Black Friday laptop deals are tempting, especially when eyeing a new MacBook. Many assume the latest model—currently the M5 MacBook Pro—is the best long-term investment. However, in this cycle, that’s misleading. Despite the M5 chip’s improvements, most users should still opt for the M4 MacBook Air.
The M5 MacBook Pro’s Strategic Placement
Apple’s latest M5 chip is currently exclusive to the base 14-inch MacBook Pro. This is unusual because the MacBook Air delivers nearly identical performance and battery life at a lower price point. This positioning suggests Apple may be intentionally boosting sales of an otherwise overlooked model. While speculation, it’s a plausible strategy given the Air’s popularity and lower cost.
Why the MacBook Air Wins for Most Buyers
The MacBook Air remains the optimal choice for the majority of consumers. At $749 (on sale), it offers unmatched value. The 15-inch model at $949 provides a larger screen and enhanced speakers without sacrificing quality. Upgrading to the M5 MacBook Pro for marginal performance gains is not worth the extra $200.
The Pro Model’s Niche Appeal
The M5 MacBook Pro isn’t a bad laptop. It has a brighter display and more ports, but these are quality-of-life improvements, not performance boosts. Creative professionals needing the M4 Pro or Max chips for demanding workflows are the true target audience. For the average user, these differences don’t justify the price premium. The M4 Pro MacBook Pro offers a more significant performance leap for $250 less than the M5.
External Display Support and the Diminishing Pro Advantage
The M4 MacBook Air’s improved external display support (now handling up to two 4K monitors) further reduces the need for the M5 MacBook Pro. For those who previously required extra ports or display capabilities, the Air now provides sufficient functionality.
The “Pro” branding is deceptive. The MacBook Air delivers the best value and performance for most buyers, making it the smartest choice this Black Friday.
Don’t let marketing influence your decision. The MacBook Air continues to be the most sensible option for the vast majority of consumers.
