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Microsoft surface pro 6 vs 4: the battle of the business beasts

Key points

  • The Surface Pro 6 and Surface Pro 4 share a similar sleek and premium design, with a magnesium alloy body and kickstand.
  • The Surface Pro 6 offers up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, while the Surface Pro 4 supports up to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage.
  • Whether you’re a professional, a student, or simply someone who wants a versatile and powerful device, the Surface Pro 6 is the best choice.

The Microsoft Surface Pro series has long been the go-to choice for professionals and students alike, offering a versatile blend of laptop and tablet functionality. With the release of the Surface Pro 6, many are wondering how it compares to its predecessor, the Surface Pro 4. This in-depth comparison will delve into the key differences between these two devices, helping you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Design and Display

Design: The Surface Pro 6 and Surface Pro 4 share a similar sleek and premium design, with a magnesium alloy body and kickstand. However, the Surface Pro 6 is slightly thinner and lighter, weighing in at 1.7 pounds compared to 1.8 pounds for the Surface Pro 4. This makes the Surface Pro 6 more portable and comfortable to hold for extended periods.

Display: Both devices feature a 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824. However, the Surface Pro 6’s display is slightly brighter, with a maximum brightness of 450 nits compared to 400 nits for the Surface Pro 4. This makes the Surface Pro 6 more suitable for outdoor use or in bright environments.

Performance

Processor: The Surface Pro 6 offers a range of processor options, including the 8th-generation Intel Core i5 and i7. The Surface Pro 4, on the other hand, features 6th-generation Intel Core i5 and i7 processors. The newer processors in the Surface Pro 6 provide a significant performance boost, especially in demanding tasks such as video editing and multitasking.

RAM and Storage: The Surface Pro 6 offers up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, while the Surface Pro 4 supports up to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. Both devices offer expandable storage via a microSD card slot.

Battery Life

Battery Capacity: The Surface Pro 6 has a slightly larger battery capacity (45Wh) than the Surface Pro 4 (38Wh). However, due to the more power-efficient 8th-generation processors, the Surface Pro 6 offers comparable battery life to the Surface Pro 4. Both devices can last for around 9-10 hours of mixed usage on a single charge.

Connectivity

Ports: The Surface Pro 6 and Surface Pro 4 both feature a USB 3.0 port, a mini DisplayPort, and a Surface Connect port. However, the Surface Pro 6 adds a USB-C port, which provides faster data transfer speeds and can be used for charging.

Wireless: Both devices support Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.1.

Stylus and Keyboard

Stylus: The Surface Pro 6 and Surface Pro 4 both support the Surface Pen, which allows for precise writing, drawing, and note-taking. However, the Surface Pen included with the Surface Pro 6 has improved latency and sensitivity, making it more responsive and natural to use.

Keyboard: The Surface Pro 6 and Surface Pro 4 are compatible with the Surface Type Cover keyboard. However, the Surface Type Cover for the Surface Pro 6 has a larger trackpad and backlit keys, providing a more comfortable and efficient typing experience.

Which One Should You Choose?

The Surface Pro 6 and Surface Pro 4 are both excellent devices, but the Surface Pro 6 offers several key advantages, including:

  • Improved design and portability
  • Brighter display
  • More powerful processor options
  • USB-C connectivity
  • Improved stylus and keyboard

If you need the latest and greatest technology, or if you demand the best possible performance and features, the Surface Pro 6 is the better choice. However, if you’re on a budget or if you don’t need the most cutting-edge specs, the Surface Pro 4 is still a solid option that offers good value for money.

The Verdict: The Surface Pro 6 Reigns Supreme

While the Surface Pro 4 is a capable device, the Surface Pro 6 is the clear winner in this comparison. It offers a more modern design, a brighter display, improved performance, and more versatile connectivity options. Whether you’re a professional, a student, or simply someone who wants a versatile and powerful device, the Surface Pro 6 is the best choice.

Common Questions and Answers

1. Which device has a longer battery life?

Both the Surface Pro 6 and Surface Pro 4 offer comparable battery life, around 9-10 hours on a single charge.

2. Can I use the Surface Pen with both devices?

Yes, both the Surface Pro 6 and Surface Pro 4 support the Surface Pen.

3. Which device has a better keyboard?

The Surface Type Cover for the Surface Pro 6 has a larger trackpad and backlit keys, providing a more comfortable and efficient typing experience.

4. Which device is more affordable?

The Surface Pro 4 is generally more affordable than the Surface Pro 6, especially if you’re looking at used or refurbished models.

5. Which device is better for gaming?

Neither the Surface Pro 6 nor the Surface Pro 4 are ideal for gaming due to their integrated graphics. However, the Surface Pro 6 with an Intel Core i7 processor and 16GB of RAM will provide a slightly better gaming experience than the Surface Pro 4.

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