Apple MacBook Air M4 vs Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12

Apple MacBook Air M4 wins — The Apple MacBook Air M4 outperforms the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 in battery life by 6 hours and runs cooler wit…

Scores: Apple MacBook Air M4 8.5/10 · Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 7.2/10

The Apple MacBook Air M4 outperforms the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 in battery life by 6 hours and runs cooler without fans according to Notebookcheck tests. The ThinkPad counters with a superior keyboard and more ports for professionals who need Windows compatibility. Overall the MacBook Air M4 is the stronger pick for most users seeking portability and efficiency.

Spec-by-spec comparison

Apple MacBook Air M4Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12
ProcessorApple M4Intel Core Ultra 7 155H
Display13.6-inch Liquid Retina, 500 nits14-inch OLED, 400 nits
Battery Life18 hours video playback12 hours video playback
Weight2.7 lbs2.4 lbs

Apple MacBook Air M4

What works

  • Up to 18 hours battery life (per Apple)
  • Fanless silent operation
  • Excellent build quality with premium aluminum unibody

What doesn't

  • Only two Thunderbolt ports
  • Base model has 16GB unified memory

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12

What works

  • Best-in-class keyboard with TrackPoint
  • Multiple ports including HDMI and Ethernet adapter support
  • Strong build with carbon fiber and magnesium alloy

What doesn't

  • Shorter battery life than Apple silicon options
  • Fan noise under sustained load

Bottom line

Our pick: Apple MacBook Air M4. It edges out the alternative on up to 18 hours battery life (per apple). That said, Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 still wins on best-in-class keyboard with trackpoint — consider it if that single trade matters most for your use.

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