Tablet or laptop? the surface laptop 4 blurs the lines

The Surface Laptop 4 has gained immense popularity for its sleek design, powerful performance, and exceptional battery life. However, one question that often arises is whether this device can be used as a tablet. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the capabilities of the Surface Laptop 4 and determine its suitability as a tablet replacement.

The Form Factor: Convertible or Not?

Unlike traditional laptops, the Surface Laptop 4 is not a convertible device. It does not feature a 360-degree hinge that allows the screen to be folded back completely. Therefore, the Surface Laptop 4 cannot be used in the traditional tablet mode where the keyboard is folded behind the screen.

Touchscreen Capabilities

Despite not being a convertible, the Surface Laptop 4 does come with a touchscreen display. This means that you can interact with the device using your fingers or a compatible stylus. The touchscreen is responsive and supports multi-touch gestures, making it convenient for navigation and interacting with apps.

Detaching the Keyboard

While the Surface Laptop 4’s keyboard is not detachable, it can be folded down completely to create a flat surface. This allows you to use the device like a tablet for certain tasks, such as drawing or taking notes. However, it’s important to note that the keyboard cannot be completely removed, so the device will still have a keyboard attached when used in this mode.

Stylus Support

The Surface Laptop 4 supports the Surface Pen, which can be used for writing, drawing, and navigating the device. The pen is not included with the laptop, but it can be purchased separately. With the Surface Pen, you can take advantage of the touchscreen capabilities and use the device as a digital notepad or sketchbook.

Limitations of Tablet Mode

Although the Surface Laptop 4 offers some tablet-like features, there are certain limitations to consider. Since the keyboard cannot be detached, the device is heavier and bulkier than a dedicated tablet. Additionally, the operating system (Windows 10 or 11) is designed primarily for traditional laptop use, which may not be as optimized for tablet mode as dedicated tablet operating systems.

Advantages of Laptop Mode

While the Surface Laptop 4 may not be a perfect tablet replacement, it offers several advantages in laptop mode. The physical keyboard provides a more comfortable and efficient typing experience than a touchscreen keyboard. The device also has a larger display than most tablets, making it ideal for productivity tasks, watching videos, or playing games.

Wrap-Up: A Versatile Device with Trade-offs

The Surface Laptop 4 is a versatile device that offers a unique combination of laptop and tablet features. While it cannot be used as a traditional tablet with a fully detachable keyboard, its touchscreen display, stylus support, and foldable keyboard allow for some tablet-like functionality. However, it’s important to consider the limitations of tablet mode and the advantages of laptop mode before deciding if this device meets your specific needs.

What You Need to Learn

Q1: Can I use the Surface Laptop 4 as a full-fledged tablet?
A: No, the Surface Laptop 4 cannot be used as a full-fledged tablet due to its non-detachable keyboard.

Q2: Can I use the Surface Laptop 4 for writing and drawing?
A: Yes, you can use the Surface Laptop 4 for writing and drawing with the Surface Pen, which is sold separately.

Q3: Is the Surface Laptop 4 a good choice for students?
A: Yes, the Surface Laptop 4 is a good choice for students due to its versatility, touch screen capabilities, and stylus support.

Q4: Can I use the Surface Laptop 4 for gaming?
A: Yes, you can use the Surface Laptop 4 for casual gaming, but it is not designed for high-performance gaming.

Q5: Is the Surface Laptop 4 waterproof?
A: No, the Surface Laptop 4 is not waterproof.