December 21, 2024

iFixit Tears Down the New MacBook Air [Images]

Posted March 25, 2020 at 6:56pm by iClarified · 6097 views
iFixit has posted its teardown of the new MacBook Air.

Apple has released a new MacBook Air with an updated Magic Keyboard, like the one we saw on the 16” MacBook Pro last year. Notably, that new keyboard has only added half a millimeter to the thick end of the new Air—the new wedge slopes from 4.1 mm to 16.1 mm. Is that increase all keyboard though? And, if it is, does that really matter?

Highlights:
● Larger heatsink over the new processor
● New cable configuration between the logic board and the trackpad
● Easy trackpad removal
● Faster battery removal
● Speakers held down with screws
● Scissor switch keyboard

Repairability Score: 4 out of 10
+ Re-routed trackpad cables mean that trackpad and battery replacements are available from the get-go and easier than ever.
+ Many other components (fan, speakers, ports, etc) are modular and easy to access.
+/– Apart from the pesky pentalobe screws, the MacBook Air opens about as easily as any
– The keyboard, though more reliable, is still integrated into the top case, requiring a full teardown for service.
– Soldered SSD and RAM are a real bummer in a laptop at this price point.

Check out a few images below or hit the link for the full teardown. If you're interested in purchasing the new MacBook Air, Amazon is currently offering an additional $49 off the already lowered price of the 2020 model. Grab the deal while supplies last!

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