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I haven’t analysed the Apple laptop line up at depth since I bought my Macbook Pro M1 in 2022 (other members might chip in with a fresher look) but here were my considerations for Lightroom/Photoshop use:
-16GB RAM was recommended, more was really useful for video only. I expect 25 GB will be plenty.
-When comparing Air vs Pro Macbook, see the specs in terms of GPU. Lightroom classic does leverage GPU acceleration for AI-assisted editing tools, and I think for batches too.
-I paid extra for a 2 TB SSD, because everything things just runs better on the fast SSD that’s onboard the computer. Check if the Pro SSDs are faster than those on Air Macbooks.
Regarding where to store files, my preference differs slightly from Erin’s:
-LR catalog & current year’s RAW files on the local SSD. Lets me work wherever without having to plug an external SSD. Only older RAWs are stored in an external SSD (doesn’t have to be that fast, they’ve been edited already).
-LR catalog backed up every week, backups are saved in the cloud, so no worries if my catalog crashes or even if I lose my onboard SSD.
– Obviously you need a backup strategy for current & older RAW files, your files should never be at just one place at once.
All in one, if budget drives compromises, i’d favour a bigger onboard SSD rather than maxing out RAM.
Screen quality is important too, especially if you find yourself editing on the laptop screen, or always on a better external display.
For the weight saving of a Macbook Air, ask yourself if really matters.
Happy shopping!