Apple has recently launched a refreshed version of the MacBook Air, introducing the new M3 chip to this popular laptop series. Initial benchmarks of the device have emerged, revealing a significant performance boost compared to the previous M2-powered models.
Performance Boost with M3 Chip
In a recent Geekbench 6 benchmark test, the MacBook Air equipped with the M3 processor displayed notable performance improvements. It achieved a single-core score of 3,157 and a multi-core score of 12,020, showcasing a considerable leap in performance over the M2-powered variant.
Enhanced GPU Capabilities
The primary upgrade in the M3 generation is its GPU, although this specific aspect was not tested by Geekbench. Both the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro now come with the M3 chip, with the Pro model benefiting from an active cooling system that enables sustained high performance levels.
MacBook Pro Advantages
The MacBook Pro offers additional benefits such as a superior display, longer battery life, and more ports. For tasks like 3D rendering and video editing, the 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M3 chip presents itself as a compelling option.
The Apple M3 chip, introduced last year, boasts an 8-core CPU and a GPU with up to 10 cores, making it the first Apple chip to support hardware-accelerated ray-tracing graphics.
The latest MacBook Air models are priced starting at $1,099 in the US and are set to be available for shipping on March 8th. The older M1 MacBook Air has been discontinued, while the M2 version remains accessible at a reduced rate.
