What To Know
- When it comes to choosing a versatile and powerful device for work, education, and entertainment, Microsoft’s Surface lineup stands out as a top contender.
- The Surface 7, on the other hand, offers superior performance, a more versatile operating system, and a wider range of connectivity options.
- Both the Surface X and Surface 7 have a 5MP front-facing camera and a 10MP rear-facing camera, offering similar image quality.
When it comes to choosing a versatile and powerful device for work, education, and entertainment, Microsoft’s Surface lineup stands out as a top contender. However, with two distinct models – the Surface X and Surface 7 – it can be challenging to determine which one best suits your needs. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key differences between the Surface X and Surface 7 to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Surface X: The Surface X boasts a sleek and ultra-thin design crafted from premium materials. Its 12.3-inch display is encased in a magnesium alloy chassis, giving it a durable and lightweight feel.
Surface 7: The Surface 7 features a more traditional design with a 12-inch display. Its magnesium alloy body offers a sturdy construction, while the kickstand provides versatility for different usage scenarios.
Display
Surface X: The Surface X’s 12.3-inch PixelSense display delivers exceptional clarity and color accuracy. Its high resolution of 2880 x 1920 pixels ensures stunning visuals for movies, videos, and presentations.
Surface 7: The Surface 7’s 12-inch PixelSense display offers a slightly lower resolution of 2736 x 1824 pixels. However, it still provides vibrant colors and sharp details, making it suitable for most tasks.
Performance
Surface X: The Surface X is powered by a custom-designed Microsoft SQ1 or SQ2 processor, which offers decent performance for basic tasks such as web browsing, email, and document editing. However, it may struggle with demanding applications and multitasking.
Surface 7: The Surface 7 comes with a choice of Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 processors, providing significantly better performance than the Surface X. It can handle intensive tasks such as video editing, graphic design, and gaming with ease.
Operating System
Surface X: The Surface X runs on Windows 10X, which is designed specifically for ARM-based devices. It offers a streamlined and simplified user experience, but it has a limited app selection compared to traditional Windows 10.
Surface 7: The Surface 7 runs on Windows 10 Home or Pro, providing full compatibility with all Windows applications and software. It offers a more familiar and versatile operating system for both personal and professional use.
Battery Life
Surface X: The Surface X has an impressive battery life of up to 15 hours, making it an excellent choice for students or professionals who need long-lasting power.
Surface 7: The Surface 7’s battery life varies depending on the processor and configuration. The i3 model can last up to 10 hours, while the i5 and i7 models offer around 8-9 hours.
Connectivity
Surface X: The Surface X offers a limited range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, and a single USB-C port.
Surface 7: The Surface 7 provides more comprehensive connectivity, including Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, a USB-C port, a USB-A port, and a microSD card slot.
Price
Surface X: The Surface X starts at $799 for the base model with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage.
Surface 7: The Surface 7 starts at $699 for the base model with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage.
Which One Should You Choose?
The Surface X is an excellent choice for students or professionals who prioritize portability, battery life, and a simplified user experience. Its sleek design and long battery life make it ideal for on-the-go use.
The Surface 7, on the other hand, offers superior performance, a more versatile operating system, and a wider range of connectivity options. It is better suited for those who need a powerful device for demanding tasks, such as professionals in creative fields or students in STEM programs.
Alternatives to Consider
If you’re not convinced by either the Surface X or Surface 7, consider the following alternatives:
- Apple iPad Pro: A powerful and versatile tablet that offers a comparable user experience to the Surface X.
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S7: An Android-based tablet with a stunning display and excellent performance.
- Lenovo Yoga Duet 7i: A 2-in-1 laptop that combines the portability of a tablet with the functionality of a laptop.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Which device has a better camera?
A: Both the Surface X and Surface 7 have a 5MP front-facing camera and a 10MP rear-facing camera, offering similar image quality.
Q: Can I upgrade the storage on the Surface X?
A: No, the Surface X does not offer expandable storage options.
Q: Does the Surface 7 come with a keyboard?
A: The Surface 7 does not come with a keyboard included, but you can purchase the Surface Type Cover separately.
Q: Which device is more suitable for gaming?
A: The Surface 7 offers better gaming performance thanks to its more powerful Intel processors.
Q: Can I use both a mouse and keyboard with the Surface X?
A: Yes, you can connect both a mouse and keyboard to the Surface X via Bluetooth or USB-C.
