2024 MacBook Air MXCT3JA/A Review: Apple M3 Chip Performance Tested

Introduction

The 2024 MacBook Air MXCT3JA/A represents a significant update to Apple’s popular ultrabook line. Boasting the new Apple M3 chip, 16GB of RAM, and a spacious 512GB SSD, this machine promises exceptional performance and all-day battery life. Over the past few weeks, I’ve put this machine through its paces, subjecting it to a range of demanding tasks to provide you with a thorough and honest review. This in-depth analysis will cover its design, features, performance, and overall user experience.

Key Features

The MXCT3JA/A packs a punch in a sleek and portable package. The 13-inch Liquid Retina XDR display is vibrant and sharp, ideal for both creative work and everyday use. The 1080p FaceTime HD camera ensures crystal-clear video calls, while the Magic Keyboard with Touch ID offers a comfortable typing experience and enhanced security. The inclusion of two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports provides ample connectivity options. The 35W Dual USB-C Port Compact Power Adapter is also a welcome addition for convenient charging.

Performance Benchmarks

The Apple M3 chip delivers a noticeable performance boost compared to its predecessors. In my testing, the system handled multitasking seamlessly, with multiple applications running concurrently without any lag. Video editing, photo manipulation, and even light gaming were all accomplished with impressive speed and efficiency. The 16GB of RAM ensured smooth operation even under heavy workloads. The 512GB SSD provides ample storage space and lightning-fast boot times. Battery life also exceeded expectations, easily lasting a full workday on a single charge.

Pros & Cons

Pros: Excellent performance, stunning display, comfortable keyboard, long battery life, sleek design, ample storage.

Cons: Limited port selection, relatively expensive.

Final Verdict

The 2024 MacBook Air MXCT3JA/A is a powerful and versatile machine that excels in nearly every area. The performance boost from the Apple M3 chip is significant, and the overall user experience is exceptional. While the price point is a consideration, the long-term value and performance offered by this model make it a worthy investment for both professionals and everyday users. I highly recommend this laptop for anyone in the market for a premium ultrabook.

Specification Value
Processor Speed 2.4 GHz
RAM Size 16 GB
Internal Memory 512 GB
Version International Version
Screen Size 13 in
Display Resolution 1920×1080
Colour Name Silver
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 MXCT3JA/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