Microsoft recently released a new laptop model–Surface Laptop Studio. This flagship laptop is built for performance, which makes it a perfect device for business use. The Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio enables users to multi-task with various graphical GUIs and also has the power to be used for compiling and video rendering. This is a laptop/tablet hybrid, useful for any mobile situation. It enables people to switch from a desk to a sofa with the minimal fuss or slowing in productivity.
Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio Configurations & Performance
Compared to all previous Surface laptops, this one has the highest power for graphics. Its data processing abilities are equally good. You can tackle complex data and create 3D visualizations without added loading times or lag.
If you want to run power-hungry programs, then you can do so one at a time without worrying that the device will crash, freeze, or otherwise fail to function. In fact, in terms of performance, this laptop can very well compete with the users’ favorite Microsoft Surface Book 3 15-inch model. It is the sort of computer you can leave rending or compiling for hours safe in the knowledge that when you come back it won’t have frozen on 10% six hours ago and hasn’t done anything since. It doesn’t have the raw power of a PC, but as a business laptop, it can take some beating.
The model comes in following configurations:
- Intel Core i5 11th generation processor, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Intel Iris X graphics, for $1599.99.
- Core i5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Intel Iris X, $1799.99.
- Intel Core i7, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX GPU, $2099.99.
- Core i7, 32GB RAM 1TB SSD, NVIDIA GeForce RTX, for $2699.99.
A Fair Screen Size
The problem with modern laptops is that you always have to compromise–the bigger the screen, then the better the experience. But, a laptop with a smaller display is far more portable. Microsoft has tried to strike a happy compromise with a 14.4-inch display. Note though, the actual viewable area is closer to 14 inches. As you may expect, this convertible laptop has a factory-calibrated PixelSense Flow touchscreen. This allows for smoother scrolling and for quick touch response. The Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio has a refresh rate that goes up to 120Hz.
This multi-touch display has a resolution of 2400 x 1600 pixels (201 PPI). It also supports Surface Slim Pen 2 (sold separately). Stylus attaches magnetically and charges under the front of the keyboard.
Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio: Looking Better on Camera
In a rather odd and, some may even find condescending, move, Microsoft has added software that smooths over your skin tone on the camera. Perhaps hoping to appeal to influencers and digital content creators, the 1080p HD video will auto-enable a skin tone changer, even for video calls. So now you can look good during your Zoom calls (or Microsoft Team in this instance) without trying too hard. Clearly, the manufacturer is trying to catch on with the trends of today and offer relevant products.
The camera supports IR facial recognition through Windows Hello. Microsoft claims it should work seamlessly even if you are wearing your mask or glasses, thanks to state-of-the-art AI software.
The Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio has built-in dual Studio Mics. These may help people who work in noisier environments. Speakers offer great sound quality and allow for multiple video conferences to work a little more easily without lag or stuttering.
Removable Storage Drive
Laptop users rejoice: the Surface Laptop Studio has a removable hard drive. Microsoft made it easier to share the device with colleagues and upgrade. This may also allow people to more safely store their sensitive information when they are traveling. For example, users can keep the storage drive on them, while their laptop is packaged in their luggage. On top of that, you are also protected by the Cloud-First Strategy, specifically oriented for business use. You have an option to purchase Microsoft 365 software during checkout, should you need it.
The Usual Suspects For Accessories
If you wish to treat the device more like a desktop, you can get the wireless keyboard and Surface precision mouse. The Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio can also use the Surface Dock 2, which helps transform it into a desktop PC. There are Surface Headphones 2+ and the Surface Slim Pen 2, both are rechargeable and very accurate when paired with Surface devices.
There isn’t a lot of variety in the accessories you can get, but they are the most modern of the Surface life cycle. Frankly, the device is far more consumer-friendly than something like an iPad with its lack of variety in terms of accessories.
Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio Battery Life
The battery life varies significantly based on:
- device usage
- configuration
- software and personalization
- network configuration
- signal strength
- settings
The base Surface Laptop Studio model with the Core i5 processor offers up to 19 hours of battery life.
The beefier Intel Core i7 configuration with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti GPU will need more power, so expect a shorter battery yield. Still, Microsoft claims it can give you up to 17-18 hours of use, assuming you haven’t changed any of the factory settings or added new software.
So, if you are using your device for a solid 24 hour period, you will have to stop at least once to recharge your computer.
The Verdict
The new Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio is a beautifully built performance convertible laptop. It is, however, quite expensive, and there are plenty of good cheaper alternatives out there. However, if you are looking to buy the new Surface Laptop Studio, consider selling your older gadget for cash to reduce the cost of the upgrade. To sell a Microsoft Surface, figure out what model you have and grade its condition, to receive the best possible offer. And be sure to check our guide on how to prepare a used Microsoft Surface Pro for trade-in.
