Surface Battle: Laptop Go vs Laptop 4 – Which Microsoft Device Is Right for You?
What To Know
- Under the hood, the Surface Laptop Go is powered by an Intel Core i5-1035G1 processor, while the Surface Laptop 4 offers a choice of 11th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors.
- The Surface Laptop 4, on the other hand, is a more premium option with a larger display, better performance, and a more powerful sound system.
- The Surface Laptop Go offers excellent value for money, while the Surface Laptop 4 is a premium device with a higher price tag.
The tech world is abuzz with the release of two new Microsoft Surface laptops: the Surface Laptop Go and the Surface Laptop 4. Both devices offer impressive features and capabilities, but which one is right for you? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Surface Laptop Go and Surface Laptop 4 to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Surface Laptop Go is the more compact and lightweight option, weighing in at just 2.45 pounds. Its 12.4-inch PixelSense display is smaller than the Surface Laptop 4’s 13.5-inch or 15-inch screens, but it offers the same vibrant colors and sharp resolution. The Surface Laptop 4, on the other hand, features a more premium build with a sleek aluminum chassis and a slightly larger display.
Performance and Hardware
Under the hood, the Surface Laptop Go is powered by an Intel Core i5-1035G1 processor, while the Surface Laptop 4 offers a choice of 11th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors. Both devices come with 8GB of RAM, but the Surface Laptop 4 can be upgraded to 16GB or 32GB. The Surface Laptop 4 also boasts a more powerful integrated graphics chip, the Intel Iris Xe, which provides better performance for gaming and video editing.
Battery Life and Connectivity
The Surface Laptop Go claims to offer up to 13 hours of battery life, while the Surface Laptop 4 promises up to 17 hours. Both devices support fast charging, allowing you to get back to work in no time. In terms of connectivity, the Surface Laptop Go has one USB-C port, one USB-A port, and a headphone jack. The Surface Laptop 4 has two USB-C ports, one USB-A port, a headphone jack, and a Surface Connect port.
Display and Audio
The Surface Laptop Go’s 12.4-inch PixelSense display offers a resolution of 1536 x 1024 pixels. The Surface Laptop 4’s 13.5-inch or 15-inch PixelSense displays have a resolution of 2256 x 1504 pixels or 2496 x 1664 pixels, respectively. Both devices support Dolby Vision and have excellent color accuracy. The Surface Laptop 4 has a slightly better sound system with Dolby Atmos support.
Features and Software
The Surface Laptop Go comes pre-installed with Windows 10 Pro in S mode, but you can upgrade to Windows 10 Home or Windows 11 for free. The Surface Laptop 4 comes pre-installed with Windows 10 Pro and can be upgraded to Windows 11. Both devices support Windows Hello facial recognition and have built-in microphones and webcams.
Which One Should You Choose?
The Surface Laptop Go is the ideal choice for those who prioritize portability and affordability. It’s a compact and lightweight device with a long battery life and a vibrant display. The Surface Laptop 4, on the other hand, is a more premium option with a larger display, better performance, and a more powerful sound system. It’s the perfect choice for those who need a powerful laptop for work or school.
Beyond the Basics: Additional Considerations
Weight and Portability
The Surface Laptop Go is the clear winner in terms of weight and portability. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around all day.
Display Size and Quality
The Surface Laptop 4 offers larger display options with higher resolutions. However, the Surface Laptop Go’s PixelSense display still provides excellent color accuracy and a vibrant viewing experience.
Performance and Multitasking
The Surface Laptop 4 has a more powerful processor and graphics chip, making it better suited for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing.
Battery Life
The Surface Laptop 4 has a slightly longer battery life than the Surface Laptop Go, but both devices offer excellent battery life for all-day productivity.
Price and Value
The Surface Laptop Go starts at $549, while the Surface Laptop 4 starts at $999. The Surface Laptop Go offers excellent value for money, while the Surface Laptop 4 is a premium device with a higher price tag.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Which device has a better webcam?
A: The Surface Laptop 4 has a better webcam with a higher resolution and support for Windows Hello facial recognition.
Q: Can I upgrade the RAM on the Surface Laptop Go?
A: No, the Surface Laptop Go’s RAM is not upgradeable.
Q: Which device is better for gaming?
A: The Surface Laptop 4 has a more powerful graphics chip, making it better for gaming.
Q: Which device has a longer warranty?
A: Both devices come with a one-year standard warranty.
Q: Can I use the Surface Pen with both devices?
A: Yes, both the Surface Laptop Go and Surface Laptop 4 support the Surface Pen.
