As we step into 2025, the tech world is buzzing with newer, faster machines like the MacBook Air with the M4 chip. But what about Apple’s tried-and-tested MacBook Air M1, first launched in 2020? Is it still worth considering in today’s fast-evolving landscape, especially when it’s available for nearly half the price of the latest models? Let’s dive into a comprehensive breakdown.
Pricing & Availability in 2025
With prices for the base MacBook Air M4 (16GB RAM and 256GB storage) hovering around ₹1,00,000, the M1 variant is surprisingly affordable in 2025. You can find refurbished or second-hand M1 units for as low as ₹55,000 to ₹60,000—making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users or students.
Build Quality and Design
Despite being five years old, the MacBook Air M1 maintains its premium build with a sturdy aluminum chassis. Its minimal, frameless design has aged well, and the overall aesthetics still compete with newer ultrabooks.
Performance and Daily Use
The M1 chip continues to perform reliably for lightweight tasks. It can easily handle:
- Web browsing
- Document editing
- Streaming content
- Basic creative tasks
However, the base model has limitations:
- 8GB RAM: This is sufficient for basic usage, but in 2025, 16GB RAM is increasingly becoming the norm for smooth multitasking and creative workloads.
- 256GB SSD: Storage may feel limited, especially with growing app and file sizes. Apple’s storage upgrades are costly, but you can opt for an external SSD (512GB to 1TB) at a fraction of the price during sales.
Software Updates and Longevity
Although Apple hasn’t officially announced an end-of-life date for the M1 chip, it’s likely to receive macOS updates until at least 2027–2028. Even after updates stop, you can continue using older macOS versions for a couple more years without major issues.
Consider Alternatives: M2 and M3 MacBooks
If your budget allows, consider upgrading to M2 or M3 MacBooks. They offer:
- Longer update cycles
- Better multitasking capabilities with 16GB RAM options
- Improved performance for 4K video editing and other intensive tasks
Wi-Fi, Webcam & Other Limitations
The MacBook Air M1 includes a 720p webcam and an older Wi-Fi module. While usable, these are behind current standards. Still, for an entry-level MacBook, it remains a solid choice for many users.
Software Compatibility: macOS vs Windows
Before buying a Mac, consider your software needs:
- Some local or specialized apps (e.g., Tally, certain design tools) only run on Windows.
- macOS offers fewer free apps; many are paid.
- Make sure essential apps are available on macOS, or stick with a Windows machine.
Who Should Buy the MacBook Air M1 in 2025?
Ideal For:
- Students
- Budget-conscious professionals
- Users focused on battery life and lightweight tasks
The M1 Air offers impressive battery life—12 to 15 hours—outpacing many Windows laptops in the same price range. Its durability, build quality, and decent speakers/microphone still hold up well in 2025.
Not Ideal For:
- Gamers: The M1 lacks a dedicated GPU. Windows laptops with RTX graphics cards in the ₹60,000–₹65,000 range are far superior for gaming.
- Heavy creatives: Video editors or designers may benefit more from M2/M3 MacBooks with higher RAM and storage options.
- Touchscreen users: macOS doesn’t support touchscreen; Windows machines offer this feature with stylus support.
Battery & Charging
One downside is the slower charging speed with the base charger. However, this tradeoff results in excellent battery life.
Final Verdict: Is 2025 the Last Year for M1?
2025 could be the final year where buying the M1 MacBook Air makes sense. As M2 and M3 models drop in price and offer better value, M1’s appeal may wane. If you absolutely can’t stretch your budget beyond ₹55,000–₹60,000, the M1 is still a capable machine that should serve well until at least 2027.
For those ready to invest more, the M4 MacBook Air with 16GB RAM and 256GB SSD around ₹1,00,000 is a future-proof choice. You can always add a 1TB external SSD later if needed.
Conclusion
The MacBook Air M1 in 2025 remains a strong contender for users seeking Apple reliability on a budget. It may lack some modern features, but for basic tasks, stellar battery life, and solid build quality, it still delivers. Just be sure to evaluate your specific needs—software compatibility, multitasking demands, and storage—before making your decision.
