Apple MacBook Air 13" M3 vs Apple MacBook Pro 14" M4
Side-by-side comparison of viewing distance, PPI, and specifications
Apple MacBook Pro 14" M4
14.2" · 3024×1964 · Mini-LED
Optimal Viewing Distance 34cm
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| Specification | Apple MacBook Air 13" M3 2024 | Apple MacBook Pro 14" M4 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 13.6" | 14.2" (Better) |
| Resolution | 2560×1664 | 3024×1964 (Better) |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 225 | 254 (Better) |
| Optimal Viewing Distance | 39cm | 34cm (Better) |
| Panel Type | IPS | Mini-LED |
| Viewing Angle | 178° | 178° |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:10 | 16:10 |
| Refresh Rate | 60 Hz | 120 Hz (Better) |
| Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) | None | None |
| Response Time | 25 ms GTG | 3 ms GTG (Better) |
| HDR Certification | None | None |
| SDR Brightness | 500 nits | 1000 nits (Better) |
| HDR Peak Brightness | 600 nits | 1600 nits (Better) |
| Contrast Ratio | 1:1,300 | 1:1,000,000 (Better) |
| Ports | 0x HDMI · 0x DP · USB-C | 1x HDMI · 0x DP · USB-C |
| USB-C Power Delivery | 35 W | 96 W (Better) |
| Color Gamut | sRGB 100% · DCI-P3 98% · Adobe RGB 88% | sRGB 100% · DCI-P3 100% · Adobe RGB 89% (Better) |
| Year | 2024 | 2024 |
Summary
The Apple MacBook Pro 14" M4 has higher pixel density (254 PPI), making it sharper at close range.
The Apple MacBook Pro 14" M4 allows sitting closer (34cm) while maintaining retina quality.
The Apple MacBook Pro 14" M4 offers a larger 14.2" display for more immersive viewing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has better PPI: Apple MacBook Air 13" M3 or Apple MacBook Pro 14" M4?
The Apple MacBook Pro 14" M4 has 254 PPI compared to 225 PPI for the Apple MacBook Air 13" M3.
Which has a closer optimal viewing distance?
The Apple MacBook Pro 14" M4 requires 34cm vs 39cm for the Apple MacBook Air 13" M3 to reach retina quality.
Methodology & Sources
Formula: Retina distance (cm) = 3438 / PPI. Displayed values are rounded for readability.
Sources: Official manufacturer spec sheets and product pages. Specs are normalized before comparisons.
Comparison winners are calculated metric by metric (higher is better for most specs; lower is better for distance/response time).
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