What To Know
- The Surface Laptop 5 has a slight edge in battery life, with up to 18 hours of typical usage compared to the Surface Laptop 4’s 17 hours.
- The Surface Laptop 4 and 5 offer a similar set of ports, including a USB-A port, a USB-C port with Thunderbolt 4 support, and a Surface Connect port for charging and connecting peripherals.
- The Surface Laptop 4 is currently available at a lower price point than the Surface Laptop 5, making it a more budget-friendly option.
The Microsoft Surface Laptop line has established itself as a premium choice for those seeking a sleek, versatile, and powerful laptop. The latest iterations, the Surface Laptop 4 and Surface Laptop 5, offer impressive capabilities and subtle yet significant enhancements. This comparative analysis will delve into the key differences and similarities between these two exceptional devices, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Surface Laptop 4 and 5 boast a premium aluminum unibody design that exudes elegance and durability. They share the same 13.5-inch and 15-inch screen sizes, providing ample workspace for multitasking and entertainment. However, the Surface Laptop 5 introduces a new color option, Sage, which adds a touch of sophistication to the lineup.
Display
The display is a crucial aspect of any laptop, and both the Surface Laptop 4 and 5 deliver stunning visuals. They feature 3:2 PixelSense touchscreens with high resolution and excellent color accuracy. The Surface Laptop 5’s display has a slightly higher refresh rate of 120Hz, resulting in smoother scrolling and a more immersive gaming experience.
Performance
Under the hood, the Surface Laptop 4 and 5 offer a range of processor options. The Surface Laptop 4 is powered by 11th-generation Intel Core processors, while the Surface Laptop 5 utilizes 12th-generation Intel Core processors. The latter offers improved performance, especially in multi-threaded applications. Both laptops come with integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics, which provide adequate graphics capabilities for everyday tasks and light gaming.
Battery Life
Battery life is a key consideration for mobile users. The Surface Laptop 4 and 5 both feature long-lasting batteries that can power through a full day of work or study. The Surface Laptop 5 has a slight edge in battery life, with up to 18 hours of typical usage compared to the Surface Laptop 4’s 17 hours.
Ports and Connectivity
The Surface Laptop 4 and 5 offer a similar set of ports, including a USB-A port, a USB-C port with Thunderbolt 4 support, and a Surface Connect port for charging and connecting peripherals. The Surface Laptop 5 adds a second USB-C port, providing greater flexibility for connecting external devices.
Operating System
Both the Surface Laptop 4 and 5 come pre-installed with Windows 11 Home. This latest operating system offers a host of new features and improvements, including a redesigned user interface, improved multitasking capabilities, and enhanced security measures.
Price and Availability
The Surface Laptop 4 and 5 are available in a range of configurations, with prices varying depending on the processor, memory, and storage options. The Surface Laptop 4 is currently available at a lower price point than the Surface Laptop 5, making it a more budget-friendly option.
Wrap-Up: The Ultimate Choice
The choice between the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 and Surface Laptop 5 ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget. If you prioritize the latest processor and display technology, the Surface Laptop 5 is the clear choice. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option with still-impressive performance and features, the Surface Laptop 4 remains a solid choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which laptop has a better camera?
Both the Surface Laptop 4 and 5 have 720p HD front-facing cameras.
2. Can I upgrade the RAM and storage in the Surface Laptop 4 or 5?
No, the RAM and storage in both laptops are not user-upgradeable.
3. Which laptop is lighter?
The Surface Laptop 4 is slightly lighter than the Surface Laptop 5, weighing in at 2.79 pounds for the 13.5-inch model and 3.48 pounds for the 15-inch model. The Surface Laptop 5 weighs 2.88 pounds for the 13.5-inch model and 3.57 pounds for the 15-inch model.
4. Which laptop has better speakers?
Both laptops feature Dolby Atmos speakers that provide immersive sound quality.
5. Does either laptop support stylus input?
Yes, both the Surface Laptop 4 and 5 support the Surface Pen stylus for writing, drawing, and note-taking.
