Apple MacBook Air 13-inch vs HP 17.3" i7 Business Laptop

The HP is the better pick for most people who want a big screen and modern internals: a 10-core i7-1355U, 17.3-inch FHD display, Windows 11 Pro, backlit keyboard with number pad, and more ports. The MacBook Air is far more portable at 2.8 lb with a sharper 2560x1600 Retina panel, Touch ID, and a stronger battery reputation, but this configuration is an older dual-core Intel model with 8GB RAM and limited USB-C ports. Owners praise the Air's battery and display; HP ratings are lower and thinner, so expect more variance in build and support.

• Choose the MacBook Air if you want the lightest, quietest machine for writing, browsing, and schoolwork and you value the Retina screen, Touch ID, and long battery life over raw speed.
• Choose the HP if you need a large 17.3-inch screen, a fast modern multi-core processor, Windows 11 Pro, a number pad, and full-size ports for office or multitasking work.