4 Things to Know About MacBook Air Wi-Fi Antenna Placement

Older MacBook Airs have poorly placed antennas On Intel-based models and early M1s, the Wi-Fi antennas sit near the hinge or bottom edge, making signal strength drop when you hold the laptop on your lap or place it on a metal surface.

M2 and M3 models improved antenna placement Apple moved the antennas to the sides of the chassis on the M2 and M3 MacBook Airs, which significantly reduced signal interference.

Portrait orientation or soft surfaces weaken signal If you use a 2018–2020 Intel or 2020 M1 MacBook Air in portrait mode or on a soft surface like a bed, expect weaker Wi-Fi due to blocked antenna positions.

Simple fixes can help Prop the laptop up or rotate it 90 degrees to improve signal. For a stable connection, use a USB-C Ethernet adapter instead.