ROG Flow Z13 vs Surface Pro 9: The Ultimate 2-in-1 Battle
What To Know
- The ROG Flow Z13 features a 56Wh battery, while the Surface Pro 9 has a 51.
- Additionally, the ROG Flow Z13 has an XG Mobile port for connecting an external GPU, while the Surface Pro 9 supports the Surface Dock 2 for expanded connectivity.
- Yes, with the Surface Dock 2, the Surface Pro 9 can be connected to external monitors, keyboards, and mice, allowing it to function as a desktop computer.
The realm of 2-in-1 devices has witnessed two formidable contenders emerge: the ASUS ROG Flow Z13 and the Microsoft Surface Pro 9. Both devices boast versatility, portability, and power, but which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each device, guiding you towards making an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The ROG Flow Z13 exudes a sleek and angular design, with its magnesium alloy chassis ensuring durability. Its 360-degree hinge allows for seamless transitions between laptop, tablet, and tent modes. The Surface Pro 9, on the other hand, maintains a classic and sophisticated aesthetic. Its anodized aluminum body feels premium, while its kickstand offers multiple angles for optimal viewing and typing.
Display
Both devices feature vibrant and immersive displays. The ROG Flow Z13 boasts a 13.4-inch IPS panel with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering smooth visuals and exceptional responsiveness. The Surface Pro 9 offers a slightly smaller 13-inch PixelSense Flow display with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing sharp and detailed images.
Performance and Hardware
Under the hood, the ROG Flow Z13 packs a punch with its Intel Core i9-12900H processor and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti GPU. This combination provides ample power for gaming, content creation, and multitasking. The Surface Pro 9 relies on the latest Intel Core i7-1255U processor with integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics. While not as powerful as the ROG Flow Z13, it offers sufficient performance for general productivity and light creative tasks.
Battery Life
Battery life is crucial for portable devices. The ROG Flow Z13 features a 56Wh battery, while the Surface Pro 9 has a 51.5Wh battery. In real-world usage, the ROG Flow Z13 delivers impressive battery life, lasting up to 10 hours on a single charge. The Surface Pro 9 offers slightly shorter battery life, lasting around 8-9 hours.
Connectivity and Ports
Both devices offer ample connectivity options. The ROG Flow Z13 includes two USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports, one USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A port, and a microSD card reader. The Surface Pro 9 features two USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports, a Surface Connect port, and a microSD card reader. Additionally, the ROG Flow Z13 has an XG Mobile port for connecting an external GPU, while the Surface Pro 9 supports the Surface Dock 2 for expanded connectivity.
Operating System and Software
The ROG Flow Z13 runs on Windows 11, which provides a familiar and user-friendly interface. It also comes pre-installed with the Armoury Crate software, which offers customization options for performance, cooling, and lighting. The Surface Pro 9 also runs on Windows 11 and includes Windows 11 Pro features, such as BitLocker encryption and Remote Desktop.
Verdict: The Ultimate Choice
Choosing between the ASUS ROG Flow Z13 and the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize gaming, heavy-duty content creation, and a more versatile design, the ROG Flow Z13 is the clear winner. However, if you value premium build quality, long battery life, and a more traditional 2-in-1 experience, the Surface Pro 9 is the better choice.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Which device is better for gaming?
A: The ASUS ROG Flow Z13 with its dedicated NVIDIA GPU offers superior gaming performance compared to the Surface Pro 9.
Q: Is the ASUS ROG Flow Z13 upgradable?
A: No, the ROG Flow Z13’s components, including the CPU and GPU, are not user-upgradeable.
Q: Can the Surface Pro 9 be used as a desktop replacement?
A: Yes, with the Surface Dock 2, the Surface Pro 9 can be connected to external monitors, keyboards, and mice, allowing it to function as a desktop computer.
Q: Which device has better pen support?
A: Both devices support active pens, but the Surface Pro 9 has a slight edge due to its optimized pen experience and Windows Ink integration.
Q: Is the ASUS ROG Flow Z13 compatible with an external GPU?
A: Yes, the ROG Flow Z13 features an XG Mobile port that allows it to connect to an external GPU for enhanced graphics performance.
