What To Know
- The Surface Pro 4 and Surface Pro 5 share a similar design language, featuring a sleek magnesium alloy chassis and a 12.
- The Surface Pro 4 and Surface Pro 5 are compatible with a wide range of accessories, including the Surface Pen and Surface Keyboard.
- While the Surface Pro 5 offers a slightly improved display, longer battery life, and a more refined design, the Surface Pro 4 remains a solid choice for those seeking a balance of value and performance.
The Microsoft Surface Pro series has revolutionized the 2-in-1 laptop market, blurring the lines between tablets and laptops. With the release of the Surface Pro 5, the battle for supremacy intensifies. In this comprehensive comparison, we pit the Surface Pro 4 against its successor, the Surface Pro 5, to uncover their strengths, weaknesses, and which one reigns supreme.
Design and Build Quality: A Tale of Two Tablets
The Surface Pro 4 and Surface Pro 5 share a similar design language, featuring a sleek magnesium alloy chassis and a 12.3-inch PixelSense display. However, the Surface Pro 5 boasts a slightly thinner profile and a more rounded edge, giving it a more refined look and feel. Both devices offer a sturdy and durable construction, ensuring years of reliable use.
Display: A Visual Feast
The Surface Pro 4 and Surface Pro 5 share the same 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824. Both displays offer excellent color accuracy, high brightness, and wide viewing angles. However, the Surface Pro 5’s display has a slightly higher contrast ratio, resulting in deeper blacks and more vibrant colors.
Performance: Powerhouse vs. Powerhouse
The Surface Pro 4 is powered by Intel’s 6th-generation Core i5 or i7 processors, while the Surface Pro 5 features 7th-generation Core i5 or i7 processors. Both devices offer ample performance for everyday tasks, web browsing, and light gaming. However, the Surface Pro 5’s newer processor provides a slight edge in multitasking and demanding applications.
Battery Life: Endurance Test
The Surface Pro 4 offers up to 9 hours of battery life, while the Surface Pro 5 claims up to 13.5 hours. In real-world usage, both devices deliver impressive battery life, lasting through a full workday on a single charge. However, the Surface Pro 5’s longer battery life gives it an advantage for extended use without a power outlet.
Connectivity and Ports: All the Essentials
Both the Surface Pro 4 and Surface Pro 5 offer a comprehensive range of connectivity options, including USB 3.0, mini DisplayPort, and a microSD card reader. However, the Surface Pro 5 adds a USB-C port, which supports faster data transfer speeds and charging.
Accessories and Ecosystem: Expanding the Possibilities
The Surface Pro 4 and Surface Pro 5 are compatible with a wide range of accessories, including the Surface Pen and Surface Keyboard. However, the Surface Pro 5 introduces a new Surface Pen with improved pressure sensitivity and tilt support. The Surface Pro 5 also benefits from the Windows 10 S operating system, which offers a streamlined and secure experience.
The Verdict: A Close Contender
The Microsoft Surface Pro 4 and Surface Pro 5 are both exceptional 2-in-1 devices that offer a compelling combination of performance, portability, and versatility. While the Surface Pro 5 offers a slightly improved display, longer battery life, and a more refined design, the Surface Pro 4 remains a solid choice for those seeking a balance of value and performance.
Ultimate Decision: Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Surface Pro 4 and Surface Pro 5 ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget. If you prioritize cutting-edge performance, a longer battery life, and the latest features, the Surface Pro 5 is the clear winner. However, if you value affordability, a proven track record, and a reliable workhorse, the Surface Pro 4 is still an excellent option.
What You Need to Know
1. Which device has a better camera?
Both the Surface Pro 4 and Surface Pro 5 feature a 5-megapixel front-facing camera and an 8-megapixel rear-facing camera.
2. Can I use the Surface Pen with both devices?
Yes, the Surface Pen is compatible with both the Surface Pro 4 and Surface Pro 5.
3. Which device is more suitable for gaming?
Both devices are not designed for heavy gaming, but the Surface Pro 5 offers slightly better performance due to its newer processor.
4. Can I upgrade the RAM and storage on the Surface Pro 4 and Surface Pro 5?
No, the RAM and storage on both devices are not user-upgradeable.
5. Which device has a better keyboard?
The Surface Pro 4 and Surface Pro 5 use the same Surface Keyboard, which offers a comfortable typing experience.
