# The Optimal Moment to Purchase a MacBook: An In-Depth Guide
In the era of Apple Silicon, MacBooks have become more budget-friendly than ever, with new models available for as little as $599. With potential global tariffs on the horizon, these remarkable offers may soon become scarce. If you’re considering acquiring a new MacBook, this might be one of the most advantageous times to buy.
Apple’s forthcoming macOS 26 update is set to discontinue support for nearly all Intel Macs, with a few exceptions. If you wish to remain on the cutting edge of Apple software, now is an opportune time to upgrade.
## M1 MacBook Air
Apple has rolled out four MacBook Airs since the advent of Apple Silicon, showcasing the M1, M2, M3, and M4 chips. The M1 MacBook Air still sports a classic wedge design from the Intel generation, which many users may find appealing.
Despite being four years old, the M1 MacBook Air continues to be a fantastic laptop for its price. It delivers quick performance courtesy of the M1 chip, a beautiful Retina display (although with bulkier bezels compared to newer models), a superb keyboard, and up to 18 hours of battery life. It operates silently, making it ideal for use in public spaces.
The M1 MacBook Air is also the most economical option on this list. However, locating new models with over 256GB of storage may be challenging, so if more space is essential, you might want to look into a newer Air. Significantly, it remains the sole Apple Silicon MacBook offered in a true Gold color.
You can find the M1 MacBook Air for as low as $599 at Walmart in all three colors: Silver, Space Gray, and Gold. This pricing is valid through August 30th, so act fast!
– **13-inch MacBook Air (M1) with 256GB of storage, 8GB of memory:** $599 at Walmart
## M3 MacBook Air
In 2022, Apple unveiled a redesigned MacBook Air featuring a sleeker design, a larger display with narrower bezels, and the return of MagSafe. It launched in new Starlight and Midnight colors, as well as Silver and Space Gray, although Gold was discontinued. This new design debuted with the M2 chip and has carried over to the M3 models.
M2 MacBook Airs have largely sold out, and the same is progressively happening with M3 models, although some remain available, particularly the 15-inch MacBook Air.
– **15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory:** $1199 at Amazon ($500 off!)
Certain deals necessitate clipping an on-page coupon, but many of the top bargains are found on higher trims, enabling you to secure better specifications at a more reasonable price.
## M4 MacBook Air
In March, Apple introduced an updated MacBook Air powered by the M4 chip. This model closely resembles the previous iteration but includes a new Center Stage webcam and a fresh Sky Blue color replacing Space Gray.
Currently, you can enjoy a $200 discount across the board on the latest MacBook Air models. Apple is reportedly developing a new entry-level MacBook featuring an A18 Pro chip set to release in the coming year, but at these prices, the MacBook Air stands out as a reliable selection without compromises.
– **13-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory:** $799 at Amazon
– **13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory:** $999 at Amazon
– **13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory:** $1199 at Amazon
– **15-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory:** $999 at Amazon
– **15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory:** $1199 at Amazon
– **15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory:** $1399 at Amazon
Even though it is the newest model, there are already some fantastic discounts on the M4 MacBook Air, attributed to its lower starting price.
## M4 MacBook Pro
In 2021, Apple revamped the MacBook Pro, featuring a miniLED display with ProMotion, additional ports (like an HDMI port and an SD card reader), larger batteries, and enhanced thermals. It also offers a 1080p webcam for the first time.
Although the MacBook Pro isn’t as budget-friendly as the MacBook Airs, attractive deals can still be found. All models listed below are equipped with M4 and M4 Pro chips, delivering the latest performance and features.
– **14-inch MacBook Pro with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory:** $1299 at Amazon ($300 off!)
