M2 MacBook Air One Week Later! A New Era?

[@katrinaallenfuentes6368]

you're the reviewer I trust more than others. been watching your reviews since the m1 was released. now m2 released, you were the one I searched first. I trust your judgement more than others haha

[@jasonpettit5111]

Agreed I think he has much more realistic takes than everyone for day to day use

[@javtimestwo]

@@jasonpettit5111 That's so true. He knows what this computer is used for and more importantly, what this laptop is not used for. This M2 MBA is for the casual user. Not the heavy user.

[@shawncraig6497]

I wait for @everdaydad to release a new video

[@IDKYHM]

Same for me person I trust the most afterwards is max tech

[@L3x4Pr0ne]

@@IDKYHM I love Max tech also. Problem is they sometimes ramrod so many tests NO one will use (8K red raw, etc) down your throat you tend to get caught up in the specs, which almost never matter…particularly if you’re considering an air.

[@ryanmelontube]

Been watching endless reviews to make sure I made the right decisions- appreciate this more than any!

[@thewiirocks]

Apple swap isn’t anything super-secret. It’s just a deep CompSci subject that you need to understand pretty well from a theory perspective before you can get to the details of what Apple does. MacOS uses what’s called a “unified paging system”. What that means is when you read a file from disk, portions of the file are actually memory-mapped and paged into RAM as if the file was a swap file. These blocks of data are considered “wired” (which is a subset of “used”) and act as a memory cache. They remain in RAM until the memory allocator decides that the blocks are needed for a different purpose. This is why in a simple read-file performance test, reading a file that fits in memory goes orders of magnitude faster the second time you read it. The data is already in RAM. If your program requests blocks of data for working memory, these blocks are potentially available to be swapped to disk at any time. The exact algorithm for deciding which blocks get swapped is likely buried deep in the MacOS internals. I could figure it out if I wanted, but the details just don’t matter enough for me to bother. The basic idea is if a block of memory hasn’t been accessed in a while, it’s likely to get swapped out to maintain a certain amount of free RAM for sudden requests. Except this is where the Mac has a few tricks up its sleeve. The Mac paging system sets aside a chunk of memory for compression swapping. Rather than swapping the data to disk, the Mac will compress the block and store the compressed copy in the compression space. This allows the Mac to free up memory for other uses, but still make memory blocks highly accessible if they’re needed at a moment’s notice. Only if there is pressure on the compression space does the Mac swap the *compressed memory* to disk. Swapping the compressed blocks drastically lowers the I/O cost of swapping, making the Mac that much more effective at swapping. If a swapped out block is needed, it will be swapped back in from the page file and decompressed from the compression space back into a regular block of memory. The multiple cores of modern Macs make this process extremely effective. In fact, it wouldn’t surprise me if Apple dedicated a bit of silicon to the in-memory compression. This is also why Apple iPhones were able to ship with so much less memory than Android phones for so long. Apple’s techniques were so effective that they were copied by both Linux and Windows. And I can say from personal experience that turning on the compressed memory (zcache) for Linux on a Single Board Computer is like magic. Everything just gets faster and more performant. Apple engineers _seriously_ know what they’re doing.

[@TheEverydayDad]

Thanks for the write up!

[@thewiirocks]

@@TheEverydayDad You’re welcome! I should probably also note that Apple has some shenanigans going on in the file system as well. There’s transparent compression being used to make many system files faster to load, deduplication of data blocks making copying much faster, Just in Time allocation of disk blocks, sparsely allocated files, etc. I once made a multi-petabyte file on accident that the Mac allowed me to create due to the last few features. Took me a few minutes to wrap my head around what just happened!

[@thewiirocks]

@jeffrey bankers Depends on your use case. As clever and efficient as Apple’s engineering is, it still has hard limitations. If you don’t ever push your machine very hard, you’ll get by with 8GB no problem. But if you’re a hard multitasker moving between dozens of programs or if you run heavy productivity apps like an IDE or Video Editor, then 16GB is probably a good idea.

[@absolutelybrutal4131]

I got the M2 MBA in midnight, 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD, it’s going to be my first Apple computer I own and I plan to use it for purely productivity purposes. I think it will be perfect for my uses personally and last me a long time. Looking forward to getting my hands on it.

[@IEatYouBabies]

shoulda got a pro

[@absolutelybrutal4131]

@@IEatYouBabies wrong sir.

[@tylerring3576]

@@absolutelybrutal4131 Hello 👋 I’m just curious, why? I was looking to upgrade from an M1 MBA. I wanted to keep the small form factor, so looked at the MBA M2(16/512gb). It came about to be around $1700. I ended up purchasing the 14in base model on Amazon, taxes n all, for $1760.41. I just don’t know how you can beat that for the price difference.

[@razorred1128]

🤡

[@absolutelybrutal4131]

@@tylerring3576 I travel for work 5 days out of the week every week. For me the choice was simple. I need a laptop that’s lightweight, portable, and has long battery life. The MacBook Air is simply better than the pro in this regard. The pro is for a power user who will be utilizing the limits of the hardware. For my specific use case I don’t need what the pro offers. The price being high for the MBA is no issue for myself personally. To each their own.

[@SwordArtUniverse]

We're seeing an interesting parallel from Air to Pro models across the board. Like the iPad Air M1, we're seeing comparable power upgrades to the Air models but find them lacking in one or two key components that necessitate a spec-up, which conversely puts them in a price position to rival the base models of their Pro counterparts. For the iPad Air M1, it likewise hits a rough spot with regards to its storage component, albeit this one in its physical capacity rather than its speed.

[@S.L.1211]

In Canada I see a $500 price jump from an M2 outfitted with 512GB SSD and 16GB RAM to the 14” MBP. I feel that’s a substantial jump in price to jump to.

[@mattwilliams3104]

They should know I already have option paralysis don’t make it worse apple 😂

[@MrEiniweini]

I can confirm that first hand. My daughter went with the intention of buying the iPad Air and came home with the iPad Pro because with storage, price was on on par.. I guess it is a built in upsell. She needed more than 64GB but not 256 which is the base upgrade for the Air while the Pro came with a standard 128.

[@Dr_GraysGhost_420]

@@mattwilliams3104 I’m having it badly.. it’s going on a month and can’t make up my mind 😭

[@IndyGuy65]

A few months ago I got a M1 Macbook Air. It does everything I need which is mostly office functions and internet research. I just got an external monitor and it works great with my M1. I will leave the video editing to pros like you Gary!

[@TrusTheProcess225]

you can even do most of them . i got a m1 macbook pro 512g got it one and half year ago one week after it come out ans love it . not gonna buy another one keep your computer for at least 5 years

[@opinionator3884]

I shake my head at all the reviews of the MBA for video editing and content creation. The MBA is a productivity system for business, home, student use. It is not intended to be used by professional content creators. Hence the Pro. My M1 MBA is a stunning computer, especially for less than $1,000.

[@kelvinmorris1991]

@@opinionator3884 not intended doesn’t mean it can’t be done

[@opinionator3884]

@@kelvinmorris1991 No doubt - but there are better, and intended, tools for the job. Too many reviewers on YT ding the MBA for not being something it was not designed to be.

[@kelvinmorris1991]

@@opinionator3884 kool

[@bryans8656]

Despite some of the reported shortcomings I still want to get a base model M2 MBA to replace my 2012 MBP 13 to meet my travel needs. My Mac desktop meets my power needs at home.

[@TheEverydayDad]

And it will be a 100% upgrade for you if you get it 👍

[@SwordArtUniverse]

Absolutely, go for it! It should be quite worth the upgrade no matter which model you settle into.

[@reardelt]

Thats a 10 year gap. Definitely it will be a huge upgrade.

[@rasendra004]

@@TheEverydayDad hey, I am from India, want a suggestion,I never had any apple product, now gonna start my college which one should I buy MBA M1 OR MBA M2???(M1 IS AROUND 1200 DOLLARS AND M2 IS 1500 DOLLARS IN MY COUNTRY) plz reply

[@javtimestwo]

I am getting the bae model to replace my 2017 MBA. I know, I know, 2017 was so long ago and Apple does not even sell the '17 anymore 😂

[@Mad.Maxx.77]

Got my new M2 MacBook Air 16GB/512GB a few days early this past Saturday and thought I'd post my thoughts. It's a beautiful machine with build quality that's superior to any Dell XPS laptops I've owned. Space Grey looks good. I wanted Midnight but the scratch and fingerprint issues chased me away. I don't record/edit video so it runs smoothly and cool with Office 2021 apps and streaming video. Feels strange using it after over a year with my M1 iPad Pro 12.9" and magic keyboard. I keep reaching for the Air's screen to touch an icon or scroll through a website. Had no idea how acclimated I became with the iPad's touch screen. Same with the iPad’s Face ID vs. Touch ID on the Air. Face ID easily wins that battle. If I made the decision today, I'd return the Air and stick with my iPad + magic keyboard setup. Gotta give it at least a week, though. Never thought I'd be so comfortable with a tablet. Based on my 3 days of use, Apple is gonna sell a ton of these new Airs.

[@yenk82]

Does your Air M2 get warmer when you use a specific app, e.g. Skype/Zoom or too many tabs open on a different browser than Safari?

[@Mad.Maxx.77]

@@yenk82 Not that I've felt. I just use Microsoft Office and streaming apps like Netflix, KZbin Premium and Amazon Prime, tho.

[@ChachoTrades]

@@Mad.Maxx.77 sounds like all you need is an ipad. I have the same ipad set up but unfortunately, the ipad can’t run the softwares that i desperately need it to run, just app variations so it looks like i need the air. Good thing is ill have both, curious as to which ill be picking up to use more often whenever I don’t need to use the softwares on the MBA

[@prateek.khuranaa]

I am kinda enjoying my M1 MBA without any hiccups at all. These machines are really powerful.

[@TheEverydayDad]

The m1 mba is still my favorite laptop of all time, still the computer I recommend most.

[@Arca7]

Me too

[@NYCLIVE.]

iMac air m2

[@tommyoneall]

what configuration of the m1 mba do you have? the 8gb de ram or 16? if you have the 8 gb version, is that enough?

[@Jackiewicz64]

@@TheEverydayDad I love my M1 MBA and am so glad that I got it. I had been previously using a 2015 MBP and the difference is amazing! The M1 MBA is my favorite of all time so far.

[@Raja995mh33]

Just got my M2 MacBook Air with 8GB/512GB (because that's basically the only option my carrier sold) in silver. And I love it. No thermal issues whatsoever like all those KZbinrs tried to make up and even the 8GB aren't an issue whatsoever. I have like 10 programs open all the time on 6 virtual desktops and have no issues with something being slow or whatever. And even the swap memory hasn't been used a lot. The maximum I've seen so far was ~200MB.

[@chrisstucker1813]

Ram usage on MacOS is quite efficient. 8GB on Mac is like 10GB on Windows.

[@Raja995mh33]

@@chrisstucker1813 After some months now, I have to say Yes but also no. MacOS by itself takes up a lot of RAM actually. Even without doing ANYTHING, only a few minutes into logging in to MacOS and it uses already 4-5GB. With 2-3 normal apps open and Safari, especially with websites like Amazon or KZbin and you end with a constant 70-80% RAM usage. And Swap has also been a lot bigger than back then. I often end up with 2-4GB Swap even when I don't think I'm doing heavy stuff. And WHEN I'm doing heavier stuff like Pixelmator Pro I easily end with 6-12GB Swap, sometimes more. So if I had the choice, I would probably go with 16/512GB. It's not a huge issue but noticeable.

[@chrisstucker1813]

@@Raja995mh33 hmm well it’s good that you got the 512GB SSD instead of the 256GB as it will increase the life span of your machine. I got the 8GB/256GB base model Pro M2 but this is my first MacBook and it’s more of a secondary machine so it’s still a solid device to have.

[@Raja995mh33]

@@chrisstucker1813 Yeah 512GB was the minimum for me. I have 256GB on my iPhone so there's no way I could end up with 256GB on my Laptop that even replaces my desktop. Right after installing everything, I used up about 100GB and on the 256GB that means I would've only had about 100GB left for everything else. My MBA M2 is also my first Mac. I probably couldve gone with the 14" Base model for the same price but I just love the fanless and light design more. Only ProMotion is missed 😅

[@kevinlee9240]

Got this for my daughter for College. She is a smaller person, so weight and size were the primary considerations for the purchase. I did add some upgrades that made me consider the MB 14, but again, it all comes down to weight and size and her ability to lug this around a large campus with lots of hills.

[@julianc691]

MacBook pro 14 weights 3.5 pounds. That’s 1.58 kg. There are books that weigh more.

[@xoxjelloxox]

Which color?

[@usersdksdfg]

@@julianc691 does a college student need the power of the 14 to watch KZbin and use Google Drive?

[@julianc691]

@@usersdksdfg you are talking about a totally different thing. The topic was the weight of the laptop. Second,well that depends. If you are studying graphic design and animation,of course you need it. But you are off topic

[@banjercat]

I just bought this exact one, Grey, base model. My First ever Mac and I gotta say, I love it, it works just fine for me and what I do with a laptop. Not going back to PC. For the everyday user, this is about perfect I can not understand all the negative press, mostly from power users it seems. For the everyday guy or gal, it's just great!

[@sp3edstr]

Thanks for always giving a true, real-world experience perspective / opinion about the new MacBook Air M2. I’d always go for the higher size ssd, but if the base model can handle the things your throw at it, then the next spec up certainly will!

[@nelsonmartinez949]

I’ve been watching your channel for a while now, your channel should definitely be bigger than it actually is. Very casual and informative reviews

[@ThunderfallFilms]

You aren’t seeing the SSD slowdown on the M1 Air because they were still using two seperate chips for the storage for that model. Now, for the base model 256 GB M2, they only use one (most likely for cost reasons). You need to compare it to the base model M2 for an accurate test.

[@gshmn]

He literally did that in this video - compared his base model M1 Air with the base model M2 Air - and didn't notice any difference (starts talking about it at 7:35).

[@catharticmemefairy2088]

Wait so if I buy the m2 air in 512 gb, the ssd slowing down won’t be an issue?

[@Nhguava]

@@catharticmemefairy2088 yes. because it will have 2 - 256 and chips, therefore twice as fast, compared to just 1 - 256 and chip. The old models came with 2 - 128 ssds.

[@catharticmemefairy2088]

@@Nhguava thank u! I’ve been contemplating what laptop to buy for college so this helped :) would u say that the 8gb of unified memory is enough or should I go for 16?

[@Nhguava]

@@catharticmemefairy2088 It depends on your use case. If you are a college student, I assume that you wouldn't need the extra ram because you would not be doing intensive tasks, unless you do video/photo editing or coding/programming. Apple has made the new M chips so efficient that 8gb will be plenty enough even after 5-7 years of use. Personally, I got the 16/512 gb model just because I have the extra budget and I plan on using this mac for a really long time. those extra 400 bucks amount to almost nothing in a span of 7 years of use.

[@moodymarshy]

someone on Reddit said they coated their M2 Air with a thin layer of oleophobic coating and that stopped the fingerprints from appearing on the machine. I'd love to see a video testing that out.

[@lambertj.2892]

Why should we have to do that? Shouldn't a premium product from Apple be fingerprint proof right out of the box?

[@cz5696]

@@lambertj.2892 you don’t have to do it he was just giving a tip lmao chill

[@moodymarshy]

@@lambertj.2892 lol trust me, in no way am i excusing how apple made the midnight a fingerprint magnet. just stating something interesting i saw online that i would love to see being tested out. cheers.

[@joefilter2923]

@@lambertj.2892 that would be another $200 please, because the awful SSD that cost $2 just couldn’t make it into this laptop with the 20% price increase.

[@gerardrosales]

11:52 very nice that a reviewer still cares about details like this. The unibody MacBook Pro since 2012 has been a major no-go for me because I dislike how the edges digs up your arms. Nice to know that even the redesigned M2 flat Air doesn't cause these issues. Thank you for this.

[@Cere881]

That's wild. I'm on a 2012 pro right now. I just ordered the m2 air with 16gb ram.

[@bugged1212]

At 8 or even 16 or heck as I do with 32 GB RAM on my m1 max, there's almost always going to be swap usage if you keep you machine on for long enough. Slower drive speeds will be a limiting factor to how long and how many things you are working on. And even the folks who don't hammer their machines will over time end up swapping and that swapping is going to be slower. An argument to justify slower disk speeds is hard to defend.

[@TheEverydayDad]

There is no argument, it’s a statement of fact, for whatever reason the drive is slower for some folks. If that’s a problem for you, don’t buy that drive.

[@robertleidner9703]

There really is no excuse for it to be worse. It’s a big problem and I hate to see reviewers who just revert to the just don’t buy it then argument.

[@puddin1531]

@@TheEverydayDad if you go with that don't buy it argument, at the least you should agree that it's wrong of Apple to not inform consumers of the slower drive speed.

[@andyH_England]

Just basic, simple memory management will ease any of those issues. Like when you have a car, you kick the tyres every few days, check water and oil level, etc; same with your laptop. Playing YT for two hours can easily get you 1-1.5GB of RAM cache usage and even some extensions in a few days can get to 700MB. So at least once a day I close Safari and Chrome to clear RAM cache as I do with Mail and iMessage. It is no big deal and takes a few seconds. That way I stop swap in its tracks, barely ever use more than 500MB which may just be system swap. I am on an 8GB/256GB and have no slowdowns doing office stuff with about seven Safari tabs and 20 office apps. I am able to use about 4GB of compressed RAM as I do not have the RAM intensive pro-apps in play (they are the cause of slowdowns). I am happy with 8GB but I know what I need and if you need more RAM then buy it, do not cheap out, just do some sensible housekeeping.

[@robertleidner9703]

@@andyH_England not true.

[@worldsheaviestjamband93]

This is the computer that made me decide to purchase a 14" MBP that I'm picking up later today.

[@sfessen]

I bought the M1 because of your review. I don't regret the purchase at all. Great product.

[@careyivery6656]

Thank you for going over keyboard comfort - that's what I was looking for.

[@AS-bq7sc]

The 16/512 M2 air is still 460$ cheaper than the 14 inch pro in my country (this is when comparing both with the student discount). Considering sales tax is 13% where I live, I’d like to save $500 and go with the air lol

[@Babbeldibab]

What? That’s actually crazy. Where do you live if I may ask

[@arslan9665]

I live in Canada and that applies to me too! That’s why I’ll be going with the same configuration you have with the student discount

[@AS-bq7sc]

@@Babbeldibab Canada

[@tulsavol6653]

The 16/512 is a smart way to go for average user, i think.

[@Babbeldibab]

@@tulsavol6653 at least for the long term. I’ll try to keep my next Mac for as long as possible

[@Syajonline]

I was about to upgrade from MB air M1 to MB air M2 and after watching your analysis I reached the conclusion of saving for MBP 14 that’s sounded like a real upgrade.

[@AndrewSFrech]

I love your review here! Very honest and straight forward without diving too far into the nitty gritty

[@ccorry21]

100% agree with the lack of two screen output being a showstopper on the Air. I bought the base 14” Pro and am very satisfied so far, especially since it was $1799 new!

[@ip5799]

same here

[@Wokiis]

I have used a 16” Intel MBP out of necessity as of the time of purchase it was the only MacBook with enough performance for what I need. With the M2, in theory I can get the sleekest lightest laptop available and still have enough power, so I’m going to go for that because boy have I disliked my current ones size and weight.

[@ZuLuuuuuu]

Thank you for emphasizing the single external monitor issue. That is a major disappointment for me and indeed a deal breaker because I have a dual monitor setup at both work and home.

[@osamashaher3772]

You can just get a docking station?

[@liteonmx]

I’m a MD resident , I just need it a laptop to type my notes, read articles, do presentations…. Maybe edit a video every once in a while. I got the 16gb 512gb version, and I don regret, M1 design felt outdated, so exited to get my M2 Air in 2 weeks.

[@pslawing]

FINALLY! someone w some common sense I'm so tired to seeing YT videos bashing  new M2 Mac I LOVE mine! Been waiting 2 years for it and I think it's worth the wait! Thank you

[@Kudos2_Me]

I think we need to clarify that the 256 SSD is slower in sequential write speed (large files), but is slightly faster with random write speeds (majority of SSD usage scenarios).

[@bakoff80]

What is your source of info?

[@Kudos2_Me]

@@bakoff80 ShortCircuit “Apple finally got revenge” about the 8 minute mark

[@agenericaccount3935]

Who is We?

[@Kudos2_Me]

@@agenericaccount3935 "We" is the people giving advice on whether to buy the 256GB or 512GB model M2 air

[@bakoff80]

@@Kudos2_Me that’s a good video thanks! I got the base M2 and it runs great for me. Super awesome machine, but those SSD numbers have me questioning if I should return and get the mid level prebuilt, and that is exactly what that reviewer recommends to do. So I ordered it. Thanks for the help!

[@timstafford6815]

You're not crazy about dual external displays. And it's definitely a "purchase decider". I bought MBP 14 as soon as we learned the MBA M2 couldn't handle dual external displays.

[@simpromovie]

You re right! That is an absolute burner! You can buy a 600$ Surface Laptop 1 from 2017 that can do that and it is absolutely essential for me to work with 2 displays...

[@SudoYETI]

Yeah I don't always use dual external displays but when I need them, I need them.

[@bakoff80]

For what it’s worth, I have run a dual monitor setup on my base Air M1 through an $80 hub for work. It’s only 1080 per monitor but it does look good for that and no issues

[@AntonStensby]

@@bakoff80 You needed a third party app for this?

[@bakoff80]

@@AntonStensby I have an $80 hub and download displaylink drivers. Takes 2 mins.

[@cadenknappier7992]

I really like how this guy is just honest and says what he thinks. He gives great honest reviews and that's why I watch his videos.

[@dwightdarcybarredo1704]

Been watching everyone else's reviews while waiting for yours. I am glad you took your time with this one.

[@michaelhuso6332]

I ended up moving up to a 14" M1 Pro from the M1 Macbook Air because I wanted more external displays. Surprised to see that even with more ports available thanks to the magsafe charger, we're still stuck at limited external displays with the M2.

[@relative_vie]

Just get one big as display.

[@Nhguava]

I bought the M2 air 16/512 (starlight). Personally, M1 air feels outdated. I only buy new macs every 5 years so I want to have that feeling again of having _the_ new MacBook. The M1pro is $321 more expensive in my country, and because I'm not a pro user, I don't want to "just go for the 14inch, it's almost the same price". I like the lightness and thinness of the M2 air, and unpopular take: I don't care about the fingerprints, I'll always have a tiny cloth with me, and really, how often would I be touching the outside of the mac (edit: I did my math wrong, it's $321 difference) edit again: switched to starlight

[@mannylupercio8194]

14" has a lot more features for $250 more if that's the case. Better screen, cooling, speakers, more memory and storage. I'm sure I'm missing something, but $250 over the span of 5 years is neglible.

[@Nhguava]

@@mannylupercio8194 The memory and storage is the same ($321 difference with 16/512). I am a college student so I don't need all that power, cooling or speakers (I always use my airpods pro because I am always either in the library, coffee shop, or in my dorm with other roommates). And the weight really becomes the last deciding factor. The only thing is that I would love that pro motion from the 14inch m1 pro

[@mallificat2490]

@@Nhguava Bizarrely, in the UK right now the 14" Pro is cheaper to buy from Amazon new than that configuration of M2 Air (with 10 gpu cores)... Go figure :)

[@arturomendoza3830]

honestly same here, but in my country the price gap is about $500, so it really made sense to go for M2 MBA since i got an educational discount and free airpods, plus i really like this new design.

[@S.L.1211]

In canada it’s a $500 difference 😉

[@muller_509]

Thx for clarifying the swap memory thing. I was wondering if my m2 16gb 256gb would feel sluggish, but based on your description I should be fine .

[@tulsavol6653]

In my opinion, going for the upgrade to at least 16gb RAM should be the first upgrade priority.

[@erikstevetronik8058]

I am also a project manager, I also ordered a base model starlight coming next week. Trying to keep away from the repeating thought cycle of upgrading the ram and SSD but creeping closer to MBP14 and then reset back to M1 MBA. I stick to my original intention on no upgrade options M2 MBA even though the SSD issue that we keep hearing about.

[@laCASTROng]

Please let us know how it performs for you. I'm a project management student and I'm having the same problem on which to choose.

[@erikstevetronik8058]

@@laCASTROng I would say base model would be sufficient will let you know once I got my hands on it

[@laCASTROng]

@@erikstevetronik8058 Thanks. Hopefully it is, upgrading the m2 mba is gonna stretch my budget a bit too much lol.

[@kadirpasha86]

Also thinking about updating the RAM to 16. Let us know👍🏼

[@chiduanush8680]

How is the experience?

[@DriverDude100]

I am not exactly a power user. As a casual user I find that I rely on a primary screen for most of my work. When I want a dual display for certain productivity tasks, I have an external monitor at my desk. If I plug my MB into the external monitor and keep the MacBook open, I have dual displays. This solution works for me.

[@GOTAisMe]

Excellent and balanced review Gary. I appreciate the honest opinions on some difficult and polarizing topics. Keep it up and I keep watching

[@calebhermann]

Single monitor person here. I bought a studio display and that is my only monitor. I use my MacBook Pro in clamshell mode and using spaces and other multitasking features to manage my work. 1 monitor works just great for me and I am an iOS developer.

[@ronaldsoffee9096]

Gary, are you the mic master or what? How many do you have? I appreciate your non-“the sky is falling” reviews. Very honest and reliable.

[@ALWH1314]

It’s actually half pond lighter than 12.9” iPad Pro. Midnight blue is the same as iPhone and iPad Air so keeping it clean is a price to pay Instead of boring silver and dull space gray. I struggled between this Air and the 13” Pro, I ended up order the Air because the extra port, better camera and complete keyboard. The lack of fan is true issue if you use this machine to do heavy duty tasks, if you have this need then you should get a 14”/16” Pro. I use this machine to edit RAW photo files and videos, the laptop does feel warm but I’m satisfied for my use cases.

[@Krzykat9]

I love your videos, and find them very helpful. I just got a new Midnight M2 MacBook Air--8 GB Ram and 512 memory with the 10 cores. It is replacing a 12 year old iMac. My old computer had 12 GB RAM (which I must have upgraded from 4) and 500 storage which was over half full so I went with the 512. Loving my new MacBook Air.

[@joefilter2923]

You might trade it in and get 16 GB instead of 10 cores. For the long run.

[@parampatel6932]

I’m willing to live with the midnight just because it’s unique and closest thing to black. Love your videos!

[@mannywuuud]

@11:18 Gary's watch tan. I appreciate the continuity the GCU "Gary Cinematic Universe" is all about the details haha

[@CAMTechChris]

Anyone...where are the new M2 MacBook wallpapers? My new M2 MBA booted up with the older (Monterey?) wallpaper. I have since installed the public beta MacOS Ventura but I can find the new wallpaper.

[@epsgamepod6815]

I feel like this being an outlier opinion is important. I keep seeing people find reasons to hate this laptop. For myself, im wanting to grab the upgraded one for video editing but i only do basic 1080p video so i dont need the horsepower of the 14". Thanks for being honest and clear in your reviews!

[@danazaruba268]

Based on this video I am glad I opted for the M1 air. I don’t code. I don’t edit video, (yet) so I think this will be more than sufficient. I am looking forward to it arriving next month. An English keyboard takes 5 weeks to be delivered in France. Go figure.

[@carlospenna5265]

They come from china, preordered since day one and it’s coming from Shanghai via fedex

[@joefilter2923]

You can still edit video with it! Even the base model is surprisingly good.

[@eddu4361]

You want massive battery life? In battery settings check low power mode. For most workflows you won't feel a difference in speed but your battery easily brings you through the day and a lot of the next too.

[@patryce999]

Thank you for clearing the wedge issue while typing ! I was realy lacking this info elsewhere

[@edcharles2702]

I went with the 16” MacBook Pro and love it!

[@opendoorchat]

It’s amazing how apples lowest end laptop can out perform your 5950x with a 3080. Apple is just way more advanced. Great video!!

[@88Chiapas]

Gary, you are the people’s champion! You know what matters to the common folk that can’t drop thousands every few months, but rather you help us choose where we can find good value, and a quality product without having to buy the most premium product on the market. Keep up the awesome videos

[@koketsoresane5330]

But Gary, we don't need a whitepaper to know how swap memory works and that swapping memory to an SSD (even a fast one) is slower than just using the RAM outright.

[@damien2198]

I use it with W11 (Excel based soft/macro/VBA) and the speed is just ridiculous, much faster than my powerful win laptop almost as fast as my 12900k. Benchmarks do not do this jewel justice.

[@TheEverydayDad]

I’m continuously surprised at how fast everything feels even on the cheapest version I’ve been using.

[@damien2198]

@@TheEverydayDad yeah I dont get how this M2 can be that fast on my workload, W11 virtualized, x86 emulated ARM. it makes no sense. I suppose the memory bandwith s responsible for this magic.

[@ET_Videos]

A darn good computer that is just about the perfect mobile/travel/nomad/student computer.

[@marissarolf4011]

I agree. I just bought it for school (the base model).

[@javtimestwo]

@@marissarolf4011 Good purchase. The base model is ideal for the average user, the casual user and obviously not the heavy user.

[@christianhammod5259]

Thanks for the honest real life review, seeing through all the drama and hate of the device.

[@noonghazi]

Your vids are so wholesome I love them

[@gustavomontiel6397]

Thank you so much for your videos. Very informative and useful. Well, I bought a MBP 14" instead of the MBA M2 with similar specs. At the same price each I easily decided for the MBP: better computer overall. Ver happy with it. Would recommend MBP 14" even if you don't get same deal.

[@billiamnotbob]

I do like the look. That said, I'm quite content with my M1 MacBook Air. I need nothing faster or whatever. I like the Midnight, but I've always been a Space Gray kind of guy when it comes to laptops. As always Gary, excellent vid. I always enjoy your takes!

[@TheEverydayDad]

I think it looks fantastic (when not smudging on me) 🤣

[@billiamnotbob]

@@TheEverydayDad No doubt. Midnight is the color of my 13 Mini. Beautiful! Wish they had it for the 13 Pro. I got Graphite! LOL

[@shanteevbhatia3931]

Have had the M2 Air around a month now and It's the PERFECT laptop for day-to-day operations. My job requires me to go to multiple offices and cafes for meetings so the 20 hour battery life is perfect. It handles photoshop for hours and I have done some light 1080p editing as well with zero issues. So if you want a premium looking laptop that performs great with daily tasks this is the best laptop for you. If you have any proper power requirements don't look at this and go for the Pro.

[@shanteevbhatia3931]

Also if you're worried about fingerprints just carry a small cloth with you in your laptop bag. They look bad in this video because of the studio lights but they really aren't that apparent in normal lighting so I wouldn't worry too much about it.

[@TJK152]

Another problem with the midnight MacBook Air is it easily can get nicked, scuffed, and scratched. Some people have just plugged in stuff to their ports and once they unplug them they see the edges of the port is showing bare metal. So be aware midnight easily can get cosmetically damaged from normal use.

[@ponce1741]

Whats the best colours to avoid it.

[@lucasbritoarruda]

In terms of cost-benefit, the M1 is unbeatable. But we have to remember that the M1 camera is 720p. For those WFH, that would maybe mean the need for an external camera (maybe a display with a camera?) or straight go to the M2 if your company can pay 1500 for it.

[@dareemmanuel6079]

Remember that you’ll also be able to use your iPhone as a webcam in a few weeks.

[@lucasbritoarruda]

@@dareemmanuel6079 but don't you have to buy an accessory for that? I know also most Mac people have iPhones, but definitely, a thing to consider because it's not that practical to have to put and take our phones out on every call. Most people will just go with the default camera, use an external one or a monitor with one.

[@BonzyVegasCraps]

I bought the midnight one regardless of the fingerprints. This will be the first MacBook i have bought since the original 2012 retina 15 inch pro. Hoping to see a world of difference.

[@zj7396]

on amazon uk, under the same specs, 14mbp and m2mba is the same price. I chose the former without any hesitation.

[@hay_bail1]

Great video! I appreciate you bringing your opinion to many of the current M2 MacBook Air points of drama. I’d rather hear peoples actual experiences than repeating the same positives and negatives everyone is reporting.

[@texasjmd]

I edit photos in Lightroom and occasionally make something in iMovie, so I almost think I’d be better off getting an M1 Air with 16 GB of RAM and saving some money vs M2

[@joefilter2923]

I originally got an M1 Air with 256 GB but found it I always needed an external hard drive, so the 512 GB version was a lot easier to work with. I wish I had also upgraded the ram so you’re making a good choice.

[@justinlieb9805]

I’m thinking about getting the m1 with 16gb because I think it’s just generally a better device and even faster in some ways. It stays cooler too!

[@melvinastrahan]

the "1 chip" SSD could turn out to be more reliable than the "2 chip" version which is always in a RAID configuration, but why would anyone buy any entry level computer to do "pro" work like video editing?

[@JoseTheRover]

Amazing video and the best one that address the SSD/swap situation, bravo!

[@AnthonyPaular]

Thanks for your everyday use perspective. Really appreciate your insights!

[@gustavoortega2895]

I got the M2 Macbook Air with 16gb ram, 512gb SSD and in midnight color. I was waiting for the new version of the M chip as I didn't wanted to be a "first user" of a brand new processor, it's also my first time owning a Macbook. I pretty much only use Chrome and Microsoft Teams and getting it for $1500, i'd say it was worth it. Simplicity of being in the Apple ecosystem.

[@robdob]

Rimworld! I knew you were a legend!

[@bakoff80]

I got both the M2 Air base and Pro 14 and I am returning the Pro 14. The M2 Air pushed League of Legends at high quality and full resolution on my Samsung g9 on a usb-c to DVI cable, AND had lots of other stuff open in the background. I cannot stress out the M2 Air in my use cases; this thing is great.. Despite the somewhat noticeable screen improvements and very noticeable speaker differences (although I use AirPods), I see no sense in paying so much more for more size and weight of the Pro 14. I also got mine in midnight and don't really care about fingerprints... I will probably throw a shell case around it anyway when they become available.

[@D37fit]

Heard Incase is releasing them soon

[@bakoff80]

@@D37fit Nice, I found one for preorder on Amazon. Apparently they drop in mid Aug, but my ship date is in mid Sept. Let’s see if they actually deliver.

[@Digital.Done.Right.]

I'm very happy with my M1 Air and will wait till either the M2 is refurbished or perhaps an M3. My last Air I had for 8 years.

[@ziich1]

I want this computer. Like really want this computer. But for me two things so me from buying it. 1. the lack of dual display support. I don't get why apple limits this intentionally. 2. The price. By the time you add 16gb of ram and 512 SSD you are in mbp 14 territory. And that offers soo much more.

[@alfredalcala8916]

Thanks for the review! Thinking about getting this for my daughter or a refurb

[@simono4991]

A very fair review. And I agree: I have watched all the M2 MacBook reviews, and as a result have just bought a base model 14 inch MacBook Pro!

[@djwalkerfemaledj]

Got my first MacBook Air m2 16 GB 1TB sliver July 2022 for my DJING best purchase I’ve ever spelt love my Mac🎉❤

[@EW-cq6yv]

Loved the video you seem truly conflicted of whether you like it or not. Still an amazing review and honest critique. Thanks!

[@leaphardotnet]

if you live in hot country then no fan is really an issue, and if you are a 3d modeler then yes your cpu/gpu is at 100% most of the time

[@mr.mister9099]

i am currently using my macbook 14. absolutely 0 regrets

[@pauljazzman408]

Great review as ever. I guess Apple probably really love all the controversies about the M2 MBA because it gets everyone talking about it. I was dead against the 27” Studio monitor on price, then I found myself wanting one; then I got one and it’s great. I just paid for it in instalments. I just can’t understand putting that slow ssd in the base model. Maybe I’d never experience the slow down but just knowing the 512Gb is TWICE as fast would bug me. Great to see your take on the smudge midnight issue. It would bother me too.

[@andrewcrossley2448]

Love my Studio Monitor. It’s superb quality and hopefully, like the decade old one, will last ages. For Apple TV it’s brilliant in my study….better than any 32 inch TV. Sound is great too.

[@Amor_Fati_]

This channel is so underrated. Jesus.

[@andresferrer7628]

Hey man, I might be crazy, but your SSD speed test shows the M2 reading at 1500 MB/s and the M1 reading at 2500 MB/s. Right at @8:25. You might be focusing on the write speeds

[@aditya.sh8]

One reason you were not able to replicate the SSD issue is maybe because you're M1 air ssd might have been filled *less free space in comparison to m2 air*

[@andyH_England]

That is real-life, and what happens and is why you need 16GB if you get 256GB that will fill up over time. Best advice; get 16GB of RAM

[@paltema]

I think this is my first time seeing you without a hat.

[@bjorkeskog]

Yes the midnight is a mess. I really wanted to love it, my opinion based on pictures. But after hands-on in the store, the starlight - or any other colour, just looked better. Coming from Macbook Pro late 2013😃

[@shehanum]

My M1 MacBook Pro was easily the best laptop I had ever owned... but I needed to have dual monitor support. I did the DisplayLink setup, and it did work (although it was a little kludgy and finicky) but when the 14" and 16" MacBook Pros came out, I traded my M1 13" MacBook Pro to get the 14" MacBook Pro. I haven't looked back since.

[@akapeegly6463]

great vid like always, literally i have to wait for your vids cuz other yt ppl just dont get things like you do

[@TheEverydayDad]

Well thanks, I’m glad you enjoyed it!

[@andrewposner6703]

I am a teacher and have the M1 MacBook Pro. I honestly should’ve asked for the base Air. I really wish it had more display outputs. I would prefer my SMART Board, a monitor, and the laptop display.

[@prasaddd]

Just a small suggestion, please highlight the bars for M2 in bar graphs in different color, so it's easier to see.

[@jonassvensson1819]

But Mr Brownlee said it was super slow in base model and you have to get the upgraded models... But I had to google what 4k video rendering is so perhaps he is not in tuned with the audience. Cheers for this video.

[@roeungdon7320]

Your movie is interesting. I mean all clip. but i wonder where can i buy desk stand for TV as yours.

[@Piketom1]

At first I was a little unsure about the new MacBook air but have changed my mind. I really think the one to have is the base model. Most buyers of the base model are coming form an older 13" MacBook pro or it is their first laptop. For the price, it's an extremely compelling package. If you have the M1 MacBook air or pro, don't upgrade to the M2 Air or pro. If you routinely do things that require more system memory, a larger and faster SSD, and use external displays, then the 14" Pro is outstanding. I upgraded from the 13" air to the 14" pro and the 14" is like having two computers in one. It's not larger enough than the air to notice the difference in everyday carry but it is more than capable enough to replace most desktops.

[@ethanmayj]

Totally agree with you about the dual monitors. Allowing only one external display is not enough. Almost purchased a Pro instead of an Air just for that reason.

[@delprofundo]

I agree with you on the display output. I have an m1 air that's basically a living room/coffee shop computer and its amazing, can even do some pretty heavy k8s work on it should I not want a big old boy on my lap. I had preordered an m2 air but as soon as I noticed it followed the 1 display of the m1 I cancelled it, 24gb was going to be enough for my mobile needs, so I keep my 16inch m1 pro and m1 air. Its dodgy af

[@markolepik8572]

I'm in the middle of sending back my Samsung Galaxy Book 2 360 superlight powerhouse due to unbearable fan noises, and the M2 put Apple back on the menu. (I had previously given up an M1 Mini as well). But the "only 1 external display" aspect is indeed one of the major points. It also has to do with workflows where one specifcally needs the MS PowerPoint Speaker Notes (nope, note Keynote), which on Macs, still, cannot be put into Windowed mode (which is mindboggling), which means wasting screens, or not seeing your other files on the background during conducting complex online workshops, for example. Which means while the M2 is starting to look really attractive due to being fast AND quiet, it still lags behind is some simple aspects of even moderately more complex workflows (that in and of themselves are not that resource hungry, so they don't also justify shelling out the $$$ for a Pro).

[@laurentroose2429]

Many people don't like the black bar around the camera but without it people would be annoyed that there is a camera so the black bar keeps everything in balance I think...

[@RISE-327]

Im really glad I held out on purchasing this M2, i'll wait to see if they learn from it and introduce the next with modifications . Great video

[@xxriotgirlxx]

I just got mine today super fast barely got hot n runs the sims 4 with all expansions beautifully.