The battery life of the MacBook Air M4 and the MacBook Pro M4 differs significantly due to their battery capacities and design considerations. The MacBook Air M4, available in 13- and 15-inch sizes, offers up to 18 hours of battery life for Apple TV app movie playback, with a smaller battery capacity compared to the Pro models[2][4]. Specifically, the 13-inch MacBook Air M4 has a 52.6-watt-hour battery, while the larger 15-inch model has a 66.5-watt-hour battery[1][11].
In contrast, the MacBook Pro M4 models, particularly the 14-inch version, have a larger 72.4-watt-hour battery, which provides longer battery life. The MacBook Pro M4 can last up to 24 hours for video streaming and around 16 hours for wireless web browsing[7][8]. The larger 16-inch MacBook Pro M4 Pro model offers even more impressive battery life, with some tests showing it can last up to 20 hours and 46 minutes[5].
The charging speed also differs between the two models. The MacBook Pro M4 comes with a 70W charger, while the MacBook Air M4 includes a 35W charger[1]. This means the MacBook Pro M4 can charge faster than the MacBook Air M4.
Overall, while both laptops offer excellent battery life, the MacBook Pro M4 generally provides longer endurance due to its larger battery capacity and faster charging capabilities. However, the fanless design of the MacBook Air M4 might be preferable for users who prioritize quiet operation and do not require the sustained performance offered by the MacBook Pro's cooling system[1].
Citations:[1] https://www.indiatoday.in/technology/features/story/macbook-air-m4-vs-macbook-pro-m4-what-are-the-differences-and-which-is-better-for-you-2689817-2025-03-06
[2] https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/03/apple-introduces-the-new-macbook-air-with-the-m4-chip-and-a-sky-blue-color/
[3] https://www.laptopmag.com/laptops/macbooks/macbook-air-m4-vs-macbook-air-m3
[4] https://www.redsharknews.com/m4-macbook-air-more-power-more-battery-less-price
[5] https://www.tomsguide.com/computing/laptops/i-just-tested-the-macbook-pro-m4-pro-battery-and-its-the-longest-lasting-laptop-ever
[6] https://www.tomsguide.com/computing/macbooks/macbook-air-m4
[7] https://support.apple.com/en-us/121552
[8] https://www.macrumors.com/guide/macbook-air-vs-macbook-pro/
[9] https://www.macworld.com/article/2340098/intel-apple-silicon-macbook-pro-air-battery-capacities-watt-hours.html
[10] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TfvIgdzImt4
[11] https://www.apple.com/macbook-air/specs/
[12] https://www.reddit.com/r/macbookair/comments/1hgj46l/at_this_point_the_m4_air_is_going_to_have_2day/