After years with a 2017 MacBook Pro 13-inch running an Intel chipset, performance had become unreliable during intensive tasks. The switch to Apple silicon promised superior power, making the MacBook Air M5 an ideal upgrade. Reviews highlighted its capabilities, confirming a major leap forward.
Final specs included 24GB RAM and 1TB SSD storage, future-proofing against growing software needs and resolving chronic space shortages from large music production files. This configuration costs $1,499 / £1,499 / AU$2,399, significantly more than the base model’s $1,099 / £1,099 / AU$1,799, but the M5 chip delivers unmatched power.
Unboxing and Setup
The sky blue MacBook Air M5 arrives in premium packaging, its metallic finish subtle yet distinctive. Setup proves seamless: connect to Wi-Fi, launch Migration Assistant, and transfer apps and files from the old machine in just 90 minutes.
Everyday Speed and Responsiveness
Boot time clocks in at 30 seconds, including password entry. Apps like Safari and Apple Music launch in under a second, outpacing reaction times. Multitasking with dozens of Chrome tabs across multiple windows runs smoothly, eliminating lag that plagued the previous Intel model.
Creative and Professional Workloads
Photoshop launches in 10 seconds, down from a full minute, and handles high-res artwork with over 20 layers without delay. macOS Image Playground generates high-res images in less than five seconds.
Music production sees the biggest gains. Previously, tracks with a third of channels mixed hit 120% CPU usage and double the 8GB RAM limit. Now, full MIDI channels and effects run at 60% CPU and 130% of 24GB RAM, preventing overloads and enabling real-time polishing.
Storage Relief and Overall Value
The 1TB SSD ends years of file management hassles, while the base 512GB option already eases pressure. Less than 24 hours in, the MacBook Air M5 impresses with its speed and efficiency, fueling creative workflows with no regrets on the investment.
