The Apple MacBook Air (13-inch, 2017) was a significant upgrade from its predecessor, featuring a faster processor, better graphics, and a more refined design. While it has since been replaced by newer models, it remains a popular choice for many users, especially those looking for a portable and affordable laptop.
In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the features, performance, and overall user experience of the 2017 MacBook Air. We will examine its strengths and weaknesses, analyze its value proposition in the current market, and ultimately determine whether it still holds its own as a viable option for today's tech enthusiasts.
Performance: Still a Solid Performer
The 2017 MacBook Air was powered by Intel's seventh-generation Core i5 processors, offering a noticeable performance boost over the previous generation. While these processors may not be the most powerful available today, they are still capable of handling everyday tasks with ease. The 8GB of RAM was adequate for multitasking and running basic applications, while the 128GB SSD ensured quick boot times and fast application loading.
For everyday tasks like web browsing, email, and document editing, the 2017 MacBook Air performed exceptionally well. It could handle light photo editing and video streaming without any significant lag. However, demanding applications like video editing and 3D rendering might push the limits of the machine, particularly with the base model's 128GB storage.
Design: Elegant and Compact
The 2017 MacBook Air boasts a sleek and minimalist design that has become synonymous with Apple's aesthetics. It features a thin and lightweight aluminum unibody design that feels premium to the touch. The wedge-shaped profile, with its tapered edges, makes it incredibly portable, allowing you to easily slip it into a bag or backpack.
The 13.3-inch Retina display was a welcome addition to the 2017 model, offering crisp and vibrant visuals. Although the screen resolution wasn't as high as some newer laptops, it was still impressive for its size and provided an excellent viewing experience. The backlit keyboard with its familiar Apple feel was responsive and comfortable for extended typing sessions.
Battery Life: Impressive Longevity
The 2017 MacBook Air boasts a remarkably long battery life, a hallmark of Apple's laptops. The 12-hour claim of Apple's marketing was indeed accurate in real-world usage. With moderate usage, such as web browsing, email, and light productivity tasks, the laptop could easily last for an entire workday without needing to be plugged in.
This extended battery life was a major advantage for students, professionals, and travelers who rely on their laptops for extended periods without access to power outlets. The 2017 MacBook Air's ability to stay powered for hours on end made it a dependable companion for mobile work and leisure activities.
Connectivity: Limitations to Consider
While the 2017 MacBook Air was equipped with the essential ports for most users, it did have some limitations. It featured two Thunderbolt 3 ports, which offered versatile connectivity options for external displays, data transfer, and charging. However, the lack of a dedicated SD card slot could be a drawback for photographers and those who frequently work with external storage devices.
The absence of an HDMI port required users to rely on adapters for connecting to external displays, which could be inconvenient for presentations and other multimedia needs. Additionally, the 2017 MacBook Air did not include a Touch Bar, which was being introduced on other Apple laptops at the time.
Value for Money: Still a Great Deal
Considering its performance, design, and battery life, the 2017 MacBook Air offered excellent value for money, especially for its price point. While newer models have surpassed it in terms of processor power and features, the 2017 model remains a compelling option for users looking for a reliable and affordable laptop.
The 2017 MacBook Air is a great choice for students, professionals, and casual users who need a laptop for everyday tasks, light productivity, and entertainment. It delivers a balance of performance, portability, and longevity that makes it a strong contender in the budget laptop market.
Conclusion: A Worthy Choice for Budget-Conscious Buyers
The 2017 MacBook Air is a testament to Apple's commitment to creating powerful yet affordable laptops. While it has been superseded by newer models, it continues to be a compelling option for those seeking a reliable and portable laptop for everyday tasks. Its sleek design, impressive battery life, and solid performance make it a worthy choice for budget-conscious buyers who don't require the latest and greatest features.
If you're on a budget and need a laptop for general use, the 2017 MacBook Air is a great option to consider. Its performance is still capable, its design is timeless, and its battery life is impressive. However, if you need the latest features, a more powerful processor, or a larger storage capacity, you may want to explore the newer MacBook Air models.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the difference between the 2017 MacBook Air and the 2018 model?
The 2018 MacBook Air features an upgraded Intel Core i5 processor, a Retina display with True Tone technology, a Touch ID fingerprint sensor, and a new butterfly keyboard. It also comes with a larger 128GB SSD as standard.
2. Is the 2017 MacBook Air good for gaming?
The 2017 MacBook Air is not ideal for gaming, as its integrated graphics are not powerful enough to handle demanding games. You can play some casual games with lower settings, but you won't be able to run the latest AAA titles smoothly.
3. Can I upgrade the RAM and storage on the 2017 MacBook Air?
The 2017 MacBook Air has RAM and storage soldered to the motherboard, which means they cannot be upgraded.
4. Is the 2017 MacBook Air still supported by Apple?
Yes, the 2017 MacBook Air is still supported by Apple. It receives software updates and security patches regularly.
5. Is the 2017 MacBook Air worth buying in 2023?
If you are on a budget and need a laptop for everyday tasks, the 2017 MacBook Air can still be a good value. However, newer MacBook Air models offer significant performance and feature upgrades, so it's worth considering them if you can afford the higher price.