What To Know
- The Surface Pro 4 is part of a comprehensive ecosystem that includes the Type Cover keyboard, Surface Pen, and Surface Dock.
- The best choice between the Surface Pro 4 and an ultrabook depends on your individual needs and preferences.
- If you prefer a more traditional laptop form factor, longer battery life, and a wider range of connectivity options, an ultrabook may be a better choice.
In the bustling world of modern computing, the battle between Microsoft Surface Pro 4 and ultrabooks rages on. Both devices offer a blend of portability and power, leaving users torn between the two. This comprehensive comparison aims to shed light on the key differences and help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Build Quality
The Surface Pro 4 boasts a sleek and elegant design with a magnesium alloy body. Its signature kickstand allows for versatile usage, transforming it from a tablet to a laptop in an instant. Ultrabooks, on the other hand, come in a wider range of designs, typically featuring thin and lightweight aluminum or carbon fiber chassis. They offer a more traditional laptop form factor, with a built-in keyboard and trackpad.
Display
The Surface Pro 4 features a vibrant 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824. Its high contrast ratio and wide color gamut deliver stunning visuals, making it ideal for content creation and entertainment. Ultrabooks typically offer larger displays ranging from 13 to 15 inches, with varying resolutions and panel technologies. Some ultrabooks boast 4K displays for exceptional clarity and detail.
Performance
The Surface Pro 4 is powered by Intel’s 6th-generation Core i5 or i7 processors. It comes with 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB of RAM and up to 1TB of solid-state storage. Ultrabooks offer a wider range of processor options, including the latest 7th-generation Intel Core chips and AMD Ryzen processors. They typically provide ample RAM and storage capacity, with some models offering up to 32GB of RAM and 2TB of SSD storage.
Battery Life
The Surface Pro 4’s battery life varies depending on usage patterns. It can last up to 9 hours of typical use, with the Type Cover keyboard attached. Ultrabooks generally offer longer battery life, with some models lasting up to 12 hours or more. The specific battery life will vary based on the hardware configuration and usage scenario.
Connectivity
Both the Surface Pro 4 and ultrabooks offer a range of connectivity options. The Surface Pro 4 features a USB 3.0 port, a Mini DisplayPort, a microSD card slot, and a headphone jack. Ultrabooks typically have a wider selection of ports, including multiple USB ports, HDMI ports, and Thunderbolt 3 ports. Some ultrabooks also offer built-in cellular connectivity for on-the-go internet access.
Operating System
The Surface Pro 4 runs on Windows 10 Pro, providing a familiar and versatile operating system. Ultrabooks can run either Windows 10 Home or Pro, depending on the model. Some ultrabooks may also offer the option of running other operating systems, such as macOS or Linux.
Accessories and Ecosystem
The Surface Pro 4 is part of a comprehensive ecosystem that includes the Type Cover keyboard, Surface Pen, and Surface Dock. These accessories enhance its functionality and versatility, transforming it into a fully capable laptop replacement. Ultrabooks have a wider range of compatible accessories, including third-party keyboards, mice, and docking stations.
Price
The Surface Pro 4 is priced from $799 for the base model with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. Ultrabooks come in a wider price range, with models starting from around $500 for budget-friendly options to over $2,000 for high-end configurations.
Which Device is Right for You?
The best choice between the Surface Pro 4 and an ultrabook depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize portability, versatility, and a premium design, the Surface Pro 4 is an excellent option. Its kickstand and detachable keyboard provide exceptional flexibility for different usage scenarios.
If you prefer a more traditional laptop form factor, longer battery life, and a wider range of connectivity options, an ultrabook may be a better choice. Ultrabooks offer a wider selection of screen sizes, processors, and features, allowing you to customize your device to your specific requirements.
Summary: The Battle for Productivity and Portability
In the realm of productivity and portability, the Surface Pro 4 and ultrabooks present compelling options. The Surface Pro 4 excels in versatility and premium design, while ultrabooks offer greater flexibility and customization. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the factors discussed in this comparison to make an informed decision that meets your unique computing requirements.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which device is better for students?
A: Both the Surface Pro 4 and ultrabooks can be suitable for students, depending on their specific needs. The Surface Pro 4 offers a versatile form factor and a stylus for note-taking, while ultrabooks provide longer battery life and a more traditional laptop experience.
Q: Can I play games on the Surface Pro 4 or an ultrabook?
A: Yes, both devices can handle casual gaming. However, for demanding games, a dedicated gaming laptop or desktop computer is recommended.
Q: Which device is more durable?
A: The Surface Pro 4 and ultrabooks generally have comparable durability. However, the Surface Pro 4’s magnesium alloy body may provide slightly better protection against accidental drops or bumps.
