When it comes to laptops, Microsoft is a name that has gained significant attention in recent years. The company, known for its software products, has ventured into the hardware market with its Surface lineup of laptops. But are Microsoft laptops good? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Microsoft laptops, exploring their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.
History of Microsoft Laptops
Microsoft’s foray into the laptop market began in 2012 with the launch of the Surface RT. Although the device received mixed reviews, it marked the beginning of Microsoft’s journey in the hardware space. Since then, the company has released several Surface laptops, each with improved features and design.
Surface Laptop Lineup
Microsoft’s Surface laptop lineup includes:
- Surface Laptop: A budget-friendly option with a 13.5-inch display and Intel Core i5 processor.
- Surface Laptop 2: An upgraded version of the original Surface Laptop with improved performance and battery life.
- Surface Laptop 3: A more powerful option with a 15-inch display and AMD Ryzen 7 processor.
- Surface Laptop Go: A compact and lightweight option with a 12.4-inch display and Intel Core i5 processor.
Design and Build Quality
Microsoft laptops are known for their sleek and sturdy design. The Surface laptops feature a unibody aluminum construction, which provides a premium feel and durability. The devices are also remarkably thin and lightweight, making them easy to carry around.
Display
The display on Microsoft laptops is another area where they excel. The Surface laptops feature PixelSense touchscreens, which offer vibrant colors and excellent brightness. The displays are also touch-sensitive, allowing for seamless interaction with Windows 10.
Resolution and Aspect Ratio
The resolution and aspect ratio of Microsoft laptops vary depending on the model. The Surface Laptop and Surface Laptop 2 feature a 13.5-inch display with a resolution of 2256 x 1504 pixels and an aspect ratio of 3:2. The Surface Laptop 3, on the other hand, features a 15-inch display with a resolution of 2496 x 1664 pixels and an aspect ratio of 3:2.
Performance
Microsoft laptops are powered by a range of processors, including Intel Core i5 and i7, as well as AMD Ryzen 5 and 7. The devices also feature up to 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, making them suitable for demanding tasks like video editing and gaming.
Benchmark Scores
To give you a better idea of the performance of Microsoft laptops, here are some benchmark scores:
- Surface Laptop 3 (Intel Core i7, 16GB RAM): Geekbench 5 score of 4,443 (single-core) and 13,661 (multi-core).
- Surface Laptop 3 (AMD Ryzen 7, 16GB RAM): Geekbench 5 score of 4,341 (single-core) and 14,111 (multi-core).
Battery Life
Microsoft laptops are known for their excellent battery life. The Surface laptops can last up to 11 hours on a single charge, making them perfect for long trips or workdays.
Battery Life Comparison
Here’s a comparison of the battery life of Microsoft laptops with some of their competitors:
| Laptop | Battery Life |
| — | — |
| Surface Laptop 3 | Up to 11 hours |
| Dell XPS 13 | Up to 12 hours |
| MacBook Air | Up to 12 hours |
Ports and Connectivity
Microsoft laptops feature a range of ports, including USB-A, USB-C, and Surface Connect. The devices also support Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for seamless connectivity.
Port Comparison
Here’s a comparison of the ports on Microsoft laptops with some of their competitors:
| Laptop | Ports |
| — | — |
| Surface Laptop 3 | 1 x USB-A, 1 x USB-C, 1 x Surface Connect |
| Dell XPS 13 | 2 x Thunderbolt 3, 1 x USB-C, 1 x headphone jack |
| MacBook Air | 2 x Thunderbolt 3, 1 x headphone jack |
Software
Microsoft laptops come with Windows 10 pre-installed, which offers a range of features and apps. The devices also support Microsoft Office, making them perfect for productivity.
Windows 10 Features
Some of the key features of Windows 10 include:
- Start menu: A customizable menu that provides access to apps, files, and settings.
- Cortana: A virtual assistant that can perform tasks and answer questions.
- Microsoft Edge: A web browser that offers fast performance and security features.
Price
Microsoft laptops vary in price, depending on the model and configuration. Here are some prices for new Microsoft laptops:
- Surface Laptop: Starting at $999
- Surface Laptop 2: Starting at $1,299
- Surface Laptop 3: Starting at $1,599
- Surface Laptop Go: Starting at $699
Conclusion
Are Microsoft laptops good? The answer is yes. With their sleek design, excellent display, and powerful performance, Microsoft laptops are a great option for anyone looking for a reliable and feature-rich device. While they may not be the cheapest option on the market, they offer a range of benefits that make them worth the investment.
Who Should Buy a Microsoft Laptop?
Microsoft laptops are perfect for:
- Students: With their lightweight design and long battery life, Microsoft laptops are ideal for students who need a device that can keep up with their busy schedules.
- Professionals: With their powerful performance and range of ports, Microsoft laptops are perfect for professionals who need a device that can handle demanding tasks.
- Gamers: With their powerful processors and high-resolution displays, Microsoft laptops are a great option for gamers who want a device that can handle the latest games.
In conclusion, Microsoft laptops are a great option for anyone looking for a reliable and feature-rich device. With their sleek design, excellent display, and powerful performance, they offer a range of benefits that make them worth the investment.
What are the key features of Microsoft laptops?
Microsoft laptops are known for their sleek and lightweight designs, making them easy to carry around. They also come with a range of features such as touchscreen displays, backlit keyboards, and long-lasting batteries. Additionally, Microsoft laptops often include advanced security features like facial recognition and fingerprint readers to keep your device and data safe.
In terms of performance, Microsoft laptops are equipped with powerful processors, ample storage, and high-quality graphics cards. This makes them suitable for a variety of tasks, from basic productivity and web browsing to more demanding activities like gaming and video editing. Furthermore, Microsoft laptops often come with the latest version of Windows, providing users with a seamless and intuitive computing experience.
Are Microsoft laptops good for gaming?
Microsoft laptops can be a good option for gaming, depending on the specific model and its specifications. Some Microsoft laptops, such as the Surface Laptop 3 and Surface Book 3, come with dedicated graphics cards and powerful processors, making them capable of handling demanding games. However, it’s essential to check the laptop’s specifications and reviews to ensure it can handle the types of games you want to play.
It’s also worth noting that Microsoft laptops may not be the best option for serious gamers who require high-end graphics and performance. In such cases, gaming laptops from other manufacturers like Alienware, Razer, or MSI might be more suitable. Nevertheless, for casual gamers who want a laptop that can handle everyday tasks and some gaming, Microsoft laptops can be a great choice.
How do Microsoft laptops compare to other brands?
Microsoft laptops are often compared to other premium brands like Apple, Dell, and HP. In terms of design and build quality, Microsoft laptops are generally on par with these brands, offering sleek and durable constructions. However, when it comes to performance, Microsoft laptops may not always match the high-end offerings from other manufacturers.
That being said, Microsoft laptops have their own strengths, such as their seamless integration with the Windows ecosystem and exclusive features like the Surface Pen. Additionally, Microsoft laptops often come with advanced security features and regular software updates, making them a great choice for users who value security and convenience.
Are Microsoft laptops worth the price?
The price of Microsoft laptops can vary greatly, depending on the model and its specifications. While some Microsoft laptops can be quite expensive, others may offer better value for money. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each model and compare it to other laptops in the same price range.
In general, Microsoft laptops are a good investment for users who value premium design, advanced security features, and seamless integration with the Windows ecosystem. However, for users on a tight budget or those who prioritize raw performance, other brands might offer more affordable options.
What is the battery life of Microsoft laptops?
The battery life of Microsoft laptops can vary depending on the model and usage patterns. However, most Microsoft laptops are designed to provide all-day battery life, with some models lasting up to 12 hours on a single charge. The Surface Laptop 3, for example, is known for its impressive battery life, making it a great choice for users who are always on the go.
It’s worth noting that battery life can be affected by various factors, such as screen brightness, Wi-Fi connectivity, and resource-intensive applications. To get the most out of your Microsoft laptop’s battery, it’s essential to adjust your usage habits and settings accordingly.
Can I upgrade the hardware of my Microsoft laptop?
The upgradability of Microsoft laptops can vary depending on the model. Some Microsoft laptops, like the Surface Laptop 3, have limited upgradability options, while others, like the Surface Book 3, offer more flexibility. In general, it’s possible to upgrade the RAM and storage of most Microsoft laptops, but other components like the processor and graphics card may be more difficult to upgrade.
It’s essential to check the specifications and documentation of your Microsoft laptop to determine what upgrades are possible. Additionally, users should be cautious when attempting to upgrade their laptop’s hardware, as it may void the warranty or cause compatibility issues.
What kind of customer support does Microsoft offer for its laptops?
Microsoft offers a range of customer support options for its laptops, including online resources, phone support, and in-person support at Microsoft Stores. Users can also take advantage of Microsoft’s warranty and protection plans, which provide additional peace of mind and support.
In addition to these support options, Microsoft also offers a range of online resources, including tutorials, FAQs, and community forums. These resources can be a great way for users to troubleshoot issues and learn more about their Microsoft laptop.