General Features
| Feature | Lenovo ThinkPad X9 14 Aura Edition | Apple MacBook Air M4 |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size (inches) | 14 | 13.6 |
| Processor | Intel Core Ultra 7 258V, 2.2 GHz, with 6 performance cores and 8 efficiency cores for multitasking performance | Apple M4, 10-core CPU (4 performance and 6 efficiency cores), optimized architecture for high efficiency |
| RAM | 32 GB LPDDR5X, for high-speed data processing | 32 GB unified memory, with system memory and storage integration |
| Storage | 1 TB NVMe SSD, with fast read/write speeds | 2 TB SSD, optimized with Apple’s own flash storage technology |
| Dimensions (mm) | Approximately 312 x 218 x 15-17 (thickness varies) | Approximately 304 x 215 x 11.3 |
| Weight (g) | Approximately 1200-1300 | Approximately 1200-1300 (light design) |
| Screen Type | 14-inch IPS LCD, 1920 x 1200 resolution, 60 Hz refresh rate, with touch support | 13.6-inch Liquid Retina, 2560 x 1664 resolution, 60 Hz refresh rate, with True Tone technology |
| Battery Life (hours) | Approximately 10-12 hours video playback, with Intel’s power-saving features | Approximately 15-18 hours video playback, with the M4 chip’s efficient design |
| Connections | USB-C (Thunderbolt 4), HDMI, USB-A, headphone jack, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 | 2x Thunderbolt / USB 4 ports, MagSafe charging, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Graphics Processor | Intel Arc integrated GPU, with 8 performance units | Apple M4 GPU, 10-core, metal-based graphics performance |
| Heating and Cooling | Active cooling fan, effective for intensive workloads | Passive cooling, no fan, optimized for quiet operation |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Pro, wide software compatibility | macOS Sequoia, Apple ecosystem integration |
Performance Comparison
The Lenovo ThinkPad X9 14 Aura Edition delivers strong performance in multitasking with its Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor; for example, with a base frequency of 2.2 GHz and its integrated Arc GPU, it performs effectively in graphics-intensive applications. In contrast, the Apple MacBook Air M4 offers more efficient energy use with its 10-core M4 chip; this means longer battery life and high CPU performance. The M4 can achieve higher scores than the Intel Ultra 7 in single-core benchmark tests, but both remain at similar levels in multi-core tasks. The ThinkPad has an advantage in machine learning tasks with Intel’s AI acceleration features, whereas the MacBook Air can deliver faster results in processes like video editing and encoding due to the optimized structure of Apple Silicon.
Screen and Design
The ThinkPad X9 14 Aura Edition’s 14-inch IPS screen offers a wider viewing area and provides clarity with its 1920 x 1200 resolution, but the MacBook Air M4’s 13.6-inch Liquid Retina screen increases color accuracy with its higher 2560 x 1664 resolution and True Tone. In terms of design, the ThinkPad has a more durable structure; it is compatible with harsh conditions with MIL-STD-810H certification, whereas the MacBook Air offers a lightweight and stylish design with its aluminum body. Although both have a slim profile, the MacBook Air is superior in portability with less weight.
Battery and Connections
In terms of battery life, the MacBook Air M4’s duration of 15-18 hours thanks to the M4 chip is longer than the ThinkPad’s 10-12 hours; this means less need for charging in daily use. Regarding connections, the ThinkPad offers more traditional ports (USB-A, HDMI), which makes integration with external devices easier. The MacBook Air provides high-speed data transfer with Thunderbolt 4, but adapters may be required. Wi-Fi 6E is available on both, making it ideal for fast wireless connectivity.
The comparison was made by considering the technical specifications of both devices. While the ThinkPad appears as a more expensive option with its business focus and wide connection options, the MacBook Air could be a cheaper and more efficient alternative for everyday use.