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Apple MacBook Air 15-inch (M3, 2024) vs Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 13.5-inch

A

Product A: Apple

MacBook Air 15-inch (M3, 2024)

94 of 179 known

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B

Product B: Microsoft

Surface Laptop 5 13.5-inch

84 of 179 known

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Every value links to where we found it.

Only differences

AApple MacBook Air 15-inch (M3, 2024)

BMicrosoft Surface Laptop 5 13.5-inch

General

6 of 9 differ

Series

MacBook Air2Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2024/03/apple-unveils-the-new-13-and-15-inch-macbook-air-with-the-powerful-m3-chipRead 5 October 2026

Surface Laptop6Press releaseblogs.windows.com/devices/2022/10/12/introducing-new-surface-devices-that-take-the-windows-pc-into-the-next-era-of-computingRead 5 October 2026

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

MRYM3LL/A3Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1814979-REG/apple_mrym3ll_a_15_macbook_air_m3.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact US retail SKU MRYM3LL/A, Space Gray, M3 8 CPU/10 GPU cores, 8 GB memory/256 GB storage.

QZI-000014Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1729183-REG/microsoft_qzi_00001_13_5_multi_touch_surface_laptop.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact US QZI-00001, Platinum, Alcantara, i5-1235U, 8 GB/256 GB. No current availability claim.

GTIN / EAN

1959491288759Retailer pagemicrocenter.com/product/678753/apple-macbook-air-15-mrym3ll-a-%28early-2024%29-153-laptop-computer-space-grayRead 7 October 2026Exact manufacturer part MRYM3LL/A, 8 GB / 256 GB / 10 GPU / Space Gray product information gives UPC 195949128875. Best Buy corroborates. Refurbished sellers with changed RAM or colour or different UPC are not reference evidence.

Not available

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

4 March 20242Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2024/03/apple-unveils-the-new-13-and-15-inch-macbook-air-with-the-powerful-m3-chipRead 5 October 2026

12 October 20226Press releaseblogs.windows.com/devices/2022/10/12/introducing-new-surface-devices-that-take-the-windows-pc-into-the-next-era-of-computingRead 5 October 2026

Status

Discontinued17Spec databaseeverymac.com/systems/apple/macbook-air/specs/macbook-air-m3-8-core-cpu-10-core-gpu-15-2024-specs.htmlRead 10 October 2026Discontinued Date March 5, 2025 for the 15-inch M3 MacBook Air, meaning replaced by a subsequent system or production ended. Reseller stock is not considered.

Discontinued3Maker product pagemicrosoft.com/en-us/p/surface-laptop-5/8XN49V61S1BNRead 10 October 2026Microsoft Store page for Surface Laptop 5 says it is currently not available, shows Out of stock for all finishes and promotes Surface Laptop 7th Edition as the new model. Read October 2026.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Apple MacBook Air 15-inch (M2, 2023)15Reviewrtings.com/laptop/reviews/apple/macbook-air-15-2024Read 7 October 2026Public review introduction states this model replaces the M2 Apple MacBook Air 15 (2023). Matching 15-inch predecessor exists in this catalog.

Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 13.5-inch (Ryzen 5)21Reviewpocket-lint.com/microsoft-surface-laptop-5-reviewRead 23 October 2026Pocket-lint's review of the 13.5-inch Surface Laptop 5 says it is the successor to the Surface Laptop 4.

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Apple MacBook Air 15-inch (M4, 2025)15Reviewrtings.com/laptop/reviews/apple/macbook-air-15-2024Read 7 October 2026Public review notice explicitly says this laptop was replaced by the Apple MacBook Air 15 (M4,2025). Matching 15-inch successor exists in this catalog. Protected numeric test results are excluded.

Not available

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$1,2992Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2024/03/apple-unveils-the-new-13-and-15-inch-macbook-air-with-the-powerful-m3-chipRead 5 October 2026US starting launch price for the original base configuration. Excludes education price and later discounts.

Not available

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

€1,59918Press releaseapple.com/de/newsroom/2024/03/apple-unveils-the-new-13-and-15-inch-macbook-air-with-the-powerful-m3-chipRead 10 October 2026Apple Germany newsroom, 4 March 2024, Preise und Verfuegbarkeit: the 15-inch MacBook Air with M3 is available from 1,599 euro including VAT (education 1,449 euro excluded). Starting price of the base configuration, 8 GB and 256 GB. German consumer price, not a conversion of the US MSRP.

€1,1798Press releasenews.microsoft.com/de-de/microsoft-surface-laptop-5-startet-auf-dem-deutschen-marktRead 10 October 2026Microsoft Germany release: Surface Laptop 5 for private customers in the 13.5-inch version from 1,179.00 euro (UVP, incl. VAT). Starting price for the 13.5-inch, taken as the base i5, 8 GB, 256 GB configuration. Business starting price 1,279 euro excluded. German consumer price, not a conversion of any US price.

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

US2Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2024/03/apple-unveils-the-new-13-and-15-inch-macbook-air-with-the-powerful-m3-chipRead 5 October 2026

US4Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1729183-REG/microsoft_qzi_00001_13_5_multi_touch_surface_laptop.htmlRead 5 October 2026

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Space Gray3Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1814979-REG/apple_mrym3ll_a_15_macbook_air_m3.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Platinum4Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1729183-REG/microsoft_qzi_00001_13_5_multi_touch_surface_laptop.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Segment

Ultrabook2Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2024/03/apple-unveils-the-new-13-and-15-inch-macbook-air-with-the-powerful-m3-chipRead 5 October 2026

Not available

Form factor

Clamshell4Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/guide/macbook-air/apd7e765329d/2024/mac/15Read 10 October 2026Take a tour describes a notebook with a lid that opens and a keyboard and trackpad in the base.19Spec databasenanoreview.net/en/laptop/apple-macbook-air-15-m3-2024Read 10 October 2026Case section: Transformer No, so not a convertible or detachable. Apple describes a hinged lid.

Clamshell14Reviewlesnumeriques.com/ordinateur-portable/microsoft-surface-laptop-5-13-5-core-i5-p71427/test.htmlRead 7 October 2026Presentation explicitly contrasts Surface Pro 9 hybrid with Surface Laptop 5 classic laptop design. Standard hinged notebook body, not 360-degree convertible or detachable.

Chassis

2 of 6 differ

DimensionsiClosed laptop body size. Minimum and maximum thickness describe the front and rear or other points stated by the maker.

Width340.4Depth237.6Thickness (max)11.5mm(13.4 × 9.4 × 0.5 in)1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026Size and Weight. Published centimetres converted exactly to millimetres.

Width308Depth223Thickness (max)14.5mm(12.1 × 8.8 × 0.6 in)1Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026Published width across screen, depth front-to-back and closed height.

Weight (published)iPublished laptop weight without the charger. A starting weight is identified in the source note and may vary with configuration.

1.51kg(3.3 lb)1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026Size and Weight. M3 row. Weight varies by configuration and manufacturing process.

1.272kg(2.8 lb)1Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026Original Fabric mass 1,272 g. Retailer metal mass excluded.

Lid material

Aluminium1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026Environment Materials section states 100% recycled aluminium enclosure.

Aluminium2Owner's manualsupport.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/models/surface-laptop-5-specs-and-featuresRead 5 October 2026Aluminium casing. Alcantara is palm-rest covering, not lid.

Bottom material

Aluminium1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026Environment Materials section states 100% recycled aluminium enclosure.

Aluminium2Owner's manualsupport.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/models/surface-laptop-5-specs-and-featuresRead 5 October 2026Aluminium casing.

Max hinge angle

Not available

Not available

MIL-STD-810 testing (claimed)iManufacturer claim of MIL-STD-810 testing. The revision and tested procedures belong in the source note. This is not proof of every standard test.

Not available

Not available

Display

8 of 25 differ

Screen sizeiDiagonal of the main built-in display. Rounded-corner displays may be measured as a full rectangle.

15.3in(38.9 cm)1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026

13.5in(34.3 cm)1Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Native resolution

2880 × 1864px1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026

2256 × 1504px1Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Pixel density

224.2ppi=CalculatedFrom Screen size and Native resolution

200.8ppi=CalculatedFrom Screen size and Native resolution

Panel typeiDell's WVA means wide viewing angle and names no panel technology, so it is stored as IPS only when Dell or a review names IPS.

IPS1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026

IPS13Reviewreviewed.com/laptops/content/microsoft-surface-laptop-5Read 7 October 2026About test laptop row explicitly 13.5-inch IPS LCD 2256x1504 60Hz. Exact i5/8GB test differs only in its 512GB storage. Paragraph explicitly states base 256GB configuration is otherwise identical. Hardware panel technology shared, reviewer measurements are not inherited.17Reviewlesnumeriques.com/ordinateur-portable/microsoft-surface-laptop-5-13-5-core-i5-p71427/test.htmlRead 7 October 202613.5-inch spec row IPS. Review wrong 2496x1664 resolution prose excluded against maker 2256x1504.

Backlight

Not available

Not available

Dimming zonesiIndependently controlled backlight zones, not the number of LEDs or screen pixels.

Not available

Not available

Panel part numberiPanel part number identified in a matching review unit. Suppliers may vary within the same laptop configuration.

Not available

Not available

Screen surfaceiSurface of the stored display configuration. Anti-reflective coatings do not by themselves make a glossy display matte. A matte finish of the chassis is not the screen surface.

Glossy19Spec databasenanoreview.net/en/laptop/apple-macbook-air-15-m3-2024Read 10 October 2026Display section: Coating Glossy (Antireflective). Anti-reflective coating does not make the surface matte.

Glossy13Reviewreviewed.com/laptops/content/microsoft-surface-laptop-5Read 7 October 2026Display section calls the screen mirror-like. Same i5/8GB 13.5-inch fabric chassis, with 512GB SSD. Review expressly says base 256GB model otherwise identical. Measured brightness not copied.17Reviewlesnumeriques.com/ordinateur-portable/microsoft-surface-laptop-5-13-5-core-i5-p71427/test.htmlRead 7 October 2026Display section explicitly highly reflective touch display. No measured 16GB/512GB data inherited.

Touchscreen

No3Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1814979-REG/apple_mrym3ll_a_15_macbook_air_m3.htmlRead 5 October 2026Display specifications explicitly state Touchscreen No for this retail SKU.

Yes1Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Stylus

Not available

Supported1Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026Surface Pen supported through MPP, sold separately.

Refresh rate modesiHighest confirmed operating refresh rate of the built-in display at each resolution. Add a second row only for a documented dual-mode panel, not an ordinary supported timing.

AApple MacBook Air 15-inch (M3, 2024)

Width (px)	Height (px)	Maximum operating refresh (Hz)	VRR
2880	1864	60	No

Source8Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1814979-REG/apple_mrym3ll_a_15_macbook_air_m3.htmlRead 7 October 2026Exact MRYM3LL/A display table states native 2880 x 1864, Refresh Rate 60 Hz, Variable Refresh Technology No. Fixed maximum operating refresh, not an external display timing.

BMicrosoft Surface Laptop 5 13.5-inch

Width (px)	Height (px)	Maximum operating refresh (Hz)	VRR
2256	1504	60	No

Source4Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1729183-REG/microsoft_qzi_00001_13_5_multi_touch_surface_laptop.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact native-resolution display table explicitly 60 Hz and Variable Refresh Technology No.

Max refresh rate

60Hz=CalculatedFrom Refresh rate modes

60Hz=CalculatedFrom Refresh rate modes

Adaptive synciNamed variable refresh technologies for the built-in display. Manual switching between 60Hz and 120Hz is not VRR.

Not available

Not available

Gray-to-gray response time (claimed)iManufacturer claim for a gray-to-gray pixel transition. Do not use generic response times, black-to-white values, or motion-picture response times.

Not available

Not available

Native panel colour depthiPhysical panel colour depth per channel. Do not infer native bit depth or FRC from the number of supported colours.

Not available

Not available

Brightness (SDR, claimed)iManufacturer typical SDR luminance. Outdoor maxima and an unspecified peak are not typical SDR brightness.

500nits1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026Exact 15-inch M3 Display section explicitly 500 nits brightness for its Liquid Retina IPS panel. Ordinary manufacturer display luminance claim, not an outdoor boost, HDR peak or reviewer measurement. No source measurement method inferred.

Not available

Peak brightness (SDR outdoors, claimed)iManufacturer maximum SDR luminance explicitly claimed for outdoor use. Ambient light, automatic brightness and other stated conditions belong in the source note. Not typical SDR or HDR brightness.

Not available

Not available

Sustained brightness (HDR, claimed)iManufacturer explicitly sustained HDR luminance. Screen area, duration, temperature and other stated conditions belong in the source note. Not a brief peak or SDR luminance.

Not available

Not available

Peak brightness (HDR, claimed)iManufacturer peak luminance explicitly measured or claimed in HDR. Window size and duration belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

sRGB coverage (claimed)iManufacturer stated sRGB gamut percentage. The source note identifies coverage, volume, or an unspecified maker gamut claim.

Not available

Not available

DCI-P3 coverage (claimed)iManufacturer stated DCI-P3 gamut percentage. The source note identifies coverage, volume, or an unspecified maker gamut claim.

Not available

Not available

Adobe RGB coverage (claimed)iManufacturer stated Adobe RGB gamut percentage. The source note identifies coverage, volume, or an unspecified maker gamut claim.

Not available

Not available

HDR certification

Not available

Not available

Factory calibratediThe maker explicitly states factory colour calibration. Certification alone does not establish calibration.

Not available

Yes2Owner's manualsupport.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/models/surface-laptop-5-specs-and-featuresRead 5 October 2026Individually colour-calibrated display.

Second display

Not available

Not available

Processor

10 of 14 differ

Processor

Apple M3 (8-core CPU)1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026Chip section. Exact 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU configuration.

Intel Core i5-1235U1Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Processor brand

Apple1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026

Intel1Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Core configurationiProcessor core groups using the chip maker's names. MediaTek Big, Apple Super and AMD Zen architecture labels remain distinct from Intel P and E labels.

AApple MacBook Air 15-inch (M3, 2024)

Core type	Count
Performance	4
Efficiency	4

Source1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026

BMicrosoft Surface Laptop 5 13.5-inch

Core type	Count	Max clock (GHz)
Performance	2	4.4
Efficiency	8	3.3

Source5Maker product pageintel.com/content/www/us/en/products/sku/226261/intel-core-i51235u-processor-12m-cache-up-to-4-40-ghz/specifications.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact chip core classifications and maximum turbo clocks. Chip power/memory limits excluded.

CPU cores

8=CalculatedFrom Core configuration

10=CalculatedFrom Core configuration

Cores labelled performanceiCounts only rows classified as performance. Other labels, including Big, Super and AMD Zen architecture rows, are not included.

4=CalculatedFrom Core configuration

2=CalculatedFrom Core configuration

Cores labelled efficiencyiCounts only efficiency and low-power-efficiency rows. AMD Zen 5c and Apple super cores are not included.

4=CalculatedFrom Core configuration

8=CalculatedFrom Core configuration

ThreadsiMaximum hardware threads of the processor, including simultaneous multithreading where supported.

812Press articleanandtech.com/show/21285/apple-launches-m3based-macbook-air-13-and-15-3nm-cpu-for-the-massesRead 7 October 2026Public indexed 2024 launch table for MBA 15 / M3 lists 4C/4T High-Perf + 4C/4T High-Eff, 8 hardware threads total. This is a hardware count, not borrowed benchmark. Current direct URL redirects to the forum homepage.

125Maker product pageintel.com/content/www/us/en/products/sku/226261/intel-core-i51235u-processor-12m-cache-up-to-4-40-ghz/specifications.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Max boost clock

Not available

4.4GHz=CalculatedFrom Core configuration

L3 cacheiL3 cache only. Do not copy a combined L2 plus L3 cache total. Qualcomm's total cache, such as 30 MB on Snapdragon X, is not L3, even when a laptop maker labels it L3.

Not available

12MB4Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1729183-REG/microsoft_qzi_00001_13_5_multi_touch_surface_laptop.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact Performance table explicitly L3 Cache 12 MB. Separate L2 cache is not counted.

ProcessiProcess size class of the processor compute die in nm, as on CPUs: TSMC N3B is 3, Intel 7 is 10, Intel 4 is 7 and Intel 18A is 1.8. Marketing process names and other chiplet processes belong in the source note.

3nm11Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2023/10/apple-unveils-m3-m3-pro-and-m3-max-the-most-advanced-chips-for-a-personal-computerRead 7 October 2026Exact M3 chip release calls the M3 family the first personal-computer chips built with 3-nanometer process technology. Foundry node trade name not inferred.

Not available

Sustained CPU power (configured)iThis laptop's sustained configured CPU power limit, such as PL1. A chip manufacturer's generic base power is not the laptop setting.

Not available

Not available

Peak CPU power (configured)iThis laptop's configured short-duration CPU limit, such as PL2. Do not substitute generic processor maximum turbo power.

Not available

Not available

Combined CPU and GPU poweriMaker stated simultaneous CPU plus discrete-GPU budget for the exact configuration and power mode.

Not available

Not available

NPU performanceiNPU-only claimed operations per second. Excludes combined CPU, GPU and platform AI throughput. Precision belongs in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Graphics

1 of 9 differ

Discrete GPUiA separate dedicated graphics processor is installed. Integrated or unified-memory graphics do not qualify.

No1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026Chip and graphics inventory lists the installed Apple chip GPU only. This GPU is part of the SoC and uses unified memory.

No4Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1729183-REG/microsoft_qzi_00001_13_5_multi_touch_surface_laptop.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact table integrated Iris Xe.

GPU

Not available

Not available

GPU brand

Not available

Not available

VRAMiDedicated video memory of the installed discrete GPU. Shared system memory is excluded.

Not available

Not available

Max GPU power (TGP)iMaximum configured discrete-GPU power including Dynamic Boost. Mode and any maker qualification belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Dynamic BoostiMaximum additional GPU power shifted from the CPU through NVIDIA Dynamic Boost. This is part of maximum TGP, not extra to it. A figure written as "up to 115W Dynamic Boost" is the total, so it goes in gpu_tgp_max_w.

Not available

Not available

GPU boost clockiHighest maker configured GPU boost clock, including factory overclock where explicitly stated. Mode belongs in the source note.

Not available

Not available

GPU switchingiExplicit GPU display-routing or power-sharing features. Advanced Optimus includes hardware display multiplexing.

Not available

Not available

Integrated GPU

Apple M3 10-core GPU1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026

Intel Iris Xe Graphics1Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Memory

4 of 9 differ

Installed RAMiTotal installed RAM in this product configuration, not the maximum purchase option.

8GB1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026Memory section. Retained original US 8 GB configuration. Later refreshes and higher purchase options are excluded.

8GB4Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1729183-REG/microsoft_qzi_00001_13_5_multi_touch_surface_laptop.htmlRead 5 October 2026

RAM type

LPDDR512Press articleanandtech.com/show/21285/apple-launches-m3based-macbook-air-13-and-15-3nm-cpu-for-the-massesRead 7 October 2026Same public indexed MBA 15 / M3 table lists 8-24 GB LPDDR5-6400. RTINGS public configuration table separately states 8 GB LP-DDR5. Later 16 GB refresh and different processor facts not inherited.

LPDDR5X1Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026

RAM speediConfigured memory data rate in transfers per second. Do not treat the DRAM clock in MHz as the data rate.

6,400MT/s12Press articleanandtech.com/show/21285/apple-launches-m3based-macbook-air-13-and-15-3nm-cpu-for-the-massesRead 7 October 2026MBA 15 / M3 launch table states LPDDR5-6400, the 6400 MT/s transfer-rate grade across listed memory choices. No conversion from RTINGS 6400 MHz label. Live URL redirects to forums, public indexed article table remains readable.

Not available

Memory channelsiActive memory channels of the installed configuration, not the number of RAM modules or slots. One installed module is one channel. This holds for DDR5 too, whose two 32-bit subchannels on one module do not count as two channels. Soldered LPDDR memory counts in 64-bit units, so a 128-bit bus is 2 channels, even when a maker calls it quad-channel.

Not available

215Spec databasesurfacetip.com/surface-laptop-5-ram-upgradeRead 7 October 2026November 23, 2022 RAM-upgrade article explicitly both 13-inch and 15-inch versions come with dual-channel soldered memory and no additional RAM slot. Published device configuration, not chip maximum.

RAM upgradeiWhether the installed RAM is soldered, socketed in slots, or a mixture. Purchase-time configurations are not upgrades.

Soldered17Spec databaseeverymac.com/systems/apple/macbook-air/specs/macbook-air-m3-8-core-cpu-10-core-gpu-15-2024-specs.htmlRead 10 October 2026RAM Slots None. All RAM is unified and onboard, and EveryMac states it cannot be upgraded after purchase.

Soldered14Reviewlesnumeriques.com/ordinateur-portable/microsoft-surface-laptop-5-13-5-core-i5-p71427/test.htmlRead 7 October 2026Construction section explicitly RAM soldered and SSD removable 2230. Static 13.5-inch construction fact across RAM capacity options. All measurements from 16GB/512GB Sage metal unit excluded.

Memory slotsiPhysical replaceable RAM module sockets grouped by type and occupancy. Clocked SO-DIMM uses CSODIMM. Soldered memory is excluded.

Not available

Not available

RAM slots

Not available

Not available

Free RAM slots

Not available

Not available

Maximum supported RAMiManufacturer supported maximum RAM, including purchase-time soldered options. Does not imply post-purchase upgradeability.

24GB1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026Maximum purchase-time memory for the retained M3 CPU/GPU configuration. Does not assert post-purchase upgradeability.

16GB9Maker product pagesupport.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/models/surface-laptop-5-specs-and-featuresRead 10 October 2026Memory and Storage row explicitly 13.5-inch 8 GB or 16 GB. Purchase-time options, not post-purchase upgrade. 15-inch 32 GB is not inherited. This size-specific current support table is preferred over original fact sheet combined 8/16/32 row.

Storage

3 of 7 differ

Installed storageiTotal advertised installed storage in decimal GB. Convert 1TB to 1000GB, without changing an explicitly published 512GB value.

256GB1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026Storage section. Retained original base 256 GB SSD. PCIe generation and installed drive model are not published.

256GB4Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1729183-REG/microsoft_qzi_00001_13_5_multi_touch_surface_laptop.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Storage type

NVMe SSD8Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1814979-REG/apple_mrym3ll_a_15_macbook_air_m3.htmlRead 7 October 2026Exact SKU Storage Drive Type: 1 x 256 GB / Integrated NVMe SSD. Refines existing maker-generic SSD without changing capacity or assuming a PCIe generation.

NVMe SSD4Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1729183-REG/microsoft_qzi_00001_13_5_multi_touch_surface_laptop.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact installed 256 GB drive explicitly M.2 NVMe SSD.

Installed drive PCIe generationiPCIe generation of the installed drive. This may be lower than the slot capability.

Not available

Not available

Storage slotsiPhysical storage connectors grouped by capability and occupancy. A slot accepting several drive lengths is one slot, not one per length.

AApple MacBook Air 15-inch (M3, 2024)

Not available

BMicrosoft Surface Laptop 5 13.5-inch

Form factor	Interface	Count	Occupied
M.2 2230	PCIe NVMe	1	Yes

Source11Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1729183-REG/microsoft_qzi_00001_13_5_multi_touch_surface_laptop.htmlRead 7 October 2026Exact QZI-00001 Storage Expansion 1x M.2 Slot PCIe Occupied and 1x 256 GB M.2 NVMe SSD. Kingston exact Surface Laptop 5 compatibility page states M.2 NVMe 2230 single-sided, and 13.5-inch review states removable NVMe 2230. No slot PCIe generation/lanes inferred from replacement drive.12Spec databasekingston.com/en/memory/search/model/106998/microsoft-surface-laptop-5-13-5-inch-15-inchRead 7 October 2026System storage Bus Architecture explicitly SSD M.2 NVMe 2230 single-sided. Exact Surface Laptop 5 family compatibility includes i5-1235U consumer. 4.0 replacement SSD does not prove original slot generation.17Reviewlesnumeriques.com/ordinateur-portable/microsoft-surface-laptop-5-13-5-core-i5-p71427/test.htmlRead 7 October 2026Construction explicitly removable NVMe 2230 SSD. RAM/SSD capacity differs, physical slot shared.

M.2 slots

Not available

1=CalculatedFrom Storage slots

Free storage slots

Not available

0=CalculatedFrom Storage slots

Maximum slot PCIe generation

Not available

Not available

Ports

2 of 7 differ

PortsiPhysical laptop connectors grouped by type, protocol capability and side. One connector with several protocols is counted once.

AApple MacBook Air 15-inch (M3, 2024)

Type	Version	Count	Maximum data rate (Gbps)	Thunderbolt or USB4	DP Alt Mode
MagSafe	MagSafe 3	1	Not available	Not available	Not available
USB-C	Thunderbolt 3 / USB 4	2	40	Thunderbolt 3	Yes
3.5 mm audio	Not available	1	Not available	Not available	Not available

Source1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026Charging and Expansion. Physical connectors counted once. Thunderbolt and USB4 share each USB-C connector.

BMicrosoft Surface Laptop 5 13.5-inch

Type	Version	Count	Thunderbolt or USB4	DP Alt Mode
USB-C	USB4 / Thunderbolt 4	1	Thunderbolt 4	Yes
USB-A	USB 3.1	1	Not available	Not available
3.5 mm audio	Not available	1	Not available	Not available
Other	Surface Connect	1	Not available	Not available

Source1Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026One physical USB-C supports USB4, Thunderbolt 4, display and charging. USB-A published USB 3.1. No accepted input watts inferred.

USB-C ports

2=CalculatedFrom Ports

1=CalculatedFrom Ports

Thunderbolt

Yes=CalculatedFrom Ports

Yes=CalculatedFrom Ports

Highest HDMI version

Not available

Not available

Card reader

No=CalculatedFrom Ports

No=CalculatedFrom Ports

Ethernet speed

Not available

Not available

Maximum USB-C charging inputiHighest confirmed charging power accepted by a USB-C port. This is separate from adapter rating and power delivered to peripherals.

Not available

Not available

Wireless

3 of 5 differ

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi 6E1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026

Wi-Fi 61Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Wi-Fi bandsiSupported radio frequency bands. Availability may be restricted by country or regulatory configuration.

2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 6 GHz13Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/102285Read 7 October 2026Guide explicitly includes MacBook Air introduced in 2024 or later and explains 6 GHz plus 2.4 and 5 GHz operation. 6 GHz availability varies by region. Selected US reference supports approved 6 GHz operation.

Not available

Wi-Fi module

Not available

Not available

BluetoothiThe version as a number with one decimal, such as 5.4 or 6.0. A qualifier such as or above goes in the source note.

5.31Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026

5.11Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Cellular

No8Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1814979-REG/apple_mrym3ll_a_15_macbook_air_m3.htmlRead 7 October 2026Exact original MRYM3LL/A table, Communications: Cellular Support No. This is built-in cellular absence, separate from phone tethering or external modems.

No11Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1729183-REG/microsoft_qzi_00001_13_5_multi_touch_surface_laptop.htmlRead 7 October 2026Exact US QZI-00001 Communications table Cellular Support No.

Keyboard and touchpad

7 of 8 differ

Keyboard layoutsiDocumented layouts of the retained regional SKUs. Do not infer a layout solely from the sales country.

ANSI (78 keys)3Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1814979-REG/apple_mrym3ll_a_15_macbook_air_m3.htmlRead 5 October 2026US 78-key keyboard for retained US SKU. ISO option from maker sheet excluded.

English9Maker product pagesupport.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/models/surface-laptop-5-specs-and-featuresRead 10 October 2026Keyboard Compatibility row literally Layout English with full F1-F12 row. ANSI/ISO geometry not inferred.

Key switches

Scissor8Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1814979-REG/apple_mrym3ll_a_15_macbook_air_m3.htmlRead 7 October 2026Exact SKU overview, Magic Keyboard and Touch ID paragraph states a scissor mechanism.

Not available

Keyboard backlightiA maker-confirmed backlight with no published type uses backlit_unspecified. Do not infer white lighting, a single colour or RGB from backlit alone. A single-zone RGB backlight is RGB zones.

Single colour14Reviewnotebookcheck.net/Apple-MacBook-Air-15-M3-review-Apple-s-large-everyday-MacBook-gets-a-power-up.811701.0.htmlRead 7 October 2026Input-device paragraph explicitly describes white keyboard backlighting on the 2024 M3 Air 15. Maker tech spec names the same Backlit Magic Keyboard for all 15-inch M3 configurations. Only this shared physical keyboard feature is used. Review 16 GB / 512 GB numerical measurements are excluded.

Backlit, type not stated9Maker product pagesupport.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/models/surface-laptop-5-specs-and-featuresRead 10 October 2026Keyboard Compatibility row lists Backlight with no colour or per-key information. Reviews state four brightness levels.

NumpadiDedicated physical numeric keypad. A virtual touchpad number pad is not counted.

No10Retailer pagebestbuy.com/product/apple-macbook-air-15-inch-laptop-m3-chip-8gb-memory-256gb-ssd-space-gray/6565844Read 7 October 2026Exact MRYM3LL/A specifications, Included: Numeric Keypad: false.

Not available

Key traveliPhysical key travel distance, not actuation distance.

1mm8Retailer pagebhphotovideo.com/c/product/1814979-REG/apple_mrym3ll_a_15_macbook_air_m3.htmlRead 7 October 2026Same exact SKU overview states 1 mm of key travel. Published hardware specification, not a reviewer force measurement.

Not available

Pointing stickiDedicated stick pointing device such as TrackPoint. A touchpad does not qualify.

No4Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/guide/macbook-air/apd7e765329d/2024/mac/15Read 10 October 2026Take a tour lists the Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and the Force Touch trackpad as the input devices. No pointing stick is listed.

Not available

Touchpad size

Not available

Not available

Touchpad mechanismiA clickpad or glass touchpad that clicks when pressed down is mechanical. Haptic needs a source that says haptic or force feedback.

Haptic1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026Keyboard and Trackpad. Force Touch pressure-sensing trackpad.7Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/en-gb/102309Read 5 October 2026Apple describes haptic feedback as a feature of Force Touch trackpads. Exact model sheet states Force Touch trackpad.

Mechanical13Reviewreviewed.com/laptops/content/microsoft-surface-laptop-5Read 7 October 2026Keyboard and Touchpad section explicitly physical movement and no haptics for the Alcantara model. Review says base 256GB model otherwise identical to tested i5/8GB/512GB. Approximate dimensions not imported.

Camera and audio

5 of 7 differ

Webcam

1080p FaceTime HD1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026

720p HD1Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026

IR face loginiAn infrared camera suitable for Windows Hello face authentication. An ordinary webcam or fingerprint sensor does not qualify.

No19Spec databasenanoreview.net/en/laptop/apple-macbook-air-15-m3-2024Read 10 October 2026Connectivity section: Infrared sensor No, fingerprint Yes. Apple lists Touch ID and a 1080p FaceTime HD camera and no IR camera.

Yes2Owner's manualsupport.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/models/surface-laptop-5-specs-and-featuresRead 5 October 2026Maker identifies separate Windows Hello and front-facing cameras.

Webcam privacy

Not available

Not available

Built-in speaker driversiIndividual built-in acoustic drivers, including separate tweeters and woofers. Do not count audio channels or infer driver count from speaker assemblies.

61Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026Audio section. Physical six-speaker system.

Not available

Total speaker poweriCombined published power of the built-in speaker drivers. RMS or peak classification belongs in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Audio features

Spatial Audio, Dolby Atmos, Force-cancelling woofers, Voice Isolation, Wide Spectrum microphone mode, Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking on supported AirPods1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026Exact M3 Audio section explicitly Voice Isolation and Wide Spectrum microphone modes, directional beamforming and Spatial Audio. Dynamic head tracking requires supported AirPods, AirPods Pro or AirPods Max, not head tracking on the laptop speakers. Existing speaker count and Dolby Atmos entries retained.

Dolby Atmos1Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026Dolby Atmos requires encoded content.

MicrophonesiPhysical built-in microphones, not beamforming channels or microphone modes.

31Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026

21Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Battery and power

5 of 5 differ

Battery energyiPublished nominal energy capacity of the installed internal battery in watt-hours. Separate from measured runtime and charger output.

66.5Wh1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026

47.4Wh16Maker spec sheet (PDF)cdn-dynmedia-1.microsoft.com/is/content/microsoftcorp/microsoft/final/en-us/mcaps/dau/documents/redtiger/fy23/Surface%20Laptop%205%20FED%20Fact%20Sheet.pdfRead 7 October 2026Surface Laptop 5 FED Fact Sheet Battery life row explicitly Battery Capacity Nominal 47.4Wh, minimum 45.8Wh. Shared 13.5/15-inch model hardware capacity corroborated by exact 13.5-inch i5/8GB Reviewed unit. iFixit genuine 13.5-inch battery rating 45.8Wh is minimum, not a conflicting nominal capacity. No derived voltage/mAh conversion.18Reviewreviewed.com/laptops/content/microsoft-surface-laptop-5Read 7 October 2026Respectable battery life section states 47.4Wh battery in 13.5-inch i5/8GB/512GB. Paragraph states base 256GB otherwise identical. This corroborates maker nominal capacity and is not runtime.

Claimed battery lifeiManufacturer maximum runtime for each explicitly named test. Display brightness, configuration and other conditions belong in the source note. Wireless streaming preserves an unnamed content type and does not imply video or audio. Video conferencing requires an explicit calling test, with application and participant setup in the source note. MobileMark versions use different workloads, so compare only rows of the same version.

AApple MacBook Air 15-inch (M3, 2024)

Use case	Hours (h)
Video playback	18
Web browsing	15

Source1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026Battery and Power footnote. Matching 8-core CPU/10-core GPU, 8 GB RAM/256 GB SSD test. HD 1080p Apple TV app movie playback and wireless browsing 25 websites, brightness 8 clicks from bottom. Up to claims, varies with use/configuration.

BMicrosoft Surface Laptop 5 13.5-inch

Use case	Hours (h)
Mixed use	18

Source1Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026Footnote 5. Matching 13.5-inch Core i5, 8 GB/256 GB tested August 2022. Mixed active use and modern standby. Eight websites, Office productivity and idle apps. 150 nits, auto-brightness off, Wi-Fi connected. Windows 11.0.22621 (21H2), as published. No web/video-only claim.

Adapter rated outputiNominal rated output of the documented supplied or recommended adapter. A temporary dynamic maximum belongs in the source note. Not the laptop charging-input limit.

35W1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026Exact selected M3 base includes 35 W USB-C adapter. Apple explicitly says fast-charge capable with a 70 W USB-C adapter, an optional higher-power supply. Supplied adapter rating remains separate from fast-charge requirement and maximum laptop input. 35 W dual-port compact adapter total power can be shared between connected devices.

65W1Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026Original supply specifies 60 W laptop output plus separate 5 W USB-A charging output. Total adapter rating 65 W. Not 65 W accepted laptop USB-C input.

Laptop charging connectoriConnector at the laptop end of the documented main charging cable, not the wall plug or adapter-end connector. HP's AC smart pin is a round DC plug, so it is barrel.

MagSafe1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026USB-C to MagSafe 3 cable at the laptop end.

Proprietary2Owner's manualsupport.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/models/surface-laptop-5-specs-and-featuresRead 5 October 2026Maker model charging instructions explicitly USB-C or proprietary Surface Connect. Original supply has separate USB-A output.

Charge 0 to 50 % (claimed)iManufacturer time to charge an empty battery to 50%. Adapter and powered-off conditions belong in the source note.

30min4Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/guide/macbook-air/apd7e765329d/2024/mac/15Read 10 October 2026Around 30 minutes with optional 70W USB-C adapter, separate from included base adapter.

Not available

Cooling

2 of 4 differ

FansiPhysical cooling fans inside the laptop. Excludes fans in external coolers and the power adapter.

02Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2024/03/apple-unveils-the-new-13-and-15-inch-macbook-air-with-the-powerful-m3-chipRead 5 October 2026

110Owner's manualdownload.microsoft.com/download/9/3/5/93501ba4-9f8f-430b-97ca-9d603f42a0b7/Surface%20Laptop%205%20Service%20Guide.pdfRead 7 October 2026Service Guide glossary Thermal Module is an assembly with heat spreaders and electric fan. Illustrated parts list and 13.5-inch Thermal Module replacement pages 47-52 show one complete fan/module and one fan connector. 15-inch screw differences are separate.

Vapor chamberiA vapor-chamber heat spreader is installed. Ordinary heatpipes alone do not qualify.

No19Spec databasenanoreview.net/en/laptop/apple-macbook-air-15-m3-2024Read 10 October 2026Cooling solution section: passive cooling, vapor chamber No.

Not available

Liquid metaliComponents where the maker confirms liquid-metal thermal material. Ordinary thermal paste is excluded.

Not available

Not available

Power modesiPublished laptop operating modes and configured power limits. Do not place observed runtime power measurements in this table.

Not available

Not available

Security

2 of 4 differ

Fingerprint

Power button4Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/guide/macbook-air/apd7e765329d/2024/mac/15Read 10 October 2026Touch ID described as power button.

None14Reviewlesnumeriques.com/ordinateur-portable/microsoft-surface-laptop-5-13-5-core-i5-p71427/test.htmlRead 7 October 202613.5-inch Construction section explicitly no fingerprint reader, with infrared Windows Hello face camera. Fixed model feature, not a 15-inch inference.

TPM

Not available

2.01Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Remote management

Not available

Not available

Security lock slotiA dedicated built-in physical security-cable slot. Security locks that occupy a USB-C port do not qualify.

No4Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/guide/macbook-air/apd7e765329d/2024/mac/15Read 10 October 2026Take a tour lists every external feature: two Thunderbolt / USB 4 ports, MagSafe 3 port, headphone jack, camera, speakers, Touch ID power button, microphones and trackpad. No security cable slot is listed.17Spec databaseeverymac.com/systems/apple/macbook-air/specs/macbook-air-m3-8-core-cpu-10-core-gpu-15-2024-specs.htmlRead 10 October 2026Ports section: Security (Lock) None.

No9Maker product pagesupport.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/models/surface-laptop-5-specs-and-featuresRead 10 October 2026Connections row lists every external connector: one USB-C with USB 4.0 / Thunderbolt 4, one USB-A 3.1, 3.5 mm headphone jack and one Surface Connect port. No security cable slot is listed.

Software

2 of 3 differ

Operating system

macOS Sonoma2Press releaseapple.com/newsroom/2024/03/apple-unveils-the-new-13-and-15-inch-macbook-air-with-the-powerful-m3-chipRead 5 October 2026Operating system supplied at original launch. Later supported system updates are excluded.

Windows 11 Home1Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026

OS family

macOS1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026

Windows1Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Security updates untiliPublished end date of OS/security updates promised for the exact device model. Preserve the source precision. Do not calculate it from years or substitute a generic OS-version lifecycle. Unknown when no device-specific promise is published.

Not available

Not available

Measured display

8 of 12 differ

Brightness (measured, centre)iReviewer center-point SDR luminance for the matching display configuration. Do not substitute a review average or unspecified measurement.

507nits20Measurementlaptopmedia.com/review/apple-macbook-air-15-m3-reviewRead 10 October 2026Brightness and Contrast section: maximum 507 nits in the middle of the screen. True Tone off, Colour LCD profile, white screen at maximum brightness, CCT 6680 K.

Not available

Brightness (measured, average)iReviewer mean luminance across a documented display grid, normally nine points.

498nits20Measurementlaptopmedia.com/review/apple-macbook-air-15-m3-reviewRead 10 October 2026Same section: 498 nits average across the surface with a maximum deviation of 6 percent. Grid size is not stated.

Not available

Contrast ratio (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

1,360:120Measurementlaptopmedia.com/review/apple-macbook-air-15-m3-reviewRead 10 October 2026Same section: contrast ratio 1360:1. The brightness setting of this reading is not stated.

Not available

HDR peak brightness (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

sRGB coverage (measured)iReviewer measured sRGB coverage, not gamut volume. Instrument and method belong in the source note.

100%20Measurementlaptopmedia.com/review/apple-macbook-air-15-m3-reviewRead 10 October 2026Color Coverage section: tested total colour coverage 100 percent of sRGB. Lab measurement by the reviewer, method and instrument not named in the text.

Not available

DCI-P3 coverage (measured)iReviewer measured DCI-P3 coverage, not gamut volume. Display P3 measurements are identified in the source note.

100%20Measurementlaptopmedia.com/review/apple-macbook-air-15-m3-reviewRead 10 October 2026Color Coverage section: tested total colour coverage 100 percent of DCI-P3.

Not available

Colour accuracy (measured Delta E)iReviewer colour error before calibration. Delta-E formula, colour space and picture mode belong in the source note.

Not available

1.619Measurementlesnumeriques.com/ordinateur-portable/microsoft-surface-laptop-5-13-5-core-i5-p71427/test.htmlRead 10 October 2026Display section: Delta E 1.6 and average colour temperature 6550 K after setting the Windows display profile to sRGB instead of Enhanced. Not the default Enhanced mode. Delta E formula not stated. Review unit is i5-1235U with 16 GB RAM and 512 GB SSD, same 13.5-inch display. The review text also prints a wrong 2496 x 1664 resolution, which is the 15-inch value and is not used.

PWM flicker foundiWhether a reviewer detected pulse-width-modulation flicker under the documented test conditions. False does not prove all frequency ranges were tested.

No20Measurementlaptopmedia.com/review/apple-macbook-air-15-m3-reviewRead 10 October 2026Health Impact PWM section: the display does not flicker at any brightness level.

Not available

PWM frequency (measured)iDetected PWM frequency at the brightness setting stated by the reviewer.

Not available

Not available

PWM at or below brightnessiHighest display brightness setting at or below which the documented PWM is detected.

Not available

Not available

Response black to white (measured)iReviewer combined rise and fall response for black-to-white-to-black, with test conditions in the source note.

26ms20Measurementlaptopmedia.com/review/apple-macbook-air-15-m3-reviewRead 10 October 2026Response time section: black to white and white to black from 10 to 90 percent, fall time plus rise time 26 ms.

Not available

Response grey to grey (measured)iReviewer combined rise and fall response between specified grey levels. State the levels in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Measured performance

1 of 8 differ

Cinebench 2024 single-coreiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Cinebench 2024 multi-coreiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Geekbench 6 single-coreiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker. Geekbench 6 only. Geekbench 5 and 7 use other scales, so their scores are not stored.

Not available

Not available

Geekbench 6 multi-coreiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker. Geekbench 6 only. Geekbench 5 and 7 use other scales, so their scores are not stored.

Not available

Not available

3DMark Time Spy graphicsiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker. Graphics score, not the overall score. A score the review does not label as graphics is left out.

Not available

Not available

3DMark Steel NomadiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

SSD sequential read (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

2,721MB/s20Measurementlaptopmedia.com/review/apple-macbook-air-15-m3-reviewRead 10 October 2026Storage section: the 256 GB SSD reads at about 2721 MB/s and writes at about 2132 MB/s. Benchmark tool is not named.

Not available

Game frame ratesiMatching review-unit game results. Resolution, preset, upscaling, frame generation and ray tracing are stated only when documented.

Not available

Not available

Measured noise and temperature

5 of 9 differ

Fan noise per modeiReviewer sound-pressure readings for the matching configuration and mode. Measurement distance and workload belong in the source note.

AApple MacBook Air 15-inch (M3, 2024)

Not available

BMicrosoft Surface Laptop 5 13.5-inch

Load	Noise (dB(A))
Max load	33.6

Source19Measurementlesnumeriques.com/ordinateur-portable/microsoft-surface-laptop-5-13-5-core-i5-p71427/test.htmlRead 10 October 2026Construction section: 33.6 dB measured while the fan runs at low speed during the Cinebench load. Distance and power mode are not stated.

Max fan noiseiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

33.6dB(A)=CalculatedFrom Fan noise per mode

Fan noise while gamingiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Top surface under loadiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

41°C19Measurementlesnumeriques.com/ordinateur-portable/microsoft-surface-laptop-5-13-5-core-i5-p71427/test.htmlRead 10 October 2026Construction section: hot spot about 41 C at the centre of the keyboard under Cinebench. Approximate figure as published. Reviewer lists no other top-surface maximum. Review unit is i5-1235U with 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD and a metal palm rest finish (Sage).

Bottom surface under loadiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Palm rest under loadiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

CPU temperature in stress testiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

100°C20Measurementlaptopmedia.com/review/apple-macbook-air-15-m3-reviewRead 10 October 2026Max CPU load table, 15-inch M3 row, 10:00 to 15:00 minutes column: 100 C chip temperature at 11.42 W. Power mode is not stated. Fanless chassis.

Not available

CPU clock in stress testiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

2.8GHz20Measurementlaptopmedia.com/review/apple-macbook-air-15-m3-reviewRead 10 October 2026Same row and column: average P-core frequency 2.80 GHz at 10 to 15 minutes of 100 percent CPU load. E-core average 2.75 GHz.

Not available

GPU temperature while gamingiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Measured battery and power

4 of 10 differ

Battery runtime per testiReviewer runtime for the exact test and configuration. Mixed browsing, video and graphics workloads are classified as mixed use.

AApple MacBook Air 15-inch (M3, 2024)

Not available

BMicrosoft Surface Laptop 5 13.5-inch

Test	Brightness (nits)	Hours (h)
Wi-Fi browsing	Not available	12.75
Video streaming	200	6.68

Source19Measurementlesnumeriques.com/ordinateur-portable/microsoft-surface-laptop-5-13-5-core-i5-p71427/test.htmlRead 10 October 2026Autonomy section: the unit switched off after 6 h 41 min under Netflix at 200 cd/m2, keyboard backlight and Bluetooth off, same protocol as earlier reviews. Power mode not stated. Review unit has 16 GB RAM and 512 GB SSD.20Measurementreviewed.com/laptops/content/microsoft-surface-laptop-5Read 10 October 2026Battery section: 12 h 45 min in the reviewer benchmark that simulates web browsing. Brightness and power mode are not stated. Review unit is i5-1235U with 8 GB RAM and 512 GB SSD, which the review says is otherwise identical to the 256 GB base.

Wi-Fi browsing runtimeiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

12.75h=CalculatedFrom Battery runtime per test

Video runtimeiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

6.68h=CalculatedFrom Battery runtime per test

Full charge time (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Power draw idleiHighest reviewer idle AC power reading for the matching configuration and test conditions.

Not available

Not available

Power draw gamingiReviewer AC power draw during the named game and settings. Not GPU-only power.

Not available

Not available

Power draw maxiMaximum reviewer AC input power during the documented load or stress test. Not the adapter rating.

Not available

Not available

Sustained CPU power (measured)iObserved sustained CPU package power during the documented test. Not the configured PL1 limit.

11.42W20Measurementlaptopmedia.com/review/apple-macbook-air-15-m3-reviewRead 10 October 2026Same row and column: package power 11.42 W at 10 to 15 minutes of 100 percent CPU load.

Not available

GPU power while gaming (measured)iObserved GPU-only power while running the documented game and settings.

Not available

Not available

Weight (measured)iReviewer measured laptop mass without its power adapter unless the source note explicitly states otherwise.

Not available

Not available

Certifications

1 of 6 differ

Intel EvoiManufacturer certification of the exact configuration as Intel Evo. Processor support alone does not establish certification.

Not available

Yes9Maker product pagesupport.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/models/surface-laptop-5-specs-and-featuresRead 10 October 2026Processor row for both 13.5 consumer i5-1235U and i7-1255U says Built on Intel Evo platform. Original October 2022 fact sheet explicitly all consumer SKUs Evo.

Copilot+ PCiManufacturer identifies the configuration as Copilot+ PC. A Copilot keyboard key alone is insufficient.

Not available

Not available

Colour certifications

Not available

Not available

ENERGY STAR

Yes1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026

Yes2Owner's manualsupport.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/models/surface-laptop-5-specs-and-featuresRead 5 October 2026

EPEAT

Gold16Maker spec sheet (PDF)apple.com/environment/pdf/products/notebooks/M3_MacBook_Air_PER_March2024.pdfRead 7 October 2026March 2024 maker Product Environmental Report, footnote 5 on PDF page 12: MacBook Air with M3 achieved Gold in the United States and Canada and is listed on the EPEAT Registry. This is maker registration evidence for the original US M3 product, corroborating the exact retailer SKU. No grade is inferred from ENERGY STAR.

Gold9Maker product pagesupport.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/models/surface-laptop-5-specs-and-featuresRead 10 October 2026Sustainability row explicitly Registered EPEAT Gold in US and Canada. Manufacturer registration claim for retained US hardware.

Other certifications

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In the box

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In the boxiAccessories confirmed for this exact SKU. Do not combine mutually exclusive regional bundles into one box.

15-inch MacBook Air, 35W Dual USB-C Port Compact Power Adapter, USB-C to MagSafe 3 Cable (2 m)1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026In the Box. Retained US base configuration includes the named power adapter and 2 m USB-C to MagSafe 3 cable. Alternate optional adapters excluded.

Surface Laptop 5 13.5-inch, Power Supply, Quick Start Guide, Safety and warranty documents1Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Power adapter includediWhether a power adapter is included with this exact regional SKU. A supported or recommended adapter does not prove inclusion.

Yes1Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026

Yes1Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Warranty

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Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

1year5Maker product pageapple.com/legal/warranty/products/embedded-mac-warranty-us.htmlRead 10 October 2026US one-year limited hardware warranty from original retail purchase. Statutory rights and AppleCare excluded.

1year1Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Warranty serviceiDocumented manufacturer warranty service for the named market. Included paid service upgrades belong in the source note.

Carry-in, Mail-in5Maker product pageapple.com/legal/warranty/products/embedded-mac-warranty-us.htmlRead 10 October 2026US limited warranty, Warranty service options: carry-in service and mail-in service. DIY parts service is also listed and has no matching option. AppleCare plans are excluded.

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Links

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Product page

support.apple.com/en-us/1185521Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026

www.microsoft.com/en-us/p/surface-laptop-5/8XN49V61S1BN3Maker product pagemicrosoft.com/en-us/p/surface-laptop-5/8XN49V61S1BNRead 10 October 2026Original consumer store. Business hardware and successor comparison rows excluded.

Spec sheet

support.apple.com/en-us/1185521Maker product pagesupport.apple.com/en-us/118552Read 8 October 2026

news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdf1Maker spec sheet (PDF)news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/646/2022/10/Surface-Laptop-5-Fact-Sheet.pdfRead 5 October 2026Original October 2022 consumer rows. Business CPUs excluded.

Manual

support.apple.com/guide/macbook-air/apd7e765329d/2024/mac/154Owner's manualsupport.apple.com/guide/macbook-air/apd7e765329d/2024/mac/15Read 10 October 2026

support.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/models/surface-laptop-5-specs-and-features2Owner's manualsupport.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/models/surface-laptop-5-specs-and-featuresRead 5 October 2026

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

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Both are also in the API. Back to all laptops.