Base model has 16GB RAM (finally?!). Can run three displays (finally?!).
Personally I feel like it’s the game changer the base M4 Mac Mini was.
Cheaper again at AOC here.
MacBook Air 13.6" M4 (10c CPU, 8c GPU, 256GB SSD, 16GB RAM) $1549 Shipped + $299 AirPods/Pro Credit @ Apple EDU Store
2630
Bigfellaborham on 06/03/2025 - 10:09 apple.com (9871 clicks)
Last edited 15/03/2025 - 13:24 by 3 other users
Last edited 15/03/2025 - 13:24 by 3 other users
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Unfortunately you are too far down the genetic pool compared to world standards of beauty, height and physical strength. You will need an Asus ROG Strix G17 Laptop with a 17.2" screen sitting at a Cafe with a random stock market chart in full view. You will also need a BMW 318i parked in view which you will need to remotely lock and unlock periodically from your Cafe table.
You are basically a God. Thank you. Do you happen to have authored a motivational book that I can purchase? I care not the price! Whatever it is, I must have it! Heading to BMW dealership now.
Yes.
Yes, and they will sexually assault you if you're wearing an Apple Vision Pro.
it doesn't have the glowing Apple logo of old, which drew women like moths to a flame.
Stack with apple gift cards promo @ Woolies.
I wanna do this too but the other OzB thread has me spooked. Multiple people have said that the newer “version 2” cards are still being tampered with and they need to go through Apple to try and fix and follow up.
HCF have 5% off apple. Not 10 but no risk of dodgy cards.
Macquarie Bank used to have 5 or 6% off but they removed this completely last year after September.
Does anyone know of any other banks or institutions offering discounts on Apple gift cards?
I have bought a 20-500 variable gift card on the cashier. No way the card is tampered, right?
Do you mean from behind the service desk? Then the likelihood is much lower.
Only one way to find out is to rip it open and try and redeem.
Great price for a great machine, can easily cruise through 6 years of high school and into a couple years of uni if you look after it.
Yep.
So an a windows laptop.lol
🤡
They upgraded all the M2 and M3 Air's to 16GB RAM late last year - but M4 definitely a step up now
See if you can get a 24GB M2/M3 Air.
Cheaper again at AOC here.
Except you haven't linked to the AOC store. You linked to Education Store Home which is not the same. AOC is cheaper.
can you use gift cards at AOC?
Yes. But you don't get the free/discounted airpods at AOC.
just load the gcards onto your apple account balance - as mentioned countless times in other threads - and pay using ACC balance at checkout
unless you want the AirPods 4 for $75 (pro for 175) more on the education site.
can you actually buy it through this link? can't seem to find a buy now button.
There's an overlay at the top "add to bag" which sometimes hides itself. Interacting with the page and then waiting a moment should bring it back. If not, try whitelisting the page in your ad blocker.
Bugger, just convinced a family member to finally upgrade their MacBook Air 2012 to a 16GB M2 Air a couple of weeks ago for $100 less, thought these would be more expensive for 16GB. Guess it doesn't matter if the M2 lasts them another 12 years
Should have bought from Costco
Wanted the airpods too
If you bought from Apple they do have a change of mind return policy within 14 days. Sounds like you might be out of that window anyway.
didnt someone say above you can return it within a month with apple for free?
Extended returns are over christmas/new year for gifts etc
mistake was buying an m2 chipped anything when the m5 chip is due to come out this year …
They honestly couldn't wait any longer, that thing was on its last legs. Could you imagine using a 2012 i5 with 4GB of DDR3 as your daily driver?!
dayum what a relic ! Indeed some unique circumstances can't be helped, but if it was purchased within the last 2 weeks, they may allow a return (maybe even within 30 days) if you ask them nicely, and quote this unfortunate timing of the m4 MB Air
@omahgah: Yeah have already told them to give it a crack, but given they were complacent enough to keep their old machine for so long I don't think they'll care enough :P
In future check macrumors buying guide. When I checked a few weeks ago it said "don't buy, refresh coming soon".
Thanks for the heads up, but without knowing what the refresh price was going to be I needed to convince this family member in person while I was visiting, they're a hard nut to crack. They already declined my suggestion of asking for the upgraded model from Apple
I always thought the air was generally supposed to be cheaper than the pro but this is more expensive
Hahaha oh god, sorry I just woke up and had a complete brain fart. Read it as 2,400 for the air. Thank you
Good hardware but how easy is it for someone using Windows to switch to MacOS?
i was holding out for so long (more than 20 years) due to muscle memory with Windows, and believe that I was still a gamer, but after using mac for about 1 year on a work device and realising im no longer a gamer, i've converted :(
Get ready to pay for dongles and software but better performance and battery.
It can take a bit of getting used to - biggest differences I faced are:
- Apps aren't "closed" when you hit the x button like in Windows, they are still open in the background (indicated in the dock). You can decide whether you want to quit them completely on a Mac. Maybe it doesn't matter. But it seems like a different paradigm to me.
- Switching my muscle memory to use CMD instead of Ctrl for shortcutsI'd imagine most would get used to it after a few months of use, depending on how long it takes them to learn.
I can't speak to the gaming experience. If you mainly use browser based apps then it isn't too different.
Do they have window snapping yet? I helped set one up a while back and installed some extra software to make it functional.
I believe the latest OS update has improved window snapping, but I personally use 3rd party free apps.
It isn't 'easy', it's a bit of a pain… (but worth it?), because it isn't really intuitive, it's 'apple intuitive'. Examples:
- Closing windows - clicking on the "X" (it's not even an 'X') doesn't actually close program.
- Maximising windows - It maximises the window, but they go into full-screen mode, ON A NEW DESKTOP rather than the one you're already in.
- The convenience or concept of 'Windows snap' - doesn't exist. It's either max full screen on a new desktop, or arduous fiddling around to get it just right.
- Gotta get used to the new copy/paste keyboard shortcut.
- File structure is weird as F. Where are your 'documents' / 'downloads' / 'music' / 'videos' folder etc. Where are your programs getting 'installed' if that's even a thing with Macs. Eventually you just give up trying to sort your files, and have everything on the Desktop.
Eventually you just give up trying to sort your files, and have everything on the Desktop.
So, just like the majority of Windows users then? I've been supporting Windows and Mac users for over 20 years and this isn't a uniquely Mac thing… majority of data gets put on the Desktop or left in Downloads and then they wonder why they run out of storage space.
yes correct. But the difference is that it that it is 'easy' to sort out your files in Windows, whereas with MacOS…
@smartProverble: That's why Apple call it 'Finder'.
The file search ability is incredible and instant view file with space bar. I can never go back to Windoze
what i did in 2015 is install windows on my working macbook air 13 back than, now i want to know if there is anyway to have a working version of windows on the m4 air, if its a viable solution without headache that works as it should ill buy apple, there is nothing that comes close in terms of hardware and quality from windows at this price, but i just cant deal with the mac OS, iphone is fine ipad is fine apple watch is fine, airpods are fine, i got all those and i love the software, but apple mac os i just cant..
Closing windows with 'x' (the red button - an 'x' appears on mouse hover) is inconsistent, yeah. It depends on the app and is something that annoys me. I tend to just Command + Q anyway.
There is now a 'snap' option that lets you make windows nearly full-screen without making a new desktop. It's not as flexible as Windows but it's something. Like Windows, power users will likely have apps for that functionality anyway.
Don't get the file structure comment. There are music/photos/movies/documents folders by default, just like on Windows. It's up to users to put things in them if they want.
Copy/paste moves from control + c/v to command + c/v. Not really a huge adjustment but sure, will mess with some people's muscle memory.
Been using Mac for many years for work, and Windows for personal use. Personal takeaway is it's missing heaps of features that come default with Windows, but there are open source utilities to make up for it. E.g. Rectangle for Microsoft-like window snapping, BetterDisplay for proper monitor resolution scaling, DockDoor for menu bar application previews, Maccy for clipboard history. Honestly I find the base OS is missing a lot of features.
Also almost all keyboard shortcuts are different. I find Windows in general has more quality of life features, but Mac has better hardware. If you're doing software development or video editing or the like, Mac is a great choice.
if you're mostly using the Office suite, it's much better on Windows.Also as the other user said, Macs version of Windows Explorer is TERRIBLE. And so too is their version of Task Manager
Windows Explorer is way better than finder for sure, just something about the 2-pane Tree/Contents view that … um… Just. Works.
That said, latest Mac OS has window snapping and Mac has something that i wish windows had - the ability to have multiple virtual screens, and swipe between them easily.
If it helps any new mac user, my quality of life recommendation is for 2 specific settings. 3 finger drag, multi screen.
Here is how you do it:
- Ignore trackpad gestures (for now)
- Set trackpad dragging to 3 fingers (in Settings -> Accessibility -> Pointer control)
(this will make dragging things with the mouse really nice, using 3 fingers. And all the 3-Finger trackpad gestures now become 4 finger gestures) - In Settings -> Trackpad -> More Gestures, set 'Swipe between full screen applications' to Swipe Left or Right with Four Fingers
- Still in Trackpad-More Gestures, set Mission Control to Swipe Up with Four Fingers
- Now swipe up to make Mission Control appear, go to the top right where the + is, and add one or 2 more 'screens'. Each one of those screens can have its own background, or set of backgrounds. You can swipe between them with 4 fingers.
A note regarding window snapping: Holding an application window on the edge of screen will allow you to move it to another screen. But with that, snapping windows on the edges (new feature) is annoying because MacOS will think you're trying to drag that window to the next screen. You'll need to hold [Option] key to make MacOS stay on that screen, so you can snap the window into that corner or on to that edge. Otherwise if you want to move a window across screens, just let it jump to the next screen.
From here play around and see what works for you. I'm sloppy with my trackpad usage and often accidentally do stuff i don't want, so I keep most extra gesture type features disabled.
The virtual screens are a Godsend.
I use windows for personal use/gaming.
I use Mac for work.
I've used Windows for work as well in the past.
Generally speaking if you're even partly savvy with using any type of tech, you'll just pick it up over time and both OS's will just be 'natural' to use for you.
Occasionally I try to smash alt (instead of ctrl) for things in Windows, because I'm using to the CMD location (i probably work more on my mac laptop than I use my personal PC), but other than that I'm comfortable and confident in both.
As others have said Windows File Explorer is way better than Finder.
Finder just really grates me. And Apple really tries to hide where system files live though 99% of the time you don't need to care about this.
If I had to pick one OS forever, it'd probably still be Windows, JUST for the gaming element. If I never gamed anymore/never planned to ever again, I'd go for a Mac. Generally speaking, as they say, 'it just works' (there's always exceptions, but you certainly feel less like you need to know exactly what Windows is doing, why something is lagging or what processes are running). For a pickup and use device, Mac feels just easier to use (again, once you get used to the interface and the differences in the minimise, maximise and close functions etc)
silly question - do i need a edu email to checkout and complete purchase?
No
Knew this would hit top in OzB. RIP to all the people who said the 13" M3 16 GB was a great price at $1500 or the 15" at $1800.
What is the point of the education store if you don't have to prove you're a student?
Imagine getting negged for this comment without a reply. Standard fanboy behaviour. Keep riding it you knob jockeys.
just ozbargain for u mate ! not an environment to question things haha
also completely agree about the student verification part -they might as well just make the student price the base price smh
I think they do it to milk the extra 10% or so from suckers who want to pay more for the same product
most ppl dont know this
Don't you know? It's discrimination to have to prove your identity. Just take our word for it.
They removed the ID check for all them who 'identify as a student'
It's their marketing strategy. They don't want to discount their products for no reason, so they allow discounts on certain products under the banner of education.
They choose not to verify student status to stay price competitive and be more accessible. At the end of the day, consumers either buy an Apple product or a competing product, selling at a discount while increasing market footprint is better than no sale at all.
Also, their education discount is usually a modest 10%-15%, nothing crazy, the sort of discount you can occasionally get from authorised retailers anyway. Last year with M3 launch they included a $240 Apple gift card, but that doesn't happen all the time.
If they wanted, they can easily add a verification step like they do with Apple Music to check eligibility, but they haven't. So it's clearly a marketing decision.
fyi edu store isn’t only for students
Don't forget 2% TopCashback and 20x Reward Points bringing it down to ~$1367.00.
Wonder if will be cashback increase in next few days
Nope, unfortunately cashback is ineligible for all partners on the MacBook Air M4. Won't track at all.
Mr Tight. What about a standard 5 - 7% cashback this week for other items like the Mac Mini which is now removed from the 'new' status on Apples website? To take advantage of the WW 20x Rewards. Any hints?
looks like the MBA m4 should still track - @tonester, u reckon they will have any 4-8% cashback promo anytime soon ?
Reward points: yes
Top cashback: noAnother commenter said 1.3% cash back is eligible from Cashrewards
You've likely not seen the affiliate bulletin from Apple. I have :)
can u share where u saw the terms and conditions for this ?
Any hints on any upcoming Apple cashback on Topcashback?
still 60hz screen? lol
Is there any reason to buy an M4 Macbook Pro over an M4 Macbook Air that makes it worth the price difference?
Not really. The Air has always been their best-selling line for Macbooks for a reason. But if anything, thermal throttling is why people would choose the Pro over the Air. You get real-er performance with the Pro than with the Air.
Better screen, better speakers, more ports. Down side heavier and bigger
Also the Pro lasts 2-3 hours longer per charge, due to bigger battery.
The Pro has at least one cooling fan, two if you buy a Max processor. That gives a lot more performance, particularly if used closed with external monitors, because you are less thermally limited.
I doubt the differences between Thunderbolt 4 and 5 are compelling.
I bought a Pro Max. Also, I wanted an HDMI port; I have a lot of HDMI gear.
re Thunderbolt 4 vs 5 — Perplexity has this to say temp link
Your suspicion is correct that Thunderbolt 5 can enable external drives to approach the speeds of internal SSDs. Thunderbolt 5's increased bandwidth allows for faster data transfer rates that are comparable to those of internal NVMe SSDs. However, internal SSDs generally have lower latency and higher IOPS (Input/Output Operations Per Second), which can be advantageous for applications requiring rapid transaction speeds
I care about the pro-motion screen. I can never come back.
I'm using a MBP 13 inch, early 2015, 2.9 GHz Dual-Core Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM since 2016. It has been a reliable laptop I've used for more than 8 yrs, except of course battery is not great and couldn't be bothered to get it replaced.
Thinking now to go with MBA as it is lighter, but upgrade the specs and hope it will last me alod 8 yrs or more! will I be disappointed with MBA M4, 10 core CPU, 10 core GPU, 24GB unified memory?
will I be disappointed with MBA M4, 10 core CPU, 10 core GPU, 24GB unified memory?
no
Why would you be? It'll last the 8+ years you're looking for if you take good care of it as you have with your current one.
will I be disappointed with MBA M4, 10 core CPU, 10 core GPU, 24GB unified memory?
no lol
insane upgrade
I have the identical model 2015 Mac still in use in our home (as well as a base M1). With the M4 with 24GB, I expect the difference to be night and day.
I'm typing this on a MBP 13 inch mid 2017, 2.3 GHz Dual-Core Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM bought and used since mid 2017. Mine has not skipped a beat! Had the battery replaced in 2021 and will probably replace it this year unless I decide to upgrade. This is tempting as I had a MBA prior to this one and am going O/S at the end of the month, decisions decisions.
Dont think anyone can beat me, typing now on my 2012 macbook pro now, still with every original part include this slooooow hdd too, really want to upgrade but cant decide just with Air or pay lot more for Pro, need big screen too, but pro 16 price is just crazy
I'm still using a 2008 MBP 15 inch with 6GB DDR2 and 256GB SSD running Sequoia via OCLP. It runs as well as you'd expect it to!
@RX7: That. Is. Amazing.
Never heard of OCLP til now.
@RX7 We have an Early 2008 iMac — an Apple refurb with surprise CTO upgrades to RAM, HDD, CPU and GPU we didn't pay for. In 2014 we added an SSD and went Fusion Drive.
In your opinion/experience, is it worth using OCLP to run a later OS on a 17yo Mac?
Trying to work out what we gain (functionality?), what we lose (even slower? less secure?). Cheers.
Never heard of OCLP til now
thanks for sharing :)
To this day, Apple still sells Mac with only 8 GB of RAM. However, macOS can hardly run well with only that much.
When the RAM isn’t enough, the OS uses some of the device’s storage as an “auxiliary” RAM. This process, called “memory paging”, reduces performance: regular RAM is much faster than storage. But it’s better to have a computer that runs a bit slower than a computer that crashes, right?
Current Mac models have extremely fast storage. Therefore, the performance reduction caused by paging, while not negligible, is much less drastic than it would be otherwise. Older Macs, however, have slower storage.
A present-day base-model Mac, with 8 GB of RAM, relies heavily on paging.
Obviously. It's why you pay the premium.