Acer Swift AI 16 versus Apple MacBook Air 15 (M4): a large-screen laptop comparison

      If you’re in search of a sizable display for multitasking and productivity, yet prefer to avoid a heavy laptop, there are several excellent options available today. This is perhaps the best time to choose an outstanding 15-inch laptop or something slightly larger. Two strong contenders are the Apple MacBook Air 15 (M4, 2025) and the Acer Swift AI 16. Both models feature a large display within a relatively thin and light frame, but one offers a notable advantage over the other.

      Specifications and Configurations

      Apple MacBook Air 15 (M4)

      Acer Swift AI 16

      Dimensions

      13.40 x 9.35 x 0.45 inches

      14.02 x 9.92 x 0.58-0.69 inches

      Weight

      3.3 pounds

      3.37 pounds

      Processor

      Apple M4 (10 core)

      Intel Core Ultra 7 256V

      Intel Core Ultra 7 258V

      Graphics

      10 core GPU

      Intel Arc 140V

      RAM

      16GB unified memory

      24GB unified memory

      32GB unified memory

      16GB unified memory

      Display

      15.3-inch 16:10 2880 x 1864 LED IPS, 60Hz

      16.0-inch 16:10 2.8K (2880 x 1800) OLED, 120Hz

      Storage

      256GB SSD

      512GB SSD

      1TB SSD

      2TB SSD

      1TB SSD

      Touch

      No

      Yes

      Ports

      2 x USB-C with Thunderbolt 4

      1 x MagSafe 3 for charging

      1 x 3.5mm audio jack

      2 x USB4 with Thunderbolt 4

      2 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1

      1 x HDMI

      1 x 3.5mm audio jack

      Wireless

      Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3

      Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4

      Webcam

      12MP Center Stage camera with Desk View

      QHD (2560 x 1440) with infrared

      Operating System

      macOS Sequoia

      Windows 11

      Battery

      66.5 watt-hour battery

      70 watt-hour battery

      Price

      $1,199+

      $1,250

      Rating

      4.5 out of 5 stars

      4.5 out of 5 stars

      As of the time I wrote this review, the Swift AI 16 was available in only one configuration. For $1,250, you receive an Intel Core Ultra 7 256V chipset, 16GB of RAM, a 1TB SSD, and a 16-inch OLED display. The MacBook Air 15 offers more options, starting at $1,199 for a 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU M4 (the sole option), 16GB of RAM, a 256GB SSD, and a 15.3-inch IPS display (also the only configuration). For an additional $200, you can upgrade to 24GB of RAM, while $400 will get you the full 32GB. Storage choices begin at 512GB for $200, 1TB for $400, and 2TB for $800. The top configuration, with 32GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD, costs $2,399.

      Consequently, the Swift AI 16 is the more economical option, providing a strong configuration at an appealing price, especially considering its large OLED display. The MacBook Air 15 is regarded as a more premium laptop in terms of cost.

      Design

      The Swift AI 16 features a simplistic design, which may come across as somewhat plain. While the edge lines add a touch of distinction, its entirely black appearance is adequate but lacks standout features. In comparison, the MacBook Air 15 boasts a more refined aesthetic, with a minimalist design consistent with Apple’s entire MacBook range, exuding a subtle elegance. It is available in several attractive colors, making it visually superior.

      Both devices are robust, with all-aluminum constructions; however, the Swift AI 16 has a slightly flexible display, whereas the MacBook Air 15 feels sturdier overall. Though the Acer appears reasonably durable, the Apple offers a more favorable impression, including a smoother hinge that facilitates easier opening and closing of the lid.

      The MacBook Air 15 is likely the slimmest large-screen laptop available today at just 0.45 inches thick, while the Swift AI 16 is somewhat thicker. They have comparable weights, but the MacBook Air 15 feels denser. Additionally, the Swift AI 16’s larger screen makes it wider and deeper, resulting in a noticeably greater size.

      The Swift AI 16 features a keyboard with responsive switches, though its layout feels a bit cramped, and the keycaps are somewhat small due to Acer's inclusion of a numeric keypad. The Mac