NOTE - Error on my part at 1:23 - It is the base M3 chip with 8 Core CPU and 10 Core GPU (not 11 cores and not the M3 Pro chip.) Apologies for this slip up. If you want to buy a M3 MacBook after watching this video: howl.me/ck0HSaehc6H or get that deal on the M2 Air: howl.me/cknyigHuIt6 consider using my affiliate links.

As of 2023, 16GB is the minimum decent amount of RAM. It is *shameful* that Apple is still releasing new MacBook models with only 8GB of RAM, which is insufficient for many users’ needs, and charging a premium price for the decent 16GB. This practice is not only unfair to customers, but it also shows a lack of respect for their intelligence and needs.

Loved seeing you pumping iron Greg! Love your channel!

Thanks for sharing. Blessings on your day!

Yeah, the HDMI port sold it for me. I present in new locations at least twice a month and the number of times I've either misplaced or brought the wrong dongle is so significant, that was the immediate selling point. Thanks for highlighting that!

Really impressed with some of the video changes. The usual (just) sitting at a desk and talking is informative. But I found this much more interesting and it held my attention more. Hoping to see more, as this video feels much more professional, than the usual talking(/rambling) 👏👏

Thanks. Helped so much to make my decision on which MacBook to get. 🙏🏽

thanks a lot for this review! nice to see a genuine review for people like us who aren’t using it for hardcore professional usage :) this video really helped! also love the jokes sprinkled throughout the video 🤣

I have watch your entire video with the base M3 MacBook Pro in 4k and the display is just incredible!!!!! This make your video look awesome!!!!!

Hi, great video! Which one would you recommend to a fullstack developer?

Was ‘faced’ with this choice a few days ago. In terms of performance, my base M1 air is still totally sufficient (remains speedy, excellent battery life - after more than 2.5 years of daily use as my main work machine (writing, research,…) but.. I was looking for a machine with a larger screen… had some serious doubt between the new pro and the air 15 and decided to opt for the air 15 (with 512 - because it is speedier than the 256), with same speed storage would have gone for the 256 (enough for my needs). If you do a lot of graphics work, the pro screen may be better, but honestly for my use - and i think for general use, the air screen (both sizes) is great. Heck - other than the size I have no complaints about my M1 air (and yes, I have an ipad pro 12.9 M1 with a screen comparable to the pro) but in daily use i feel it hardly matters. After nearly a week, no regrets about the choice, the 15 air is a great laptop, the screen is superb and helps a lot in my workflow. For optimal comfort I use a roost laptop stand and apple keyboard / logitech mouse for longer stretches of writing. And maybe it is just because it is new and I baby it, but when working a bit on the couch, I grab the M1 air.. so of you can’t fall back on one of those and use your new mac in such situation and need a slightly largeur screen than the air 13, go for the pro. the built is great and feels considerably smaller than the air 15… what a pleasure these machines are to work with…!

I got the pro because my last Mac was an intel powered 13in MacBook Pro with Touch Bar configured with 8 mb and 512. That worked fine and the new Pro blows it away beg time especially screen, sound and battery life

Great comparison!

Greg's been working out. 💪💪

Thanks so much for this video. This was just what I was considering for a friend who is upgrading from a 2016 intel MBP to a M2 MB Air. And I think he just doesn’t have the cash to go for the M3 MBP better as it is in every way.

I have looked at the M1 MacBook Air, as well as the M2 in 13.6: and 15" options and was leaning towards the 15" MacBook Air . Then the new Pro models came out. After watching too many video's comparing all the models, I chose the Base M3 MacBook Pro option and bought it on sale at Best Buy for $1399 (no, I don't work for Best Buy). I like the larger screen, better screen, the extra ports, and the fan cooled option, the sound is imperceptible. Overall, I really like it after two weeks and while it's about a one-half pound heavier, it's more durable and extremely well built. For me this was the best option, more features and the price was too good to pass up. My work consists of research and writing, I don't play games, so 8 GB is plenty of RAM for me. Good luck with your decision, it's not easy. Thanks to Greg for an excellent video that laid out the "facts" without the hyperbole and nonsense many others post.

I've been eyeing a new MacBook and this breakdown of the M3 MacBook Pro versus the M2 MacBook Air really helps. The price difference versus the features is quite something to consider. The display and performance variations are intriguing. The choice seems to come down to individual needs. Keep it up Greg!

Nice job on the bench, 190/200 is impressive. Nice job on the video as well.

this is the comparison I wanted to see although that MacBook Air can be had frequently at Best Buy for $250 off MSRP..

NOISE! I've heard that the single fan on the entry level M3 can get crazy. Air is silent. That's a biiiig plus for the air!!!!

Is it a good idea to get the newest MCP 14' M3 now and trade it in next year when apple releases the new MBA M3? I just got the MCP 14 but the lighter weight is and the display size is nice to have.

You got the GFX bench, you got the Geek bench, and you got Greg bench is wild!

Perfect comparation!

So in iran, where I live the entry level 15” air retails around 1200 and a little less than that. However the entry level m3 pro is around 1700. So it doesn’t make sense to upgrade right?

The "Greg Bench" needs to be a test more frequently used in these MacBook comparisons 😂

Can you do a review of both Macs with the same specs -- 16gb 512?

I was about to get the 15” Air with 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD when the new M3 Pro was released. The price for the same spec is close enough and the M3 Pro only weighs 40 grams more than the 15” Air. I handled them both in the local Apple Store and the M3 Pro feels more portable due to size. It’s a no brainer when you compare the screens in particular. Yes the 15” Air has more real estate but the 14” Pro looks better. I’m so relieved I didn’t shell out for the Air. The Pro turned up just in time to make to right decision and get the Pro. It’s going to be better for my Lightroom photo editing as well

I think it comes down to what you plan on using the macbook for? If it's for work and running resource intensive tasks? Get the 2k Macbook Pro with the M3 Pro chip. No doubt about it. For most people just get the macbook air. I feel like a lot people are underestimating how much you can do with only a base model.

Still opting for the unbinned M1 Pro not as good as M3 pro maybe but better than M2 air at least that’s what it sounds like. Great video.

I went from my MacBook Air Intel 2020 to MacBook Air 15 inch 24gb ram & 256 SSD and it was absolute game changer and with it for me! I have iCloud+ and external hard drive for the storage and with the 24gb ram it will last me a long time and love how it’s lightweight even though it has a bigger screen. Note: for anyone that says “24gb ram is overkill” I use a gaming monitor and connect a lot of cables for Ethernet and HDD drive which goes up to 13-17gb ram in use and with No overload whatsoever and haven’t had it over heat not once! I freaking love it I don’t think I need to explain further of why I decided to go with 24gb ram RAM > Storage

As someone who had purchased a 14” M1 Pro MBP, I recommend using both the laptops or at least trying them out at the store before you buy. I absolutely did NOT like the sharp edges of the MBP. I type a lot on my laptop and that laptop’s edge dug deep into my left wrist. I’d have to take breaks from typing because of this. This reason alone was so difficult for me to ignore that I sold it off & bought the M2 Air with 512Gb & 8Gb RAM. I do not notice the 60Hz display on my laptop like I notice it on iPhones. The display on the Air is really good too (do not feel like it’s a downgrade). I absolutely do not miss that bulky chunky MBP. If you travel a lot & aren’t going to use your laptop for high performance tasks all the time, go for the Air. Type on the Pro first (sitting on a chair). The edges are really sharp. I LOVE the Air. M1 & M2 both!

I feel like I’m supposed to want the MacBook Pro but the m2 air with 16GB ram and 512gb ssd is too great I don’t see myself really wanting to switch. Not having the fan is a plus in most use cases. I don’t render videos all day and even if I wanted to I think this could probably handle a decent amount. It doesn’t get warm that often either and when it does it’s still better or the same as my previous windows laptops with a fan.

I’m happy with my MacBook Air 15 inch that I got six months ago, but when I have to convert MKV videos to MP4 using FFMPEG it really slows down. Basically, if you do any kind of video work and get paid for that work, make sure you get a “pro“ laptop, not one of the MacBook Air models

Im leaning towards buying M3 MBP based model, because like Greg said 512gb is must for all users at 2023. When i upgrade the M2 MBA 15" to 512gb the cost came down to just $100 difference to M3 MBP 14" (Base Model). For a $100, i'm getting 120hz ProMotion display, and a fan cooler sold it for me. So, im taking base model M3 MBP 14". The video helped a lot really.

Sorting a ma laptop for my son who is hoping to do graphic design in uni next year. He will be using a lot of Adobe products etc. Was looking at the air m2 with 16gb of Ram. Any advice on whether this is better that the mac book pro with 8gb would be gratefully received. Thanks

The Greg's Bench score is low-key underrated.

Man I love your little snippets of comedy like comparing the M3 to yourself on the bench 😂😂

Great comparison. Love the “real-world” consideration. How much lighter is the MB Air? That matters to me for Most of my garden variety usage needs. I’ll take the air. It’s not like the display sucks. Its excellent!

On costco the m2 macbook air 15 with 512 GB SSD sells for $1,249.99. The Macbook Air 15 is much more comfortable to hold or carry around the house.

There is a sale with BB and I had the choice of going with the Air M2 15" 16gb or MacBook Pro M3, I ended up with the M3... my logic which is probably wrong is newer processor and screen. I don't regret it though... on top of that, BB gave me $590 for my Air M1...

I feel the same. The airs are only good deals for those getting the base models. For anyone who wants to future proof or uograde anything, just look at the pros. And thats been done on purpose by Apple hasn't it. Because you look at the M3 pro with 8gb ram & realise you'll definitely need 16gb and then now the gulf in price between the base air models which is where you began considering macbooks & this macbook pro that you now realise you need in order to replace your perfectly well functioning windows machine makes you feel sick the gut. GregBench ftw!!!

So, I dont really do heavy video, just stills w/ C1 and PS - should I go for maxed out MB Air 24GB 2TB, or somehow basic M3 w/ 24GB and 1TB ? I can not see a displays difference, really !? I do like 15" MBA bigger screen and it also feels lighter! And I cant stand dark aluminum finishes of new M3 and MBA : smudges and finger prints - will stay always w/ Space Gray!

I’m considering between the MacBook Air 15in, M2, 16GB Unified Memory, and 516GB SSD Storage and the MacBook Pro 14in, M3, 16GB Unified Memory, and 516GB SSD Storage. It would be a personal laptop, which would be used for college and other personal purposes such as watching videos or playing games. What would you all recommend I get? (I also do have some what if a budget, but I just want something that will last me a few years and is powerful enough)

Can you test them with 24 gb ram each?

I have the M2 15 inch MacBook Air and love ❤️ it. I will definitely keep it. I am thinking of trading in my M1 2020 MacBook Air for the M3 MacBook Pro and get over a $400 discount from Apple. Sounds like a good deal for me. Your video was awesome in helping me make this decision. Thank you. Greg!

I can not buy MBPro because of thickness, Sharp edges and a 14 inch display is a no go for me. I prefer the 15inch and thin MBA. I have my touchbar MBP and m2 mac mini if performance is a problem. But im not a UKpostsr so i dont need video editing. I need browsing and coding in multi task any where. But for me a thinner lighter and bigger screen macbook >>>> performance. I do need confort

Did you film in a break room?

I bought MacBook Pro M3 (2023) and returned next day because it was some damages : arrow was moving on the screen by himself, without my touching; keyboard doesn’t respond . I bought instead of Pro , Air M2 .

Thanks!

I am upgrading from a 2014 15 inch MBP to MBP M3. I watch my art videos, keep alot of photos on my computer but otherwise use it for basic stuff. Im planning for 2 TB for future proofing as i keep my Macs for years! Im confusef about how much unified memory i need to future proof? Any input is greatly appreciated! Also cant believe MBP's are excluded from Black Friday sales!!

The Macbook Pro version sounds so much better than the Air, if that is important to you. It convinced me, and that was swapping an M2 air to M1 Pro MacBook pro

Hey can someone explain if a 16GB RAM MB Air is better than a 8GB RAM MB Pro?

I wonder if the MacBook Air thickness and weight is basically a preview of a future MacBook Pro. By the way, when you use Macs for normal things and not Final Cut Pro, the Air is perfectly fine with performance.

The speakers and display sell it for me :)

I would get the m2 air but the actual price difference after making it similarly specced and that screen on the m3 pro is really drawing me towards the m3 pro. I’m someone who can very easily tell the difference between 60 and 120Hz and the jittery nature of the former really annoys me.

Don't be fooled is getting old , but love your videos Greg... lol

I would love to see this comparison between the M3 MacBook Pro and the M3 MacBook Air

There is no question....the MacBook Air. I am an engineer and most of these videos are produced demonstrating video or photo editing. The MBA 15" is an exceptional machine and you can get them for a reasonable price.

I just bought M1 Pro 14 inch 2021 for $1250 better value then M2 air Higher Ram and more Storage.

Which one is better for day trading? Running 4 monitors and needing to see the speed of level 2 along with time & sales of stocks prints.

Right answer for Europe: Screw that MBP! Buy a Macbook air m2 with 24Gb ram 512GB ssd - and safe 10 euros compared to this M3 base ripoff scrap.

you've got mistake in the part after the intro you have the 11 core m3 pro listed at 1599

The base M3 MBP is for those who want a bit more than an Air but does not need the M3 Pro MBP

I already fell into the trap, got an Air but i still watch all these videos 😩

Now compare the m2 macbook air 15 inch and 16gb ram to the base macbook pro m3

Most places now have the 15 inch Air starting at 1099 and the 13 inch at 949. (Base models)

My 2019 pro slows down when I have a lot of chrome tabs/windows. I also don’t mind the 256 storage. Would the 8gb MacBook Air with 256 storage be enough or should I get the 16gb MacBook Air or the 8gb MacBook Pro?

I went with the MacBook Pro M3 because I got a great open box deal at BBuy - 1275 - and with the fan, there will be no throttling. I'm not a power user, but I'm a long user throughout the day and my current Windows laptop needs a cool pad after 20 minutes after just 4 years of ownership. I'm hoping I can use this for at least 5 -7 years. It's really more than I need since I'm mostly on Obsidian, lol.

I have M3 16GB Ram/512GB Hard Drive bought from Mac Connection for $1499 brand new. I am ok with such price and memory Ram.

I dont understand why everybody makes the sound check? The audio in the video will never be as good as the live sound. If I was making the purchase based on a speaker test I would not buy a mac. That said the sound is amazing on the mac. Just light years away from other brands.

How noticeable is the resolution difference? I don't know if my eyesight is too poor but can't tell the difference when they're side by side. Can anyone explain why it's hard to tell the visual difference? Or is it because the Macs I saw at the store had the True Tone on?

At last a reviewer who gets how expensive the Air's are compared to M3 MBP, considering what you get for your money.

Macbook air with 16GB of RAM easy pick, don't forget the student discount, that has 0 validation so anyone can buy it discounted directly from apple

The best deal, for budget, is the MBA M1, from Amazon at USD 749. buck for buck, still beats most windows PCs at build quality, perfomance per watt in battery mode, display quality, keyboard and trackpad. I know because I just bought a new Dell XPS 13 inch at a promo for USD 1099, amazing machine, do not get me wrong, but against the M1 in battery mode, lacks performance.

Which is better for college?

I am a prosumer photographer. I would go with the Pro because of the better display and the M3 is better with Photoshop

I am interested in the M3 Pro since I have an M1 Air. Wondering if I should upgrade.

Between mbair m2 15 inch with 16gb ram and 512 gb, and mbp m3 pro with 16 gb and 512 gb storage theres a 126$ difference... Help 😭

But.... color! Why does Apple think that professional people only want silver or space grey? I went with the 15" Air, because..... color!

I was looking at all of these today and the display of the 15 Air was significantly better than the 13 Air. I’ll go back and try to compare with the 14 Pro. I really do think I want 16GB memory though since I will be running docker.

Oh no Greg’s in jail.

I once tried the M2 air at a store and it’s incredibly thin!

is 256GB storage enough for a laptop?

😂😂😂 uploading a Hollywood film 🎥 on a Mac Book Air pro

Ok after rewatching this video a couple of times, the differences are actually not big, especially when Greg compared the export time of a video and they finished almost the same time. The nits will not be as noticeable. The hdr of the pro is not as crucial since it’s a small screen. I would pick the MacBook Air and spec it out to 16gb and 512gb and trade in my old m1 MacBook and save nearly $800

Once the macbook pro started at 1,549€ now is 2,049€ (in italy)

14’ screen simply too small

I would do the 15inch MacBook Air 16 gb and 512ssd but that’s me

This is so taxing to compare these two... I'm like: get a 15 inch Air, or 14 inch Pro, but how about that even more portal 13 inch Air with M2 chips which is wild, wait, M3 chip will coming in the next half of this year, then probably go for that Air I guess...

A like for the bench press shot :)

I’ll go with the air for the simple fact that I can’t stand fan noise.

Apple’s “only $100 more” never ending spend escalation is Timmy perfect. At some point you need to stop spend - and that point is only $100 less than a slightly “better” option.

Awesome comparisons! I adore my MacBook Air 15 it’s the nuts!

M3 Macbook Pro!

Get the heaviest MacBook Pro you can, work out those Guns at the same time as you type

1:12 that was weird

You should consider people who run the laptop in clamshell mode, that negates many of the benefits of the pro.

16 GB RAM should come standard for every Apple laptop. Set the base price $100 higher but include 16 GB RAM. Their RAM upcharge is less offensive than their absurd storage upgrade price. You get a lot more for your money if you buy an external hard drive.

I feel as though the MacBook Pro should ship with 16GB RAM minimum. It's a "Pro" machine, not a base consumer machine. It's not really worth the money at that level IMO, and I'm an Apple guy.

M3 Pro for me!