Challenging the Notion of Design Superiority in the M2 MacBook Air
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Design: Overrated or Essential?
Upon reviewing multiple analyses of the M2 Air, a recurring assertion is that it features a ‘new design’. While this is technically true, one might wonder how ‘new’ it actually is. The M2 Air resembles a Pro Max Pro that’s been slightly altered. But does a fresh appearance equate to superior performance? I argue that the M2 Air's design is often overhyped.
Does It Perform Any Better?
Having written extensively on the M2 Air, I aim to approach this from a different angle. It is clear that the M2 Air outperforms the M1 Air on several counts. For starters, it boasts the M2 chip, a brighter display, and the return of MagSafe—if that matters to you.
I Don’t See MagSafe as an Improvement
Originally, I considered titling this piece “MagSafe Is a Downgrade,” as I find it a bit sensational. However…
While the M2 Air features a larger screen, the notch design limits its usability, leaving most of that space for menu items. Additionally, the audio quality seems to have declined. Is the $200 price increase justifiable?
Ultimately, enhancements aren’t always genuine upgrades. If the device fulfills your needs, why worry about its aesthetic? I believe the M1 Air, especially when refurbished, might still be the superior option, albeit with an older design.
The Pro Max Pro Comparison
When the MacBook Pro 14/16 launched, many compared it to the PowerBook, particularly due to its sharp corners.
While I’m not particularly fond of this design, it effectively serves its purpose, not straying much from previous MacBook Pro aesthetics. Designs have advanced to the point that one could reimagine a 20-year-old design by smoothing out rough edges and claim it’s contemporary. There’s little necessity for radical design changes.
Moreover, the Pro Max Pro benefits from features like a high refresh rate display and enhanced audio capabilities, standing in stark contrast to the M2 Air's modest improvements.
Does Design Matter?
At times, I feel that new designs are akin to new color options; they entice consumers without necessarily offering real benefits. While an updated color can be appealing, it shouldn't mislead you into believing it’s inherently superior—unless it’s red, because red items are universally faster!
That said, some devices are undeniably poorly designed, like the Pixel 4.
The design choices made by Google in that instance were baffling. However, such cases are exceptions rather than the rule. Most designs are quite satisfactory, much like the PowerBook's design. You need not fret about sporting an ‘outdated’ design.
Why the Obsession with Bezels?
I’d like to address the fixation on bezels. Those borders around the screen have become a hot topic over the last few years.
Whenever the notch is mentioned, many say, “Oh, I hardly notice it,” yet they go on to criticize the bezels for being excessive. This seems inconsistent; if one can overlook the notch, why shouldn’t the same apply to bezels?
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, I tend to believe that the M2 Air's design is not as appealing as that of the M1 due to the notch and the absence of the classic taper. Nonetheless, I haven’t criticized it harshly for its design, as it remains satisfactory.
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