The 2024 MacBook Air MXCR3 (model numbers MXCR3JA/A, MXCR3LL/A) arrived with a lot of hype, promising a significant upgrade with the new Apple M3 chip. After several weeks of intensive use for both professional and personal tasks, I’m ready to share my comprehensive review. This model boasts 16GB of RAM and a spacious 512GB SSD, ensuring smooth multitasking and ample storage.

Key Features

The MacBook Air MXCR3 shines with its sleek design, crisp 13-inch Liquid Retina XDR display, and the powerful Apple M3 chip. The 1080p FaceTime HD camera is a welcome improvement for video calls, and the Magic Keyboard with Touch ID adds a touch of convenience and security. Two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports provide ample connectivity, and the support for two external displays (with the lid closed) expands its capabilities for productivity.

The included 35W Dual USB-C Port Compact Power Adapter is compact and convenient, a nice upgrade from previous generations.

Performance

The Apple M3 chip delivers impressive performance. I experienced virtually no lag during multitasking, even with multiple demanding applications running concurrently. Video editing, photo processing, and web browsing were all incredibly smooth. The 16GB of RAM proved sufficient for my workflow, and the 512GB SSD provides fast boot times and quick application loading.

Gaming performance, while not its primary focus, was surprisingly decent for integrated graphics. Casual games ran smoothly. For more demanding games, however, external graphics solutions might be necessary.

Battery life exceeded my expectations, easily lasting a full workday on a single charge, even with moderate to heavy use. This is a significant improvement over previous versions.

Pros & Cons

• Pros: Powerful Apple M3 chip, Excellent battery life, Beautiful Liquid Retina XDR display, Fast SSD, Convenient Magic Keyboard with Touch ID, Improved webcam
• Cons: Limited port selection (only two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports), Relatively expensive, Some might find the lack of upgradeable RAM restrictive.

Final Verdict

The 2024 MacBook Air MXCR3 (MXCR3JA/A, MXCR3LL/A) is a fantastic laptop, offering a compelling blend of performance, portability, and battery life. The Apple M3 chip delivers a noticeable upgrade, and the 16GB of RAM and 512GB SSD ensure smooth and responsive operation. While the price is high, the overall experience justifies the cost for many users.

If you’re looking for a powerful, portable, and stylish laptop for everyday use and creative tasks, the MacBook Air MXCR3 is a highly recommended option.