The charging time for the MacBook Air M4 and the MacBook Pro M4 can differ based on the power adapters and cables used. Here's a detailed comparison:
MacBook Air M4 Charging
- Power Adapter: The MacBook Air M4 typically comes with a 35W USB-C Power Adapter, which is less powerful than those included with the MacBook Pro M4[3].
- Charging Speed: While the MacBook Air M4 can charge quickly, it does not support fast charging with the included 35W adapter. However, if you use a higher wattage adapter compatible with fast charging (like those used for the MacBook Pro), it might support faster charging, but this is not standard for the Air models.
- Battery Life: The MacBook Air M4 models have smaller batteries compared to the MacBook Pro M4, with the larger Air 15 having a 66.5Wh battery[3]. This results in generally shorter battery life compared to the Pro models.
MacBook Pro M4 Charging
- Power Adapter: The MacBook Pro M4 models come with more powerful adapters, such as the 70W or 96W USB-C Power Adapter, depending on the configuration[4]. The 96W adapter is particularly noted for its ability to fast charge the MacBook Pro.
- Charging Speed: The MacBook Pro M4 supports fast charging with the 96W USB-C Power Adapter, allowing it to charge up to 50% in about 30 minutes[1][4].
- Battery Life: The MacBook Pro M4 models have larger batteries, with the 14-inch model featuring a 72.4Wh battery[4]. This generally provides longer battery life compared to the MacBook Air M4 models.
In summary, the MacBook Pro M4 offers faster charging capabilities and longer battery life due to its more powerful power adapters and larger battery capacity. The MacBook Air M4, while efficient, typically charges more slowly with its standard adapter and has shorter battery life due to its smaller battery size.
Citations:[1] https://support.apple.com/en-us/102378
[2] https://support.apple.com/guide/macbook-pro/charge-the-battery-apdbc13fd966/mac
[3] 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
[4] https://support.apple.com/en-us/121553
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/macbookpro/comments/1il39b0/macbook_pro_m4_pro_first_charge_how_many_hours/
[6] https://www.laptopmag.com/laptops/macbooks/macbook-air-m4-vs-macbook-air-m3
[7] https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/03/apple-introduces-the-new-macbook-air-with-the-m4-chip-and-a-sky-blue-color/
[8] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/255855149
[9] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TfvIgdzImt4
[10] https://support.apple.com/en-au/HT212755
[11] https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/10/new-macbook-pro-features-m4-family-of-chips-and-apple-intelligence/
[12] https://www.androidauthority.com/how-long-does-a-macbook-battery-last-3361447/
[13] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKCv514Nb7Y