Apple MacBook Air 13" M4 vs ASUS Zenbook S 14 (2024)
The Verdict
Apple's M4 MacBook Air delivers exceptional value at $1099, pairing solid performance with an ultra-thin 0.44-inch design and remarkable 18-hour battery life. ASUS Zenbook S 14 counters with a vibrant 120Hz 3K OLED touchscreen (2880x1800), superior display tech, and Intel Core Ultra 7 processing, though battery life trails at 14 hours. Performance-wise, both handle everyday tasks seamlessly,the M4's 10-core GPU excels at graphics while Intel's efficiency cores prioritize multi-threaded workloads. Storage favors ASUS with standard 1TB versus Apple's 256GB base. Port selection splits differently: MacBook offers dual Thunderbolt with MagSafe convenience, while ASUS includes HDMI and USB-A legacy support. Build quality matches across premium aluminum construction. For creative professionals prioritizing display quality and touchscreen functionality, ASUS edges ahead. Budget-conscious users seeking longevity and portability should choose Apple. The MacBook Air's lower price, superior battery endurance, and proven ecosystem make it the stronger recommendation for most buyers.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple MacBook Air 13" M4 if…
- →M4 chip is a massive leap over M3 — handles demanding creative workflows
- →16 GB RAM standard across all configurations
- →Under 2.7 lbs — one of the lightest capable laptops available
Buy the ASUS Zenbook S 14 (2024) if…
- →Ultra-light at 1.20 kg with a premium Ceraluminum chassis
- →Vivid 3K OLED display with accurate colors
- →Intel Core Ultra 200V series delivers exceptional efficiency
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple MacBook Air 13" M4
Pros
- M4 chip is a massive leap over M3 — handles demanding creative workflows
- 16 GB RAM standard across all configurations
- Under 2.7 lbs — one of the lightest capable laptops available
- 18-hour battery life rivals the 15-inch model
- Fanless, completely silent operation
Cons
- 60Hz display — no ProMotion or high-refresh option
- 256 GB base storage requires upgrading for most users
- Only two Thunderbolt ports limits connectivity
- 13.6-inch screen feels cramped for multitasking
ASUS Zenbook S 14 (2024)
Pros
- Ultra-light at 1.20 kg with a premium Ceraluminum chassis
- Vivid 3K OLED display with accurate colors
- Intel Core Ultra 200V series delivers exceptional efficiency
- Solid all-day battery endurance
- Thoughtful design with excellent hinge mechanism
Cons
- Intel Core Ultra 200V series slower than H-class for heavy workloads
- RAM and SSD are soldered — no upgrade path
- Only one USB-A port
- Glossy OLED touch surface catches fingerprints
- No SD card reader
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple MacBook Air 13" M4 | ASUS Zenbook S 14 (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Software | macOS Sequoia | Windows 11 Home |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 2.7 lbs (1.24 kg) | 1.20 kg |
| Material | Recycled aluminum | Aluminum with Ceraluminum lid |
| Dimensions | 11.97 x 8.46 x 0.44 inches | 311.2 x 219.3 x 14.9 mm |
| Ports | ||
| HDMI | 1 | |
| USB-C ports | 2 | — |
| SD card | ||
| MagSafe | — | |
| Thunderbolt ports | 2 | 2 |
| USB-A ports | — | 1 |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 14 hours mixed use |
| Capacity | 52.6 Wh | 72 Wh |
| Display | ||
| Size | 13.6 inches | 14.0 inches |
| Type | Liquid Retina IPS | 3K OLED anti-glare touch |
| Resolution | 2560 x 1664 | 2880 x 1800 |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 120Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 500 | 550 |
| Storage | ||
| SSD | 256 GB (configurable to 2 TB) | 1 TB NVMe |
| Expandable storage | ||
| Keyboard | ||
| Backlit | ||
| Touch Bar | — | |
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 16 GB | 16 GB LPDDR5x |
| Cores | 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU | 8-core (4P+4LPE) |
| Chipset | Apple M4 | Intel Core Ultra 7 258V |
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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 ASUS products. View full details for the Apple MacBook Air 13" M4 or the ASUS Zenbook S 14 (2024).