In this video, I break down the MacBook Air M5 vs MacBook Air M4 now that Apple is doing something a little unusual—keeping the M4 model in the lineup at $999 while launching the M5 at $1,100. On paper they look basically identical, and that’s the point: same thin, lightweight aluminum design, same color options, and the same Liquid Retina display on the 13-inch model with a 60Hz refresh rate. So the decision really comes down to the upgrades that actually affect day-to-day use. Performance is the headline, with the newer M5 chip bringing better single-core efficiency and stronger AI/Neural Engine capability, but I also explain the big reality here: the Air is fanless, so sustained heavy workloads can throttle. The more practical upgrades are where the M5 starts to justify the extra $100—base storage doubles to 512GB, wireless jumps to Wi‑Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6, and the webcam gets a 12MP Center Stage camera with Desk View. My takeaway: if you’re on a strict budget, the M4 is still one of the best value laptops out there, but the M5 is the more futureproof pick if you want the newest wireless, more storage, and the upgraded camera.