2024 MacBook Air MRXU3JA/A / MRXU3LL/A Review: Apple M3 Chip Performance Tested

Introduction
The 2024 MacBook Air, model MRXU3JA/A / MRXU3LL/A, marks a significant step forward for Apple’s entry-level laptop. Sporting the new Apple M3 chip, 8GB of RAM, and a generous 512GB SSD, this Starlight beauty promises a compelling blend of performance and portability. After weeks of rigorous testing, I’m ready to share my comprehensive review.
Features
The MacBook Air MRXU3 boasts a sleek and lightweight design, immediately captivating. The Starlight finish is both elegant and surprisingly durable. The 13-inch Liquid Retina XDR display is crisp and vibrant, perfect for both everyday tasks and media consumption. The Magic Keyboard with Touch ID provides a comfortable and secure typing experience. The inclusion of two Thunderbolt / USB 4 ports ensures convenient connectivity.
The 1080p FaceTime HD camera is a welcome upgrade, delivering noticeably clearer video calls. I especially appreciated the support for up to two external displays. The 35W Dual USB-C Port Compact Power Adapter is a welcome step towards portability, allowing for quick charging, even on the go.
Performance
The Apple M3 chip is a powerhouse. During my testing, the MacBook Air handled multitasking with ease, effortlessly switching between demanding applications such as video editing software and complex spreadsheets. The 8GB of RAM proved sufficient for most everyday tasks. However, power users engaging in memory-intensive tasks might consider a higher RAM configuration for a smoother experience. The 512GB SSD provided ample storage, loading applications and files quickly.
I ran several benchmark tests, and the results confirmed the M3 chip’s significant performance boost over its predecessor. Gaming performance, while not its primary strength, was surprisingly decent for integrated graphics. Battery life exceeded expectations, consistently lasting throughout a full workday on a single charge.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Sleek design, powerful Apple M3 chip, vibrant display, excellent battery life, comfortable keyboard, fast SSD.
- Cons: 8GB RAM might be limiting for heavy multi-taskers, only two USB-C ports.
Final Verdict
The 2024 MacBook Air MRXU3JA/A / MRXU3LL/A is a fantastic laptop for students, professionals, and everyday users alike. Its combination of performance, portability, and elegant design makes it a compelling choice. While the 8GB RAM might be a limiting factor for some, the overall user experience is excellent. The performance improvements brought by the Apple M3 Chip are substantial and noticeable. I highly recommend this laptop for those seeking a reliable and powerful machine without breaking the bank.
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Processor Speed | 2.4 GHz |
RAM Size | 8 GB |
Internal Memory | 512 GB |
Version | International Version |
Screen Size | 13 in |
Display Resolution | 1920×1080 |
Colour Name | Starlight |
Keyboard Language | English |
Graphics Processor Version | Intel UHD 630 |
Display Type | Liquid Retina XDR |
Display Resolution Type | Full HD |
Storage Type | SSD |
Operating System Version | macOS Monterey |
Operating System | macOS |
Usage Type | Personal |
Model Series | Apple MacBook Air |
Processor Version Number/Generation | Not Applicable |
Number of Cores | 16-Core |
RAM Type | DDR4 |
External Graphics | Integrated |
Graphic Memory | 2 GB |
Model Number | MRXU3JA/A / MRXU3LL/A |
Model Name | MacBook Air |
HDMI Output | Yes |
Number of USB Ports | 2.0 |
SD Card Slot | Yes |
Processor Version | Apple M3 Chip 8-Core CPU 10-Core GPU |