The best accessories for the M2 MacBook Air

Apple opened preorders for the new MacBook Air on Friday, July 8 and early orders are now shipping. It's faster and thinner than its predecessor, making it an attractive upgrade option.

However, for as great a computer as it is, a few choice accessories can take that experience to the next level, too.

Here's a selection of AppleInsider's favorite accessories for the new MacBook Air.

Cables

Keep your machine powered up with our favorite cables. Keep a few on hand, so you never need to be without power.

Apple's USB-C to MagSafe charging cable

Apple released a MagSafe cable alongside the new MacBook Air. The computer comes with one, but having an extra is a good idea.

Available in four colors to match your MacBook Air, this woven cable allows for fast charging when paired with a compatible USB-C power adapter.

Its magnetic connector is quick-release. If someone pulls the cord, it'll easily break free, ensuring your Mac doesn't wind up on the floor.

The two-meter long USB-C to MagSafe 3 cable costs $49.

Docks and hubs

Turn your MacBook Air into the ultimate workstation by picking up a dock or a hub for it. Attach your favorite legacy devices,

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt Hub

One of the more beefy docks we've run across, the all-metal CalDigit TS4 is rated for 230W of total power delivery.

It features 18 ports, including 98W of power delivery, a 2.5Gb ethernet port, multiple USB-A and USB-C ports, audio inputs and outputs, a DisplayPort, and multiple Thunderbolt Ports.

You can check out our full review of the TS4 Hub here, and you can head over to B&H to pick one up for $379.99.

Alogic Thunderbolt 4 Blaze Hub

We'd classify Alogic's Thunderbolt 4 Blaze as a pint-sized hub, perfect for taking along with you wherever you go.

It has a modest five ports, including a single upstream Thunderbolt 4 port with up to 60W of power output, three Thunderbolt 4 ports with 15W of power delivery, and a single USB-A port with 7.5W of power delivery.

You can snag a Thunderbolt 4 Blaze from Amazon, where it currently retails for $189.99.

Stands

For those who work long hours at a desk, you may want to think about getting a stand. This allows you to raise your laptop to eye-level height, reducing the strain on your neck and upper back.

Twelve South Curve Stand for MacBook

Twelve South's Curve Stand is an aluminum stand that looks great on your desk. The extra height makes for a more comfortable desktop experience. It's excellent for dual-screen setups, too.

You can pick up a Curve Stand from Amazon for $59.99

Vertical Laptop Stand

If you're the type to run your MacBook Air in clamshell mode, you may want to think about snagging your own Vertical Laptop Stand.

They allow you to save valuable real estate by storing your laptop on its edge.

Our current favorite, pictured above, is made of aluminum and has protective rubber pads to prevent scratching the exterior of your device. Additionally, it's adjustable, which means it can hold your iPad.

If you want your own, it is available from Amazon for $19.99

Bags and sleeves

The MacBook Air is the thinnest, lightest MacBook yet, which is great news for those who want to take it with them everywhere they go. A great bag can help keep all your essentials paired in one place.

Timovo 13.3 Inch Laptop Sleeve Case

Perfect for slinging over your shoulder, the Timovo laptop sleeve case is a sleek messenger-bag style case.

It features a water-repellent exterior and plenty of pockets for all your accessories. The fleece lining protects your MacBook from scratches, too.

The Timovo 13.3 Inch Laptop Sleeve Case is available from Amazon and comes in plenty of great colors, starting at $22.99.

Finpac Hard Laptop Sleeve Case

If you want to keep your MacBook Air scratch-free while toting it from place to place, Finpac's Hard Laptop Sleeve Case is a budget-friendly way to do just that.

Boasting water-resistant fabric and an EVA shell, this full-zip case can help protect your MacBook from bumps, dust, and light knocks. In addition, the polyester lining helps to keep your machine looking as good as the day you got it.

Available in several colors and patterns, you can snag a case starting at $25.