Apple released its 2014 MacBook Air models very recently; surprisingly, they come with affordable price tag than ever before. However, potential buyers should hold on to their purchasing plans until they take a look at all other MacBook Air offers/models.

It is worth noting that, the latest models of MacBook Air come with only slight enhancements when compared to 2013's MacBook Air models; in addition, the 2012 and 2013 MacBook Air versions are cheaper than before.

Performance Test

AppleInsider says, the 2014 MacBook Air models show only a slight performance improvement when compared to their predecessors from both 2013 and 2012. When performance tests were conducted on the latest MacBook Air powered by dual-core Intel Core I5-4260U chipset clocked at 1.4 GHz, the model scored 2532 in single-core tests and 4781 in multi-core tests performed on the Geekbench platform.

When the same test was conducted on 2013's model of MacBook Air which is powered by dual-core Intel Core i5-4250U chipset clocked at 1.3 GHz, the model scored 2461 and 4615. In the hindsight, the very limited performance boosts the latest MacBook Air 2014 model packs is probably the reason why the 'model identifier' of the 2014 MacBook Air has not changed, according John Poole, the founder of Primate Labs.

It is worth noting that, MacBook Air models from both 2013 and 2014 feature a 11.6 inches screen and comes with the same 'MacBookAir6,1' model identifier.

Battery Life Improvement

The other significant improvement in 2014 MacBook Air model got to be the processing speed. There is also a considerable improvement in the battery life of the latest Air models, especially on iTunes movie playback when compared to any other earlier models, according to BGR. A user comment reported that, one can get extra 3 hours of playback time in iTunes with the latest MacBook Air model.

Which Model to Buy?

The latest release of the MacBook Air 2014 models has brought down the price of 'refurbished' models (earlier versions) significantly. The 2012 (mid) models can be purchased at just $599; in addition, they come with a 1 year warranty. These models are powered by dual-core Intel Core i5 processors and they also feature LED backlit displays, according to 9to5Mac.

Where to Buy?

It is worth noting that, Apple's refurbished models are sold in limited quantities and hence, it is wise to keep a check on the latest offering time-to-time in order to strike a good deal. Also, 9to5Mac says that the $599 refurbished models are currently out-of-stock, but they should be back momentarily. In order to get information on good deals of other models and also about information on the availability of $599 MacBook Air models, check out 9to5Toys.

Interested users can click here to navigate to Apple's refurbished MacBook Air models listing in Apple Store.