Quick notes
- Microsoft claims that both the Surface Laptop 4 and Surface Laptop 5 offer up to 17 hours of battery life on a single charge.
- The Surface Laptop 4 features a USB-A port, a USB-C port, a Surface Connect port, and a 3.
- The Surface Laptop 5 has a slightly different port selection, including two USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 4 support, a Surface Connect port, and a 3.
The Microsoft Surface Laptop line has consistently impressed users with its sleek designs, powerful performance, and premium build quality. The Surface Laptop 4 and Surface Laptop 5 are two standout models in this series, each offering its own unique strengths and features. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 vs Surface Laptop 5 to help you make an informed decision about which device is right for you.
Design and Build
Both the Surface Laptop 4 and Surface Laptop 5 feature a premium aluminum unibody construction that exudes elegance and durability. They share a similar overall design, with a 3:2 aspect ratio display and a signature Alcantara fabric covering the keyboard deck. However, the Surface Laptop 5 has a slightly thinner profile and a more refined hinge design.
Display
The Surface Laptop 4 offers a 13.5-inch or 15-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2256 x 1504 (201 PPI) or 2496 x 1664 (201 PPI), respectively. The Surface Laptop 5, on the other hand, features a 13.5-inch or 15-inch PixelSense display with a higher resolution of 2256 x 1504 (201 PPI) or 2496 x 1664 (201 PPI), respectively. Additionally, the Surface Laptop 5’s display supports Dolby Vision HDR, providing a more immersive and vibrant viewing experience.
Performance
The Surface Laptop 4 is powered by 11th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, while the Surface Laptop 5 features 12th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors. The newer processors in the Surface Laptop 5 offer improved performance and power efficiency. Both devices come with integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics, which are capable of handling basic gaming and video editing tasks.
RAM and Storage
The Surface Laptop 4 offers up to 16GB of RAM and up to 1TB of SSD storage. The Surface Laptop 5 provides up to 32GB of RAM and up to 1TB of SSD storage. The increased RAM capacity in the Surface Laptop 5 allows for smoother multitasking and handling of demanding applications.
Battery Life
Microsoft claims that both the Surface Laptop 4 and Surface Laptop 5 offer up to 17 hours of battery life on a single charge. However, real-world battery life may vary depending on usage patterns and settings.
Ports and Connectivity
The Surface Laptop 4 features a USB-A port, a USB-C port, a Surface Connect port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The Surface Laptop 5 has a slightly different port selection, including two USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 4 support, a Surface Connect port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The addition of Thunderbolt 4 support in the Surface Laptop 5 enables faster data transfer speeds and allows for the connection of external displays and other peripherals.
Price
The Surface Laptop 4 starts at $999.99, while the Surface Laptop 5 starts at $1,299.99. The price difference is primarily due to the newer processor, higher RAM capacity, and Thunderbolt 4 support in the Surface Laptop 5.
Which One Should You Choose?
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 is an excellent choice for users who prioritize portability, battery life, and a premium design. It offers solid performance and a comfortable typing experience.
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 is the better option for users who demand more power, versatility, and a more immersive display. It features a newer processor, increased RAM capacity, Thunderbolt 4 support, and a Dolby Vision HDR-compatible display.
Summary
Both the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 and Surface Laptop 5 are exceptional devices that offer a blend of style, performance, and portability. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific needs and budget. If you value affordability, portability, and long battery life, the Surface Laptop 4 is a great option. If you prioritize power, versatility, and a premium display experience, the Surface Laptop 5 is the clear winner.
What People Want to Know
1. Which device has a longer battery life?
Both the Surface Laptop 4 and Surface Laptop 5 offer up to 17 hours of battery life.
2. Which device has a better display?
The Surface Laptop 5 has a higher-resolution display that supports Dolby Vision HDR, providing a more immersive and vibrant viewing experience.
3. Which device is more powerful?
The Surface Laptop 5 features a newer 12th-generation Intel Core processor, which offers improved performance compared to the 11th-generation processor in the Surface Laptop 4.