- The MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2019)'s biggest Windows competitor is the superb Dell XPS 13, and with Dell's premium pricing, Apple's MacBook Pro again looks like pretty good value.
- The webcam is only a 720p, far below the quality of many comparable devices. This is slightly higher than the MacBook Air 2019, but the increase is only meant to accommodate the new keyboard.
Your MacBook Air comes with 90 days of complimentary technical support and a one-year limited warranty. Purchase AppleCare+ to extend your coverage to three years from your AppleCare+ purchase date and add up to two incidents of accidental damage coverage every 12 months, each subject to a service fee of $99 for screen damage or external enclosure damage, or $299 for other repairable damage.
Information about these and other types of Mac ports is in the specifications for your Mac: Choose Apple menu > About This Mac, click Support, then click Specifications. Or check your Mac user guide.
Thunderbolt / USB 4
These Mac models have Thunderbolt / USB 4 ports:
Use these ports with displays and other devices that connect using either a Thunderbolt 3 cable or USB-C cable. You can also connect a USB-C power adapter and cable to charge your notebook computer. If you have a device that doesn't connect to this port, you might be able to use an adapter to connect it.
Thunderbolt 3
These Mac models have Thunderbolt 3 ports:
- iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2020)
- iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2019)
- iMac (Retina 4K, 21.5-inch, 2019)
- iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2017)
- iMac (Retina 4K, 21.5-inch, 2017)
- iMac (21.5-inch, 2017)
- iMac Pro
- Mac Pro (2019)
- Mac Pro (Rack, 2019)
- Mac mini (2018)
- MacBook Air (Retina, 13-inch, 2020)
- MacBook Air (Retina, 13-inch, 2019)
- MacBook Air (Retina, 13-inch, 2018)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2020, Two Thunderbolt 3 ports)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2020, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports)
- MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2019)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2019, Two Thunderbolt 3 ports)
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2019)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2019, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports)
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2018)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2018, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports)
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2017)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2017, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2017, Two Thunderbolt 3 ports)
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2016)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2016, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2016, Two Thunderbolt 3 ports)
Use these ports with displays and other devices that connect using either a Thunderbolt 3 cable or USB-C cable. You can also connect a USB-C power adapter and cable to charge your notebook computer. If you have a device that doesn't connect to this port, you might be able to use an adapter to connect it.
If your Mac notebook or desktop computer has more than one port like this, each port supports Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C.
USB-C
MacBook models introduced in 2015 or later have a single USB-C port. This port doesn't support Thunderbolt devices.
Use this port with displays and other devices that connect using a USB-C cable. You can also connect a USB-C power adapter and cable to charge your notebook computer. If you have a device that doesn't connect to this port, you might be able to use an adapter to connect it.
If your Mac has only one port like this, it's a MacBook that supports USB-C but not Thunderbolt.
Thunderbolt
These Mac models have Thunderbolt or Thunderbolt 2 ports:
- MacBook Pro introduced in 2011 through 2015
- MacBook Air introduced in 2011 through 2017
- Mac mini introduced in 2011 through 2014
- iMac introduced in 2011 through 2015
- Mac Pro introduced in 2013
Use these ports with displays and other devices that connect using a Thunderbolt cable.
Thunderbolt and Thunderbolt 2 are not the same as Mini DisplayPort . They have the same shape, but use different symbols on the cable and port. However, this port does support Mini DisplayPort for video output, so you can use a Mini DisplayPort cable to connect a Mini DisplayPort display.
Mini DisplayPort
These Mac models have Mini DisplayPort:
- MacBook Pro introduced in late 2008 through 2010
- MacBook Air introduced in late 2008 through 2010
- Mac mini introduced in 2009 and 2010
- iMac introduced in 2009 and 2010
- Mac Pro introduced in 2009 through 2012
Use this port with displays that connect using a Mini DisplayPort cable.
Mini DisplayPort is not the same as Thunderbolt or Thunderbolt 2 . They have the same shape, but use different symbols on the cable and port.
USB-A
Use these ports with devices that connect using a USB-A cable. USB ports are sometimes known by the USB specification of the port, such as USB 2 or USB 3.
Left to right: power, two Thunderbolt, USB-A, and Audio-Out.
HDMI
Use HDMI with displays and TVs that connect using an HDMI cable.
Ethernet
Use Ethernet with networks and devices that connect using an Ethernet (RJ45) cable.
FireWire
Use FireWire with devices that connect using a FireWire 400 or FireWire 800 cable.
SD card
Use the SD card slot with SD, SDHC, SDXC, MMC, and UHS-II media cards, such as those used by digital cameras.
Audio
Use Audio-Out — or — with headphones, speakers, and other audio-output devices that connect using an audio cable that has a 3.5 mm (1/8 inch) audio jack.
Use Audio-In with a microphone or other audio-input device that connects using an audio cable that has a 3.5 mm (1/8 inch) audio jack.
Power
Use the power port , if available, to connect your computer to AC power using a MagSafe cable or adapter. This port isn't available on newer Mac notebook computers, which use Thunderbolt 3 or USB-C for power and charging. Learn more about power adapters and cables for Mac notebook computers.
Learn more
Retina MacBook Air Q&A
Update Published April 6, 2020
All Mac Q&As >>Retina MacBook Air Q&A (Home) | Also See: All MacBook Air Specs
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If you find this page useful, please Bookmark & Share it. Thank you.
What are all the differences between the 'Late 2018' and '2019' Retina MacBook Air models? Is a Retina MacBook Air right for me?
Please note that the 'Late 2018' and '2019' Retina MacBook Air both have been discontinued. However, this Q&A is up-to-date and can be quite helpful for anyone considering one of these notebooks on the used market.
Both the '2019' Retina MacBook Air -- the MacBook Air 'Core i5' 1.6 13' (True Tone, 2019) -- and the 'Late 2018' Retina MacBook Air that the later model replaced -- the MacBook Air 'Core i5' 1.6 13' (Late 2018) -- originally were sold in two configurations.
The two configurations of both lines differ only by standard storage and price. The two lines also are very similar to one another and even use the same processor and architecture so they are the same speed. However, there are some subtle but important differences between the 'Late 2018' and '2019' MacBook Air that are worthwhile to understand to determine whether either is the best Mac notebook for you.
Photo Credit: Apple, Inc. (Retina MacBook Air 2018/2019)
External Differences
The 'Late 2018' and '2019' Retina MacBook Air models both use the same razor thin case design that tapers from 0.16 of an inch to 0.61 of an inch (0.35 cm to 1.6 cm) and weigh 2.75 lbs (1.25 kg). Both configurations are available in the 'traditional' silver color, a darker 'Space Gray' color, and a warm-toned gold color (above).
As its 'Retina' designation implies, both the 'Late 2018' and '2019' MacBook Air models have a beautiful 13.3' color widescreen LED-backlit 'Retina' display (2560x1600 native resolution at 227 ppi, which displays as a scaled resolution of 1440x900 by default). However, the '2019' Retina MacBook Air adds 'True Tone' technology that automatically 'adjusts the color temperature of the display for a more comfortable viewing experience.'
Both lines also are equipped with an integrated 720p FaceTime HD webcam, a backlit 'third generation' butterfly mechanism keyboard, a large 'Force Touch' trackpad, and Touch ID authentication. However, the '2019' Retina MacBook Air has a 'revised' butterfly keyboard -- still considered to be 'third generation' -- that endeavors to improve reliability.
Both lines also include the same connectivity -- two Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C connector) ports, a 3.5 mm headphone jack, 802.11ac Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth 4.2.
Macbook Air 2019 Camera
Identification Differences
As diligently hand documented by EveryMac.com, the 'Late 2018' and '2019' Retina MacBook Air models share the A1932Model Number and even the 3184EMC Number.
However, the 'Late 2018' Retina MacBook Air is assigned the MacBookAir8,1Model Identifier in software, whereas the '2019' Retina MacBook Air is assigned MacBookAir8,2. Accordingly, Model Identifier is a convenient way to differentiate between these two notebook lines.
Additionally, EveryMac.com's Ultimate Mac Lookup feature -- as well as the EveryMac app -- also can uniquely identify all Retina MacBook Air models by their serial numbers.
More information about specific identifiers is provided in EveryMac.com's extensive Mac Identification section.
Internal Differences
Both the 'Late 2018' and '2019' Retina MacBook Air are similar internally, but use some different parts.
Both have an Intel 1.6 GHz 'Core i5' processor (Amber Lake Y, 8210Y) and Intel UHD Graphics 617 graphics processor as well as a default 8 GB of 2133 MHz 'Low Power' LPDDR3 SDRAM onboard and 128 GB or 256 GB onboard PCIe-based SSD standard.
The processor and graphics processor cannot be upgraded at the time of purchase or later, but the SDRAM can, or could, be upgraded to 16 GB at the time of initial system purchase. The SSD can be upgraded at the time of system purchase, as well. The 'Late 2018' Retina MacBook Air could be upgraded with a 512 GB or 1.5 TB SSD whereas the current '2019' Retina MacBook Air can be upgraded with a 512 GB or 1 TB SSD, again, at the time of initial system purchase.
It is possible to replace the lithium polymer battery in both lines, and Apple estimates battery life at an impressive 12-13 hours for both, but the battery itself is different. Specifically, the 'Late 2018' Retina MacBook Air has a 50.3 watt-hour battery whereas the newer '2019' model has a smaller 49.9 watt-hour battery.
Comparison Chart
If your Mac notebook or desktop computer has more than one port like this, each port supports Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C.
USB-C
MacBook models introduced in 2015 or later have a single USB-C port. This port doesn't support Thunderbolt devices.
Use this port with displays and other devices that connect using a USB-C cable. You can also connect a USB-C power adapter and cable to charge your notebook computer. If you have a device that doesn't connect to this port, you might be able to use an adapter to connect it.
If your Mac has only one port like this, it's a MacBook that supports USB-C but not Thunderbolt.
Thunderbolt
These Mac models have Thunderbolt or Thunderbolt 2 ports:
- MacBook Pro introduced in 2011 through 2015
- MacBook Air introduced in 2011 through 2017
- Mac mini introduced in 2011 through 2014
- iMac introduced in 2011 through 2015
- Mac Pro introduced in 2013
Use these ports with displays and other devices that connect using a Thunderbolt cable.
Thunderbolt and Thunderbolt 2 are not the same as Mini DisplayPort . They have the same shape, but use different symbols on the cable and port. However, this port does support Mini DisplayPort for video output, so you can use a Mini DisplayPort cable to connect a Mini DisplayPort display.
Mini DisplayPort
These Mac models have Mini DisplayPort:
- MacBook Pro introduced in late 2008 through 2010
- MacBook Air introduced in late 2008 through 2010
- Mac mini introduced in 2009 and 2010
- iMac introduced in 2009 and 2010
- Mac Pro introduced in 2009 through 2012
Use this port with displays that connect using a Mini DisplayPort cable.
Mini DisplayPort is not the same as Thunderbolt or Thunderbolt 2 . They have the same shape, but use different symbols on the cable and port.
USB-A
Use these ports with devices that connect using a USB-A cable. USB ports are sometimes known by the USB specification of the port, such as USB 2 or USB 3.
Left to right: power, two Thunderbolt, USB-A, and Audio-Out.
HDMI
Use HDMI with displays and TVs that connect using an HDMI cable.
Ethernet
Use Ethernet with networks and devices that connect using an Ethernet (RJ45) cable.
FireWire
Use FireWire with devices that connect using a FireWire 400 or FireWire 800 cable.
SD card
Use the SD card slot with SD, SDHC, SDXC, MMC, and UHS-II media cards, such as those used by digital cameras.
Audio
Use Audio-Out — or — with headphones, speakers, and other audio-output devices that connect using an audio cable that has a 3.5 mm (1/8 inch) audio jack.
Use Audio-In with a microphone or other audio-input device that connects using an audio cable that has a 3.5 mm (1/8 inch) audio jack.
Power
Use the power port , if available, to connect your computer to AC power using a MagSafe cable or adapter. This port isn't available on newer Mac notebook computers, which use Thunderbolt 3 or USB-C for power and charging. Learn more about power adapters and cables for Mac notebook computers.
Learn more
Retina MacBook Air Q&A
Update Published April 6, 2020
All Mac Q&As >>Retina MacBook Air Q&A (Home) | Also See: All MacBook Air Specs
To be notified of new Q&As, sign up for EveryMac.com's bimonthly email list.
If you find this page useful, please Bookmark & Share it. Thank you.
What are all the differences between the 'Late 2018' and '2019' Retina MacBook Air models? Is a Retina MacBook Air right for me?
Please note that the 'Late 2018' and '2019' Retina MacBook Air both have been discontinued. However, this Q&A is up-to-date and can be quite helpful for anyone considering one of these notebooks on the used market.
Both the '2019' Retina MacBook Air -- the MacBook Air 'Core i5' 1.6 13' (True Tone, 2019) -- and the 'Late 2018' Retina MacBook Air that the later model replaced -- the MacBook Air 'Core i5' 1.6 13' (Late 2018) -- originally were sold in two configurations.
The two configurations of both lines differ only by standard storage and price. The two lines also are very similar to one another and even use the same processor and architecture so they are the same speed. However, there are some subtle but important differences between the 'Late 2018' and '2019' MacBook Air that are worthwhile to understand to determine whether either is the best Mac notebook for you.
Photo Credit: Apple, Inc. (Retina MacBook Air 2018/2019)
External Differences
The 'Late 2018' and '2019' Retina MacBook Air models both use the same razor thin case design that tapers from 0.16 of an inch to 0.61 of an inch (0.35 cm to 1.6 cm) and weigh 2.75 lbs (1.25 kg). Both configurations are available in the 'traditional' silver color, a darker 'Space Gray' color, and a warm-toned gold color (above).
As its 'Retina' designation implies, both the 'Late 2018' and '2019' MacBook Air models have a beautiful 13.3' color widescreen LED-backlit 'Retina' display (2560x1600 native resolution at 227 ppi, which displays as a scaled resolution of 1440x900 by default). However, the '2019' Retina MacBook Air adds 'True Tone' technology that automatically 'adjusts the color temperature of the display for a more comfortable viewing experience.'
Both lines also are equipped with an integrated 720p FaceTime HD webcam, a backlit 'third generation' butterfly mechanism keyboard, a large 'Force Touch' trackpad, and Touch ID authentication. However, the '2019' Retina MacBook Air has a 'revised' butterfly keyboard -- still considered to be 'third generation' -- that endeavors to improve reliability.
Both lines also include the same connectivity -- two Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C connector) ports, a 3.5 mm headphone jack, 802.11ac Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth 4.2.
Macbook Air 2019 Camera
Identification Differences
As diligently hand documented by EveryMac.com, the 'Late 2018' and '2019' Retina MacBook Air models share the A1932Model Number and even the 3184EMC Number.
However, the 'Late 2018' Retina MacBook Air is assigned the MacBookAir8,1Model Identifier in software, whereas the '2019' Retina MacBook Air is assigned MacBookAir8,2. Accordingly, Model Identifier is a convenient way to differentiate between these two notebook lines.
Additionally, EveryMac.com's Ultimate Mac Lookup feature -- as well as the EveryMac app -- also can uniquely identify all Retina MacBook Air models by their serial numbers.
More information about specific identifiers is provided in EveryMac.com's extensive Mac Identification section.
Internal Differences
Both the 'Late 2018' and '2019' Retina MacBook Air are similar internally, but use some different parts.
Both have an Intel 1.6 GHz 'Core i5' processor (Amber Lake Y, 8210Y) and Intel UHD Graphics 617 graphics processor as well as a default 8 GB of 2133 MHz 'Low Power' LPDDR3 SDRAM onboard and 128 GB or 256 GB onboard PCIe-based SSD standard.
The processor and graphics processor cannot be upgraded at the time of purchase or later, but the SDRAM can, or could, be upgraded to 16 GB at the time of initial system purchase. The SSD can be upgraded at the time of system purchase, as well. The 'Late 2018' Retina MacBook Air could be upgraded with a 512 GB or 1.5 TB SSD whereas the current '2019' Retina MacBook Air can be upgraded with a 512 GB or 1 TB SSD, again, at the time of initial system purchase.
It is possible to replace the lithium polymer battery in both lines, and Apple estimates battery life at an impressive 12-13 hours for both, but the battery itself is different. Specifically, the 'Late 2018' Retina MacBook Air has a 50.3 watt-hour battery whereas the newer '2019' model has a smaller 49.9 watt-hour battery.
Comparison Chart
The above differences between the 'Late 2018' and '2019' Retina MacBook Air -- display, keyboard, battery, identifiers, and configuration options -- as well as original price are summarized below:
| Retina MacBook Air | Late 2018 | 2019 |
| TrueTone Display: | No | Yes |
| Butterfly KB: | 3rd Gen | 3rd Gen (Revision) |
| Custom SSDs: | 512 GB, 1.5 TB | 512 GB, 1 TB |
| Battery: | 50.3 Watt Hour | 49.9 Watt Hour |
| Model ID: | MacBookAir8,1 | MacBookAir8,2 |
| Orig. Price (US): | US$1199, US$1399 | US$1099, US$1299 |
| Orig. Price (CA): | C$1499, C$1749 | C$1449, C$1699 |
| Orig. Price (UK): | £1199, £1399 | £1099, £1299 |
| Orig. Price (AU): | A$1849, A$2149 | A$1699, A$1999 |
So, is a Retina MacBook Air right for me?
The shortest answer to this question is yes. The Retina MacBook Air is the best choice for the majority of users who want a Mac notebook. It is thin, lightweight, fast enough for most, and has a beautiful display and great battery life.
Just between the 'Late 2018' and '2019' Retina MacBook Air models -- and ignoring subsequent models -- the higher quality display and perhaps more reliable keyboard on the later series make it the better notebook.
For those on a tighter budget, an older pre-Retina MacBook Air model also can be a solid choice, too.
Site sponsor Adorama has subsequently released new MacBook Air models with free shipping for all.
In the US, site sponsor OWC sells a variety of used MacBook Air models to individuals. Site sponsor Evertek has extensive inventory of used MacBook Air models at bargain prices for business customers. Evertek also ships bulk orders at wholesale prices worldwide.
In the UK, site sponsor Hoxton Macs sells a good selection of used MacBook Air models with a one-year warranty and free next day delivery. Delivery across Europe also is available starting at just £9.99 for two-day delivery to France and Germany.
In Australia, site sponsor Mac City has a variety of used MacBook Air models at low prices with a free warranty and fast shipping across Australia.
Need to sell a Retina MacBook Air or your old Mac for cash? A+ BBB-rated site sponsors Cash for Your Mac and GoRoostr buy MacBook Air models and many other Mac notebooks with an instant quote and fast payment.
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