What To Know
- The Surface 8, on the other hand, has a slightly more traditional design with a magnesium alloy body.
- The Surface 8 offers a more comprehensive selection of ports, including two USB-C ports, a USB-A port, a microSD card slot, and a 3.
- However, if you require higher performance, compatibility with a wider range of applications, and more connectivity options, the Surface 8 is a better fit.
The Microsoft Surface X and Surface 8 are two highly anticipated devices that have sparked a lot of intrigue among tech enthusiasts. Both devices offer unique features and capabilities, making it challenging to choose the best one. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key differences between the Microsoft Surface X and Surface 8, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
Design and Display
Surface X: The Surface X boasts a sleek and ultra-thin design, crafted from anodized aluminum. It features a 13-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2880 x 1920 pixels. The display is vibrant and offers excellent viewing angles, making it ideal for both work and entertainment.
Surface 8: The Surface 8, on the other hand, has a slightly more traditional design with a magnesium alloy body. It comes with a 13-inch PixelSense Flow display that supports a higher refresh rate of 120Hz. This results in smoother scrolling and animations, enhancing the overall user experience.
Performance and Hardware
Surface X: The Surface X is powered by a custom-designed Microsoft SQ2 processor, which is based on the ARM architecture. This processor is optimized for battery efficiency and provides decent performance for everyday tasks and light multitasking. However, it may struggle with demanding applications or heavy workloads.
Surface 8: The Surface 8, on the other hand, utilizes Intel’s 11th-generation Core i5 or i7 processors. These processors offer significantly higher performance compared to the SQ2 processor, making the Surface 8 suitable for more demanding tasks such as video editing, gaming, and multitasking.
Operating System
Surface X: The Surface X runs on Windows 11 Pro for ARM, a version of Windows tailored for ARM-based devices. While it offers a familiar Windows experience, it has some limitations compared to the full-fledged Windows 11 operating system. For instance, it cannot run traditional Win32 applications without emulation.
Surface 8: The Surface 8 comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Home or Pro, giving you access to the full range of Windows applications and features. This makes it more versatile and compatible with a wider range of software.
Connectivity and Ports
Surface X: The Surface X features a USB-C port for charging, data transfer, and external display output. It also supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless connectivity.
Surface 8: The Surface 8 offers a more comprehensive selection of ports, including two USB-C ports, a USB-A port, a microSD card slot, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. It also supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1.
Battery Life
Surface X: The Surface X is renowned for its exceptional battery life, lasting up to 15 hours on a single charge. This makes it an excellent choice for users who require extended productivity on the go.
Surface 8: The Surface 8 has a slightly shorter battery life compared to the Surface X, offering around 10-12 hours of usage. However, its higher performance capabilities may offset this disadvantage for users who prioritize performance over battery life.
Price and Availability
Surface X: The Surface X starts at $999 for the base model with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. It is available in Platinum and Matte Black color options.
Surface 8: The Surface 8 starts at $1,099 for the base model with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. It is available in Platinum, Graphite, and Ice Blue color options.
Which Device is Right for You?
The choice between the Microsoft Surface X and Surface 8 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize battery life, portability, and a slim design, the Surface X is an excellent choice. However, if you require higher performance, compatibility with a wider range of applications, and more connectivity options, the Surface 8 is a better fit.
Beyond the Comparison: Additional Considerations
1. Accessories: Both devices support a range of accessories, including the Surface Pen and Surface Keyboard. However, some accessories may be designed specifically for one device and not the other.
2. Software: While the Surface X runs on Windows 11 for ARM, it may not be compatible with all Windows applications. Check software compatibility before making your purchase.
3. Future Updates: Microsoft may release software updates and hardware revisions for both devices in the future. Keep these potential updates in mind when making your decision.
What People Want to Know
1. Can I run traditional Windows applications on the Surface X?
Yes, but only through emulation using the Windows Subsystem for ARM (x86 emulation).
2. Which device has better sound quality?
Both devices offer immersive sound experiences, but the Surface 8 has a slightly better speaker system.
3. Can I use the Surface X as a tablet?
Yes, the Surface X can be used as a tablet with its detachable keyboard.
4. Which device is better for gaming?
The Surface 8 is better suited for gaming due to its more powerful processor and support for DirectX 12.
5. Can I connect an external GPU to either device?
No, neither device supports external GPU connectivity.
