(ThyBlackMan.com) If you’re impressed or disappointed with the updated Apple MacBook Air, wait before you jump to a conclusion. The device since 2015 has not been changed much and this is the reason why it has got mixed reviews. When buying a portable PC, many users tend to see the brand and the Apple logo is one of the most attractive things people see when choosing a smartphone, tablet or a PC. The MacBook Air 2017 is made for a specific user base. The company has expanded the product line with other Mac products, so it is better you know your needs before you buy one. Read on to get a clear idea of who should buy the Apple MacBook Air and who should look for other products.
What’s Inside?
It’s Intel. An outdated 1.8GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor that supports Turbo Boost up to 2.9GHz. The shared L3 cache limit is 
3MB. You need to pay more to get a dual-core Intel Core i7 which is 2.2GHz and supports Turbo Boost up to 3.2GHz, and 4MB shared L3 cache. You can’t upgrade the RAM, it is 8GB and it will remain the same. For storage, you get 128GB/256GB SSD (remember that the SSD is faster than the storage drives we call “Hard Disk”). You can upgrade the storage up to 512GB.
The Apple MacBook Air sports a 13.3-inch LED-backlit display. It is not the best and many users who love high-quality LED displays will be disappointed. The weight is 2.96 pounds (1.35 kg) which is quite reasonable since the Air is not a detachable device like the Surface Pro. The integrated graphics processor used in the Air is Intel HD Graphics 6000 which is pretty good.
The MacBook Air provides the best and very fast wireless connectivity. The device features stereo speakers, dual microphones, and a 3.5mm jack. There’s also a 720p FaceTime HD camera.
Students: Yes
If you are a student, you probably do not want to buy a high-end device to work with, but at least a decent portable PC for everyday use. You need a laptop which you can carry anywhere and more frequently. Students usually don’t need very powerful PCs unless they want to run heavy software applications, which is not the case with all. Going for MacBook Air is absolutely a good idea in such case because it is an entry level PC available in the budget. If you wish to enter the Mac community, Air is the device you need. For students, there are plenty of deals available on the MacBook Air.
Small Business Owners & Freelancers: Yes
The MacBook Air is a good choice for small business owners. It is a good PC for media consumption and everyday tasks. For small business owners, it’s a good machine that allows users to explore the MacOS Sierra with many built-in apps including Keynote, Mail, Safari, Maps, Notes, Calendar, Contacts and Reminders. The RAM is sufficient for anyone with average use and the performance is also good when it comes to using heavy apps. Those using high-end tools for designing and programming would want to go for a better configuration, but remember that the processing power of the device has not improved much in the last few years. If you’re thinking of upgrading your 2015 Air model, don’t do it because the improvements are not very significant in terms of the device’s performance.
Key Reasons to Choose:
It’s thin and lightweight. It comes with a powerful battery (lasts between 12 to 14 hours) and it is available at lower price than the other Mac PCs. The keyboard is simply amazing and most importantly, it comes with two USB 3.0 ports.
Power Users: A Big ‘No’
You will not be able to tolerate the trade-offs. The device brings a very good battery and performs decently for average users, but if you are the one who needs a beast at a lower price point, go for Surface Pro. With Microsoft, you can get a better performing PC at the same price range. If your PC needs are high and you have huge expectations in terms of performance, the Apple MacBook Air’s low-resolution screen and outdated CPU will disappoint you. As we said, if you are ready for compromise, the Apple MacBook Air is worth buying.
Staff Writer; Corey Shaw
Have any Tech Tips? News? Hit up our Tech Guru at; CoreyS@ThyBlackMan.com
