MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro: Which is Better for Web Development?

Many people often ask the question of whether a MacBook Air or MacBook Pro is better for web development. While this may not be a concern for Linux or Windows users, it is still a valid question for those considering Apple laptops. It is important to note that you do not necessarily need a MacBook to learn web development, as any computer can suffice.

Currently, Apple offers two lineups of laptops: the MacBook Air and the MacBook Pro. Having personally used both, I would like to share my insights on which one I would choose.

If power and speed are the only factors to consider, then it would make sense to opt for the most powerful MacBook Pro that fits within your budget. However, portability is another key aspect to consider. For instance, will a 16" MacBook Pro fit comfortably in your backpack when you need to move around? Or suppose you want to take it with you on a backpacking trip where every gram counts. As someone who encounters these situations occasionally, I find the lighter and smaller MacBook Air to be a great choice. Every gram you can shed from your backpack contributes to a better overall experience.

To put things into perspective, the MacBook Air M2 2022 weighs 1.24 kg, while the MacBook Pro M2 13" weighs 1.4 kg and the MacBook Pro M1 14" weighs 1.6 kg. The 16" MacBook Pro, weighing at 2.1 kg, falls into a different category. I have personally owned a 2019 16" MacBook Pro, and I can attest that it is too big and heavy to be conveniently transported.

At present, I am using a MacBook Pro M1 14" as it strikes a good balance for my needs. It offers more USB ports than the MacBook Air (3 vs 2) and also includes an HDMI out (which I find useless) and an SD slot (which is important to me). However, choosing between the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro can be a challenging decision.

USB ports are crucial, especially if you frequently connect your laptop to an external display at home or in the office. However, if your display provides additional USB ports, you can utilize those instead.

Considering that the MacBook Air is cheaper (approximately half the price, depending on the specifications) and fulfills 99% of a web developer’s needs, it is a safe bet. This is particularly true if you tend to travel frequently or carry your laptop with you often.