Apple MacBook Air 13" M4 vs Lenovo Legion Pro 5i 16 (2024)

The Verdict

Apple's MacBook Air M4 and Lenovo's Legion Pro 5i target fundamentally different users. The MacBook Air excels as a ultraportable productivity machine, weighing just 2.7 lbs with an exceptional 18-hour battery life and the efficient M4 chip handling everyday tasks effortlessly. Its 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display at 500 nits is sharp and bright for content work. However, the 256GB base storage and lack of expandability feel constraining at this price point. The Legion Pro 5i is a gaming and professional workstation beast: 24-core Intel Core i9-14900HX, 32GB DDR5 RAM, and a stunning 16-inch QHD+ 240Hz display built for intensive gaming and video editing. Its 1TB expandable storage and four USB-A ports provide practical connectivity legacy devices need. The tradeoff is weight (5.49 lbs) and disappointing 5-hour gaming battery life, making it a desktop replacement rather than travel companion. At $1099, the MacBook Air delivers superior portability and battery efficiency for professionals prioritizing mobility. The Legion Pro 5i's $1599 price tag suits creators and gamers needing raw performance and screen real estate, though you're essentially paying for a desktop-class machine you'll rarely unplug. Choose the MacBook Air for daily mobility and all-day independence; pick the Legion Pro 5i if your work demands serious processing power and you don't mind tethering to power outlets.