Top 3 Ultrabooks in 2025: Apple Early 2020 MacBook Air vs Modern Competitors

Top 3 Ultrabooks in 2025

Apple Early 2020 MacBook Air vs Modern Competitors

 When the Apple Early 2020 MacBook Air launched, it quickly became one of the most popular ultrabooks thanks to its slim design, reliable performance, and user-friendly macOS experience. Fast-forward to 2025, and while newer laptops have entered the market with cutting-edge features, the 2020 MacBook Air still holds a place for budget-conscious buyers or Apple loyalists who don’t need the latest hardware.

In this article, we'll dive into the Top 3 ultrabooks - the classic Apple Early 2020 MacBook Air, the Dell XPS 13 (2025 edition), and the HP Spectre x360 (2025 edition). We'll cover the pros and cons of each to help you decide which one suits your needs best.

1- Apple Early 2020 MacBook Air - The Classic Ultrabook

The Apple MacBook Air (Early 2020) was a turning point for Apple laptops. It introduced the improved Magic Keyboard, offered Intel processors (before Apple's M1 revolution), and provided a lightweight, premium design at a more affordable price point than the MacBook Pro.

Pros of Apple Early 2020 MacBook Air:

Lightweight and portable: At just 2.8 pounds, it's perfect for students and professionals on the go.

Premium build quality: The aluminum chassis still feels durable and sleek, even by 2025 standards.

Retina display: Crisp 2560x1600 resolution with True Tone for comfortable viewing.

Great keyboard and trackpad: The Magic Keyboard solved issues from the butterfly keyboard era.

Budget-friendly in 2025: Significantly cheaper now compared to launch price, making it a good entry into Apple's ecosystem.

Cons of Apple Early 2020 MacBook Air:

Outdated performance: Intel's 10th Gen CPUs are now far behind Apple Silicon and modern chips.

Limited battery life by today's standards: Around 8–10 hours vs. 18–20 hours in modern ultrabooks.

No M1/M2/M3 efficiency: Misses out on faster speeds, better cooling, and improved battery optimization.

Limited ports: Just two Thunderbolt 3 USB-C ports, requiring dongles for many users.

Verdict:

The Early 2020 MacBook Air is still a reliable budget ultrabook in 2025 for those who prioritize macOS, portability, and a premium design. However, heavy users or professionals may find its performance lagging compared to modern devices.

 2- Dell XPS 13 (2025) - The Windows Powerhouse

The Dell XPS 13 has consistently been Apple's closest rival in the ultrabook space. The 2025 edition builds upon its reputation with cutting - edge Intel Meteor Lake processors, advanced display technology, and incredible battery life.

Pros of Dell XPS 13 (2025):

Stunning display options: 4K OLED or sharp QHD+ touchscreen options with ultra-thin bezels.

Top-tier performance: Intel Meteor Lake CPUs with AI acceleration for multitasking and productivity.

Premium build: Carbon fiber palm rest and CNC-machined aluminum for durability.

Excellent battery life: Up to 18 hours on the QHD+ version.

Better port selection: USB-C, Thunderbolt 4, and microSD card reader provide more flexibility.

Windows 12 ready: Seamless integration with Microsoft's AI-powered productivity features.

Cons of Dell XPS 13 (2025):

Expensive: High-end configurations cost more than many ultrabooks, even rivaling MacBook Pros.

Limited gaming performance: While powerful, it lacks the dedicated GPU power for AAA titles.

Can run warm: Under heavy loads, fan noise and heat are noticeable.

Verdict:

The Dell XPS 13 (2025) is a performance-oriented ultrabook perfect for professionals, developers, and creatives who prefer Windows. It surpasses the 2020 MacBook Air in nearly every aspect, but comes at a higher cost.

3- HP Spectre x360 (2025) - The Versatile 2-in-1

For users seeking flexibility, the HP Spectre x360 (2025) stands out as one of the best convertible ultrabooks on the market. It combines elegant design with 2-in-1 versatility, allowing you to use it as a laptop or a tablet.

 Pros of HP Spectre x360 (2025):

Convertible design: 360-degree hinge makes it perfect for tablet, tent, and presentation modes.

Brilliant OLED display: 4K OLED with HDR support for stunning visuals.

Stylus support: Ideal for creatives, students, and note-takers.

Intel Meteor Lake processors: Fast, efficient, and AI-ready.

Great battery life: Around 17 hours depending on configuration.

Strong security features: Built-in fingerprint scanner and webcam kill switch.

Cons of HP Spectre x360 (2025):

Heavier than MacBook Air: At around 3.1 pounds, it's less portable.

Pricey with OLED models: The best versions cost a premium.

Not ideal for hardcore gaming: Integrated graphics are fine for productivity, not AAA gaming.

Verdict:

The HP Spectre x360 is a stylish, versatile ultrabook with excellent performance and creative flexibility. While heavier than the MacBook Air, it offers features like touchscreen and stylus support that Apple's older ultrabook lacks.

Final Comparison - Which Should You Choose in 2025?

Here's how these three ultrabooks stack up:

Apple Early 2020 MacBook Air → Best for budget buyers who want a lightweight Mac with solid everyday performance.

Dell XPS 13 (2025) → Best for professionals who need cutting-edge performance, sleek design, and Windows productivity.

HP Spectre x360 (2025) → Best for creatives and students who value 2-in-1 flexibility and stylus support.

 Quick Pros & Cons Summary

    Laptop                                                   Pros                                                              Cons                                             

Apple Early 2020                           Lightweight, budget-friendly                       Outdated CPU, weaker    

MacBook Air                                 premium build, Retina display                        battery, limited ports 

Dell XPS 13 (2025)            Stunning display, powerful performance,             Expensive, limited gaming,

                                                premium design, strong battery life                            can run warm 

HP Spectre x360 (2025)            2-in-1 flexibility, OLED display,              Heavier, pricey OLED models,

                                                     stylus support, strong security                           not gaming-friendly 

 Conclusion

The Apple Early 2020 MacBook Air may no longer be cutting-edge, but in 2025 it still appeals to budget-conscious buyers and those who prefer macOS simplicity. However, if you want modern features, better performance, and future-ready hardware, the Dell XPS 13 (2025) and HP Spectre x360 (2025) are both superior options.

Ultimately, your choice comes down to what matters most:

Portability & affordability → MacBook Air (2020)

Performance & productivity → Dell XPS 13 (2025)

Flexibility & creativity → HP Spectre x360 (2025)