Apple fans might be wondering why the Cupertino-based company needs two flagship line ups when it comes to mobile computing, since both the Macbook Air and Macbook Pro have new models which were presented at the Apple Spring Forward event last March. Also, with the release of the new and greatly improved Macbook, tech observers are wondering why Apple still needs to maintain at least three versions of their laptop line up.

Build and size

In terms of the exterior, both new models haven't changed from the aluminium chassis, and although the new Macbook is being offered in three color options, both the new Air and Pro stand out in that familiar, almost-proprietary silver finish.

In terms of dimensions, the Macbook Air is slightly bigger than the Retina Macbook Pro, measuring about 4% taller and 3% wider. However, the Pro is much thicker than the Air, though the latter has a slightly tapered design.

The Air held the title of being the lightest and thinnest among Apple's laptop line-ups, at 1.35 kilos. However, the tag has been stolen by the new Macbook at just under 1 kilo.

Display

Both devices have 13.3-inch displays and a 16:10 ratio. However, the Macbook Pro provides a sharper display than the Air, with a 2560 x 1600 resolution at 227 ppi density.

Processor and power

Provided with an Intel i5 core with Broadwell architecture, the Macbook Pro gains in the computing department, with top speeds clocked at 3.3 GHz. The Pro is indeed for power users, able to deliver better performance at quicker speeds than the Air, which is mainly targeted for casual users. RAM plays a huge part too, with the Pro having an 8- and 16GB version as opposed to Air's 4- and 8GB options.

In terms of battery life though, the Air is proven far superior to that of Pro, lasting up to 12 hours of continuous usage. This might be because of the Air's hardware specs, which uses slightly less power than the Pro's higher-end specifications.