When it comes to choosing between the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 and the Surface Laptop 5, potential buyers are often curious about what sets these two models apart. Both are excellent choices in their own right, but a few key differences might sway your decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Surface Laptop 4 continues the tradition of the aluminum chassis with the option of the Alcantara fabric-covered keyboard deck, which has been a signature of the Surface series. The Surface Laptop 5, however, steps up the game with an all-aluminum body, offering a more unified and sleek design.
Display
Both laptops boast the high-resolution PixelSense touchscreens known for their vibrant colors and sharp details. The Surface Laptop 4 is available in 13.5-inch and 15-inch models, with resolutions of 2256 x 1504 and 2496 x 1664 pixels respectively. The Surface Laptop 5 also offers these sizes but standardizes the higher resolution across both, providing a more consistent visual experience.
Performance
Under the hood, the Surface Laptop 4 provides options for both Intel Core and AMD Ryzen processors, catering to different performance needs. The Surface Laptop 5, on the other hand, exclusively features Intel’s latest processors, which are designed to handle demanding tasks more efficiently.
Memory
A significant upgrade in the Surface Laptop 5 is the use of faster LPDDR5x memory compared to the LPDDR4x found in the Surface Laptop 4. This means improved performance for memory-intensive applications and better multitasking capabilities.
Battery Life
Battery life is crucial for users on the go. The Surface Laptop 4, especially the 13.5-inch model, is known for its exceptional battery life. The Surface Laptop 5 also promises good battery performance, but it may not surpass the longevity of the Surface Laptop 4, making the latter a potentially better choice for those prioritizing battery life.
Ports and Connectivity
The Surface Laptop 5 introduces Thunderbolt 4 and USB 4.0, offering faster data transfer rates and better docking capabilities. It also supports Dolby Vision IQ and Bluetooth 5.1, along with a new color option, adding to its modern feature set.