What To Know
- The Surface Laptop 4 offers a choice between 11th Gen Intel Core processors and AMD Ryzen processors, providing a range of options to cater to different needs and budgets.
- The Surface Laptop 4 and 5 offer a standard selection of ports, including a USB-C port, a USB-A port, a Surface Connect port, and a headphone jack.
- If you demand the latest and greatest technology and are willing to pay a premium, the Surface Laptop 5 is the clear winner.
Are you in the market for a sleek, powerful, and versatile laptop? If so, you’ve likely stumbled upon the Microsoft Surface Laptop series. But with so many models to choose from, deciding between the Surface Laptop 4 and Surface Laptop 5 can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive review aims to provide you with a clear understanding of the key differences, strengths, and weaknesses of each model, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality: A Touch of Elegance
Both the Surface Laptop 4 and 5 exude a premium aesthetic, boasting a sleek, minimalist design that’s synonymous with the Surface brand. The unibody aluminum construction feels solid and sturdy, and the soft-touch finish adds a touch of elegance.
However, there are subtle differences. The Surface Laptop 5 boasts a slightly thinner and lighter profile, making it even more portable. The color options also differ, with the Surface Laptop 5 offering a vibrant “Sage” green alongside the traditional Platinum, Matte Black, and Sandstone.
Display: A Visual Feast
Both laptops feature vibrant, high-resolution displays that bring your content to life. The Surface Laptop 4 comes with a 13.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2256 x 1504 pixels, offering a crisp and detailed visual experience. The Surface Laptop 5 upgrades the display to a 13.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2256 x 1504 pixels and a higher refresh rate, resulting in smoother scrolling and animations.
Performance: Power Under the Hood
The performance of these laptops is where things get interesting. The Surface Laptop 4 offers a choice between 11th Gen Intel Core processors and AMD Ryzen processors, providing a range of options to cater to different needs and budgets. The Surface Laptop 5, on the other hand, exclusively features 12th Gen Intel Core processors, promising a significant performance boost.
While both laptops offer ample power for everyday tasks, demanding applications like video editing or gaming will benefit from the increased processing power of the Surface Laptop 5.
Battery Life: Staying Productive Throughout the Day
Both the Surface Laptop 4 and 5 excel in battery life, offering ample power to get you through a full workday and beyond. Microsoft claims up to 17 hours of battery life for both models, which is impressive for laptops of this caliber. Real-world usage may vary depending on your workload, but you can expect to comfortably use these laptops for a full day without needing to plug in.
Ports and Connectivity: Staying Connected
The Surface Laptop 4 and 5 offer a standard selection of ports, including a USB-C port, a USB-A port, a Surface Connect port, and a headphone jack. Both laptops also support Wi-Fi 6 for fast and reliable wireless connectivity.
Keyboard and Trackpad: A Typing Delight
The Surface Laptop series is renowned for its comfortable keyboard and responsive trackpad. The Surface Laptop 4 and 5 continue this tradition, offering a satisfying typing experience with well-spaced keys and a comfortable key travel. The trackpad is equally impressive, offering precise cursor control and smooth gestures.
Price: Finding the Right Value
The Surface Laptop 4 and 5 are priced competitively, but the Surface Laptop 5 typically carries a higher price tag due to its upgraded hardware. However, the performance gains and improved display might be worth the extra investment for users who require a more powerful and visually appealing laptop.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Surface Laptop for You
So, which laptop reigns supreme? The answer depends entirely on your individual needs and budget.
If you prioritize affordability and value, the Surface Laptop 4 is a compelling choice. Its 11th Gen Intel Core processors and AMD Ryzen processors offer ample power for everyday tasks, and its impressive battery life ensures you can stay productive throughout the day.
If you demand the latest and greatest technology and are willing to pay a premium, the Surface Laptop 5 is the clear winner. Its 12th Gen Intel Core processors provide a significant performance boost, and the upgraded display delivers a more immersive visual experience.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Surface Laptop Experience
Ultimately, both the Surface Laptop 4 and 5 offer a premium laptop experience with sleek design, powerful performance, and excellent battery life. The choice boils down to your individual needs and budget. If you’re looking for a well-rounded laptop at a competitive price, the Surface Laptop 4 is an excellent option. If you demand the latest technology and are willing to pay a premium, the Surface Laptop 5 is the way to go.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which laptop has better graphics performance?
A: The Surface Laptop 5 generally offers better graphics performance due to its 12th Gen Intel Core processors, which often feature integrated Iris Xe graphics. However, the Surface Laptop 4 with AMD Ryzen processors can also provide decent graphics capabilities.
Q: Which laptop is better for gaming?
A: While neither laptop is designed specifically for gaming, the Surface Laptop 5 with its 12th Gen Intel Core processors and integrated Iris Xe graphics can handle some light gaming. However, for serious gaming, you’ll need a dedicated gaming laptop.
Q: Can I upgrade the RAM or storage on either laptop?
A: Unfortunately, both the Surface Laptop 4 and 5 have soldered RAM and storage, meaning they cannot be upgraded after purchase.
Q: Which laptop is better for students?
A: Both laptops are excellent choices for students. The Surface Laptop 4 offers a more affordable option, while the Surface Laptop 5 provides a more powerful and feature-rich experience. The choice depends on the student’s specific needs and budget.
