Microsoft has always been a prominent name in the world of technology. It has been known to produce high-quality devices that cater to different needs. Two of its most popular products are the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop.
While both might look the same to some extent, there are some significant differences that make them unique from each other. In this blog post, let’s take an extensive look into the differences between the two and help you decide which one to buy.
Surface Pro vs. Surface Laptop: What are the key differences between the two devices?
The Surface Pro and Surface Laptop are Microsoft’s innovative gadgets focusing on performance and portability.
The Surface Pro is a tablet that is built to replace your laptop, while the Surface Laptop is a traditional clamshell laptop. Both devices come in different models and configurations, depending on the user’s specific needs.
| Feature | Surface Pro | Surface Laptop |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i5-1235U or i7-1280P | Intel Core i5-1250P or i7-1260P |
| RAM | 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB | 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB SSD | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB SSD |
| Display | 13.0-inch PixelSense touchscreen (2880 x 1920) | 13.5-inch PixelSense touchscreen (2256 x 1504) |
| Battery life | Up to 11 hours | Up to 16 hours |
| Ports | 2x USB-C, Surface Connect, microSD card slot | 2x USB-A, 1x USB-C, Surface Connect |
| Weight | 1.7 pounds | 3.4 pounds |
| Price | Starting at $999 | Starting at $999 |
Comparison of the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop
While both devices look the same on the surface, they have significant differences in terms of functionality. The Microsoft Surface Pro is smaller and lighter than the Surface Laptop, making it more portable. On the other hand, the Surface Laptop is designed for people who prefer a traditional laptop.
Processor: When it comes to processors, the Surface Pro has a slight edge over the Surface Laptop. The Surface Pro comes with the 7th or 8th generation Intel Core i5 or i7, while the Surface Laptop comes with the same processors but with the addition of the AMD Ryzen 5 or 7 in some models.
RAM: Both devices have similar RAM configurations, but the Surface Laptop comes with a higher upper limit of up to 16GB compared to the Surface Pro’s 8GB.
Storage: The Surface Pro and Surface Laptop come with different storage options. The Surface Pro has a maximum storage capacity of 1TB, while the Surface Laptop maxes out at 512GB.
Display: The Surface Pro has a 12.3-inch PixelSense display, while the Surface Laptop comes with a 13.5-inch PixelSense display. Both displays are touch-sensitive and have excellent resolution.
Battery life: According to Microsoft, the Surface Pro can last up to 13.5 hours, while the Surface Laptop can last up to 14.5 hours.
Ports: When it comes to ports, the Surface Pro is more versatile. It comes with a USB 3.0 port, microSDXC card reader, and a headphone jack, while the Surface Laptop only has a USB 3.0 port, a mini DisplayPort, a headphone jack, and a Surface Connect port.
Weight: The Surface Pro is lighter, weighing just 1.7 pounds, while the Surface Laptop weighs 2.8 pounds.
Price: The Surface Pro starts at $749, while the Surface Laptop starts at $999.
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Which device is right for you?
Choosing between the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop depends on your specific needs. For example, the Surface Pro might be the better option if you are regularly on the go. It is smaller and lighter, has a longer battery life, and is more versatile with its ports.
If you need a device for productivity tasks and prefer a traditional clamshell design, the Surface Laptop might be the better option.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Surface Pro and Surface Laptop
When deciding between the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, the following factors should be given careful consideration:
1. Your Work Needs
The choice between Surface Pro and Surface Laptop largely depends on your workflow. Both devices serve well if your work involves graphic design, video editing, or any task requiring a powerful processor and high-resolution display. However, the Surface Pro’s versatility might give it an edge for creative professionals.
2. Portability Versus Traditional Design
Think about your mobility needs. The lighter and more compact Surface Pro could be more convenient if you frequently travel or commute for work. On the other hand, if you prefer a classic laptop design and work mostly from a fixed location, the Microsoft Surface Laptop would be an excellent choice.
3. Budget
The Surface Pro is less expensive, starting at $749, compared to the Surface Laptop’s starting price of $999. However, the final price will be influenced by your chosen model and configuration.
4. Screen Size
Lastly, consider screen size in your decision. The Surface Pro has a 12.3-inch display, which is more than sufficient for most tasks. But if you prefer a larger screen, the Surface Laptop’s 13.5-inch display may be more to your liking.
When comparing Surface Pro vs. Surface Laptop, screen size plays an important and often decisive role. Still, the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop are great, ultra-portable computers with unique strengths. Consider your individual needs and preferences when making your decision. For instance, a 13.3-inch screen does not sound all that big but can make all the difference when multi-tasking and accessing multiple tabs or running several programs at once.
Related: Can the Microsoft Surface Pro Replace a Laptop?
Conclusion
So, Microsoft Surface Pro vs. Surface Laptop, what’s the verdict? You can see that both are pretty impressive devices that cater to different user needs. The Surface Pro is an excellent option for users who want a lightweight Windows-based tablet that can transform into a laptop with the addition of a keyboard cover.
The Microsoft Surface Laptop, on the other hand, is perfect for users who prefer a traditional clamshell design but still need a portable PC computer. No matter your specific needs, consider your budget, work needs, and portability preferences to choose between the two.
