What To Know
- The Surface Laptop 4, on the other hand, features a more traditional design with a slightly thicker profile and a starting weight of 2.
- The Swift 5 can achieve up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge, while the Surface Laptop 4 can last up to 17 hours, depending on the configuration and usage patterns.
- The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 features a more limited selection of ports, including one USB-C port, one USB-A port, a Surface Connect port, and a 3.
Choosing the perfect laptop can be a daunting task, especially when you’re looking for a blend of portability, performance, and style. Two popular contenders in the ultraportable realm are the Acer Swift 5 and the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4. Both boast impressive specs and sleek designs, but which one comes out on top? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Acer Swift 5 and the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 both prioritize sleekness and portability. The Swift 5 is incredibly lightweight, starting at just 2.2 pounds, and its all-aluminum chassis feels premium and robust. It comes in a range of colors to suit your style, including a sophisticated blue and a classic silver.
The Surface Laptop 4, on the other hand, features a more traditional design with a slightly thicker profile and a starting weight of 2.86 pounds. Its aluminum lid and soft-touch Alcantara keyboard deck add a touch of elegance, and it’s available in a variety of vibrant colors like Platinum, Matte Black, and Sandstone.
Display
Both laptops offer impressive displays, but with different strengths. The Acer Swift 5 features a 14-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. It boasts vibrant colors, sharp details, and wide viewing angles. While it lacks the high refresh rate of some competitors, it’s more than adequate for everyday tasks, web browsing, and media consumption.
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 comes in two display options: a 13.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2256 x 1504 pixels and a 15-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2496 x 1664 pixels. Both offer excellent color accuracy, sharp text, and impressive touch responsiveness. The larger 15-inch model even features a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling and gaming.
Performance
The Acer Swift 5 packs a punch with its 11th Gen Intel Core processors, offering a balance of power and efficiency. Depending on the configuration, you can choose between the i5 or i7 series, ensuring smooth performance for everyday tasks, productivity apps, and even some light gaming.
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 also offers a range of processor options, including 11th Gen Intel Core and AMD Ryzen processors. While the Intel models offer slightly better performance for demanding tasks, the AMD Ryzen options provide excellent battery life and value for money.
Battery Life
Both the Acer Swift 5 and the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 boast impressive battery life. The Swift 5 can achieve up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge, while the Surface Laptop 4 can last up to 17 hours, depending on the configuration and usage patterns.
Keyboard and Touchpad
Both laptops offer comfortable typing experiences. The Acer Swift 5’s keyboard features a generous key travel and a responsive feel, making it suitable for long typing sessions. The touchpad is also spacious and accurate, offering smooth scrolling and precise cursor control.
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4’s Alcantara keyboard feels soft and luxurious, with a comfortable typing experience. The touchpad is responsive and precise, with multi-touch gestures for enhanced navigation.
Ports and Connectivity
The Acer Swift 5 offers a decent selection of ports, including two USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports, one USB-A port, an HDMI port, and a microSD card reader. It also boasts Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for seamless connectivity.
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 features a more limited selection of ports, including one USB-C port, one USB-A port, a Surface Connect port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. It also includes Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0.
Price and Value
The Acer Swift 5 is generally more affordable than the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4. You can find a Swift 5 with decent specs for under $1000, while the Surface Laptop 4 starts at around $1300.
Choosing the Right Laptop: Acer Swift 5 vs. Microsoft Surface Laptop 4
So, which laptop is right for you? Here’s a breakdown of the key considerations:
Acer Swift 5:
- Best for: Budget-conscious users seeking a lightweight and powerful ultraportable with a good selection of ports.
- Pros: Lightweight design, powerful performance, good battery life, affordable price.
- Cons: Limited display options, slightly less premium build quality compared to the Surface Laptop 4.
Microsoft Surface Laptop 4:
- Best for: Users who prioritize a premium design, a comfortable typing experience, and long battery life.
- Pros: Sleek and stylish design, excellent display options, comfortable keyboard, long battery life.
- Cons: More expensive than the Swift 5, limited port selection.
The Verdict: A Matter of Priorities
Ultimately, the choice between the Acer Swift 5 and the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 comes down to your individual needs and priorities. If you’re looking for a lightweight, powerful, and affordable laptop, the Acer Swift 5 is an excellent option. However, if you prioritize a premium design, a comfortable typing experience, and long battery life, the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 is the better choice.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Acer Swift 5 and the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 are both excellent ultraportable laptops, the market offers a wide array of options. Consider exploring other models from brands like Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Asus to find the perfect fit for your specific requirements.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Does the Acer Swift 5 have a touchscreen?
A: Some configurations of the Acer Swift 5 come with touchscreens, while others do not. Be sure to check the specifications before purchasing.
Q: Can I upgrade the RAM and storage on the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4?
A: The RAM and storage on the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 are soldered to the motherboard, making them non-upgradable.
Q: Which laptop is better for students?
A: Both laptops are suitable for students, but the Acer Swift 5 offers a more affordable price point, making it a better value for budget-conscious students.
Q: Which laptop is better for creative professionals?
A: The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4’s high-resolution display and touchscreen capabilities make it a better choice for creative professionals who require precise color accuracy and intuitive input methods.
Q: Is the Acer Swift 5 good for gaming?
A: While the Acer Swift 5 can handle some light gaming, it’s not designed for demanding games. For serious gaming, consider a laptop with a dedicated graphics card.
