The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 is a highly anticipated update to the original Surface Laptop series, and it’s clear that Microsoft has made significant improvements in various areas. As an ultrabook designed for professionals on-the-go, the Surface Laptop 4 offers an impressive combination of performance, battery life, and features, making it an attractive option for users who need a lightweight device for work or play.

Design and Display

The Surface Laptop 4 retains its predecessor’s sleek and lightweight design, but with some notable changes. The new model is available in two sizes: 13.5 inches (Surface Laptop 4) and 15 inches (Surface Laptop 4 with AMD). Both versions feature a durable aluminum body and a robust keyboard that provides comfortable typing.

The display on the Surface Laptop 4 is one of its strongest assets. The PixelSense touchscreen boasts a resolution of 2256 x 1504 pixels, which provides crisp and vibrant visuals. Colors are accurate, and the screen’s brightness is suitable for indoor use, although it may struggle in extremely bright environments. For added protection, the display features Gorilla Glass 3.

Performance

The Surface Laptop 4 is powered by Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, depending on your configuration choice. The former provides a more budget-friendly option with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of SSD storage, while the latter offers improved performance with up to 32GB of RAM and 1TB of SSD storage.

For demanding applications like video editing, 3D modeling, or software development, the Surface Laptop 4 performs admirably. Microsoft has also included a dedicated Trusted Platform Module (TPM) for added security features like Windows Hello facial recognition.

Battery Life

One of the key selling points of the Surface Laptop 4 is its impressive battery life. According to Microsoft, users can expect up to 19 hours of web browsing or 17 hours of video playback on a single charge. In our testing, we achieved around 15-16 hours of mixed usage, which is still quite respectable.

Connectivity and Ports

The Surface Laptop 4 features a generous selection of ports, including a USB-A port, a USB-C port with support for Power Delivery and DisplayPort, and an SD card reader. The device also supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.0 for seamless connectivity.

Camera and Audio

The Surface Laptop 4 boasts an improved front-facing camera with 720p resolution and 1080p video recording capabilities. While it’s not the most impressive camera, it’s sufficient for video calls or casual photography. On the rear, you’ll find a single 5-megapixel camera that captures decent photos in good lighting conditions.

For audio enthusiasts, the Surface Laptop 4 features dual speakers with Dolby Atmos support, providing an immersive listening experience.

AMD Option

One of the most significant changes in the Surface Laptop 4 is the addition of AMD processors as an option. The AMD version of the laptop is powered by a Ryzen 5 or Ryzen 7 processor, which provides improved performance and power efficiency compared to Intel’s offerings.

The AMD version also features a unique thermal design that allows for better cooling and reduced noise levels. However, it’s worth noting that the AMD option may not be available in all configurations or regions.

Conclusion

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 is a formidable ultrabook that checks most of the right boxes. Its sleek design, impressive display, and robust performance make it an excellent option for users who need a lightweight device for everyday tasks or demanding applications.

While it may not be the best choice for gaming enthusiasts due to its lack of dedicated graphics processing unit (GPU), the Surface Laptop 4 is an attractive alternative to traditional laptops. With its competitive pricing starting at $999 (base model) and going up to $2,399 (high-end configuration), the Surface Laptop 4 is definitely worth considering for those in search of a reliable and feature-packed ultrabook.

Technical Specifications:

• Processor: Intel Core i5 or i7 (up to 11th Gen)
• RAM: Up to 32GB
• Storage: Up to 1TB SSD
• Display: 13.5-inch (2256 x 1504 pixels) or 15-inch (3240 x 2160 pixels), PixelSense touchscreen, Gorilla Glass 3
• Battery Life: Up to 19 hours web browsing or 17 hours video playback
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-A, USB-C (with Power Delivery and DisplayPort support)
• Camera: Front-facing 720p camera with 1080p video recording, Rear-facing 5-megapixel camera
• Audio: Dual speakers with Dolby Atmos support