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I upgraded to the MacBook Air M5 at last — and, boy, is it fast

The new MacBook Air M5 offers significant performance improvements over older Intel-based models, providing users with faster processing speeds and enhanced capabilities for demanding creative and professional software tasks.

Key Points

  • The upgraded MacBook Air M5 features a custom Apple silicon chipset that delivers faster boot times and improved multitasking performance.
  • The user opted for a 24GB RAM configuration and a 1TB SSD to ensure long-term software compatibility and sufficient storage for large media files.
  • The device retails for $1,499, representing a premium over the $1,099 base model to accommodate the increased memory and storage specifications.
  • Real-world testing shows the M5 chip handles complex Photoshop layers and music production software with significantly lower CPU strain than 2017-era hardware.
  • Apple’s Migration Assistant allows for a streamlined setup process, transferring files and applications between devices in approximately 90 minutes.

Why it Matters

Upgrading to Apple silicon represents a major shift for users still relying on aging Intel-based hardware, offering substantial gains in productivity and system longevity. This transition highlights the growing importance of integrated chipsets in managing resource-heavy creative workflows and future-proofing consumer laptops against increasing software demands.
TechRadar Published by josh.russell@futurenet.com (Josh Russell) , Josh Russell
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