If you need a little extra bump, choose the 2.3GHz model. Most people are going to be happy with one of the former. These models come with either 2.0GHz quad-core i5 or 2.3GHz quad-core i7 processors. MacBook Pro 13-inch: Entry-level models come with an Apple M1, although Intel-based models remain - at least for now. But, this is the best MacBook of the year overall. MacBook Air 13-inch: The entry-level MacBook only includes SoC as of December 2020 there are no longer Intel-based MacBook Airs on the market. Since you can't change a CPU after you buy your Mac, you want to make sure you buy the right one - not just for your needs now, but for your needs next year and the year after that. Going from dual to quad-core is like getting a second car.
So, getting a faster core is like upgrading from a regular car to a race car. More cores let you do more things at once. Generally speaking, faster cores let you do single things faster. Currently provided by Intel, they range from the ultra-low-power Core i3 to the ultra-powerful quad-core Core i9 in high-end MacBook Pro and iMac to the Xeon workstation chips in the Mac Pro.
The CPU - central processing unit - is the engine that makes your Mac go. VPN Deals: Lifetime license for $16, monthly plans at $1 & more Mac upgrades: Are CPU upgrades worth it?
