When it comes to laptops, one of the most iconic and sought-after brands is Microsoft’s Surface lineup. The Surface 4 laptop, in particular, has been a popular choice among consumers and professionals alike. But have you ever wondered how old the Surface 4 laptop is? In this article, we’ll embark on a journey to uncover the history of Microsoft’s Surface 4 laptop, exploring its release date, key features, and what makes it still relevant today.
The Birth of the Surface 4 Laptop
To understand the age of the Surface 4 laptop, we need to go back in time to 2015. It was a pivotal year for Microsoft, as the company was undergoing a significant transformation under the leadership of Satya Nadella. The Surface lineup, which was first introduced in 2012, was already gaining traction, and the Surface 3 had just been released in May 2015.
Fast-forward to October 2015, when Microsoft announced the Surface Pro 4 and the Surface Book, two devices that would change the game for the company. The Surface Pro 4 was the successor to the Surface Pro 3, and it came with a range of impressive features, including a larger 12.3-inch PixelSense touchscreen, up to 16 GB of RAM, and a more powerful Intel Core processor.
However, there was no Surface 4 laptop announced during that event. So, where does the Surface 4 laptop come into play?
The Confusion Around the Surface 4 Laptop
The Surface 4 laptop is often confused with the Surface Pro 4, mainly because of their similar names. However, there is no such device as the Surface 4 laptop. Microsoft never released a laptop specifically called the Surface 4.
The confusion arises from the fact that some users and retailers refer to the Surface Pro 4 as the Surface 4 laptop. This is likely due to the device’s laptop-like features, such as its keyboard and touchscreen capabilities. However, the Surface Pro 4 is technically a 2-in-1 detachable device, not a traditional laptop.
The Evolution of Microsoft’s Surface Lineup
To better understand the age of the Surface 4 laptop (or the lack thereof), let’s take a closer look at the evolution of Microsoft’s Surface lineup:
| Device | Release Date | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Surface RT | October 2012 | 10.6-inch touchscreen, Windows RT, Intel Atom processor |
| Surface Pro | February 2013 | 10.6-inch touchscreen, Windows 8 Pro, Intel Core i5 processor |
| Surface 2 | October 2013 | 10.6-inch touchscreen, Windows RT 8.1, Intel Atom processor |
| Surface Pro 2 | October 2013 | 10.6-inch touchscreen, Windows 8.1 Pro, Intel Core i5 processor |
| Surface Pro 3 | June 2014 | 12-inch touchscreen, Windows 8.1 Pro, Intel Core i3/i5/i7 processor |
| Surface 3 | May 2015 | 10.8-inch touchscreen, Windows 8.1, Intel Atom processor |
| Surface Pro 4 | October 2015 | 12.3-inch PixelSense touchscreen, Windows 10, Intel Core i3/i5/i7 processor |
As you can see, there is no Surface 4 laptop in this lineup. The Surface Pro 4 is the device that’s often mistakenly referred to as the Surface 4 laptop.
What Makes the Surface Pro 4 Still Relevant?
Despite being released in 2015, the Surface Pro 4 remains a popular choice among consumers and professionals. Here are some reasons why:
- Performance: The Surface Pro 4’s Intel Core processor and up to 16 GB of RAM ensure that it can handle demanding tasks with ease.
- Display: The 12.3-inch PixelSense touchscreen offers excellent color accuracy and a high contrast ratio, making it perfect for creative professionals.
- Battery Life: The Surface Pro 4 has a battery life of up to 9 hours, making it an excellent choice for those who need a device that can last all day.
- Portability: Weighing just 1.73 pounds and measuring 11.5 inches wide, the Surface Pro 4 is incredibly portable and easy to carry around.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is no Surface 4 laptop. The Surface Pro 4, which is often mistakenly referred to as the Surface 4 laptop, is a 2-in-1 detachable device that was released in 2015. Microsoft’s Surface lineup has undergone significant changes over the years, with each new device offering improved performance, design, and features.
While the Surface Pro 4 may be an older device, it still remains a popular choice among consumers and professionals due to its impressive performance, excellent display, and portability. If you’re in the market for a new device, it’s essential to understand the differences between the various Surface models and choose the one that best fits your needs.
So, how old is the Surface 4 laptop? Well, since there is no Surface 4 laptop, the answer is that it doesn’t exist!
What is the Surface 4 Laptop?
The Surface 4 Laptop is a discontinued laptop model produced by Microsoft as part of its Surface lineup of devices. It was announced in October 2015 and released in November of the same year. The Surface 4 Laptop was designed to be a more portable and affordable alternative to the Surface Book, with a focus on mobility and productivity.
The Surface 4 Laptop features a 12.3-inch PixelSense touchscreen display, Intel Core m3, i5, or i7 processor options, up to 16GB of RAM, and up to 1TB of storage. It also includes a stylus, dubbed the Surface Pen, and a detachable keyboard. The device runs on Windows 10 and was marketed towards students, professionals, and individuals seeking a reliable and versatile laptop.
When was the Surface 4 Laptop released?
The Surface 4 Laptop was released on November 20, 2015, in the United States and Canada. It was initially available for pre-order on October 7, 2015, with a starting price of $899 for the base model.
The release of the Surface 4 Laptop marked a significant milestone for Microsoft, as it was the company’s first laptop designed specifically for the masses, rather than a niche audience. The device received generally positive reviews from critics and helped establish Microsoft as a serious player in the laptop market.
What are the key differences between the Surface 4 Laptop and Surface Book?
The Surface 4 Laptop and Surface Book are both premium laptops produced by Microsoft, but they cater to different needs and budgets. The Surface 4 Laptop is a more compact and lightweight device, weighing 2.76 pounds and measuring 11.5 inches in length. It also has a more limited processor selection, topping out at Intel Core i7, and a lower maximum RAM capacity of 16GB.
In contrast, the Surface Book is a more powerful and feature-rich device, with a larger 13.5-inch PixelSense display, Intel Core i5 and i7 processor options, and up to 16GB of RAM. It also features a more robust battery life, lasting up to 12 hours on a single charge. The Surface Book is designed for professionals and power users, whereas the Surface 4 Laptop is geared towards a broader audience.
Can I still buy a Surface 4 Laptop?
The Surface 4 Laptop is no longer available for purchase from Microsoft’s official website or retail stores. As a discontinued product, it’s no longer supported by Microsoft, and spare parts or accessories may be difficult to find.
However, you may still be able to find new or refurbished Surface 4 Laptops from third-party resellers, such as Amazon or Best Buy, or from individual sellers on online marketplaces like eBay or Craigslist. Keep in mind that purchasing a used or refurbished device may come with its own set of risks, including potential hardware issues or limited warranty coverage.
What are the system requirements for the Surface 4 Laptop?
The Surface 4 Laptop requires Windows 10 to function, and it came pre-installed with the operating system. The device is compatible with a range of applications, including Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Cloud, and popular web browsers like Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox.
In terms of hardware specifications, the Surface 4 Laptop requires at least 4GB of RAM to operate smoothly, although 8GB or 16GB configurations provide better performance. The device also supports up to 1TB of storage, with options for SSD or HDD storage. Additionally, the Surface 4 Laptop features Wi-Fi 802.11ac connectivity, Bluetooth 4.0, and a single USB-A port.
How do I troubleshoot my Surface 4 Laptop?
If you’re experiencing issues with your Surface 4 Laptop, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take before seeking professional help. First, try restarting your device to see if the problem persists. If the issue remains, check for Windows updates, as a newer version of the operating system may resolve the problem.
Additionally, you can try running the built-in System File Checker tool to scan for corrupted system files, or use the Device Manager to identify and update outdated drivers. If the issue is specific to a particular application, try reinstalling it or seeking support from the developer. If none of these steps resolve the issue, you may need to contact Microsoft support or visit a authorized service center for further assistance.
What is the warranty policy for the Surface 4 Laptop?
The Surface 4 Laptop comes with a one-year limited warranty from Microsoft, which covers manufacturing defects and malfunctions. The warranty period begins on the date of purchase and includes phone and online support, as well as repair or replacement of the device if necessary.
To qualify for warranty support, you’ll need to register your device on Microsoft’s website and keep proof of purchase. Additionally, the warranty does not cover accidental damage, cosmetic damage, or misuse of the device. If you’re no longer under warranty, you can still contact Microsoft support for troubleshooting assistance or purchase extended warranty plans from authorized resellers.