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Which MacBook in early 2026? Apple's M4 MacBook Air has now been available for the best part of a year, and that means the M3 and M2 models have dropped sharply in price — both refurbished and new old stock. The golden rule remains: insist on at least 16 GB of unified memory and 512 GB of storage. Anything less will age badly.
If funds allow, the 16 GB/512 GB MacBook Air (15-inch, M3, 2024) is now available at prices that would have seemed extraordinary twelve months ago — check Amazon for the current figure, but expect a very significant discount against its original retail price. If you need to be more frugal, a 16 GB/512 GB MacBook Air (13-inch, M2, 2022) can still be found refurbished at a very competitive price. M1 models are harder to track down in good condition now, and with the M4 generation firmly established, the M2 sweet spot has shifted decisively downmarket. Avoid 8 GB machines for development work or anything demanding — and avoid 256 GB storage models entirely, as they are measurably slower due to SSD architecture constraints and will leave you short on space embarrassingly quickly.
TL;DR — My pick of the month is the 16 GB/512 GB MacBook Air (14-inch or 15-inch, M3, 2024) bought refurbished or as discounted new old stock on Amazon. Prices have fallen considerably since the M4 Air launched. Always compare across Apple Refurbished, Amazon, and John Lewis before committing.
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This note reflects the market as it stands in early 2026. Apple currently sells the M4 MacBook Air as its mainstream laptop, which means M3 models are available refurbished directly from Apple and heavily discounted new from Amazon and John Lewis. M2 models are increasingly found only in the refurbished or second-hand market. You can find good-condition used machines at Computer Exchange (CeX) and through Amazon Renewed, and Costco occasionally stocks specific configurations at competitive prices.
The MacBook Air line was substantially redesigned with the M2 in 2022 — a flatter, more angular body, Liquid Retina display, 1080p webcam behind the notch, MagSafe 3 charging, and two Thunderbolt 4/USB 4 ports. The M3 model (released early 2024) kept that design but added Wi-Fi 6E and, crucially, support for two external displays simultaneously with the lid closed — a genuinely useful upgrade for anyone working from a desk. The M4 MacBook Air, launched in early 2025, refined the formula further with Apple's latest chip generation, improved Neural Engine performance for on-device AI tasks, and a slightly brighter display. All of this means the M3 now occupies the same value position the M2 held a year ago: excellent hardware at a meaningfully reduced price.
Apple Intelligence — Apple's on-device AI feature set — is fully supported on M3 and M4 machines and requires at least 8 GB of unified memory, though in practice the features run noticeably more smoothly with 16 GB. This is yet another reason to avoid the base-spec configurations. Writing tools, image generation, priority notifications, and the expanded Siri capabilities all benefit from headroom, and that headroom is fixed at the point of purchase. There is no upgrading RAM on any of these machines after the fact.
Heavy workload specification — 16 GB memory, 512 GB storage
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Amazon | Renewed / New old stock | MacBook Air (13-inch or 15-inch, M3, 2024) | Mac15,12 / Mac15,13 | A3113 / A3114 | 8-Core CPU, 10-Core GPU | 16 GB | 512 GB | Check Amazon for current price |
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Amazon | Renewed | MacBook Air (13-inch, M2, 2022) | Mac14,2 | A2681 | 8-Core CPU, 10-Core GPU | 16 GB | 512 GB | Check Amazon for current price |
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Amazon | Renewed | MacBook Pro (14-inch, M1 Pro, 2021) | MacBookPro18,3 / MacBookPro18,4 | A2442 | 8-Core CPU, M1 Pro | 16 GB | 512 GB | Check Amazon for current price |
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Amazon | Renewed | MacBook Pro (13-inch, M1, 2020) | MacBookPro17,1 | A2338 | 8-Core CPU, 8-Core GPU | 16 GB | 512 GB | Check Amazon for current price |
Apple Silicon is now in its fourth generation with M4, and the platform has matured enormously since the original M1 launch. Every Mac sold today runs Apple Silicon, the Rosetta 2 translation layer handles the remaining legacy Intel software gracefully, and the third-party software ecosystem has fully caught up. This is no longer a transition story — it is simply the way Macs work. What that means practically is that an M2 or M3 machine bought today is buying into a settled, well-supported platform with years of macOS updates ahead of it. Apple's published support windows suggest M2 machines will receive software updates well into the late 2020s.
M4
The M4 chip, which powers the current MacBook Air lineup launched in early 2025, brings Apple's latest CPU and GPU architecture along with a significantly upgraded Neural Engine — the dedicated hardware that accelerates Apple Intelligence features. Performance gains over M3 are meaningful rather than transformative for everyday tasks, but the Neural Engine uplift is substantial and becomes more relevant as Apple Intelligence features expand with each macOS release. If you are buying new today, M4 is the right choice. If you are buying on a budget, M3 remains excellent and M4 features will matter to most users only gradually over time.
M3
The M3 chip delivers a powerful 8-core CPU, up to a 10-core GPU, and support for up to 24 GB of unified memory. It is meaningfully faster than M1 across all workloads and brings two important practical upgrades to the MacBook Air: Wi-Fi 6E for faster wireless on compatible networks, and support for two external displays simultaneously when the lid is closed. That second display capability alone makes the M3 Air a far more capable desk machine than its predecessor. Apple Intelligence is fully supported.
M2
M2 was Apple's second-generation Apple Silicon chip and represented a genuine step forward from M1 in both CPU and GPU performance. The 8-core CPU, up to 10-core GPU, and 100 GB/s of unified memory bandwidth gave it headroom that still holds up well in 2026. The MacBook Air (M2, 2022) also introduced the redesigned body — thinner, with MagSafe 3, a larger 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display, and the 1080p webcam — that the M3 model carried forward unchanged. The main limitation versus M3 is the single external display restriction and the absence of Wi-Fi 6E. For most users, neither will matter day to day. Apple Intelligence is supported on M2 with 16 GB of RAM.
macOS support
All Apple Silicon MacBooks — M1 through M4 — run the current version of macOS and receive updates through the standard Software Update mechanism. In 2026, macOS Sequoia and its successors are available to all of these machines. Apple's track record on Silicon support suggests these machines will continue to receive major OS updates for the foreseeable future, which is a meaningful advantage over the Intel models they replaced.
MacBook Air (M3, 2024) — what sets it apart
The M3 model supports two external displays simultaneously with the lid closed, has Wi-Fi 6E, and benefits from the M3 chip's improved efficiency and media engine. These are not trivial upgrades if you use an external monitor setup or are on a fast Wi-Fi 6E network. The design is identical to the M2 model, which is no criticism — it remains one of the best-looking and most practical laptop designs on the market.
Shared strengths — MacBook Air (M2, 2022) and MacBook Air (M3, 2024)
Both models share the same striking flat design in four finishes, the 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display, 1080p FaceTime camera, MagSafe 3 charging, two Thunderbolt 4/USB 4 ports, Touch ID, and the fanless architecture that makes them completely silent under all but the most sustained workloads. Both are available in 15-inch variants too, which adds screen real estate without adding a fan. Neither can be upgraded after purchase — RAM and storage are fixed — so the configuration you buy is the configuration you keep. Spend the extra for 16 GB and 512 GB. You will not regret it; you will regret not doing so.
Pros — MacBook Air (M3, 2024) 16 GB/512 GB
- Processor: Apple M3 chip — 8-core CPU, up to 10-core GPU.
- Wireless: Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) for faster speeds on compatible networks.
- Displays: Two external displays supported simultaneously with lid closed.
- AI: Full Apple Intelligence support with 16 GB RAM.
- Value: Prices have fallen sharply since the M4 Air launched — strong value in the refurbished and new old stock market.
Pros — MacBook Air (M2, 2022) 16 GB/512 GB
- Display: 13.6-inch Liquid Retina, 2560 × 1664, 224 ppi, 500 nits.
- Power: MagSafe 3.
- Processor: Apple M2 chip — 8-core CPU, up to 10-core GPU.
- Memory: 16 GB or 24 GB unified memory configurations available.
- Ports: Two Thunderbolt 4 / USB 4 ports.
- Input: Force Touch trackpad, full-size backlit keyboard, Touch ID.
- Wireless: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.3.
- Audio: Four-speaker sound system, 3.5 mm headphone jack with high-impedance support.
- Price: Now significantly cheaper than M3, and an excellent entry point into the modern MacBook Air design.
Cons — MacBook Air (M2, 2022)
- Only one external display supported (lid open counts as the second).
- Wi-Fi 6 rather than 6E — a minor real-world limitation for most users.
- The 256 GB storage model uses a single NAND chip and is measurably slower — avoid it entirely.
Cons — MacBook Pro and MacBook Air (M1, 2020) models
- No MagSafe 3 — charging via USB-C only.
- Older wedge design, smaller battery, lower-wattage adapter.
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With the recent launch of the M4 Mac Mini, buyers will be faced with a perplexing array of specifications and configurations. This guide aims to clarify which variants and configurations of the M4 Mac Mini are best suited for varying user workloads. Whether you're a professional seeking extreme performance or a casual user needing basic functionality, this article answers your questions with details on the differences between the M4 and M4 Pro chips, memory configurations, and connectivity options.
Is it even worth considering the specifications? Absolutely! The choice between the standard M4 and the M4 Pro willhave profound implications for your user experience and productivity over time and it will affect the future resale/trade-in value. Read on to discover crucial insights that will guide your decision.
TL:DR – The primary factors distinguishing the M4 from the M4 Pro are performance power, memory configurations, graphical capabilities, and Thunderbolt connectivity differences. The Apple Mac mini Desktop Computer with M4 Pro chip with 12 core CPU and 16 core GPU: Built for Apple Intelligence, 24GB Unified Memory, 512GB SSD Storage, Gigabit Ethernet on Amazon UK is, we believe, the most future proof model.
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Digital content, requires a catchy lead or hero or banner image so the importance of image banners cannot be overstated. They are crucial for grabbing attention and enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of a blog. This article looks into the optimal sizes for blog images, focusing on various types of banners, background images, logos, and more. By understanding the ideal dimensions and considerations for each image type, bloggers can ensure their content is not only visually appealing but also technically sound. The pressing questions regarding image sizes will be thoroughly answered, providing all the necessary guidelines.
TL:DR – The recommended image sizes vary based on the type of content, and adhering to ideal dimensions ensures optimal website performance and user engagement. Key considerations include compressing images to enhance load speeds and maintaining an aesthetically pleasing appearance across devices.
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Read more: Joomla Intro and article image sizes for Retention
Introduction
In 2026, enterprises are still grappling with software built on core technologies that are 30 to 40 years old. Despite years of cloud-first mandates and modernisation programmes, a surprising number of organisations continue to run Windows Server workloads that were never designed for virtualised or cloud environments. The pressure to migrate has intensified — driven by rising on-premise infrastructure costs, end-of-support deadlines, and the measurable savings now achievable on AWS — but the technical complexity has not gone away.
AWS has been running Microsoft workloads since 2008, longer than any other cloud provider, and the platform has matured considerably across those 17 years. With over 850 EC2 instance types available for Windows Server workloads and tooling such as AWS Compute Optimizer and the AWS Optimization and Licensing Assessment (OLA) delivering concrete, data-driven guidance, organisations that approach migration systematically can achieve substantial savings. Legacy constraints still demand careful handling — but the gap between what is theoretically possible and what is practically achievable has narrowed significantly.
TL:DR – Migrating legacy Windows Server software to AWS EC2 remains a serious undertaking in 2026, but the tooling, licensing options, and cost optimisation capabilities available today are far stronger than they were even a few years ago. Establishing clear budget constraints and using AWS cost controls from day one is still the single most important thing you can do to prevent expenses from spiralling.
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Read more: Using AWS to bring Windows Server apps to the cloud
Software development is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Businesses and individuals must navigate a broad spectrum of solutions, ranging from no-code platforms to fully bespoke software development. Each category presents distinct advantages, trade-offs, and use cases, making it essential to understand where a particular need fits within this continuum.
Modern software is in an ecosystem is diverse, offering everything from simple, drag-and-drop no-code tools to highly tailored, custom-built applications. While no-code and low-code platforms promise rapid deployment and accessibility, bespoke development provides unparalleled flexibility and scalability. Businesses must evaluate factors such as cost, scalability, and long-term viability to determine the right approach.
For those unfamiliar with these classifications, no-code platforms enable users to build applications without programming knowledge, while bespoke software involves custom-built applications tailored to specific business needs. Understanding the nuances of software taxonomies is crucial for making informed decisions that align with business objectives.
TL:DR – The right software solution depends on specific business needs, balancing factors like speed, cost, scalability, and customisation. No-code works for simple applications, low-code offers more flexibility, customised off-the-shelf solutions bridge the gap, branded apps provide market-ready solutions and discoverability through the app stores, and bespoke development offers full control at a higher cost. Choosing the right approach requires careful evaluation of business goals and technical constraints.
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In recent years, the spectacle of the Super Bowl has transformed into a showcase of advertising for emerging technologies. But previous failures among these companies might cause us to reflect on whether to fall for the hype this time.
Having a Super Bowl Ad Became a Status Symbol for Companies Because of Apple in 1984
Apple's iconic "1984" commercial redefined Super Bowl advertising. Directed by Ridley Scott and aired only once, it created an entirely new standard for how brands could use the platform. Instead of a simple product showcase, Apple crafted a narrative-driven, cinematic masterpiece that transcended traditional marketing. The ad demonstrated that a Super Bowl commercial could be more than just an advertisement; it could be a cultural moment. From then on, securing a spot in the Super Bowl became not just a marketing decision but a status symbol, signaling industry dominance and financial prowess.
TL:DR
– Apple showed leadership here, and companies followed. Not all with success stories to match. Past examples, such as the FTX debacle, suggest a precarious link between hype-driven marketing and actual sustainability.
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Read more: Fashionable Super Bowl advertisers don't always last
It's 2026 and the question of whether Teams Essentials is worth paying for has become sharper, not easier to answer. Microsoft's collaboration landscape has shifted considerably since Teams Essentials launched, and the gap between the free tier and the paid plans has both widened and narrowed in different ways. This article was prompted by my own Teams Essentials subscription — and my decision to let it lapse — and explores whether the paid tier still justifies its cost against the free version and the broader Microsoft 365 plans. Whether you run a small business or work independently, the answer may surprise you.
TL;DR — Teams Essentials remains a more capable option than free Teams for small businesses that need longer meetings and more participants, but the case for paying is weaker than it once was. If you already have access to Teams through another organisation's invite, or through a personal Microsoft 365 subscription, paying separately for Essentials is very hard to justify.
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