Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 vs HP Envy x360: Which One Should You Buy? The Answer May Surprise You!

Choosing the right laptop can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders that often top the list are the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 and the HP Envy x360. Both boast sleek designs, powerful performance, and versatile features, making it difficult to decide which one comes out on top. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each laptop, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.

Design and Build Quality

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 embodies a minimalist aesthetic with its clean lines and premium build. Its sleek aluminum unibody design exudes elegance and durability. The HP Envy x360, on the other hand, takes a more conventional approach with its plastic chassis, but it still manages to maintain a stylish and contemporary look.
While the Surface Laptop 4 boasts a slightly more premium feel, the Envy x360’s plastic construction makes it more affordable and lightweight. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize a premium aesthetic and durability, the Surface Laptop 4 might be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing style, the Envy x360 fits the bill.

Display

Both the Surface Laptop 4 and the HP Envy x360 offer excellent displays for their respective price points. The Surface Laptop 4 features a 13.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2256 x 1504, delivering vibrant colors and sharp visuals. The Envy x360, on the other hand, comes with a 13.3-inch Full HD display (1920 x 1080) with a touch screen option.
While the Surface Laptop 4 boasts a higher resolution, the Envy x360’s touch screen functionality adds a layer of versatility. For creative professionals who value color accuracy, the Surface Laptop 4’s display might be more appealing. However, if you prioritize touch screen functionality and a more budget-friendly option, the Envy x360 is a strong contender.

Performance

Both laptops offer powerful performance for everyday tasks and productivity work. The Surface Laptop 4 is powered by 11th Gen Intel Core processors, while the Envy x360 comes with either 11th Gen Intel Core or AMD Ryzen processors.
In terms of processing power, the Surface Laptop 4 generally outperforms the Envy x360, especially in demanding tasks like video editing or gaming. However, the Envy x360’s AMD Ryzen processors offer excellent value for money, providing a balance of power and affordability. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific needs. If you prioritize raw processing power, the Surface Laptop 4 is the winner. But if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option with solid performance, the Envy x360 is a great alternative.

Battery Life

Battery life is a crucial factor for any laptop, and both the Surface Laptop 4 and the Envy x360 deliver impressive results. The Surface Laptop 4 boasts up to 17 hours of battery life, while the Envy x360 offers up to 10 hours.
The Surface Laptop 4’s longer battery life is a significant advantage for travelers or those who spend extended periods away from a power outlet. However, the Envy x360’s battery life is still respectable and sufficient for most users.

Connectivity and Ports

Both laptops offer a decent range of ports for connecting peripherals and devices. The Surface Laptop 4 includes two USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 4 support, a USB-A port, and a Surface Connect port for charging. The Envy x360 also features two USB-C ports, a USB-A port, an HDMI port, and an SD card reader.
The Surface Laptop 4’s Thunderbolt 4 support provides faster data transfer speeds and enhanced connectivity options. However, the Envy x360’s inclusion of an HDMI port and SD card reader makes it more versatile for multimedia users.

Keyboard and Trackpad

Both laptops offer comfortable and responsive keyboards and trackpads. The Surface Laptop 4’s keyboard is known for its soft, tactile keys and spacious layout. The Envy x360’s keyboard is also comfortable to type on, but it might feel slightly less premium compared to the Surface Laptop 4.
The trackpads on both laptops are smooth and accurate, offering a responsive and enjoyable user experience. However, the Surface Laptop 4’s trackpad is slightly larger and offers a more premium feel.

Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the choice between the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 and the HP Envy x360 comes down to your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Surface Laptop 4 if:

• You prioritize a premium aesthetic and build quality.
• You value a high-resolution display with vibrant colors.
• You require the most powerful performance for demanding tasks.
• You need the longest possible battery life.
• You want a laptop with the latest connectivity options, including Thunderbolt 4.

Choose the HP Envy x360 if:

• You’re looking for a more budget-friendly option.
• You prefer a touch screen display for added versatility.
• You need a lightweight and portable laptop.
• You want a laptop with a good balance of performance and affordability.
• You require an HDMI port and an SD card reader for multimedia needs.

Final Thoughts: Beyond the Surface

While both the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 and the HP Envy x360 offer excellent features and performance, it’s important to consider your specific needs and budget when making a decision. The Surface Laptop 4 stands out with its premium design, powerful performance, and long battery life, making it a great choice for professionals and creative users. The HP Envy x360, on the other hand, offers a more budget-friendly option with a stylish design, good performance, and a touch screen display, making it an ideal choice for students and casual users.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Which laptop is better for gaming?
A: The Surface Laptop 4 offers slightly better performance for gaming due to its more powerful processors. However, neither laptop is specifically designed for gaming, and you might consider a dedicated gaming laptop for a more immersive experience.
Q: Which laptop is more portable?
A: The HP Envy x360 is slightly more portable due to its lighter weight and smaller footprint.
Q: Which laptop has a better webcam?
A: Both laptops offer decent webcams, but the Surface Laptop 4’s webcam is slightly better in terms of image quality and resolution.
Q: Which laptop has a better trackpad?
A: Both laptops offer comfortable and responsive trackpads, but the Surface Laptop 4’s trackpad is slightly larger and offers a more premium feel.
Q: Which laptop is better for students?
A: Both laptops are suitable for students, but the HP Envy x360’s affordability and touch screen functionality make it a more attractive option for budget-conscious students.