M1 MacBook Air still wins on battery life.

Yes, the M1 MacBook Air gets noticeably better real-world battery life than the M2.

Same 52.6Wh battery, but the M2 has a larger, brighter display and a chip that pulls more power under load. In light use (web browsing, email, notes) you’ll see maybe 1.5–2 hours more on the M1. In mixed use (video calls, light editing) it’s more like 1 hour. Both are all-day machines, but the M1 just keeps going longer.

Apple’s official numbers are close, but real people consistently report the M1 lasting longer. The M2 also runs slightly warmer, which can drain more battery if you push it.

If battery life is your top priority, the M1 is still the smarter buy.