> The only benefit is that it offers an i7 processor at the top-end
That's not really a benefit since it uses a 5W i7 (formerly m7) versus — I assume — a 15W i5 on the Air, it's just Intel's shitty branding confusion.
The 12" is quite a bit lighter (2.03 lbs to 2.75), is fanless, and has a smaller footprint (width of 11.04" to 11.97" and depth of 7.74" to 8.36").
That's pretty much it.
The Air has touchid, likely better performances, seemingly a better display, higher storage options, more ports, better ports (12" only has USB-C, MBA has TB3), more battery life.
That's not really a benefit since it uses a 5W i7 (formerly m7) versus — I assume — a 15W i5 on the Air, it's just Intel's shitty branding confusion.
The 12" is quite a bit lighter (2.03 lbs to 2.75), is fanless, and has a smaller footprint (width of 11.04" to 11.97" and depth of 7.74" to 8.36").
That's pretty much it.
The Air has touchid, likely better performances, seemingly a better display, higher storage options, more ports, better ports (12" only has USB-C, MBA has TB3), more battery life.