March 20, 2025 – According to the latest report from market research firm CIRP, Apple’s revamped MacBook lineup has seen significant enhancements with the introduction of the M4 chip, particularly boosting the performance of the MacBook Air. However, the MacBook Pro, leveraging its professional positioning and long-standing market dominance, continues to hold a firm grip on the high-end laptop segment.
CIRP’s data reveals that in the US market in 2024, MacBooks accounted for 86% of Apple’s total Mac sales, with the Pro series consistently leading the pack, commanding a 53% share.
In terms of market positioning, the MacBook Pro caters to professional users, offering superior performance and extensive expansion options. Conversely, the MacBook Air emphasizes portability and value-for-money, starting at $999, yet it is often regarded as the “second choice” by consumers.
The report highlights that both the MacBook Pro (updated in October 2024) and the MacBook Air (March 2025 release) are equipped with the M4 chip, delivering approximately a 15% boost in CPU performance and a 20% increase in GPU capabilities. Nevertheless, the report notes that the improvements brought by the M4 chip are less noticeable for everyday users, with the primary beneficiaries being professionals in design, programming, and similar fields.
The Pro’s earlier release has solidified its “first-mover advantage,” while the Air, despite its comparable performance, still faces consumer perception biased towards the Pro’s “premium” label. Even if the full performance potential is not always utilized in daily tasks, users are willing to pay a higher premium for the Pro, as it symbolizes a “long-term investment” and “professional status.”
