When it comes to Microsoft’s Surface lineup, it’s easy to get confused between the various models and their features. Two of the most popular devices in the series are the Surface Laptop 4 and the Surface Pro 4. While they may share some similarities, they are not the same device. In this article, we’ll delve into the differences and similarities between the Surface Laptop 4 and the Surface Pro 4, helping you make an informed decision when choosing the right device for your needs.
Design and Display
One of the most noticeable differences between the Surface Laptop 4 and the Surface Pro 4 is their design and display. The Surface Laptop 4 features a traditional laptop design with a 13.5-inch or 15-inch PixelSense touchscreen display, depending on the model you choose. The display is surrounded by a thin bezel, and the device has a sleek, aluminum body that weighs in at around 2.79 pounds for the 13.5-inch model.
On the other hand, the Surface Pro 4 has a more versatile design, with a 12.3-inch PixelSense touchscreen display that can be detached from the keyboard. This allows users to use the device as a tablet or attach it to the keyboard for a more traditional laptop experience. The Surface Pro 4 is also lighter, weighing in at around 1.73 pounds without the keyboard.
PixelSense Display Technology
Both devices feature Microsoft’s PixelSense display technology, which provides excellent color accuracy and a high contrast ratio. However, the Surface Laptop 4 has a slightly higher resolution, with a maximum resolution of 2256 x 1504 pixels, compared to the Surface Pro 4’s 2736 x 1824 pixels.
Performance
When it comes to performance, both devices are capable of handling demanding tasks, but they have different processors and RAM options. The Surface Laptop 4 is powered by either an 11th Gen Intel Core i5 or i7 processor, depending on the model, and comes with up to 32GB of RAM.
The Surface Pro 4, on the other hand, is powered by a 6th Gen Intel Core i5 or i7 processor and comes with up to 16GB of RAM. While the Surface Pro 4’s processor may not be as powerful as the Surface Laptop 4’s, it’s still capable of handling demanding tasks like photo editing and video streaming.
Benchmark Scores
To give you a better idea of the performance difference between the two devices, here are some benchmark scores:
| Device | Geekbench 5 Score |
| — | — |
| Surface Laptop 4 (i7) | 4,831 |
| Surface Pro 4 (i7) | 3,944 |
As you can see, the Surface Laptop 4’s i7 processor outperforms the Surface Pro 4’s i7 processor in the Geekbench 5 benchmark test.
Ports and Connectivity
Both devices have a limited number of ports, but they differ in terms of the types of ports they offer. The Surface Laptop 4 has a USB-A port, a USB-C port, and a headphone jack, while the Surface Pro 4 has a USB-A port, a Mini DisplayPort, and a headphone jack.
USB-C vs. Mini DisplayPort
One of the main differences between the two devices is the type of port they use for display output. The Surface Laptop 4 uses a USB-C port, which can be used for both data transfer and display output, while the Surface Pro 4 uses a Mini DisplayPort, which is only used for display output.
Software
Both devices come with Windows 10, but the Surface Laptop 4 comes with the more recent Windows 10 Home or Pro, depending on the model, while the Surface Pro 4 comes with Windows 10 Pro.
Windows 10 Home vs. Pro
The main difference between Windows 10 Home and Pro is the level of security and management features. Windows 10 Pro offers more advanced security features, such as BitLocker encryption and Windows Information Protection, as well as more management features, such as the ability to join a domain and access group policy management.
Price
The price of the Surface Laptop 4 and the Surface Pro 4 varies depending on the model and configuration you choose. However, in general, the Surface Laptop 4 is more expensive than the Surface Pro 4.
Price Comparison
Here’s a rough estimate of the price difference between the two devices:
| Device | Price |
| — | — |
| Surface Laptop 4 (i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) | $999 |
| Surface Pro 4 (i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) | $799 |
As you can see, the Surface Laptop 4 is around $200 more expensive than the Surface Pro 4, depending on the configuration.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the Surface Laptop 4 and the Surface Pro 4 share some similarities, they are not the same device. The Surface Laptop 4 offers a more traditional laptop design, a higher-resolution display, and more powerful processors, while the Surface Pro 4 offers a more versatile design, a lower price point, and more portability.
Ultimately, the choice between the Surface Laptop 4 and the Surface Pro 4 depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a more traditional laptop experience with a higher-resolution display, the Surface Laptop 4 may be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more portable device with a lower price point, the Surface Pro 4 may be the better choice.
Recommendation
Based on our analysis, we recommend the Surface Laptop 4 for:
- Those who need a more traditional laptop experience
- Those who want a higher-resolution display
- Those who need more powerful processors
On the other hand, we recommend the Surface Pro 4 for:
- Those who want a more portable device
- Those who are on a budget
- Those who need a device that can be used as both a tablet and a laptop
What is the main difference between Surface Laptop 4 and Surface Pro 4?
The main difference between Surface Laptop 4 and Surface Pro 4 lies in their design and functionality. Surface Laptop 4 is a traditional laptop with a fixed keyboard and a clamshell design, whereas Surface Pro 4 is a 2-in-1 detachable tablet with a keyboard cover. This fundamental difference affects the way users interact with each device.
Surface Laptop 4 is designed for users who prefer a traditional laptop experience, with a focus on productivity and portability. On the other hand, Surface Pro 4 is geared towards users who need a device that can adapt to different scenarios, such as artists, designers, and professionals who require a tablet-like experience.
Is Surface Laptop 4 more powerful than Surface Pro 4?
In terms of processing power, Surface Laptop 4 generally has an edge over Surface Pro 4. The Laptop 4 is equipped with more recent processors, including AMD Ryzen and Intel Core options, which provide better performance and efficiency. Additionally, the Laptop 4 often comes with more RAM and storage options, making it a better choice for demanding tasks.
However, it’s essential to note that Surface Pro 4 is still a capable device, especially for tasks that don’t require intense processing power. The Pro 4’s Intel Core processors and ample RAM ensure smooth performance for everyday tasks, such as browsing, emailing, and office work.
Can I use Surface Laptop 4 as a tablet?
No, Surface Laptop 4 is not designed to be used as a tablet. Its clamshell design and fixed keyboard make it impractical for tablet-like use. While the Laptop 4’s touchscreen display is responsive and supports stylus input, it’s not meant to be detached from the keyboard or used in a tablet mode.
If you need a device that can function as both a laptop and a tablet, Surface Pro 4 is a better option. The Pro 4’s detachable keyboard and 360-degree hinge allow for seamless transitions between laptop and tablet modes.
Is Surface Pro 4 more portable than Surface Laptop 4?
Yes, Surface Pro 4 is generally more portable than Surface Laptop 4. The Pro 4’s detachable keyboard and compact design make it easier to carry around, especially when used as a tablet. The device weighs less than 2 pounds, making it an excellent choice for users who need a lightweight and versatile device.
In contrast, Surface Laptop 4 is slightly heavier and larger, although it’s still a relatively portable device. The Laptop 4’s fixed keyboard and clamshell design make it more suitable for users who prioritize a traditional laptop experience over extreme portability.
Can I upgrade the storage on Surface Laptop 4 and Surface Pro 4?
Yes, both Surface Laptop 4 and Surface Pro 4 allow for storage upgrades. However, the process and options vary between the two devices. Surface Laptop 4 has a more accessible design, making it easier to upgrade the SSD storage. Users can replace the existing SSD with a higher-capacity one, providing more storage space.
Surface Pro 4, on the other hand, has a more complex design, and storage upgrades require more technical expertise. Users can upgrade the SSD storage, but it’s essential to ensure compatibility and follow proper procedures to avoid damaging the device.
Which device has better battery life?
Surface Laptop 4 generally has better battery life than Surface Pro 4. The Laptop 4’s more power-efficient processors and larger battery contribute to its longer battery life, often lasting up to 11 hours on a single charge. This makes it an excellent choice for users who need a device that can last throughout the day.
Surface Pro 4, while still offering respectable battery life, typically lasts around 6-8 hours on a single charge. However, this can vary depending on usage patterns and settings.
Is Surface Laptop 4 more expensive than Surface Pro 4?
The prices of Surface Laptop 4 and Surface Pro 4 vary depending on the configuration and storage options. However, in general, Surface Laptop 4 tends to be more expensive than Surface Pro 4, especially when comparing similar specifications.
Surface Pro 4, being an older device, often has more affordable options, especially for base models or refurbished units. Surface Laptop 4, on the other hand, is a more recent device, and its prices reflect its newer technology and features.