What To Know
- The Surface Pro has a limited selection of ports, including a USB-C port, a Surface Connect port, and a microSD card slot.
- The Surface Pro has a detachable design, allowing you to remove the display from the keyboard base, while the ThinkPad has a more traditional 2-in-1 design.
- The Surface Pro has a sharper and more vibrant display, while the ThinkPad has a larger and brighter display.
In the realm of 2-in-1 laptops, two giants stand tall: the Microsoft Surface Pro and the Lenovo ThinkPad. Both devices offer a unique blend of portability, versatility, and performance, making them ideal for professionals, students, and creative individuals alike. But which one reigns supreme? Let’s dive into a comprehensive comparison to find out.
Design and Build
The Surface Pro boasts a sleek and modern design with a magnesium alloy body and a premium feel. Its signature kickstand allows it to transform from a laptop into a tablet or drawing canvas with ease. The ThinkPad, on the other hand, is known for its rugged and durable construction, featuring a carbon fiber chassis that can withstand military-grade testing. It also offers a traditional clamshell design with a sturdy hinge.
Display
The Surface Pro comes with a 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824 pixels. It offers vibrant colors, excellent contrast, and wide viewing angles. The ThinkPad has a 14-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. While it may not be as sharp as the Surface Pro’s display, it provides ample screen real estate and good color accuracy.
Performance
The Surface Pro is powered by Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, while the ThinkPad offers a range of options, including Intel Core i5, i7, and vPro processors. Both devices come with 8GB or 16GB of RAM and up to 1TB of SSD storage. In terms of performance, the Surface Pro and ThinkPad are on par, handling everyday tasks and demanding applications with ease.
Battery Life
The Surface Pro’s battery life varies depending on usage, but it typically lasts around 8-10 hours on a single charge. The ThinkPad has a larger battery capacity and can last up to 12-15 hours, making it a better choice for extended use away from a power outlet.
Ports and Connectivity
The Surface Pro has a limited selection of ports, including a USB-C port, a Surface Connect port, and a microSD card slot. The ThinkPad offers a more comprehensive array of ports, including two USB-A ports, two USB-C ports, an HDMI port, and an Ethernet port. Both devices support Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless connectivity.
Keyboard and Pen
The Surface Pro‘s Type Cover keyboard is sold separately and offers a comfortable typing experience with ample key travel. The ThinkPad’s built-in keyboard is renowned for its legendary typing feel and durability. Both devices come with a stylus, but the Surface Pen is more versatile and offers a wider range of pressure sensitivity levels.
Other Features
The Surface Pro supports Windows Hello facial recognition for quick and secure login. The ThinkPad offers a fingerprint reader for biometric authentication. Both devices have built-in webcams and microphones for video conferencing. The Surface Pro has a detachable design, allowing you to remove the display from the keyboard base, while the ThinkPad has a more traditional 2-in-1 design.
Verdict: Microsoft Surface Pro vs Lenovo ThinkPad
Choosing between the Microsoft Surface Pro and the Lenovo ThinkPad depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize portability, versatility, and a premium design, the Surface Pro is the better choice. However, if you value durability, a larger display, and a more comprehensive port selection, the ThinkPad is the way to go.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which device has the better display?
A: The Surface Pro has a sharper and more vibrant display, while the ThinkPad has a larger and brighter display.
Q: Which device has longer battery life?
A: The ThinkPad has a larger battery and typically lasts longer on a single charge.
Q: Which device has the better keyboard?
A: The ThinkPad’s built-in keyboard is renowned for its typing feel and durability, while the Surface Pro’s Type Cover keyboard offers a comfortable typing experience and detachable design.
Q: Which device is more durable?
A: The ThinkPad is known for its rugged and durable construction, while the Surface Pro has a more premium and delicate design.
Q: Which device is more versatile?
A: The Surface Pro’s detachable design and built-in kickstand make it more versatile for use as a laptop, tablet, or drawing canvas.
