Where's my high resolution on my MacBook Air?
I have been using the MacBook Air M1 2020 since April 2021, and it recently came to my attention that I cannot set the resolution to the maximum advertised resolution of 2560 × 1600 using the OS display settings. This discovery was quite surprising and left me feeling somewhat cheated.
A brief history on Macbook Air resolution changes
The MacBook Air has undergone several resolution changes throughout its history, reflecting advancements in display technology and Apple's commitment to improving user experiences. Here is a brief overview of the resolution changes in the MacBook Air:
- Early MacBook Air Models (2008-2010): The original MacBook Air (2008) featured a 13.3-inch display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels.
- MacBook Air (2010-2018): In 2010, Apple redesigned the MacBook Air line and the 11.6-inch MacBook Air was introduced, featuring a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels, while the 13.3-inch model retained the 1280 x 800 resolution.
- MacBook Air Retina (2018-present): In 2018, Apple introduced the MacBook Air Retina. The 13.3-inch Retina display offered a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels.
- MacBook Air M1 (2020-present): The MacBook Air M1, released in 2020, continued the trend of high-resolution displays. It retained the 13.3-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels.
The MacBook Air has seen a progression in display resolutions over the years, from standard resolutions in its early models to the introduction of Retina displays with higher pixel densities. These advancements have contributed to improved visual experiences, providing users with sharper and more vibrant displays for work, entertainment, and everyday use.
But users noticed not being able to set the resolution to the maximum advertised resolution on the MacBook Air M1 2020
It appears that I am not alone in experiencing this issue. Numerous users on forums such as Apple Community and MacRumors have reported the inability to set the maximum resolution on the internal display of the MacBook Air M1 2020. This has sparked a discussion among MacBook Air users who have noticed the same limitation.
3rd party tool to the rescue
Fortunately, there is a workaround for this problem. Users have discovered that they can achieve higher resolutions by using third-party tools such as QuickRes or EasyRes. These tools provide an alternative means of adjusting the display resolution on the MacBook Air M1 since the native options provided by the operating system may not include the advertised resolution.
By utilizing third-party tools like QuickRes or EasyRes, MacBook Air M1 users gain more flexibility and control over their display settings. These tools tap into the low-level graphics settings of the MacBook Air M1, enabling users to select from a wider range of resolutions, including the advertised maximum resolution.
But be careful...
However, it is important to exercise caution when using third-party tools to modify the display resolution. There are potential drawbacks associated with these tools that users should be aware of. For instance, using such tools may lead to a reduction in performance, alter the display's aspect ratio, or even cause damage to the display itself. Consequently, it is advisable to only employ these tools if you have a comprehensive understanding of their functionality and feel confident in your ability to make changes to your device's display settings.
Maximizing Display Potential: Leveraging Third-Party Tools for MacBook Air M1's Advertised Resolution
To recap, if you wish to make use of the advertised resolution on the 2020 MacBook Air M1's internal display, you may need to rely on third-party tools like QuickRes or EasyRes. Nonetheless, it is crucial to acknowledge the potential risks and use these tools judiciously, ensuring that you possess the necessary knowledge and confidence to modify your device's display settings.