Apple MacBook Air 13" M3 vs LG gram 14 (2024)

The Verdict

Both laptops excel at ultraportability and productivity, but serve different priorities. Apple's MacBook Air M3 delivers exceptional efficiency with its 1.24 kg weight, stunning 500-nit Liquid Retina display, and legendary battery life claimed at 18 hours. The M3 chipset handles everyday tasks flawlessly, though the 8GB base RAM and 256GB storage feel restrictive at this $1099 price point. LG's gram 14 counters with a featherweight 0.99 kg magnesium chassis, larger 14-inch screen, and superior connectivity: USB-A, HDMI, microSD slot, and headphone jack. It offers 16GB RAM and 512GB storage standard, plus expandable options up to 32GB and 1TB, all for $200 more. The gram's 22-hour battery claim edges Apple's rating, though real-world performance varies. Display brightness favors the MacBook (500 vs 350 nits). The M3 wins for ecosystem integration and raw performance per watt, while the gram prioritizes flexibility, ports, and expandability. Choose the MacBook if you value streamlined simplicity and macOS; pick the LG if you need Windows compatibility, legacy ports, and future upgradability.