What To Know
- The Elite x2 G8 offers a variety of processor options, including the Intel Core i5-1135G7 and the Intel Core i7-1165G7, while the Surface Pro 8 comes equipped with the Intel Core i5-1145G7 or the Intel Core i7-1185G7.
- The HP Elite x2 G8 boasts a battery life of up to 12 hours on a single charge, while the Surface Pro 8 claims a battery life of up to 16 hours.
- The HP Elite x2 G8’s keyboard is known for its comfortable keys with a good amount of travel, while the Surface Pro 8’s keyboard features a slightly shallower keystroke but offers a responsive typing experience.
Choosing the perfect 2-in-1 laptop can be a daunting task, especially when faced with two powerhouses like the HP Elite x2 G8 and the Microsoft Surface Pro 8. Both devices offer sleek designs, impressive performance, and versatile functionality, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, pros, and cons of each device, helping you determine which one aligns best with your requirements.
Design and Build Quality
Both the HP Elite x2 G8 and the Surface Pro 8 boast premium designs that exude professionalism and durability. The Elite x2 G8 features a sleek, minimalist aesthetic with an aluminum chassis that feels sturdy and well-constructed. The Surface Pro 8, on the other hand, opts for a more modern design with rounded edges and a magnesium alloy body that feels equally robust.
HP Elite x2 G8:
- Design: Sleek, minimalist, with a focus on functionality.
- Build Quality: Durable aluminum chassis with a professional feel.
- Weight: 1.77 pounds (tablet only), 2.68 pounds (with keyboard).
- Ports: 2 Thunderbolt 4 ports, 1 USB-C port, 1 microSD card reader, 1 headphone jack.
Surface Pro 8:
- Design: Modern, rounded edges, with a focus on style and portability.
- Build Quality: Robust magnesium alloy body with a premium feel.
- Weight: 1.96 pounds (tablet only), 2.9 pounds (with keyboard).
- Ports: 1 Thunderbolt 4 port, 1 Surface Connect port, 1 USB-C port, 1 microSD card reader, 1 headphone jack.
Display
The display is a crucial aspect of any 2-in-1 laptop, and both devices deliver stunning visuals. The HP Elite x2 G8 boasts a 13.3-inch, 3:2 aspect ratio display with a resolution of 2400 x 1600 pixels and a touch-sensitive screen. The Surface Pro 8 offers a larger 13-inch, 3:2 aspect ratio display with a higher resolution of 2880 x 1920 pixels and a touch-sensitive screen with a 120Hz refresh rate.
HP Elite x2 G8:
- Size: 13.3 inches
- Resolution: 2400 x 1600 pixels
- Refresh Rate: 60Hz
- Touchscreen: Yes
- Pen Support: Yes (optional)
Surface Pro 8:
- Size: 13 inches
- Resolution: 2880 x 1920 pixels
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Touchscreen: Yes
- Pen Support: Yes (optional)
Performance
Both the HP Elite x2 G8 and the Surface Pro 8 are powered by Intel’s 11th Gen processors, ensuring smooth performance for everyday tasks and demanding workloads. The Elite x2 G8 offers a variety of processor options, including the Intel Core i5-1135G7 and the Intel Core i7-1165G7, while the Surface Pro 8 comes equipped with the Intel Core i5-1145G7 or the Intel Core i7-1185G7.
HP Elite x2 G8:
- Processor: Intel Core i5-1135G7 or Intel Core i7-1165G7
- RAM: 8GB or 16GB LPDDR4x RAM
- Storage: 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD
- Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Surface Pro 8:
- Processor: Intel Core i5-1145G7 or Intel Core i7-1185G7
- RAM: 8GB or 16GB LPDDR4x RAM
- Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB SSD
- Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Battery Life
Battery life is crucial for mobile productivity, and both devices deliver impressive battery performance. The HP Elite x2 G8 boasts a battery life of up to 12 hours on a single charge, while the Surface Pro 8 claims a battery life of up to 16 hours. However, actual battery life can vary depending on usage patterns and settings.
HP Elite x2 G8:
- Battery Life: Up to 12 hours
Surface Pro 8:
- Battery Life: Up to 16 hours
Keyboard and Trackpad
The keyboard and trackpad are essential components for a comfortable typing experience, and both devices offer solid options. The HP Elite x2 G8’s keyboard is known for its comfortable keys with a good amount of travel, while the Surface Pro 8’s keyboard features a slightly shallower keystroke but offers a responsive typing experience. Both keyboards come with a backlit option for low-light conditions.
HP Elite x2 G8:
- Keyboard: Comfortable keys with good travel, backlit option.
- Trackpad: Smooth and responsive.
Surface Pro 8:
- Keyboard: Shallower keystroke, responsive typing experience, backlit option.
- Trackpad: Large and responsive.
Connectivity and Security
Both devices offer a comprehensive suite of connectivity options and security features. The HP Elite x2 G8 boasts two Thunderbolt 4 ports for high-speed data transfer and external display support, while the Surface Pro 8 features one Thunderbolt 4 port. Both devices include a USB-C port, a microSD card reader, and a headphone jack.
HP Elite x2 G8:
- Connectivity: 2 Thunderbolt 4 ports, 1 USB-C port, 1 microSD card reader, 1 headphone jack.
- Security: Fingerprint reader, optional IR camera for facial recognition.
Surface Pro 8:
- Connectivity: 1 Thunderbolt 4 port, 1 Surface Connect port, 1 USB-C port, 1 microSD card reader, 1 headphone jack.
- Security: Fingerprint reader, optional IR camera for facial recognition.
Software and Features
Both devices run on Windows 11, offering a familiar and user-friendly interface. The HP Elite x2 G8 comes with HP’s suite of productivity and security tools, while the Surface Pro 8 benefits from Microsoft’s ecosystem of apps and services.
HP Elite x2 G8:
- Software: Windows 11, HP Productivity and Security Tools.
- Features: HP Sure View Reflect, HP Sure Click, HP Sure Sense.
Surface Pro 8:
- Software: Windows 11, Microsoft Office suite, Microsoft Edge.
- Features: Microsoft Surface Pen support, Microsoft Surface Dial support.
Price and Availability
The price of both devices varies depending on the configuration chosen, but the HP Elite x2 G8 generally starts at a lower price point than the Surface Pro 8.
HP Elite x2 G8:
- Starting Price: Around $1,300
Surface Pro 8:
- Starting Price: Around $1,100
The Verdict: Which 2-in-1 Is Right for You?
The choice between the HP Elite x2 G8 and the Surface Pro 8 ultimately boils down to your individual needs and preferences. The HP Elite x2 G8 excels in its durability, security features, and focus on productivity, making it an ideal choice for business professionals and users who prioritize robust performance and reliability.
The Surface Pro 8, on the other hand, shines with its sleek design, vibrant display, and integration with the Microsoft ecosystem, making it a compelling option for creatives, students, and anyone who values style and versatility.
Which 2-in-1 Is Best for You?
HP Elite x2 G8:
- Best for: Business professionals, users who prioritize durability, security, and productivity.
Surface Pro 8:
- Best for: Creatives, students, users who value style, versatility, and integration with the Microsoft ecosystem.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which 2-in-1 has a better display?
A: The Surface Pro 8 boasts a larger display with a higher resolution and a faster refresh rate, making it ideal for content consumption and creative tasks. However, the HP Elite x2 G8’s display is still excellent for everyday use and productivity.
Q: Which 2-in-1 is more affordable?
A: The HP Elite x2 G8 generally starts at a lower price point than the Surface Pro 8.
Q: Which 2-in-1 is better for gaming?
A: Neither device is designed for gaming, but the Surface Pro 8 might offer slightly better performance due to its more powerful processor options.
Q: Which 2-in-1 has better battery life?
A: The Surface Pro 8 claims a longer battery life of up to 16 hours, compared to the HP Elite x2 G8’s 12 hours.
Q: Which 2-in-1 has a better keyboard and trackpad?
A: Both devices offer solid keyboards and trackpads, but the HP Elite x2 G8’s keyboard is known for its comfortable keys with good travel.
