M1 MacBook Air vs M2/M3 MacBook Air for dual external monitors: M2/M3 wins only in clamshell mode

The M1 MacBook Air is stuck at one external monitor with no workaround. The M2 and M3 can drive two externals, but only in clamshell mode with the lid closed. Open the lid and it drops to one external plus the built-in display. For two monitors with the laptop screen open, you’d need a DisplayLink adapter.