Microsoft Surface X vs. 8: Which One is the Best Budget Laptop for You?
What To Know
- The Microsoft Surface X and Surface 8 are two of the most popular tablets on the market, offering a blend of power, portability, and versatility.
- The Surface X comes with a detachable Surface Slim Pen, which magnetically attaches to the side of the device and offers precise and natural writing and drawing capabilities.
- The Surface 8 boasts a more advanced camera system with a 10-megapixel rear-facing camera and a 5-megapixel front-facing camera, providing sharper and more detailed images and videos.
The Microsoft Surface X and Surface 8 are two of the most popular tablets on the market, offering a blend of power, portability, and versatility. However, with their distinct features and target audiences, choosing between the two can be a daunting task. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Microsoft Surface X vs 8, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Design and Display:
The Surface X boasts a sleek and ultra-thin design, weighing only 1.65 pounds. Its 13-inch PixelSense display delivers stunning visuals with a resolution of 2880 x 1920 and a vibrant color gamut. The Surface 8, on the other hand, has a slightly larger 13.4-inch PixelSense Flow display, offering a wider aspect ratio and a resolution of 2880 x 1920. With a weight of 1.96 pounds, it is slightly heavier than the Surface X.
Performance and Operating System:
The Surface X is powered by the custom-designed Microsoft SQ1 processor, which provides a balance of performance and battery life. The Surface 8 features the Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor, offering a significant performance boost for demanding applications. Both devices run on Windows 11, providing a familiar and intuitive user experience. However, the Surface X also supports Windows 10X, a lightweight operating system optimized for ARM-based devices, offering a more streamlined and cloud-focused experience.
Battery Life and Connectivity:
The Surface X boasts an impressive battery life of up to 13 hours, while the Surface 8 offers a slightly longer battery life of up to 16 hours. Both devices support Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless connectivity, ensuring fast and stable connections. Additionally, the Surface 8 features an LTE option for cellular connectivity on the go.
Input and Accessories:
The Surface X comes with a detachable Surface Slim Pen, which magnetically attaches to the side of the device and offers precise and natural writing and drawing capabilities. The Surface 8, on the other hand, supports the Surface Pen (sold separately), providing a more advanced and pressure-sensitive stylus experience. Both devices are compatible with the Surface Type Cover, a detachable keyboard that transforms the tablet into a full-fledged laptop.
Camera and Audio:
The Surface X features a single 8-megapixel rear-facing camera and a 5-megapixel front-facing camera, offering decent image and video quality for basic photography and video calls. The Surface 8 boasts a more advanced camera system with a 10-megapixel rear-facing camera and a 5-megapixel front-facing camera, providing sharper and more detailed images and videos. Both devices offer Dolby Atmos audio for immersive sound experiences.
Price and Availability:
The Microsoft Surface X starts at $999, while the Surface 8 starts at $1,099. Both devices are available in various configurations with varying storage capacities and processor options.
Which Device is Right for You?
Choosing between the Microsoft Surface X vs 8 depends on your specific requirements and preferences. If you prioritize portability, long battery life, and a lightweight operating system, the Surface X is an excellent choice. If you need more performance, a larger display, and a more advanced camera system, the Surface 8 is the better option.
The Verdict:
Both the Microsoft Surface X and Surface 8 are exceptional tablets that offer a wide range of features and capabilities. The Surface X excels in portability and battery life, while the Surface 8 provides more performance and a wider display. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and budget.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which device has a better processor?
A: The Surface 8 features a more powerful Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor compared to the Surface X’s Microsoft SQ1 processor.
Q: Does the Surface X support LTE connectivity?
A: No, the Surface X does not support LTE connectivity. The Surface 8 offers an LTE option for cellular connectivity on the go.
Q: Can I use the Surface Pen with both devices?
A: The Surface X comes with a Surface Slim Pen, while the Surface 8 supports the Surface Pen (sold separately).
Q: Which device has a longer battery life?
A: The Surface 8 offers a slightly longer battery life of up to 16 hours compared to the Surface X’s 13 hours of battery life.
Q: Is the Surface 8 compatible with Windows 10X?
A: No, the Surface 8 does not support Windows 10X. It runs on Windows 11.
