 16, which may run optimally only on M4 hardware. This could make older Macs feel second-class in certain workflows, such as real-time text summarization, image generation, or voice processing.
But here’s the catch: waiting means paying a premium. Historically, new MacBook Air models start at $999 or higher. And unless you're specifically targeting AI-intensive tasks, the jump from M1 to M4 may not justify the cost difference for average users.
Real Example: A Student’s Dilemma
Consider Maya, a college freshman starting in fall 2025. She needs a reliable laptop for lectures, research papers, online classes, and occasional photo editing for her journalism minor. Her budget is tight—around $600.
New M2 MacBook Airs start at $999. Refurbished M3 models are near $800. But she finds a certified refurbished M1 MacBook Air with 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD for $549. It runs macOS 15 flawlessly, has excellent battery life, and comes with a one-year warranty.
She buys it. Over the next four years, she graduates, lands an internship, and uses the same machine daily. In 2029, it stops receiving updates—but by then, she’s ready to upgrade anyway.
Her choice wasn’t flashy, but it was rational. She maximized value without overspending on features she didn’t need.
Cost-Benefit Comparison: M1 vs. Waiting for M4
| Factor | M1 MacBook Air (2025) | Wait for M4 MacBook Air (Expected 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Price (Starting) | $500–$700 (used/refurbished) | $999–$1,199 (estimated) |
| Expected OS Support Until | ~2026–2027 | ~2032–2033 |
| AI Feature Readiness | Limited or cloud-dependent | Full on-device AI acceleration |
| Battery Life (Current) | 7–10 hours (degraded over time) | 12–15 hours (new design expected) |
| Best For | Budget buyers, light users, short-term ownership | Future-focused users, AI workflows, long-term investment |
The table shows a clear trade-off: immediate affordability versus long-term capability. If you’re sensitive to upfront cost, the M1 offers tremendous value. If you want cutting-edge performance and plan to keep your laptop for seven years, waiting may pay off.
Step-by-Step Decision Guide: Buy Now or Wait?
Follow this timeline to determine the best path for your situation:
- Assess Your Use Case: Are you doing basic productivity, coding, design, or AI experimentation? Basic tasks don’t require bleeding-edge hardware.
- Set a Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend. If under $700, new M4 options won’t exist—your choice is effectively made.
- Determine Ownership Duration: Planning to upgrade in 3–4 years? The M1 is sufficient. Keeping it past 2028? Lean toward waiting.
- Check Availability: As of 2025, Apple no longer sells M1 Airs new. You’ll rely on third-party sellers, refurbishers, or trade-ins. Verify condition carefully.
- Evaluate AI Needs: If upcoming macOS AI tools are essential (e.g., real-time transcription, smart summaries), M4 will offer native advantages.
- Decide and Act: Once criteria are weighed, commit. Delaying too long risks missing deals or facing supply shortages.
Checklist: What to Look for When Buying an M1 MacBook Air in 2025
- ✅ Confirm it has 16GB RAM (avoid 8GB if possible)
- ✅ Check SSD size—256GB fills up fast; aim for 512GB+
- ✅ Verify battery health (cycle count under 800, max capacity >80%)
- ✅ Ensure it’s running the latest compatible macOS version
- ✅ Prefer Apple-certified refurbished units for warranty coverage
- ✅ Avoid models with physical damage or aftermarket repairs
- ✅ Test keyboard, trackpad, and charging port functionality
Longevity Beyond Hardware: Ecosystem Value
One underrated strength of the M1 MacBook Air is its integration within Apple’s ecosystem. Handoff, Universal Clipboard, AirDrop, iCloud sync, and Continuity Camera remain fully supported—even on older Macs—as long as they run a recent macOS version.
This means an M1 Air bought in 2025 can still pair seamlessly with an iPhone 16, iPad, or AirPods. Features like Call Relay, Instant Hotspot, and Password Keychain syncing continue working reliably. For users invested in Apple devices, this cohesion adds lasting utility that transcends raw specs.
Additionally, macOS continues to optimize for older silicon. Apple rarely cripples performance on legacy devices, unlike some PC manufacturers. So while the M1 won’t get new AI features, it won’t suddenly become sluggish either.
FAQ
Can the M1 MacBook Air run macOS 15 (Sequoia) smoothly?
Yes. As of 2025, the M1 MacBook Air runs macOS 15 without significant performance issues. Most built-in apps and mainstream third-party software are optimized for M1. Only advanced AI-driven tools may be limited or unavailable.
Will apps stop working on the M1 after 2026?
Not immediately. App developers typically support older macOS versions for at least a year after deprecation. Even after Apple drops support, most existing apps will continue functioning. However, new app releases or updates may require newer macOS versions incompatible with M1 machines post-2027.
Is it safe to buy a used M1 MacBook Air in 2025?
Yes, provided you verify the condition. Purchase from reputable sources like Apple’s refurbished store, authorized resellers, or trusted marketplaces with return policies. Always check serial number history for theft or activation lock issues.
Conclusion: Make the Choice That Serves You—Not the Hype
The M1 MacBook Air isn’t the fastest Mac available in 2025. It’s not the most efficient, nor will it power through next-gen AI features. But it remains a compelling device for those who value function over novelty.
If you need a dependable laptop for school, work, or personal use and don’t want to spend over $1,000, the M1 Air—especially in 16GB configurations—delivers exceptional value. Its core strengths—long battery life, silent fanless design, instant wake, and macOS polish—are still relevant.
Waiting for the M4 makes sense only if you’re building a machine meant to last into the 2030s, or if on-device AI becomes central to your workflow. For everyone else, the M1 is far from obsolete. It’s mature, stable, and affordable—a quiet achiever in a world obsessed with what’s next.
浙公网安备
33010002000092号
浙B2-20120091-4
Comments
No comments yet. Why don't you start the discussion?