Which MacBook Air should I get for my humanities masters program

Sky said:

Holland said:
Uma said:
My studies require a lot of research, like about 9 to 10 hours each day, and I only need basic apps like docs, excel, good notes and so on
BUT I really need a lot of STORAGE and a Mac that will last at least 5 years (gotta make it worth it)

I really want a MacBook Air but I need some advice on the details.

  1. Should I go with M3 or M2?

  2. CHIP PROCESSOR
    A) 8 core CPU/ 8 core CPU/ 16 core neural engine
    B) 8 core CPU/10 core GPU/16 core neural engine (cost is around 9k to 10k more)

  3. MEMORY
    a) 8GB
    b) 16GB (18k to 20k more)
    c) 24GB (36k to 40k more)

  4. STORAGE
    A) 256 SSD storage
    B) 512 SSD storage (20k more)
    C) 1TB SSD storage (38k to 40k more)
    D) 2TB SSD storage (74k to 80k more)

I really appreciate any help!!
(1 USD = 83.48 Indian rupees)

M3 isn’t worth it; I just got rid of mine.

Why?

I can get a laptop with an RTX 4070 that can do what a Mac can and also play games; it’s not even a question, and it cost less than my M3.

Sky said:

Holland said:
Uma said:
My studies require a lot of research, like about 9 to 10 hours each day, and I only need basic apps like docs, excel, good notes and so on
BUT I really need a lot of STORAGE and a Mac that will last at least 5 years (gotta make it worth it)

I really want a MacBook Air but I need some advice on the details.

  1. Should I go with M3 or M2?

  2. CHIP PROCESSOR
    A) 8 core CPU/ 8 core CPU/ 16 core neural engine
    B) 8 core CPU/10 core GPU/16 core neural engine (cost is around 9k to 10k more)

  3. MEMORY
    a) 8GB
    b) 16GB (18k to 20k more)
    c) 24GB (36k to 40k more)

  4. STORAGE
    A) 256 SSD storage
    B) 512 SSD storage (20k more)
    C) 1TB SSD storage (38k to 40k more)
    D) 2TB SSD storage (74k to 80k more)

I really appreciate any help!!
(1 USD = 83.48 Indian rupees)

M3 isn’t worth it; I just got rid of mine.

Why?

And it was cheaper than the M3.

Uma said:
My studies require a lot of research, like about 9 to 10 hours each day, and I only need basic apps like docs, excel, good notes and so on
BUT I really need a lot of STORAGE and a Mac that will last at least 5 years (gotta make it worth it)

I really want a MacBook Air but I need some advice on the details.

  1. Should I go with M3 or M2?

  2. CHIP PROCESSOR
    A) 8 core CPU/ 8 core CPU/ 16 core neural engine
    B) 8 core CPU/10 core GPU/16 core neural engine (cost is around 9k to 10k more)

  3. MEMORY
    a) 8GB
    b) 16GB (18k to 20k more)
    c) 24GB (36k to 40k more)

  4. STORAGE
    A) 256 SSD storage
    B) 512 SSD storage (20k more)
    C) 1TB SSD storage (38k to 40k more)
    D) 2TB SSD storage (74k to 80k more)

I really appreciate any help!!
(1 USD = 83.48 Indian rupees)

Since you mentioned storage is your main concern, I recommend prioritizing that. The chipsets are powerful, whether you choose M2, M3, or even M1. If you often work with many tabs open and doing graphical tasks, then consider spending more on RAM; otherwise, focus on storage. I’ve watched many videos, and performance isn’t the main issue with these three models. If you do heavy tasks like video editing or music production, you might want to look at the pro models. Otherwise, the Air models should handle your needs; I’m using an M1 Air and it’s powerful enough even for light video editing. The M3 gives better battery life if that matters to you. Just remember, for your workflows, storage is the key; the CPU performance is more than enough.

Uma said:
My studies require a lot of research, like about 9 to 10 hours each day, and I only need basic apps like docs, excel, good notes and so on
BUT I really need a lot of STORAGE and a Mac that will last at least 5 years (gotta make it worth it)

I really want a MacBook Air but I need some advice on the details.

  1. Should I go with M3 or M2?

  2. CHIP PROCESSOR
    A) 8 core CPU/ 8 core CPU/ 16 core neural engine
    B) 8 core CPU/10 core GPU/16 core neural engine (cost is around 9k to 10k more)

  3. MEMORY
    a) 8GB
    b) 16GB (18k to 20k more)
    c) 24GB (36k to 40k more)

  4. STORAGE
    A) 256 SSD storage
    B) 512 SSD storage (20k more)
    C) 1TB SSD storage (38k to 40k more)
    D) 2TB SSD storage (74k to 80k more)

I really appreciate any help!!
(1 USD = 83.48 Indian rupees)

An M2 with 8GB RAM and 512GB storage will be enough.

Qi said:

Uma said:
My studies require a lot of research, like about 9 to 10 hours each day, and I only need basic apps like docs, excel, good notes and so on
BUT I really need a lot of STORAGE and a Mac that will last at least 5 years (gotta make it worth it)

I really want a MacBook Air but I need some advice on the details.

  1. Should I go with M3 or M2?

  2. CHIP PROCESSOR
    A) 8 core CPU/ 8 core CPU/ 16 core neural engine
    B) 8 core CPU/10 core GPU/16 core neural engine (cost is around 9k to 10k more)

  3. MEMORY
    a) 8GB
    b) 16GB (18k to 20k more)
    c) 24GB (36k to 40k more)

  4. STORAGE
    A) 256 SSD storage
    B) 512 SSD storage (20k more)
    C) 1TB SSD storage (38k to 40k more)
    D) 2TB SSD storage (74k to 80k more)

I really appreciate any help!!
(1 USD = 83.48 Indian rupees)

The base model M1 15 inch Air with an external SSD should work well.

15” MBAs started with M2.

Uma said:
My studies require a lot of research, like about 9 to 10 hours each day, and I only need basic apps like docs, excel, good notes and so on
BUT I really need a lot of STORAGE and a Mac that will last at least 5 years (gotta make it worth it)

I really want a MacBook Air but I need some advice on the details.

  1. Should I go with M3 or M2?

  2. CHIP PROCESSOR
    A) 8 core CPU/ 8 core CPU/ 16 core neural engine
    B) 8 core CPU/10 core GPU/16 core neural engine (cost is around 9k to 10k more)

  3. MEMORY
    a) 8GB
    b) 16GB (18k to 20k more)
    c) 24GB (36k to 40k more)

  4. STORAGE
    A) 256 SSD storage
    B) 512 SSD storage (20k more)
    C) 1TB SSD storage (38k to 40k more)
    D) 2TB SSD storage (74k to 80k more)

I really appreciate any help!!
(1 USD = 83.48 Indian rupees)

Get the 15 inch M2 with 16GB RAM.

  1. More RAM will help with Apple’s efficiency; 8GB isn’t enough.

  2. A larger screen will give you more space to work with.

  3. Internal storage of 256GB is enough; cloud storage is affordable now. You can find 1TB of cloud storage for your school work.

  4. Tips: consider getting a second-hand one priced 30% to 40% lower than the original.

Uma said:
My studies require a lot of research, like about 9 to 10 hours each day, and I only need basic apps like docs, excel, good notes and so on
BUT I really need a lot of STORAGE and a Mac that will last at least 5 years (gotta make it worth it)

I really want a MacBook Air but I need some advice on the details.

  1. Should I go with M3 or M2?

  2. CHIP PROCESSOR
    A) 8 core CPU/ 8 core CPU/ 16 core neural engine
    B) 8 core CPU/10 core GPU/16 core neural engine (cost is around 9k to 10k more)

  3. MEMORY
    a) 8GB
    b) 16GB (18k to 20k more)
    c) 24GB (36k to 40k more)

  4. STORAGE
    A) 256 SSD storage
    B) 512 SSD storage (20k more)
    C) 1TB SSD storage (38k to 40k more)
    D) 2TB SSD storage (74k to 80k more)

I really appreciate any help!!
(1 USD = 83.48 Indian rupees)

Apple doesn’t provide good value for storage prices. Consider getting the 512GB M2 and find another way to store data.

Uma said:
My studies require a lot of research, like about 9 to 10 hours each day, and I only need basic apps like docs, excel, good notes and so on
BUT I really need a lot of STORAGE and a Mac that will last at least 5 years (gotta make it worth it)

I really want a MacBook Air but I need some advice on the details.

  1. Should I go with M3 or M2?

  2. CHIP PROCESSOR
    A) 8 core CPU/ 8 core CPU/ 16 core neural engine
    B) 8 core CPU/10 core GPU/16 core neural engine (cost is around 9k to 10k more)

  3. MEMORY
    a) 8GB
    b) 16GB (18k to 20k more)
    c) 24GB (36k to 40k more)

  4. STORAGE
    A) 256 SSD storage
    B) 512 SSD storage (20k more)
    C) 1TB SSD storage (38k to 40k more)
    D) 2TB SSD storage (74k to 80k more)

I really appreciate any help!!
(1 USD = 83.48 Indian rupees)

You’ll actually want the largest screen possible.

Uma said:
My studies require a lot of research, like about 9 to 10 hours each day, and I only need basic apps like docs, excel, good notes and so on
BUT I really need a lot of STORAGE and a Mac that will last at least 5 years (gotta make it worth it)

I really want a MacBook Air but I need some advice on the details.

  1. Should I go with M3 or M2?

  2. CHIP PROCESSOR
    A) 8 core CPU/ 8 core CPU/ 16 core neural engine
    B) 8 core CPU/10 core GPU/16 core neural engine (cost is around 9k to 10k more)

  3. MEMORY
    a) 8GB
    b) 16GB (18k to 20k more)
    c) 24GB (36k to 40k more)

  4. STORAGE
    A) 256 SSD storage
    B) 512 SSD storage (20k more)
    C) 1TB SSD storage (38k to 40k more)
    D) 2TB SSD storage (74k to 80k more)

I really appreciate any help!!
(1 USD = 83.48 Indian rupees)

Get the cheapest model with 16GB RAM. That said, 8GB is still good depending on your workload.

M1 is still a solid chip.

I’d just check that all the apps you’ll use are available on Mac.

Uma said:
My studies require a lot of research, like about 9 to 10 hours each day, and I only need basic apps like docs, excel, good notes and so on
BUT I really need a lot of STORAGE and a Mac that will last at least 5 years (gotta make it worth it)

I really want a MacBook Air but I need some advice on the details.

  1. Should I go with M3 or M2?

  2. CHIP PROCESSOR
    A) 8 core CPU/ 8 core CPU/ 16 core neural engine
    B) 8 core CPU/10 core GPU/16 core neural engine (cost is around 9k to 10k more)

  3. MEMORY
    a) 8GB
    b) 16GB (18k to 20k more)
    c) 24GB (36k to 40k more)

  4. STORAGE
    A) 256 SSD storage
    B) 512 SSD storage (20k more)
    C) 1TB SSD storage (38k to 40k more)
    D) 2TB SSD storage (74k to 80k more)

I really appreciate any help!!
(1 USD = 83.48 Indian rupees)

You could even opt for an M1 if you find it at a good price.

Uma said:
My studies require a lot of research, like about 9 to 10 hours each day, and I only need basic apps like docs, excel, good notes and so on
BUT I really need a lot of STORAGE and a Mac that will last at least 5 years (gotta make it worth it)

I really want a MacBook Air but I need some advice on the details.

  1. Should I go with M3 or M2?

  2. CHIP PROCESSOR
    A) 8 core CPU/ 8 core CPU/ 16 core neural engine
    B) 8 core CPU/10 core GPU/16 core neural engine (cost is around 9k to 10k more)

  3. MEMORY
    a) 8GB
    b) 16GB (18k to 20k more)
    c) 24GB (36k to 40k more)

  4. STORAGE
    A) 256 SSD storage
    B) 512 SSD storage (20k more)
    C) 1TB SSD storage (38k to 40k more)
    D) 2TB SSD storage (74k to 80k more)

I really appreciate any help!!
(1 USD = 83.48 Indian rupees)

For humanities, at least how I see it here, consider the M2 with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. You can always add more storage later. Apple’s prices for storage are ridiculous.

Humanities work doesn’t need a lot of memory, and all the apps you’ll need will run fine.

Teal said:

Uma said:
My studies require a lot of research, like about 9 to 10 hours each day, and I only need basic apps like docs, excel, good notes and so on
BUT I really need a lot of STORAGE and a Mac that will last at least 5 years (gotta make it worth it)

I really want a MacBook Air but I need some advice on the details.

  1. Should I go with M3 or M2?

  2. CHIP PROCESSOR
    A) 8 core CPU/ 8 core CPU/ 16 core neural engine
    B) 8 core CPU/10 core GPU/16 core neural engine (cost is around 9k to 10k more)

  3. MEMORY
    a) 8GB
    b) 16GB (18k to 20k more)
    c) 24GB (36k to 40k more)

  4. STORAGE
    A) 256 SSD storage
    B) 512 SSD storage (20k more)
    C) 1TB SSD storage (38k to 40k more)
    D) 2TB SSD storage (74k to 80k more)

I really appreciate any help!!
(1 USD = 83.48 Indian rupees)

For humanities, at least how I see it here, consider the M2 with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. You can always add more storage later. Apple’s prices for storage are ridiculous.

Humanities work doesn’t need a lot of memory, and all the apps you’ll need will run fine.

8GB isn’t sufficient for any task.

Val said:

Teal said:
Uma said:
My studies require a lot of research, like about 9 to 10 hours each day, and I only need basic apps like docs, excel, good notes and so on
BUT I really need a lot of STORAGE and a Mac that will last at least 5 years (gotta make it worth it)

I really want a MacBook Air but I need some advice on the details.

  1. Should I go with M3 or M2?

  2. CHIP PROCESSOR
    A) 8 core CPU/ 8 core CPU/ 16 core neural engine
    B) 8 core CPU/10 core GPU/16 core neural engine (cost is around 9k to 10k more)

  3. MEMORY
    a) 8GB
    b) 16GB (18k to 20k more)
    c) 24GB (36k to 40k more)

  4. STORAGE
    A) 256 SSD storage
    B) 512 SSD storage (20k more)
    C) 1TB SSD storage (38k to 40k more)
    D) 2TB SSD storage (74k to 80k more)

I really appreciate any help!!
(1 USD = 83.48 Indian rupees)

For humanities, at least how I see it here, consider the M2 with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. You can always add more storage later. Apple’s prices for storage are ridiculous.

Humanities work doesn’t need a lot of memory, and all the apps you’ll need will run fine.

8GB isn’t sufficient for any task.

For humanities? Absolutely. He’ll be using Scrivener or some other writing tool, along with YouTube, Preview, Safari, etc. He could manage with a PowerBook G4 with just 1GB of RAM if needed.

Teal said:

Val said:
Teal said:
Uma said:
My studies require a lot of research, like about 9 to 10 hours each day, and I only need basic apps like docs, excel, good notes and so on
BUT I really need a lot of STORAGE and a Mac that will last at least 5 years (gotta make it worth it)

I really want a MacBook Air but I need some advice on the details.

  1. Should I go with M3 or M2?

  2. CHIP PROCESSOR
    A) 8 core CPU/ 8 core CPU/ 16 core neural engine
    B) 8 core CPU/10 core GPU/16 core neural engine (cost is around 9k to 10k more)

  3. MEMORY
    a) 8GB
    b) 16GB (18k to 20k more)
    c) 24GB (36k to 40k more)

  4. STORAGE
    A) 256 SSD storage
    B) 512 SSD storage (20k more)
    C) 1TB SSD storage (38k to 40k more)
    D) 2TB SSD storage (74k to 80k more)

I really appreciate any help!!
(1 USD = 83.48 Indian rupees)

For humanities, at least how I see it here, consider the M2 with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. You can always add more storage later. Apple’s prices for storage are ridiculous.

Humanities work doesn’t need a lot of memory, and all the apps you’ll need will run fine.

8GB isn’t sufficient for any task.

For humanities? Absolutely. He’ll be using Scrivener or some other writing tool, along with YouTube, Preview, Safari, etc. He could manage with a PowerBook G4 with just 1GB of RAM if needed.

2GB is only enough for the OS. Once you open a browser and some messaging tools, that’s it. The era of 8GB RAM is over. That was 10 years ago.

Val said:

Teal said:
Val said:
Teal said:
Uma said:
My studies require a lot of research, like about 9 to 10 hours each day, and I only need basic apps like docs, excel, good notes and so on
BUT I really need a lot of STORAGE and a Mac that will last at least 5 years (gotta make it worth it)

I really want a MacBook Air but I need some advice on the details.

  1. Should I go with M3 or M2?

  2. CHIP PROCESSOR
    A) 8 core CPU/ 8 core CPU/ 16 core neural engine
    B) 8 core CPU/10 core GPU/16 core neural engine (cost is around 9k to 10k more)

  3. MEMORY
    a) 8GB
    b) 16GB (18k to 20k more)
    c) 24GB (36k to 40k more)

  4. STORAGE
    A) 256 SSD storage
    B) 512 SSD storage (20k more)
    C) 1TB SSD storage (38k to 40k more)
    D) 2TB SSD storage (74k to 80k more)

I really appreciate any help!!
(1 USD = 83.48 Indian rupees)

For humanities, at least how I see it here, consider the M2 with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. You can always add more storage later. Apple’s prices for storage are ridiculous.

Humanities work doesn’t need a lot of memory, and all the apps you’ll need will run fine.

8GB isn’t sufficient for any task.

For humanities? Absolutely. He’ll be using Scrivener or some other writing tool, along with YouTube, Preview, Safari, etc. He could manage with a PowerBook G4 with just 1GB of RAM if needed.

2GB is only enough for the OS. Once you open a browser and some messaging tools, that’s it. The era of 8GB RAM is over. That was 10 years ago.

That’s not true. Source: I have a MacBook Air M1 that runs Windows 11 VMs with no problem.

Teal said:

Val said:
Teal said:
Val said:
Teal said:
Uma said:
My studies require a lot of research, like about 9 to 10 hours each day, and I only need basic apps like docs, excel, good notes and so on
BUT I really need a lot of STORAGE and a Mac that will last at least 5 years (gotta make it worth it)

I really want a MacBook Air but I need some advice on the details.

  1. Should I go with M3 or M2?

  2. CHIP PROCESSOR
    A) 8 core CPU/ 8 core CPU/ 16 core neural engine
    B) 8 core CPU/10 core GPU/16 core neural engine (cost is around 9k to 10k more)

  3. MEMORY
    a) 8GB
    b) 16GB (18k to 20k more)
    c) 24GB (36k to 40k more)

  4. STORAGE
    A) 256 SSD storage
    B) 512 SSD storage (20k more)
    C) 1TB SSD storage (38k to 40k more)
    D) 2TB SSD storage (74k to 80k more)

I really appreciate any help!!
(1 USD = 83.48 Indian rupees)

For humanities, at least how I see it here, consider the M2 with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. You can always add more storage later. Apple’s prices for storage are ridiculous.

Humanities work doesn’t need a lot of memory, and all the apps you’ll need will run fine.

8GB isn’t sufficient for any task.

For humanities? Absolutely. He’ll be using Scrivener or some other writing tool, along with YouTube, Preview, Safari, etc. He could manage with a PowerBook G4 with just 1GB of RAM if needed.

2GB is only enough for the OS. Once you open a browser and some messaging tools, that’s it. The era of 8GB RAM is over. That was 10 years ago.

That’s not true. Source: I have a MacBook Air M1 that runs Windows 11 VMs with no problem.

If you are okay with poor performance, then sure.

Val said:

Teal said:
Val said:
Teal said:
Val said:
Teal said:
Uma said:
My studies require a lot of research, like about 9 to 10 hours each day, and I only need basic apps like docs, excel, good notes and so on
BUT I really need a lot of STORAGE and a Mac that will last at least 5 years (gotta make it worth it)

I really want a MacBook Air but I need some advice on the details.

  1. Should I go with M3 or M2?

  2. CHIP PROCESSOR
    A) 8 core CPU/ 8 core CPU/ 16 core neural engine
    B) 8 core CPU/10 core GPU/16 core neural engine (cost is around 9k to 10k more)

  3. MEMORY
    a) 8GB
    b) 16GB (18k to 20k more)
    c) 24GB (36k to 40k more)

  4. STORAGE
    A) 256 SSD storage
    B) 512 SSD storage (20k more)
    C) 1TB SSD storage (38k to 40k more)
    D) 2TB SSD storage (74k to 80k more)

I really appreciate any help!!
(1 USD = 83.48 Indian rupees)

For humanities, at least how I see it here, consider the M2 with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. You can always add more storage later. Apple’s prices for storage are ridiculous.

Humanities work doesn’t need a lot of memory, and all the apps you’ll need will run fine.

8GB isn’t sufficient for any task.

For humanities? Absolutely. He’ll be using Scrivener or some other writing tool, along with YouTube, Preview, Safari, etc. He could manage with a PowerBook G4 with just 1GB of RAM if needed.

2GB is only enough for the OS. Once you open a browser and some messaging tools, that’s it. The era of 8GB RAM is over. That was 10 years ago.

That’s not true. Source: I have a MacBook Air M1 that runs Windows 11 VMs with no problem.

If you are okay with poor performance, then sure.

Considering your postings, I’m not surprised :woozy_face::face_with_raised_eyebrow:

Teal said:

Val said:
Teal said:
Val said:
Teal said:
Val said:
Teal said:
Uma said:
My studies require a lot of research, like about 9 to 10 hours each day, and I only need basic apps like docs, excel, good notes and so on
BUT I really need a lot of STORAGE and a Mac that will last at least 5 years (gotta make it worth it)

I really want a MacBook Air but I need some advice on the details.

  1. Should I go with M3 or M2?

  2. CHIP PROCESSOR
    A) 8 core CPU/ 8 core CPU/ 16 core neural engine
    B) 8 core CPU/10 core GPU/16 core neural engine (cost is around 9k to 10k more)

  3. MEMORY
    a) 8GB
    b) 16GB (18k to 20k more)
    c) 24GB (36k to 40k more)

  4. STORAGE
    A) 256 SSD storage
    B) 512 SSD storage (20k more)
    C) 1TB SSD storage (38k to 40k more)
    D) 2TB SSD storage (74k to 80k more)

I really appreciate any help!!
(1 USD = 83.48 Indian rupees)

For humanities, at least how I see it here, consider the M2 with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. You can always add more storage later. Apple’s prices for storage are ridiculous.

Humanities work doesn’t need a lot of memory, and all the apps you’ll need will run fine.

8GB isn’t sufficient for any task.

For humanities? Absolutely. He’ll be using Scrivener or some other writing tool, along with YouTube, Preview, Safari, etc. He could manage with a PowerBook G4 with just 1GB of RAM if needed.

2GB is only enough for the OS. Once you open a browser and some messaging tools, that’s it. The era of 8GB RAM is over. That was 10 years ago.

That’s not true. Source: I have a MacBook Air M1 that runs Windows 11 VMs with no problem.

If you are okay with poor performance, then sure.

Considering your postings, I’m not surprised :woozy_face::face_with_raised_eyebrow:

An average forum user - always check their debate opponent’s history when they can’t argue back.

Uma said:
My studies require a lot of research, like about 9 to 10 hours each day, and I only need basic apps like docs, excel, good notes and so on
BUT I really need a lot of STORAGE and a Mac that will last at least 5 years (gotta make it worth it)

I really want a MacBook Air but I need some advice on the details.

  1. Should I go with M3 or M2?

  2. CHIP PROCESSOR
    A) 8 core CPU/ 8 core CPU/ 16 core neural engine
    B) 8 core CPU/10 core GPU/16 core neural engine (cost is around 9k to 10k more)

  3. MEMORY
    a) 8GB
    b) 16GB (18k to 20k more)
    c) 24GB (36k to 40k more)

  4. STORAGE
    A) 256 SSD storage
    B) 512 SSD storage (20k more)
    C) 1TB SSD storage (38k to 40k more)
    D) 2TB SSD storage (74k to 80k more)

I really appreciate any help!!
(1 USD = 83.48 Indian rupees)

Go with the M2, 512GB, and 16GB RAM.

M2 since it’s more affordable and you don’t need M3’s power, plus the difference isn’t significant.

512GB is a good choice; never take Apple’s lowest option - you will regret it later. Plus, you want to be able to download movies or whatever locally, so you don’t have to keep looking for an external drive.
Buy an external drive later with the money you’ve saved.

16GB is ideal; you might not need it now, but you will later. If you don’t lose your Mac, it should last another 5 to 10 years. Over that time, having 16GB will come in handy, and since it’s not upgradeable, you can keep using your Mac longer without needing a new one.

Vere said:

Uma said:
My studies require a lot of research, like about 9 to 10 hours each day, and I only need basic apps like docs, excel, good notes and so on
BUT I really need a lot of STORAGE and a Mac that will last at least 5 years (gotta make it worth it)

I really want a MacBook Air but I need some advice on the details.

  1. Should I go with M3 or M2?

  2. CHIP PROCESSOR
    A) 8 core CPU/ 8 core CPU/ 16 core neural engine
    B) 8 core CPU/10 core GPU/16 core neural engine (cost is around 9k to 10k more)

  3. MEMORY
    a) 8GB
    b) 16GB (18k to 20k more)
    c) 24GB (36k to 40k more)

  4. STORAGE
    A) 256 SSD storage
    B) 512 SSD storage (20k more)
    C) 1TB SSD storage (38k to 40k more)
    D) 2TB SSD storage (74k to 80k more)

I really appreciate any help!!
(1 USD = 83.48 Indian rupees)

Go with the M2, 512GB, and 16GB RAM.

M2 since it’s more affordable and you don’t need M3’s power, plus the difference isn’t significant.

512GB is a good choice; never take Apple’s lowest option - you will regret it later. Plus, you want to be able to download movies or whatever locally, so you don’t have to keep looking for an external drive.
Buy an external drive later with the money you’ve saved.

16GB is ideal; you might not need it now, but you will later. If you don’t lose your Mac, it should last another 5 to 10 years. Over that time, having 16GB will come in handy, and since it’s not upgradeable, you can keep using your Mac longer without needing a new one.

Exactly! Especially the 16GB RAM advice. Not needed today but it should extend the lifespan of your device.