Apple MacBook Air 15" M4 vs Framework Laptop 16
Side-by-side comparison of viewing distance, PPI, and specifications
| Specification | Apple MacBook Air 15" M4 2025 | Framework Laptop 16 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 15.3" | 16" (Better) |
| Resolution | 2880×1864 (Better) | 2560×1600 |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 224 (Better) | 189 |
| Optimal Viewing Distance | 39cm (Better) | 46cm |
| Panel Type | IPS | IPS |
| Viewing Angle | 178° | 178° |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:10 | 16:10 |
| Refresh Rate | 60 Hz | 165 Hz (Better) |
| Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) | None | FreeSync |
| Response Time | 20 ms GTG | 9 ms GTG (Better) |
| HDR Certification | None | None |
| SDR Brightness | 500 nits | 500 nits |
| HDR Peak Brightness | 600 nits | 600 nits |
| Contrast Ratio | 1:1,600 (Better) | 1:1,500 |
| Ports | 0x HDMI · 0x DP · USB-C | 0x HDMI · 0x DP · USB-C |
| USB-C Power Delivery | 70 W | 180 W (Better) |
| Color Gamut | sRGB 100% · DCI-P3 99% · Adobe RGB 88% (Better) | sRGB 100% · DCI-P3 97% · Adobe RGB 86% |
| Year | 2025 (Better) | 2024 |
Summary
The Apple MacBook Air 15" M4 has higher pixel density (224 PPI), making it sharper at close range.
The Apple MacBook Air 15" M4 allows sitting closer (39cm) while maintaining retina quality.
The Framework Laptop 16 offers a larger 16" display for more immersive viewing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has better PPI: Apple MacBook Air 15" M4 or Framework Laptop 16?
The Apple MacBook Air 15" M4 has 224 PPI compared to 189 PPI for the Framework Laptop 16.
Which has a closer optimal viewing distance?
The Apple MacBook Air 15" M4 requires 39cm vs 46cm for the Framework Laptop 16 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).
Last updated:
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