The MacBook Air is Apple’s latest M5 model and combines a thin frame with a super-fast chip and all the other classic Apple features. It earned the top spot on our list of the best laptops available, thanks to their overall features. While we’re in awe of the latest model, the M4 MacBook Air remains a strong value pick for most people looking for a more budget-friendly upgrade. Apple recently hiked prices across a wide range of its products, with MacBook Air models increasing by up to $200.
Apple laptops don’t usually come cheap and with the price hike, spotting real savings has become even more important. That’s where CNET’s shopping team steps in. We’ve rounded up the strongest discounts and trade-in offers currently available on the MacBook Air lineup. If you’re thinking about upgrading, these deals can help you get the right MacBook Air for your needs without paying full price.
M5 MacBook Air deals
Apple launched the M5 MacBook Air on March 11 and we’re seeing some modest discounts across retailers. After the recent increase, its base price is $1,299 for a 13-inch model, and the 15-inch model starts at $1,499. We’re constantly looking for the best deal, so check back often for any updates.
The M5 MacBook Air is available in four colors: midnight, starlight, silver and sky blue.
Amazon is offering a nice $150 discount on the 24GB, 1 TB configuration in sky blue, starlight, and silver versions. All options include free shipping.
B&H is offering the M5 MacBook Air in silver color for $1,249, a $50 discount compared to Apple’s list price. It’s a decent savings and better than paying full price. B&H’s Payboo credit card* can also help you save on sales tax.
The 13-inch model starts at $1,299 and the 15-inch model starts at $1,499. Apple accepts trade-ins, which could reduce your costs. The Apple Store also offers 3% cash back when you pay with an Apple Card.
Educators and students can save when they verify their school or university affiliation through ID.me.
M5 MacBook Air at Best Buy
You won’t find any direct discounts at Best Buy right now, but you can take advantage of Best Buy’s trade-in program and shave off a chunk of the price. Best Buy determines trade-in values based on your device’s condition and model.
You will also get free Apple Music and Apple Arcade for up to three months, free Apple TV for up to one month and free Apple News for up to two months on every purchase.
M5 MacBook Air at Adorama
Like other retailers on this list, Adorama doesn’t offer any discounts. However, you can save 5% with an Adorama Edge card.
M5 MacBook Air at PC Richard
You can find the 13-inch M5 MacBook Air with 16 GB RAM and 512 GB SSD for a $100 less here.
Best M4 MacBook Air deals
M4 MacBook Air at B&H (15-inch)
B&H currently has the 15-inch M4 MacBook Air available at a discounted price of $1,149, slashing $200 off its original $1,549 price. Additionally, if you have a B&H Payboo credit card,* you may save on local sales tax by using it to purchase the laptop.
M4 MacBook Air at B&H (13-inch)
The 13-inch M4 MacBook Air with 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage is currently available at a discounted price of $1,599. You can also save on the sales tax with a Payboo credit card.
How are Apple’s price hikes affecting MacBook Air deals?
Apple is the latest in a line of tech companies to raise prices, citing component costs, a trend that’s showing no signs of slowing down. The MacBook Air saw a $200 hike due to this. While some modest discounts are available, they don’t exactly bring it back down to the older list price. That said, you can still maximize savings with trade-ins where possible or grab the older M4 models.
If you want to consider options other than the M4 and M5 MacBook Air models, check out all the latest MacBook deals. And if you’re looking for more savings on Apple products, we’ve found plenty of deals on iPhones, as well as iPads and AirPods.
*All information about the Apple Card, B&H Payboo Credit Card and Adorama Edge Credit Card has been collected independently by CNET and has not been reviewed by the issuer.
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