Unveiling the Ultimate Showdown: HP Elite x2 1012 G2 vs Surface Pro 4 – Which is the Best Buy?

The battle for the best 2-in-1 laptop is a fierce one, with contenders from various tech giants vying for the top spot. Two of the most popular and highly regarded models in this arena are the HP Elite x2 1012 G2 and the Microsoft Surface Pro 4. Both devices offer a compelling blend of portability, power, and productivity, but which one comes out on top?
This in-depth comparison will delve into the key features, performance, and overall user experience of both the HP Elite x2 1012 G2 and the Surface Pro 4, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.

Design and Build Quality: A Tale of Two Styles

The HP Elite x2 1012 G2 and the Surface Pro 4 take distinct approaches to design and build quality. The HP Elite x2 1012 G2 embraces a more traditional laptop aesthetic, with a sleek and professional look. Its magnesium alloy chassis feels robust and durable, reflecting its focus on business users. The Surface Pro 4, on the other hand, adopts a more modern and minimalist design, with its thin and light aluminum body exuding an air of sophistication.
Both devices boast excellent build quality, but the Surface Pro 4’s design might appeal to those seeking a more stylish and contemporary look, while the HP Elite x2 1012 G2’s robust build might resonate with users prioritizing durability and a professional appearance.

Display: A Visual Showdown

The display is a crucial aspect of any 2-in-1, and both the HP Elite x2 1012 G2 and the Surface Pro 4 deliver impressive visuals. The HP Elite x2 1012 G2 features a 12.0-inch, 1920 x 1280 resolution display with a touch screen. The Surface Pro 4 offers a 12.3-inch, 2736 x 1824 resolution display with a PixelSense technology, boasting vibrant colors and sharp detail. The Surface Pro 4’s higher resolution and PixelSense technology provide a slightly better visual experience, but the HP Elite x2 1012 G2’s display is still perfectly capable for everyday use.

Performance: Powering Through Work and Play

Both devices are equipped with powerful processors and ample RAM, making them capable of handling demanding tasks with ease. The HP Elite x2 1012 G2 comes with Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, while the Surface Pro 4 offers a choice between Intel Core m3, i5, and i7 processors. Both devices offer up to 16GB of RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and responsive performance.
In terms of real-world performance, both devices deliver a fluid user experience. However, the Surface Pro 4’s slightly more powerful processors might give it a slight edge in demanding applications and gaming.

Keyboard and Touchpad: A Comfortable Typing Experience

The keyboard is an essential part of any laptop experience, and both the HP Elite x2 1012 G2 and the Surface Pro 4 offer comfortable and responsive keyboards. The HP Elite x2 1012 G2’s keyboard is known for its comfortable key travel and tactile feedback, while the Surface Pro 4’s keyboard is praised for its slim design and responsive keys.
The Surface Pro 4’s Type Cover, however, is sold separately, adding to the overall cost. The HP Elite x2 1012 G2’s keyboard is integrated into the detachable keyboard dock, making it a more convenient option for users who prefer a traditional laptop setup.

Battery Life: Staying Productive on the Go

Battery life is a crucial consideration for any mobile device, and both the HP Elite x2 1012 G2 and the Surface Pro 4 offer decent battery life. The HP Elite x2 1012 G2 boasts a battery life of up to 10 hours, while the Surface Pro 4 offers a battery life of up to 9 hours. Both devices can easily handle a full day of work or entertainment on a single charge.

Ports and Connectivity: Staying Connected

Both devices offer a solid selection of ports and connectivity options. The HP Elite x2 1012 G2 includes a USB-C port, a USB 3.1 port, a microSD card reader, and a headphone jack. The Surface Pro 4 features a USB 3.0 port, a mini DisplayPort, a microSD card reader, and a headphone jack. Both devices support Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.

Price and Value: Finding the Right Fit

The price of both devices varies depending on the configuration and accessories. The HP Elite x2 1012 G2 starts at a slightly lower price point than the Surface Pro 4. However, the Surface Pro 4’s higher resolution display and PixelSense technology might justify the slightly higher price for some users.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

The choice between the HP Elite x2 1012 G2 and the Surface Pro 4 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the HP Elite x2 1012 G2 if:

• You prioritize a robust and durable build.
• You prefer a traditional laptop aesthetic.
• You value a comfortable keyboard with good key travel.
• You are looking for a device with a slightly lower price point.

Choose the Surface Pro 4 if:

• You value a stylish and minimalist design.
• You prioritize a high-resolution display with vibrant colors.
• You are willing to pay a premium for the latest technology.
• You prefer a slim and lightweight device.

What People Want to Know

Q: Can I use a stylus with both devices?
A: Yes, both devices support stylus input. The HP Elite x2 1012 G2 is compatible with HP’s Active Pen, while the Surface Pro 4 supports the Surface Pen.
Q: Which device has better audio quality?
A: Both devices offer decent audio quality, but the Surface Pro 4’s speakers are generally considered to be slightly better, providing a more immersive audio experience.
Q: Do both devices support facial recognition?
A: The HP Elite x2 1012 G2 offers a fingerprint reader for security, while the Surface Pro 4 features Windows Hello for facial recognition.
Q: Which device is better for gaming?
A: While both devices can handle casual gaming, the Surface Pro 4’s slightly more powerful processors might give it a slight edge in demanding games.
Q: Can I upgrade the storage on either device?
A: Both devices allow you to expand storage using a microSD card. However, the internal storage is not user-upgradeable.