iToverDose/Hardware· 25 MAY 2026 · 15:33

MacBook Air M5 drops to $899 for Memorial Day — here's why it's worth it

Apple’s latest MacBook Air M5 models are now discounted for Memorial Day, delivering premium performance and a stunning display at record-low prices. Discover if this is the right upgrade for your workflow.

Tom's Hardware3 min read0 Comments

Apple’s 2024 MacBook Air lineup, featuring the new M5 chip and 16GB of unified memory, has dropped to historic lows this Memorial Day weekend. Shoppers can now grab the 13-inch model for just $899 or the 15-inch version for $1,099, marking some of the steepest discounts Apple has ever offered on its flagship consumer laptops.

These reductions arrive as part of a broader seasonal sale that underscores the MacBook Air’s reputation as a top-tier choice for everyday computing. Whether you're a student, professional, or casual user, the latest Air delivers a compelling blend of portability, power, and premium features—all at a price that’s hard to ignore.

What the new MacBook Air M5 brings to the table

Apple’s transition to the M5 chip represents a significant leap forward for its ultra-thin notebooks. Built on a 3-nanometer process, the M5 delivers up to 30% faster CPU performance than its M-series predecessors while maintaining the same energy efficiency that has long defined the Air series. Paired with 16GB of unified memory, the new chip ensures smooth multitasking, whether you're juggling dozens of browser tabs, editing photos, or running lightweight creative apps.

The performance gains are particularly noticeable in CPU-bound tasks. Early benchmarks shared by tech reviewers at Tom’s Hardware indicate that the M5-powered MacBook Air can handle complex spreadsheets, 4K video playback, and even light video editing with ease. For users who rely on productivity tools like Microsoft Excel, Google Docs, or Adobe Lightroom, the upgrade translates to noticeably quicker load times and more responsive interactions.

Beyond raw power, the MacBook Air M5 retains the design language that made its predecessors so popular. The iconic wedge-shaped aluminum chassis remains unchanged, offering a sturdy yet lightweight build that tips the scales at just 2.7 pounds for the 13-inch model and 3.5 pounds for the 15-inch variant. The 13.6-inch and 15.6-inch Liquid Retina displays continue to impress with their 500 nits of brightness, P3 wide color gamut, and True Tone technology, ensuring vibrant visuals whether you're streaming content or working in bright environments.

Battery life and connectivity: what’s changed?

Apple hasn’t tinkered with the MacBook Air’s legendary battery life, and for good reason. The M5 configuration delivers up to 18 hours of video playback on a single charge—unchanged from the M2 generation. This endurance makes the Air an ideal companion for long flights, all-day work sessions, or even extended outdoor use without the need to hunt for a power outlet.

Connectivity remains a strong suit, though Apple’s decision to stick with two USB-C ports (now Thunderbolt 3 with USB4 support) might leave some power users wanting more. The MagSafe 3 charging port returns, offering a safer way to plug in accessories without risking damage to the laptop. Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 ensure fast, stable wireless connections, while the inclusion of a 1080p FaceTime HD camera and a studio-quality three-mic array addresses longstanding critiques about webcam quality in professional settings.

Is the Memorial Day MacBook Air deal worth it?

For most users, the answer is a resounding yes—especially at these prices. The MacBook Air M5 delivers a level of polish and performance that few Windows ultrabooks can match, all while running macOS Sequoia with its new AI-powered features. The 16GB memory configuration is now the standard across the lineup, a shift from previous generations that often started with 8GB in base models.

That said, there are a few caveats to consider. The two-port design may feel limiting for users who rely on multiple peripherals, and the lack of a high-refresh-rate display means gamers or power users pushing the machine to its limits might want to look elsewhere. Additionally, while the M5 is a significant upgrade, the performance gap between it and Apple’s higher-end M3 Pro chip in the 14-inch MacBook Pro is still noticeable for intensive workloads.

If your needs are primarily centered around productivity, media consumption, or light creative work, the MacBook Air M5’s Memorial Day pricing makes it an unbeatable value. With discounts bringing the 13-inch model down to $899 and the 15-inch to $1,099, now is the time to upgrade—before Apple’s seasonal promotions fade and inventory dwindles.

As summer approaches, the MacBook Air M5 stands out not just for its affordability, but for the confidence that comes with owning a machine built by Apple. Whether you're replacing an aging laptop or making your first foray into the Mac ecosystem, this deal offers a rare opportunity to experience premium computing without the premium price.

AI summary

Apple’ın en yeni M5 çipiyle güçlendirdiği MacBook Air serisi Memorial Day indirimleriyle 13 ve 15 inç modellerinde önemli fiyat avantajları sunuyor. Detaylar burada.

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