Surface Pro X vs. Surface 8: The Ultimate Face-Off for 2024
What To Know
- Both the Surface Pro X and Surface Pro 8 share a similar design aesthetic, with sleek lines and a premium build quality.
- However, the Surface Pro 8 offers a more durable construction with a magnesium alloy chassis, while the Surface Pro X uses a combination of aluminum and composite materials.
- The Surface Pro X has a 2880 x 1920 resolution, while the Surface Pro 8 offers a slightly higher 2880 x 2160 resolution.
The Microsoft Surface Pro line has been a popular choice for users looking for a versatile and portable device. The latest iterations, the Surface Pro X and Surface Pro 8, offer distinct features and capabilities. This blog post will delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two devices, exploring their key differences in terms of performance, design, battery life, and more, to help you make an informed decision about which one is the best fit for your needs.
Performance: ARM vs. Intel
One of the most significant differences between the Surface Pro X and Surface Pro 8 lies in their processors. The Surface Pro X is powered by a custom ARM-based Microsoft SQ2 processor, while the Surface Pro 8 features Intel’s 11th-generation Core i5 or i7 processors.
ARM processors are known for their energy efficiency and mobile-first design, while Intel processors offer higher performance for demanding tasks. In general, the Surface Pro 8 will deliver better performance for tasks such as video editing, gaming, and running heavy-duty software. However, the Surface Pro X is more suited for lighter tasks like web browsing, email, and streaming media.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Surface Pro X and Surface Pro 8 share a similar design aesthetic, with sleek lines and a premium build quality. They feature a 13-inch PixelSense display with a 3:2 aspect ratio, offering ample screen space for both work and play.
The Surface Pro X is slightly thinner and lighter than the Surface Pro 8, making it more portable. However, the Surface Pro 8 offers a more durable construction with a magnesium alloy chassis, while the Surface Pro X uses a combination of aluminum and composite materials.
Display: Sharp and Vibrant
Both the Surface Pro X and Surface Pro 8 boast stunning displays with high resolution and vibrant colors. The Surface Pro X has a 2880 x 1920 resolution, while the Surface Pro 8 offers a slightly higher 2880 x 2160 resolution.
Both displays support Dolby Vision HDR, providing an immersive viewing experience with enhanced contrast and color accuracy. They are also equipped with anti-glare technology, making them suitable for use in various lighting conditions.
Battery Life: All-Day Performance
Battery life is a crucial consideration for any portable device. The Surface Pro X offers impressive battery life, lasting up to 15 hours on a single charge. This is due to the energy efficiency of the ARM processor and the optimized software.
The Surface Pro 8, on the other hand, has a slightly shorter battery life, averaging around 10-12 hours. However, it supports fast charging, allowing you to quickly power it up when needed.
Operating System and Compatibility
The Surface Pro X runs on Windows 11 on ARM, while the Surface Pro 8 runs on Windows 11 Pro. Both operating systems offer a similar user experience, but there are some key differences.
Windows 11 on ARM is designed specifically for ARM-based devices and offers improved battery life and performance for ARM-optimized apps. However, it has limited compatibility with some traditional x86-64 applications.
Windows 11 Pro on the Surface Pro 8 provides full compatibility with both ARM and x86-64 applications, giving you access to a wider range of software.
Price and Value
The Surface Pro X and Surface Pro 8 come in a range of configurations with varying prices. The base model of the Surface Pro X starts at $999, while the Surface Pro 8 starts at $1,099.
For the price, the Surface Pro 8 offers better performance, a more durable build, and full compatibility with traditional applications. However, if you prioritize portability, battery life, and a lower price point, the Surface Pro X is a compelling option.
The Final Verdict: Which One is Right for You?
The choice between the Surface Pro X and Surface Pro 8 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance, durability, and compatibility, the Surface Pro 8 is the clear winner. However, if you value portability, battery life, and a more affordable price, the Surface Pro X is a great choice.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Which device is better for gaming?
A: The Surface Pro 8 with an Intel processor will provide better performance for gaming compared to the Surface Pro X with an ARM processor.
Q: Can I run x86-64 applications on the Surface Pro X?
A: Yes, but only through emulation, which may impact performance. The Surface Pro 8 offers full compatibility with both ARM and x86-64 applications.
Q: Which device is more durable?
A: The Surface Pro 8 has a more durable build with a magnesium alloy chassis, while the Surface Pro X uses a combination of aluminum and composite materials.
Q: Which device has better battery life?
A: The Surface Pro X offers longer battery life, lasting up to 15 hours on a single charge, compared to the Surface Pro 8’s 10-12 hours.
Q: Which device is more affordable?
A: The Surface Pro X starts at a lower price point compared to the Surface Pro 8.
