When it comes to choosing a device from Microsoft’s Surface lineup, two popular options often come to mind: the Surface Laptop and the Surface Pro. While both devices are designed to provide a premium computing experience, they cater to different needs and preferences. In this article, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Surface Laptop and the Surface Pro, helping you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Design and Portability
One of the most noticeable differences between the Surface Laptop and the Surface Pro is their design and portability. The Surface Laptop is a traditional clamshell laptop with a fixed keyboard and a 13.5-inch PixelSense touchscreen display. It’s sleek, lightweight, and easy to carry around, weighing in at just 2.76 pounds. The Surface Laptop’s design is perfect for those who want a laptop that can keep up with their busy lifestyle.
On the other hand, the Surface Pro is a 2-in-1 device that can be used as both a tablet and a laptop. It features a 12.3-inch PixelSense touchscreen display and is designed to be ultra-portable, weighing in at just 1.7 pounds. The Surface Pro’s design is ideal for those who want a device that can adapt to different situations, such as artists, designers, or professionals who need to present information on the go.
Keyboard and Typing Experience
Another significant difference between the Surface Laptop and the Surface Pro is the keyboard and typing experience. The Surface Laptop features a traditional laptop keyboard with a scissor-switch mechanism, providing a comfortable and responsive typing experience. The keyboard is also backlit, making it easy to type in low-light environments.
The Surface Pro, on the other hand, requires a separate keyboard attachment, known as the Type Cover. The Type Cover is a slim and lightweight keyboard that attaches to the Surface Pro via a magnetic connector. While the Type Cover provides a good typing experience, it’s not as comfortable as the Surface Laptop’s keyboard, and it can be prone to flexing.
Performance and Specifications
When it comes to performance and specifications, both the Surface Laptop and the Surface Pro offer a range of options to suit different needs and budgets. The Surface Laptop is available with up to 10th Gen Intel Core i7 processors, up to 16GB of RAM, and up to 1TB of storage. It also features Intel Iris Xe graphics, providing a smooth and responsive performance.
The Surface Pro, on the other hand, is available with up to 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processors, up to 32GB of RAM, and up to 1TB of storage. It also features Intel Iris Xe graphics, as well as optional NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti graphics for more demanding tasks.
Processor Comparison
| Device | Processor Options |
| — | — |
| Surface Laptop | Up to 10th Gen Intel Core i7 |
| Surface Pro | Up to 11th Gen Intel Core i7 |
Display and Graphics
Both the Surface Laptop and the Surface Pro feature stunning PixelSense touchscreen displays, but there are some key differences. The Surface Laptop features a 13.5-inch display with a resolution of 2256 x 1504 pixels, providing a pixel density of 201 pixels per inch (PPI). The display is also color-accurate, making it ideal for professionals who require precise color representation.
The Surface Pro, on the other hand, features a 12.3-inch display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824 pixels, providing a pixel density of 267 PPI. The display is also color-accurate and features a higher contrast ratio than the Surface Laptop, making it ideal for professionals who require a high level of color accuracy.
Display Comparison
| Device | Display Size | Resolution | Pixel Density |
| — | — | — | — |
| Surface Laptop | 13.5 inches | 2256 x 1504 pixels | 201 PPI |
| Surface Pro | 12.3 inches | 2736 x 1824 pixels | 267 PPI |
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is an essential consideration for anyone who needs a device that can keep up with their busy lifestyle. The Surface Laptop offers up to 11.5 hours of battery life, based on typical usage patterns. It also features fast charging, allowing you to charge the device up to 80% in just one hour.
The Surface Pro, on the other hand, offers up to 10.5 hours of battery life, based on typical usage patterns. It also features fast charging, allowing you to charge the device up to 80% in just one hour.
Battery Life Comparison
| Device | Battery Life | Fast Charging |
| — | — | — |
| Surface Laptop | Up to 11.5 hours | Up to 80% in 1 hour |
| Surface Pro | Up to 10.5 hours | Up to 80% in 1 hour |
Price and Value
Finally, let’s talk about price and value. The Surface Laptop starts at around $999 for the base model, while the Surface Pro starts at around $899 for the base model. However, the Surface Pro requires a separate keyboard attachment, which adds to the overall cost.
In terms of value, both devices offer a premium computing experience, but the Surface Laptop provides a more traditional laptop experience at a lower cost. The Surface Pro, on the other hand, offers a more versatile 2-in-1 experience, but at a higher cost.
Price Comparison
| Device | Starting Price | Keyboard Included |
| — | — | — |
| Surface Laptop | $999 | Yes |
| Surface Pro | $899 | No |
In conclusion, the Surface Laptop and the Surface Pro are both excellent devices that cater to different needs and preferences. The Surface Laptop is ideal for those who want a traditional laptop experience with a comfortable keyboard and a large display. The Surface Pro, on the other hand, is ideal for those who want a versatile 2-in-1 device that can adapt to different situations.
Ultimately, the choice between the Surface Laptop and the Surface Pro depends on your specific needs and preferences. We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive comparison of these two devices, helping you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
What are the main differences between Surface Laptop and Surface Pro?
The main differences between Surface Laptop and Surface Pro lie in their design, functionality, and usage. The Surface Laptop is a traditional laptop with a fixed keyboard and a clamshell design, while the Surface Pro is a 2-in-1 detachable tablet with a keyboard cover. This design difference affects how you use each device, with the Surface Laptop being more suitable for traditional laptop tasks and the Surface Pro offering more flexibility and portability.
In terms of functionality, the Surface Laptop is generally more powerful and has a longer battery life, making it suitable for demanding tasks like video editing and gaming. On the other hand, the Surface Pro is more versatile and can be used in various modes, including tablet mode, laptop mode, and studio mode. This versatility makes it ideal for tasks that require a high degree of mobility and flexibility.
Which device is more portable, Surface Laptop or Surface Pro?
The Surface Pro is generally more portable than the Surface Laptop due to its detachable design and lighter weight. The Surface Pro weighs around 1.7 pounds, making it easy to carry around, while the Surface Laptop weighs around 2.7 pounds. Additionally, the Surface Pro has a more compact design, making it easier to fit into a bag or backpack.
However, it’s worth noting that the Surface Laptop is still a relatively portable device, especially when compared to other laptops on the market. Its slim design and lightweight construction make it easy to carry around, and its battery life is long enough to last a full day. Ultimately, the choice between the two devices will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
What are the processor and storage options for Surface Laptop and Surface Pro?
Both the Surface Laptop and Surface Pro offer a range of processor and storage options to suit different needs and budgets. The Surface Laptop is available with up to 32GB of RAM and up to 1TB of storage, while the Surface Pro is available with up to 16GB of RAM and up to 1TB of storage. In terms of processors, both devices offer a range of Intel Core options, including i3, i5, and i7 processors.
It’s worth noting that the processor and storage options for both devices can affect their performance and price. If you need a device for demanding tasks like video editing or gaming, you may want to opt for a higher-end processor and more storage. On the other hand, if you just need a device for basic tasks like browsing and emailing, a lower-end processor and less storage may be sufficient.
Can I use the Surface Pro as a laptop replacement?
Yes, the Surface Pro can be used as a laptop replacement, but it depends on your specific needs and preferences. The Surface Pro offers a range of features that make it suitable for laptop-like tasks, including a keyboard cover, a stylus, and a range of processor and storage options. Additionally, the Surface Pro has a large and high-resolution display, making it ideal for tasks like browsing, emailing, and streaming.
However, it’s worth noting that the Surface Pro may not be suitable for everyone as a laptop replacement. For example, if you need a device for demanding tasks like video editing or gaming, you may find that the Surface Pro is not powerful enough. Additionally, the Surface Pro’s keyboard cover may not be as comfortable to type on as a traditional laptop keyboard. Ultimately, the decision to use the Surface Pro as a laptop replacement will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
How does the battery life of Surface Laptop compare to Surface Pro?
The battery life of the Surface Laptop is generally longer than the Surface Pro. According to Microsoft, the Surface Laptop can last up to 14.5 hours on a single charge, while the Surface Pro can last up to 10.5 hours. However, it’s worth noting that battery life can vary depending on usage and settings.
In general, the Surface Laptop’s longer battery life makes it more suitable for users who need a device that can last a full day. On the other hand, the Surface Pro’s shorter battery life may be a concern for users who need a device that can last longer. However, it’s worth noting that the Surface Pro’s battery life is still relatively long compared to other tablets on the market.
Can I use the Surface Laptop for gaming?
Yes, the Surface Laptop can be used for gaming, but it depends on the specific model and your gaming needs. The Surface Laptop is available with a range of processor and graphics options, including Intel Core i5 and i7 processors and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti graphics. These options make it suitable for casual gaming and more demanding games.
However, it’s worth noting that the Surface Laptop may not be suitable for serious gamers who need a device with high-end graphics and processing power. For example, if you want to play games at high frame rates or resolutions, you may find that the Surface Laptop is not powerful enough. Additionally, the Surface Laptop’s display may not be as suitable for gaming as a dedicated gaming laptop or desktop.
Which device is more suitable for business use, Surface Laptop or Surface Pro?
Both the Surface Laptop and Surface Pro can be suitable for business use, but it depends on your specific needs and preferences. The Surface Laptop is generally more suitable for traditional office tasks like emailing, browsing, and word processing, while the Surface Pro is more suitable for tasks that require mobility and flexibility.
In terms of security and management, both devices offer a range of features that make them suitable for business use, including Windows 10 Pro, BitLocker encryption, and remote management. Additionally, both devices are compatible with a range of business apps and services, including Microsoft Office and Azure. Ultimately, the choice between the two devices will depend on your specific business needs and preferences.