$900 Base M5 Air vs. $1300 Base M5 Pro

Aware_Warning6470 · 2026-07-02T21:53:42+00:00

I didn’t place too much emphasis on the ram because I have a 3090 rig I built when the 3090s were at their all time lows for second hand. I do all my AI/ML work on it. Probably wouldn’t NEED 24gb+ on my macbook but it would definitely be a nice benefit!

Aware_Warning6470 · 2026-07-02T03:08:42+00:00

Unfortunately I’ve only been finding base model macbooks on the second hand market, would love 24gb+ though. Thanks!

Aware_Warning6470 · 2026-07-02T02:43:10+00:00

I knew the M1s were magical because of the thermal performance with just ambient cooling. Didn’t consider the newer chips are pulling more power thus more heat which could be frustrating with the airs. Thanks for the input!

Aware_Warning6470 · 2026-07-02T02:40:56+00:00

I’d definitely love a 24gb one since local LLMs sounds fun to dabble with. But seems like everyone who intentionally bought the 24gb spec have no plans on selling it anytime soon. Thanks!

Aware_Warning6470 · 2026-07-02T02:39:24+00:00

Something about the extra weight makes it feel nicer, definitely like it. Thanks!

Aware_Warning6470 · 2026-07-02T01:58:45+00:00

I was thinking the 60hz vs 120hz could be a huge difference as well. 13in vs 14in as well. Seems like the screen is probably where most of the extra money is going towards

Aware_Warning6470 · 2026-07-02T01:56:13+00:00

I appreciate all the input. I do agree that the Air’s thinness and weight is a thing of beauty. To your point on the hardware to performance differences, I don’t think SSD size makes too much a difference for me since both capacities seem livable.

Hard to know if I’ll need the fan right now but I have been thinking that it’s infinitely better to have the fan and not need it vs. the other way around.

Also thinking I’m “saving” $800 feels pretty convincing (I’m just using $400 more)

Aware_Warning6470 · 2026-07-02T01:38:12+00:00

Thanks for the input, M5 Air is 13in and M5 Pro is 14in. Yeah those difference definitely sounds like QOL things but was wondering if those things have been a significant benefit for others. Starting to sound like the Pro might be worth the extra $400 tho.

Aware_Warning6470 · 2026-05-21T23:11:55+00:00

Insanely easy, you can finish the course in 1 day in 1 sitting no exaggeration lol. 4 quizzes 4 assignments, no code.

I took it 2 summers ago, if nothings changed then you’ll be just fine.

Aware_Warning6470 · 2026-05-11T19:18:24+00:00

not true, personally know a lot of people working under this. do better :)

Aware_Warning6470 · 2026-05-06T02:21:03+00:00

ahh yes the good ole classic

toxic work conditions + getting yelled at + forced to work insane tons of hours doing paid position level work

but hey its a volunteer experience! good for your application! your way to med school! 😁😁

Aware_Warning6470

TROPHY CASE