Based on our overall comparison score, Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M4 Max) rates higher at 63/100 versus 50/100 for Apple MacBook Air 13 (M5) — a 13-point lead. Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M4 Max) is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.
Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M4 Max) vs Apple MacBook Air 13 (M5)
Updated Aug 2026 · Scored by the Let’s Compare Data Engine · How we score
For most buyers the Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M4 Max) is the better pick — it scores 64/100 to the Apple MacBook Air 13 (M5)'s 41, leading on Processor and Integrated Graphics. Choose the Apple MacBook Air 13 (M5) instead if connectivity and design & weight matter most to you, where it comes out ahead.
- Performance is scored from the laptop's CPU and GPU; few laptops have a published whole-system benchmark.
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M4 Max) leads Apple MacBook Air 13 (M5) overall by 23 points (64 vs 41 out of 100).
- Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M4 Max) stands out on Memory capacity: 36 GB (125% more), Storage capacity: 1,024 GB (100% more), Display Refresh rate: 120 Hz (100% more).
- Best value: Apple MacBook Air 13 (M5) (from $1,099) — the strongest score-per-dollar of the two.
Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M4 Max) leads overall
Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M4 Max)
64
Apple MacBook Air 13 (M5)
41
Why it stands out
- Memory capacity: 36 GB (125% more)
- Storage capacity: 1,024 GB (100% more)
- Display Refresh rate: 120 Hz (100% more)
Watch-outs
Compromises to know before you buy
Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M4 Max)
- RAM is soldered — you can't upgrade it later, so buy enough now.
- Storage isn't user-upgradeable.
- No USB-A ports — older accessories need an adapter.
Apple MacBook Air 13 (M5)
- RAM is soldered — you can't upgrade it later, so buy enough now.
- Storage isn't user-upgradeable.
- 60 Hz panel — less smooth than 120 Hz+ rivals.
- No HDMI — you'll need a dongle for projectors/TVs.
In-depth analysisAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Aug 2026.
Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M4 Max)
The Apple MacBook Pro M4 16 is a high-end laptop built for demanding workloads, powered by Apple's M4 family of systems-on-a-chip. It features a spacious 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display alongside a versatile array of physical ports, including HDMI, MagSafe, and an SDXC card slot. Equipped with a large 99.6 Wh battery, it is engineered for professionals who need heavy-duty processing power on the go.
Best for High-end video editing and software development workflows that benefit from…Best for Creative professionals who require a large, color-accurate screen and onboard…
Pros
- High-fidelity 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display providing excellent color accuracy and contrast
- Generous physical connectivity options including a dedicated SDXC card slot and HDMI port
- Robust 99.6 Wh battery capacity for long-lasting performance away from a charger
Cons
- Completely soldered unified memory and storage configurations that cannot be upgraded after purchase
Apple MacBook Air 13 (M5)
The Apple MacBook Air M5 is a mid-tier subnotebook designed for everyday consumer and lightweight use, sitting between the entry-level MacBook Neo and the premium MacBook Pro. Powered by the Apple M5 system-on-a-chip, this model is offered in 13-inch and 15-inch screen sizes and features integrated Apple graphics.
Best for Everyday productivity and lightweight portable computingBest for Users prioritizing high-speed Wi-Fi 7 connectivity
Pros
- Updated wireless capabilities featuring a Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6.0 card
- Available in both 13.6-inch and 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display configurations
- Configurable with up to 32 GB of unified memory and 2 TB of storage
Cons
- Soldered storage and unified memory cannot be upgraded by the user after purchase
Value for Money
Which is the better deal for the price
Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.
Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M4 Max)
Apple MacBook Air 13 (M5)
Performance
Higher benchmark score = faster
Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M4 Max)38,348
Apple MacBook Air 13 (M5)26,857
Benchmark score — a measured indicator of raw performance, not a guarantee of real-world speed.
Battery capacity
Larger cell — a hardware spec, not battery life
Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M4 Max)99.6 Wh
Apple MacBook Air 13 (M5)53.8 Wh
Capacity is the raw battery size. Real-world battery life depends just as much on the processor, software and display.
Physical Comparison
Weigh them up, then compare real dimensions in 3D
Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M4 Max)Apple MacBook Air 13 (M5)
Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M4 Max) is 0.92 kg (75%) heavier than Apple MacBook Air 13 (M5).
Review Videos
Hand-picked expert reviews for each product
Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M4 Max) vs Apple MacBook Air 13 (M5) comparison
Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M4 Max) and Apple MacBook Air 13 (M5) are compared side by side above across every spec in the laptops category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 63/100 for Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M4 Max) and 50/100 for Apple MacBook Air 13 (M5).
At launch, Apple MacBook Air 13 (M5) was the more affordable option ($1099) versus Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M4 Max) ($2499). Weigh that against the overall scores (63/100 vs 50/100) and the value-for-money meter above to judge whether the higher-rated model justifies its price for your needs. Current retail prices vary — check the retailer.
If you want the higher-rated laptops option overall, Apple MacBook Pro 16 (M4 Max) (63/100) edges out Apple MacBook Air 13 (M5) (50/100). But if Apple MacBook Air 13 (M5) is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.
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