15-inch MacBook Air - M5 10-core CPU 10-core GPU - 32GB Memory - 512GB Storage vs Apple MacBook Air 15-Inch

What separates them

Price history

• 15-inch MacBook Air - M5 10-core CPU 10-core GPU - 32GB Memory - 512GB Storage: lowest $1,399.00 on Nov 2 at Apple Education Store.
• Apple MacBook Air 15-Inch: lowest $814.95 on Oct 28 at Walmart; $974.00 on Nov 2.

Prices at every store

Specs compared

Questions and answers

Is the M5 worth the extra money over the M3?

Yes if you need 32GB of memory and 512GB of storage for heavy work. At $1,619.00 versus $814.95, the M3 is the better value for browsing, documents and video calls.

Which lasts longer?

The M5 should stay current longer because it is a newer chip with more memory and storage. The M3 still handles everyday tasks well and has the same 18-hour battery rating.

Which is better for video editing?

The M5, thanks to 32GB of memory, a 10-core GPU and 512GB of storage. The M3's 256GB drive fills fast with large video files.

Do both have the same screen?

Both are 15-inch Liquid Retina panels. The M5 is listed at 15.3 inches and 60Hz; the M3 is listed at 500 nits with True Tone.

Which is better for travel?

Both are 15-inch laptops with up to 18 hours of battery life. The M5 is listed at 2.7 lb; the M3's weight is not stated in its listing.

Should I wait for a lower price?

The M5 hit $1,399.00 on November 2, 2026, so it has sold below $1,619.00. The M3 hit $814.95 on October 28, 2026, well under its $1,339.00 high.