Recently, I switched to a fanless MacBook Air and would like to share my observations and feelings.
The M-series chip MacBook Air has eliminated the fan, physically removing the possibility of fan noise, which simplifies the internal structure and eliminates noise and dust from the fan. This aligns the laptop’s form factor with that of smartphones and tablets, truly enhancing mobility.
Although the fan in the current M-series Pro laptops operates at a very low speed under normal conditions, making it almost imperceptible, it still runs at full speed and can be quite loud under high load. This is somewhat akin to different life choices: whether to strive to keep up in the face of challenges (as a Pro) or to slow down and accomplish tasks at a lower frequency (as an Air).
In a way, noise and smell are somewhat similar; at low levels, you may not notice them or only subconsciously feel a disturbance (irritation). It is only when a certain threshold is crossed that they begin to interfere. Thus, the transition from sound to noise is a gradual process, with different sensitivities among individuals. While the fan in the current M-series Pro laptops operates at a very low speed and is nearly inaudible, it is still running slightly. This low-intensity but persistent sound is like a faint smell in the air; although not obvious, it can occasionally cause subtle disturbances.
If laptops with fans are like Schrödinger’s cat, where you don’t know when it will make noise, then the Air provides clarity, a kind of physical certainty. It may heat up and slow down, but it will definitely be quiet. This has special significance for writers; now you have an absolutely quiet, yet fast enough portable laptop. Except for rare instances of heating, daily use is efficient and convenient, with no need to worry about fan noise disrupting your thoughts. This is particularly beneficial in libraries or during quiet late-night hours.
Apple’s M-series chips have, for the first time in personal computers, achieved a combination of high performance and low power consumption (quiet operation and long battery life). Initially, during the launch event for the M1 chip MacBook Air, Apple did not emphasize its fanless feature. However, from the perspective of product design and user experience, this is a very special product, one that knowledge workers will appreciate for its ability to provide long-term quiet companionship.