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atefe123
User level: Level 1 (5 points)

MacBook Air M4 emits high-pitched electronic noise varying with brightness and workload

My MacBook Air M4 is making a high-pitched electronic noise. I got this MacBook last year and it was completely silent until yesterday!

I was using my laptop in charge while connected to my hard drives and phone (using all ports)until I noticed a very high noise coming out of the upper left portion of the keyboard I thought it was the charger or something I plugged all out and updated the os but the sound is still there.


The noise is not constant and seems to change depending on the screen brightness and system workload.


At around 25% brightness, there is no noticeable noise. At 50–75% brightness, the noise becomes audible, while at some brightness levels (such as around 80%) it can disappear completely. At 100% brightness, it becomes louder again.


The noise also becomes significantly louder when I open applications that increase system workload, such as Activity Monitor and especially Final Cut Pro.


The noise does not seem to be related to the speakers or audio playback; playing music does not change it.


The MacBook is otherwise functioning normally. There are no display problems, overheating issues, charging problems, or performance issues.

Posted on Sep 27, 2026 8:07 AM

3 replies

HWTech
User level: Level 9 (78,350 points)

Oct 21, 2026 12:58 PM in response to B18cuit

Does this occur even when running on battery power only with no other devices connected?


If it only occurs when the power adapter is connected, then it may be due to the power circuitry on the Logic Board. In that case have Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider examine the laptop.


Keep in mind the built-in speakers are located in that area as well. The noise could be coming from them. I have even had speakers which were powered off produce sound when a local radio source was broadcasting with too much power (can also be caused by appliances).


When in doubt have Apple or an AASP examine the device. If the issue does not occur at Apple or an AASP, but only at home, then something environmental is causing it (connected devices, or maybe over powered radio signal or appliance noise, etc.).

John Galt
User level: Level 10 (162,806 points)

Sep 27, 2026 9:50 AM in response to atefe123

Contact Apple to have it evaluated. Use the Support link on these pages.

B18cuit
User level: Level 1 (8 points)

Oct 21, 2026 6:22 AM in response to atefe123

Hi, I have the same problem with my MacBook Air M4 were you able to solve it or get some explanation? During diagnostics, they didn't hear any sound from mine and found no issues. Could you share whether you managed to find a solution and what the problem was?

Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256365973