Based on our overall comparison score, Apple MacBook Air 2020 rates higher at 59/100 versus 55/100 for Apple MacBook Air M5 — a 4-point lead. Apple MacBook Air 2020 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 Air 2020 vs Apple MacBook Air M5
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Apple MacBook Air M5 leads Apple MacBook Air 2020 overall by 29 points (76 vs 47 out of 100).
- Apple MacBook Air M5 stands out on Processor model: Apple M5, Memory capacity: 16 GB, Storage capacity: 512 GB.
Apple MacBook Air M5 leads overall
Apple MacBook Air M5
76
Apple MacBook Air 2020
47
Why it stands out
- Processor model: Apple M5
- Memory capacity: 16 GB
- Storage capacity: 512 GB
In-depth analysisAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Jun 2026.
Apple MacBook Air 2020
The 2020 Apple MacBook Air is a thin-and-light 13.3-inch laptop designed primarily for everyday productivity and general consumer use. This model year represents a major transition point, featuring an early-year release with 10th Gen Intel processors and a late-year version powered by Apple's custom fanless M1 system-on-a-chip. Key features include a high-resolution Retina display, a robust physical construction, and a silent internal design.
Best for working in quiet environments like libraries or officesBest for all-day battery life at moderate display brightness settingsBest for lightweight travel and everyday multi-tasking
Pros
- Completely silent operation thanks to a fanless thermal design
- Highly responsive system performance driven by the custom M1 chip
- High-quality display featuring a wide P3 color gamut and True Tone technology
- Comfortable typing experience with the updated keyboard design
Cons
- Restricted physical connectivity with only two USB-C ports
- Limited external display support, allowing only one external monitor
- Lower-resolution 720p FaceTime webcam
- Permanently soldered storage and memory that cannot be upgraded by the user
Apple MacBook Air M5
AI analysis isn't ready yet
We haven't generated an in-depth write-up for Apple MacBook Air M5 yet. The specs, scores and strengths profile above still cover it — check back later for the AI summary.
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 Air 2020
Apple MacBook Air M5
Performance
Higher benchmark score = faster
Apple MacBook Air 202015,000
Apple MacBook Air M526,857
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 Air 202049 Wh
Apple MacBook Air M553.8 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 Air 2020Apple MacBook Air M5
Apple MacBook Air 2020 is 0.06 kg (5%) heavier than Apple MacBook Air 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 Air 2020 vs Apple MacBook Air M5 comparison
Apple MacBook Air 2020 and Apple MacBook Air 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 59/100 for Apple MacBook Air 2020 and 55/100 for Apple MacBook Air M5.
At launch, Apple MacBook Air 2020 was the more affordable option ($999) versus Apple MacBook Air M5 ($1099). Weigh that against the overall scores (59/100 vs 55/100) 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 Air 2020 (59/100) edges out Apple MacBook Air M5 (55/100). But if Apple MacBook Air 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.