Based on our overall comparison score, Apple MacBook Air 2023 rates higher at 58/100 versus 55/100 for Apple MacBook Air M5 — a 3-point lead. Apple MacBook Air 2023 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 2023 vs Apple MacBook Air M5
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Apple MacBook Air M5 leads Apple MacBook Air 2023 overall by 24 points (77 vs 53 out of 100).
- Apple MacBook Air M5 stands out on Memory capacity: 16 GB, Storage capacity: 512 GB, Battery capacity: 53.8 Wh.
Apple MacBook Air M5 leads overall
Apple MacBook Air M5
77
Apple MacBook Air 2023
53
Why it stands out
- Memory capacity: 16 GB
- Storage capacity: 512 GB
- Battery capacity: 53.8 Wh
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 2023
The 2023 Apple MacBook Air expands the lightweight laptop family by introducing a larger 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display while keeping a highly portable, fanless build. It is powered by the Apple M2 system-on-a-chip, designed to deliver efficient performance for everyday productivity. This model targets users who want a larger screen canvas without the premium price tag or physical bulk of the MacBook Pro series.
Best for all-day battery-powered productivity on the goBest for multitasking with side-by-side windows on a larger screenBest for silent computing in noise-sensitive environments
Pros
- Larger 15.3-inch display provides significantly more screen real estate than previous models
- Completely silent operation due to its fanless thermal design
- Highly efficient M2 silicon ensures long-lasting battery performance
- Sturdy yet impressively thin aluminum chassis
Cons
- Soldered solid-state drive and memory cannot be upgraded by the user after purchase
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 2023
Apple MacBook Air M5
Performance
Higher benchmark score = faster
Apple MacBook Air 202315,400
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 202352 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 2023Apple MacBook Air M5
Apple MacBook Air 2023 is 0.01 kg (1%) 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 2023 vs Apple MacBook Air M5 comparison
Apple MacBook Air 2023 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 58/100 for Apple MacBook Air 2023 and 55/100 for Apple MacBook Air M5.
At launch, Apple MacBook Air M5 was the more affordable option ($1099) versus Apple MacBook Air 2023 ($1299). Weigh that against the overall scores (58/100 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 2023 (58/100) 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.