Refurbished MacBook Air 2020
The Refurbished MacBook Air 2020 is a landmark year: Apple released two very different MacBook Airs — the Intel version in March 2020 (with the new Magic Keyboard replacing the butterfly), and the game-changing M1 Apple Silicon version in November 2020. Both models are still supported by macOS Sequoia in 2026. Every unit fully tested and covered by a 12-month UK warranty.
Intel vs M1: which 2020 MacBook Air is right for you?
The M1 MacBook Air (November 2020) is one of the biggest performance leaps in Apple laptop history — around 2-3x faster than the Intel version, 15+ hours battery life, fanless silent operation, and blazing performance for everyday and creative work. The Intel version (March 2020) is cheaper and still capable for basic use. Both use the new Magic Keyboard, ending the butterfly-keyboard problems for good.
Key specs
- Display: 13.3-inch Retina (2560x1600), True Tone
- Processor: Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 (Intel model) — OR Apple M1 8-core CPU (M1 model)
- Memory: 8GB or 16GB LPDDR3 (Intel) / LPDDR4X (M1)
- Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB SSD
- Graphics: Intel Iris Plus (Intel) or Apple 7-core or 8-core GPU (M1)
- Battery: Up to 11 hours (Intel) / 15-18 hours (M1)
- Ports: 2x Thunderbolt 3 / USB 4 (USB-C)
- Touch ID + T2 (Intel) or Secure Enclave (M1)
- Magic Keyboard — scissor mechanism, ends butterfly issues
- OS support: macOS Sequoia (15). M1 will get many more years of support than Intel version.
What you get from Refurb Phone
- ✅ 50+ point functional test
- ✅ Minimum 85% battery health guarantee
- ✅ Magic Keyboard verified (no butterfly issues here!)
- ✅ Touch ID verified and reset for new user
- ✅ Latest macOS pre-installed
- ✅ Genuine USB-C charger included
- ✅ 12-month UK warranty
- ✅ Free next-day UK delivery
- ✅ 30-day no-quibble returns
Frequently asked questions
Is the M1 MacBook Air 2020 still worth buying in 2026?
Absolutely — it's arguably the best-value Mac Apple has ever made. Apple M1 chip performance is still excellent for photo editing, coding, music production, 4K video editing, and general use. 15+ hours battery, silent fanless operation, and Apple will support it with macOS updates for many more years.
Should I buy the Intel or M1 MacBook Air 2020?
Nearly always the M1 — it's 2-3x faster than Intel, has much better battery life, runs silently (no fan), and will receive macOS updates for years longer. The only reason to choose Intel 2020 is if you need to run older Intel-only Windows software via Boot Camp.
How long will an M1 MacBook Air last?
Realistically 7-10 years. Apple Silicon Macs typically receive macOS updates for longer than Intel Macs. The M1 chip is still fully capable in 2026 and comfortable with modern workloads.
Does the 2020 MacBook Air have the butterfly keyboard problem?
No — this is the first Air with the Magic Keyboard (scissor-switch), which permanently ends the butterfly-keyboard reliability issues. This is a big reason to prefer the 2020 over 2018/2019 models.
Do refurbished MacBook Airs come with new batteries?
Every 2020 MacBook Air we sell tests at minimum 85% battery health; batteries below that are replaced. Check status via Apple menu → About This Mac → System Report → Power.
Can I run Windows on an M1 MacBook Air?
Only via virtualisation (Parallels, VMware Fusion) running Windows 11 ARM edition. You cannot use Boot Camp on Apple Silicon Macs. For most users this is fine, but if you need x86 Windows applications, choose the Intel 2020 or an older Intel MacBook Pro.
How much is a refurbished MacBook Air 2020 in the UK?
Intel 2020: typically £400-£600. M1 2020: typically £500-£800 depending on RAM, storage, and grade. Original launch prices were £999-£1,999 — huge savings for still-supported Apple hardware.
Can I upgrade RAM or SSD on the 2020 MacBook Air?
No — both are soldered (Intel) or on the M1 SoC (Apple Silicon). Choose your configuration carefully. If in doubt, get 16GB RAM for future-proofing.
Browse our full refurbished MacBook range or explore iPads and Apple Watches.
