Hinge Too Stiff on MacBook Air M4 – Can’t Open with One Hand (Only 15 Days)

Question

Hinge Too Stiff on MacBook Air M4 – Can’t Open with One Hand (Only 15 Days)

Hi everyone,

I bought a brand-new MacBook Air M4 just 15 days ago, and I'm already facing an issue with the hinge. It feels unusually stiff and tight while opening or adjusting the screen. What concerns me most is that I can’t even open it with one hand, which is something I’ve always been able to do with previous MacBooks.

There’s been no damage or rough handling—I always open it from the center and treat it carefully. The hinge doesn’t make any noise, but the resistance is noticeably higher than expected. It's not what I would expect from a brand-new Apple device.

I contacted Apple Support, and they mentioned that 1–2% of MacBook units can have this issue. That seems like a small percentage, but it’s disappointing to experience it so soon after purchase.

Is anyone else experiencing this issue with the M4 model? Is it a known manufacturing issue, or should I visit the Apple Store right away?

Would love to hear from others or if @Apple has any guidance on this.

Thanks in advance!

MacBook Air 13″, macOS 15.5

Posted on Jul 5, 2025 09:22 PM

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Answer 1

kaz-k

Level 9

50,994 points

Jul 6, 2025 04:02 AM in response to ijigarsolanki

Hi,

I think it's better than lose hinge, though if you concern about it, you'd better take your MacBook Air to your local retail AppleStore, Genius Bar or Apple Authorized Service provider to be examined it before one year limited warranty is expired.

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

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Answer 2

Jul 23, 2025 12:54 AM in response to ijigarsolanki

+1 , I bought this MacBook Air m3 13" like 4 days ago LOL! And having exact same issue, the lid feels soo tight and can't even open it with one hand anymore! and yes they are claiming 1-2% but I don't think so cuz one of my friend bought same version but just 15" inch one and he too got same issue. Now idk what should we do now, ask for replacement or anything else?

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Answer 3

Jul 23, 2025 01:09 AM in response to thejagdishgaikwad

Visit an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider:

Ask them to compare hinge resistance with another floor model of the same MacBook.
If your unit feels significantly tighter, they may mark it as abnormal, which can support a replacement or repair case.

Still, if you want to rule out any physical issue just to be safe (especially if this isn’t the only object giving you trouble opening), a quick consult with a doc wouldn’t hurt.

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