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Choosing the Best MacBook Air: M2 (2022) Vs Intel i5 (2020)

If you're considering buying a MacBook Air in Ireland, you'll likely find two of the most highly desired models: the MacBook Air 2022 with the Apple M2 chip and the MacBook Air 2020 with the Intel i5. Both are highly rated laptops, but they both have different uses. We have both models here at Fone4U.ie in excellent condition, so let's get to the specifics to help you make the right choice.

 

 
Apple MacBook Air 2022 M2 in Ireland

MacBook Air 2022 (M2)

⬤ ⬤ ⬤ ⬤ ⬤ 4.8

Bottom Line

MacBook Air 2022 M2 chip has lightning speed, excellent battery life, and a cutting-edge new design, perfect for professionals and students.

€729.99 Buy Now
VS
Apple MacBook Air 2020 Intel i5 in Ireland

MacBook Air 2020 (Intel i5)

⬤ ⬤ ⬤ ⬤ 4.2

Bottom Line

The MacBook Air 2020 Intel i5 is a budget-friendly option that offers reliable performance and classic design, perfect for everyday use and students.

€474.99 Buy Now
 

1. Performance: Apple M2 versus Intel i5

Feature MacBook Air 2022 (M2) MacBook Air 2020 (Intel i5)
Processor Apple M2, 8-core Intel Core i5, quad-core
Clock Speed Up to 3.5 GHz Up to 3.2 GHz
Performance Boost ~35% faster overall Standard, less efficient
Graphics Integrated 8-core GPU Intel Iris Plus Graphics

 

The M2 chip is specially made by Apple, offering a better speed and efficiency than the old Intel i5. It is simple to multitask, use creative apps, and even trim light tasks in videos. The Intel i5 is fine too, but it cannot compete with Apple's new chip in sheer speed and graphics processing.

 

 

 

2. Battery Life

Feature MacBook Air 2022 (M2) MacBook Air 2020 (Intel i5)
Battery Capacity 52.6 Wh 49.9 Wh
Average Time of Use 15–18 hours 9–11 hours
Charging MagSafe 3 + USB-C USB-C only

 

The M2 MacBook Air, thanks to the power-saving technology, provides almost a day's battery life in a single charge and is best suited for students, professionals, and travelers. The Intel i5 model is also good but falls behind, especially with excessive use.

 

 

 

3. Display & Design

Feature MacBook Air 2022 (M2) MacBook Air 2020 (Intel i5)
Screen Size 13.6-inch 13.3-inch
Resolution 2560 x 1664 2560 x 1600
Brightness 500 nits 400 nits
Weight 1.24 kg 1.29 kg
Colours Available Silver, Space Grey, Midnight Silver, Space Grey, Gold

 

Apple recently redesigned the 2022 M2 MacBook Air to be a bit larger and brighter with a screen. The lower bezels make it look more modern, and the introduction of the new Midnight color gives it an even more premium look. The Intel i5 variant carries on the classic wedge-form design of the MacBook Air, thin but slightly passé.

 

 

 

4. Future-Proofing & Software Support

Feature MacBook Air 2022 (M2) MacBook Air 2020 (Intel i5)
macOS Updates Supported for years to come Phased support out over time
Apple Intelligence Fully compatible Limited availability
Resale Value High Moderate

 

Keeping in mind the fact that Apple is going all out with its own silicon, the M2 MacBook Air is future-proof with assured support for future macOS updates and features such as Apple Intelligence (AI). The Intel i5 variant will function fine but will experience diminishing software support in the coming years.

 

 

5. Price Comparison in Ireland

Model Storage Option Price (Fone4U.ie)
MacBook Air 2022 (M2) 256 GB €729.99
MacBook Air 2022 (M2) 512 GB €774.99
MacBook Air 2020 (Intel i5) 512 GB €474.99

 

Final Verdict: Which to Buy

Purchase the MacBook Air 2022 (M2) if you want a fast, efficient, future-proof laptop that is best suited for work, education, or creative use.

Purchase the MacBook Air 2020 (Intel i5) if you want an affordable Mac experience and mainly want it for general use, surfing, and streaming.

 

Why Buy from Fone4U in Ireland?

 

At Fone4U.ie, we offer both available options refurbished to good condition, a 12-month warranty, and many colors to match you. Whether you wish to upgrade to the M2 monster or have to save on the Intel i5, a buy at Fone4U assures quality, warranty, and excellent local service.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Although the Intel i5 version is cheaper, the M2 version has more rapid performance, longer battery life, and more long-lasting software updates, so it's the better long-term buy.

Certainly. The 2020 Intel i5 MacBook Air still runs just fine with everyday apps like Microsoft Office, Zoom, and streaming services with no issues. But heavier creative work is better suited to the M2 model.

The MacBook Air 2022 (M2) delivers 15–18 hours using Apple's efficient silicon chip, while the Intel i5 version typically lasts around 9–11 hours with typical use.

Yes, both are supported in full at present. Apple has, though, said that Intel Macs will only get short-term support, while the M2 will get updates for many more years, including Apple Intelligence features.

Fone4U.ie is an Irish online store that you can safely shop with, and you can get great-condition refurbished MacBooks complete with a 12-month warranty, the best prices, and local delivery—meaning that you shop safe.