Apple MacBook Air 13" M2 vs LG gram 14 (2024)
The Verdict
Both laptops excel at ultraportability with excellent build quality. Apple's MacBook Air M2 delivers exceptional performance with its efficient chip, stunning 500-nit display, and seamless macOS integration, though it starts with only 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. LG's gram 14 counters with a larger 14-inch screen, superior 22-hour battery life, more generous 512GB base storage, and expandable microSD slot, plus it includes HDMI and a headphone jack for better connectivity. Processing power heavily favors the M2 for creative work, while the gram offers better everyday practicality and value. For creative professionals prioritizing performance and ecosystem, the MacBook Air edges ahead. For users wanting longer battery life, more storage, better ports, and Windows compatibility, the LG gram is the smarter choice. At identical price points, recommend the gram for versatility or MacBook Air for Mac devotees.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple MacBook Air 13" M2 if…
- →Stunning redesign with flat edges and slim 0.44-inch profile
- →MagSafe charging returns — frees up both USB-C ports
- →1080p FaceTime camera is a massive upgrade over the M1 Air
Buy the LG gram 14 (2024) if…
- →Incredibly lightweight at just 0.99 kg — one of the lightest 14-inch laptops
- →Outstanding 72 Wh battery provides all-day endurance
- →MIL-STD 810H durability testing for ruggedness
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple MacBook Air 13" M2
Pros
- Stunning redesign with flat edges and slim 0.44-inch profile
- MagSafe charging returns — frees up both USB-C ports
- 1080p FaceTime camera is a massive upgrade over the M1 Air
- Liquid Retina display is brighter and slightly larger at 13.6 inches
- Fanless M2 chip handles 4K video editing silently
Cons
- 256 GB base SSD uses single NAND chip — notably slower writes than M1 Air
- 8 GB base RAM requires a $200 upgrade for serious work
- Still limited to one external display without workarounds
- 60Hz display — no ProMotion option
- Midnight color is a fingerprint magnet
LG gram 14 (2024)
Pros
- Incredibly lightweight at just 0.99 kg — one of the lightest 14-inch laptops
- Outstanding 72 Wh battery provides all-day endurance
- MIL-STD 810H durability testing for ruggedness
- Intel Core Ultra with NPU for on-device AI tasks
- Good port selection for such a thin and light machine
Cons
- 60Hz display refresh rate feels sluggish
- 350-nit brightness is dim for outdoor use
- Build can feel slightly flexible due to lightweight materials
- Integrated Intel Arc graphics limit gaming capability
- Starting at $1299 is expensive for the specs
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple MacBook Air 13" M2 | LG gram 14 (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Software | macOS Ventura | Windows 11 Home |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 2.7 lbs (1.24 kg) | 0.99 kg |
| Material | Aluminum | Magnesium alloy |
| Dimensions | 11.97 x 8.46 x 0.44 inches | 312 x 213.9 x 16.4 mm |
| Ports | ||
| HDMI | 1 | |
| USB-C ports | 2 | — |
| SD card | — | |
| MagSafe | — | |
| Thunderbolt ports | 2 | 2 |
| USB-A ports | — | 1 |
| Microsd | — | |
| Headphone Jack | — | |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 22 hours |
| Capacity | 52.6 Wh | 72 Wh |
| Display | ||
| Size | 13.6 inches | 14 inches |
| Type | Liquid Retina IPS | IPS LCD |
| Resolution | 2560 x 1664 | 2560 x 1600 |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 60Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 500 | 350 |
| Storage | ||
| SSD | 256 GB (configurable to 2 TB) | 512 GB / 1 TB NVMe PCIe Gen 4 |
| Expandable storage | ||
| Keyboard | ||
| Backlit | ||
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 8 GB | 16 GB / 32 GB LPDDR5x |
| Cores | 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU | 16-core (6P + 8E + 2 LP-E) |
| Chipset | Apple M2 | Intel Core Ultra 7 155H |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in laptops, see all Apple products or all LG products. View full details for the Apple MacBook Air 13" M2 or the LG gram 14 (2024).