What To Know
- The Surface Laptop Go provides a decent selection of ports, including a USB-C port, a USB-A port, a headphone jack, and a Surface Connect port.
- The MacBook Air M1, on the other hand, has a more limited port selection, featuring only two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports and a headphone jack.
- The MacBook Air M1, on the other hand, is the clear winner for users who prioritize performance, battery life, and a premium experience.
In the realm of budget-friendly laptops, two powerhouses stand out: the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go and the Apple MacBook Air M1. Both devices offer a blend of portability, performance, and affordability, making them ideal for students, professionals, and everyday users on a budget. However, each laptop has its unique strengths and weaknesses, making it essential to compare them thoroughly before making a decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Surface Laptop Go boasts a sleek and lightweight design, weighing in at just 2.45 pounds. Its magnesium alloy chassis gives it a premium feel, while the signature Alcantara fabric on the keyboard deck adds a touch of elegance. The MacBook Air M1, on the other hand, is equally portable at 2.8 pounds and features a thin and wedge-shaped design that’s both stylish and functional. Its unibody aluminum construction ensures durability and a premium aesthetic.
Display
The Surface Laptop Go sports a 12.4-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1536 x 1024. It delivers vibrant colors and sharp images, but its glossy finish can be prone to reflections. The MacBook Air M1 comes with a slightly larger 13.3-inch Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600. Its IPS panel offers excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles, making it ideal for creative work.
Performance
The Surface Laptop Go is powered by an Intel Core i5-1035G1 processor, which provides adequate performance for everyday tasks like web browsing, word processing, and video streaming. The MacBook Air M1, however, is in a different league thanks to its Apple M1 chip. This custom-designed chip delivers exceptional performance that rivals even high-end laptops, making it a great choice for demanding applications like video editing and coding.
Battery Life
The Surface Laptop Go offers decent battery life, lasting up to 13 hours on a single charge. The MacBook Air M1, however, takes battery life to a whole new level. With its energy-efficient M1 chip, it can last up to 18 hours of video playback, making it ideal for extended work sessions or travel.
Connectivity and Ports
The Surface Laptop Go provides a decent selection of ports, including a USB-C port, a USB-A port, a headphone jack, and a Surface Connect port. The MacBook Air M1, on the other hand, has a more limited port selection, featuring only two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports and a headphone jack. This may require the use of adapters for connecting peripherals.
Operating System
The Surface Laptop Go runs on Windows 11, which offers a familiar and user-friendly interface. The MacBook Air M1 comes with macOS Monterey, known for its intuitive design, stability, and a wide range of exclusive apps. The choice between Windows and macOS ultimately depends on personal preference and software requirements.
Value for Money
The Surface Laptop Go starts at $549, making it a budget-friendly option for those who prioritize portability and basic performance. The MacBook Air M1, with its superior performance and longer battery life, starts at $999. While it’s a more expensive choice, it offers exceptional value for users who demand a premium experience.
The Bottom Line: Finding the Ideal Budget Laptop
Whether you choose the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go or the MacBook Air M1 depends on your individual needs and preferences. The Surface Laptop Go is an excellent choice for those seeking a portable and affordable laptop for everyday tasks. The MacBook Air M1, on the other hand, is the clear winner for users who prioritize performance, battery life, and a premium experience.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Which laptop has a better display?
A: The MacBook Air M1 has a slightly larger and higher-resolution display with better color accuracy and viewing angles.
Q: Which laptop has a longer battery life?
A: The MacBook Air M1 has a significantly longer battery life, lasting up to 18 hours on a single charge.
Q: Which laptop is more affordable?
A: The Surface Laptop Go is more affordable, starting at $549 compared to the MacBook Air M1’s starting price of $999.
Q: Which laptop has a better selection of ports?
A: The Surface Laptop Go offers a more diverse selection of ports, including USB-A and Surface Connect.
Q: Which laptop is better for creative work?
A: The MacBook Air M1’s superior performance and longer battery life make it a better choice for demanding applications like video editing and coding.
