Is the MacBook Air M1 Still Worth It in 2025?

In the ever-evolving landscape of personal computing, a question frequently arises: can a device launched years ago still hold its own against the latest and greatest? For Apple’s MacBook Air M1, released in late 2020, this question is particularly pertinent as we navigate through 2025. When it first debuted, the M1 chip revolutionized the laptop market, offering unprecedented performance and efficiency in a fanless design. Four years later, with the M2, M3, and even M4 chips now available, many are wondering if the M1 MacBook Air remains a viable and valuable investment. This article delves into the enduring relevance of the MacBook Air M1 in 2025, examining its performance, battery life, software compatibility, and overall value proposition in a rapidly advancing technological world.

The Enduring Power of the M1 Chip

When Apple introduced the M1 chip, it marked a significant departure from Intel processors, ushering in a new era of ARM-based computing for Macs. The M1 chip, with its unified memory architecture and incredible efficiency, delivered a performance leap that surprised many. Even in 2025, the M1 chip continues to impress with its ability to handle a wide range of tasks. Users consistently report that the M1 MacBook Air remains remarkably fast and responsive for everyday computing, including web browsing, email, word processing, and multimedia consumption [1, 2, 3].

For many, the M1’s performance is more than sufficient. As one Reddit user noted in May 2025, “People way over emphasize the limitations of 8GB. For office use (I assume you mean email, browsing, word, excel, PowerPoint), it’ll be fine” [1]. This sentiment is echoed across various discussions, highlighting that for the vast majority of users, the M1’s capabilities are not a bottleneck. Even for more demanding tasks, such as light video editing, graphic design, and coding, the M1 still holds its own, especially when compared to similarly priced Windows laptops [3, 4].

The efficiency of the M1 chip also translates into exceptional battery life, a feature that continues to be a major selling point. Many users report getting a full day of use on a single charge, making it an ideal companion for students, professionals, and anyone who needs a reliable portable workstation [2]. This longevity is a testament to Apple’s integrated hardware and software design, allowing the M1 to deliver powerful performance without sacrificing endurance.

M1 vs. M2, M3, and M4: A Comparative Look

While newer M-series chips (M2, M3, M4) offer incremental improvements in raw processing power, graphics performance, and neural engine capabilities, the real-world difference for most users is often negligible. The M2, for instance, provides about an 18% CPU performance boost and a 35% GPU boost over the M1, while the M3 further refines these numbers [5]. The M4, being the latest, offers even more significant gains, particularly in machine learning tasks and multi-display support [6].

However, these advancements primarily benefit users engaged in highly intensive tasks, such as professional video editing, 3D rendering, or complex software development. For the average user, the M1’s performance remains more than adequate, and the price difference between an M1 MacBook Air and its newer counterparts can be substantial. As one article from May 2025 states, “If you can find a MacBook Air M1 at a good price — whether second-hand, refurbished, or…” it’s “Absolutely” still worth it [2]. This suggests that the value proposition of the M1, especially at a reduced price point, often outweighs the marginal performance gains of newer models for many consumers.

References: [1] Is the MacBook Air M1 (8GB RAM) still a good buy in 2025 for office … – https://www.reddit.com/r/mac/comments/1ksfg15/is_the_macbook_air_m1_8gb_ram_still_a_good_buy_in/ [2] Why I Still Love My MacBook Air M1 in 2025 – 4 Years Later – https://www.dapperandgroomed.com/blog/why-i-still-love-my-macbook-air-m1-in-2025-4-years-later [3] 7 Reasons M1 MacBook Air Still Crushes in 2025 – Faizan Saghir – https://naumanahmad86.medium.com/7-reasons-m1-macbook-air-still-crushes-in-2025-but-theres-one-deal-breaker-00249f7c38f1 [4] I’d Still Buy a MacBook Air M1 Over Windows in 2025! – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lL_9aJTqXoA&vl=en [5] MacBook Air M2 vs M3: Which is worth buying in 2025 – Setapp – https://setapp.com/lifestyle/macbook-air-m3-vs-macbook-air-m2?srsltid=AfmBOoorEA2t6l_EOX3uNYBSNDrlxJRdZ5X-m2L6DLnkxDsgXNQPkUc_ [6] M4 vs M3 vs M2 vs M1 MacBook Air For Coding – Faizan Saghir – https://naumanahmad86.medium.com/m4-vs-m3-vs-m2-vs-m1-macbook-air-for-coding-a-developers-choice-in-2025-8ce9e13e766f

Software Compatibility and Longevity

One of the primary concerns when considering an older device is its ability to run current and future software. Apple has an excellent track record of providing long-term software support for its devices, and the M1 MacBook Air is no exception. As of 2025, the M1 MacBook Air continues to receive the latest macOS updates, ensuring access to new features, security patches, and application compatibility. This commitment to software longevity means that users can expect their M1 MacBook Air to remain a fully functional and secure device for several more years.

The transition from Intel to Apple Silicon has been remarkably smooth, with most major applications now optimized for the M1 chip. Applications that haven’t been natively updated still run seamlessly through Apple’s Rosetta 2 translation layer, often with performance comparable to or even better than their Intel counterparts. This robust compatibility ensures that users can continue to use their preferred productivity tools, creative suites, and entertainment applications without issue.

Furthermore, the M1 chip’s architecture is well-positioned for future advancements in software. As developers continue to optimize their applications for Apple Silicon, the M1 MacBook Air will only become more efficient and capable. This forward-looking design contributes significantly to the device’s long-term value, making it a reliable choice for users who want a laptop that will last.

Value Proposition and Target Audience

In 2025, the MacBook Air M1’s most compelling argument lies in its exceptional value proposition. While newer models boast incremental performance gains, the M1 offers a near-premium experience at a significantly lower price point, especially when considering refurbished or second-hand options. This makes it an incredibly attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers who still desire the macOS ecosystem and Apple’s renowned build quality.

The M1 MacBook Air is particularly well-suited for several key user groups:

•Students: Its portability, long battery life, and robust performance for academic tasks (research, writing, presentations) make it an ideal companion for students from high school to university.

•Everyday Users: For individuals who primarily use their laptop for web browsing, email, streaming, social media, and light productivity, the M1 offers a fluid and responsive experience that far exceeds their needs.

•Professionals with Light Workloads: Many professionals, such as those in administrative roles, sales, or customer service, can find the M1 MacBook Air perfectly capable of handling their daily tasks without compromise.

•Entry-Level Creatives: While not a powerhouse for heavy-duty creative work, the M1 can still capably handle tasks like photo editing, basic graphic design, and light video editing, making it a great starting point for aspiring creatives.

The key takeaway is that for a large segment of the market, the M1 MacBook Air provides an optimal balance of performance, battery life, and the seamless Apple experience, all at a price that is increasingly difficult to beat by its newer siblings or even many Windows alternatives.

Conclusion: Still a Champion in 2025?

So, is the MacBook Air M1 still worth it in 2025? The resounding answer is yes, with a few caveats. For the vast majority of users, the M1 MacBook Air continues to deliver exceptional performance, remarkable battery life, and seamless software compatibility. Its fanless design ensures silent operation, and its build quality remains top-notch. While newer M-series chips offer more raw power, the M1’s capabilities are more than sufficient for everyday tasks, productivity, and even light creative work.

The primary factor that makes the M1 MacBook Air an outstanding choice in 2025 is its value. If you can acquire one at a competitive price, whether new, refurbished, or second-hand, it represents an unparalleled entry point into the Apple ecosystem. It’s a testament to Apple’s engineering that a laptop released in 2020 can still be highly recommended four years later.

However, if your workflow involves consistently demanding tasks such as professional-grade video editing, 3D rendering, or intensive software development, then investing in a newer M-series MacBook Pro or Air (M2, M3, or M4) might be a more suitable choice. These newer models offer the additional headroom and specialized features required for such power-intensive applications.

In summary, the MacBook Air M1 in 2025 is not just a budget-friendly option; it’s a highly capable and reliable machine that continues to defy its age. Its enduring performance, excellent battery life, and continued software support make it a smart purchase for students, everyday users, and many professionals looking for a premium laptop experience without the premium price tag.