Microsoft Surface Laptop 4

Technical Specifications

• Processors: 11th Gen Intel Core i5 (i5-1135G7, i5-1145G7) or i7 (i7-1185G7); Custom AMD Ryzen Microsoft Surface Edition (Ryzen 5 4680U, Ryzen 7 4980U).
• Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics (Intel models); AMD Radeon Graphics (AMD models).
• RAM: 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB LPDDR4x (Intel) or DDR4 (AMD).
• Storage: Removable Solid State Drive (SSD) options: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB.
• Display:
  • 13.5-inch PixelSense touchscreen, 2256 x 1504 resolution (201 PPI), 3:2 aspect ratio, 60Hz refresh rate, up to 390-427 nits brightness.
  • 15-inch PixelSense touchscreen, 2496 x 1664 resolution (201 PPI), 3:2 aspect ratio, 60Hz refresh rate, up to 427 nits brightness.
• Ports: 1 x USB-C (USB 3.2 Gen 2 with Power Delivery), 1 x USB-A (USB 3.2 Gen 2), 3.5mm headphone jack, 1 x Surface Connect port.
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0.
• Camera: 720p HD f2.0 front-facing camera with Windows Hello face authentication.
• Audio: Dual far-field Studio Mics, Omnisonic Speakers with Dolby Audio.
• Dimensions & Weight:
  • 13.5-inch: 12.1 x 8.8 x 0.57 inches (308 x 223 x 14.5 mm), 2.79-2.84 lbs (1.265-1.288 kg).
  • 15-inch: 0.58 x 13.4 x 9.6 inches (approx. 340 x 244 x 14.7 mm), 3.40 lbs (1.542 kg).
• Battery Life (claimed): Up to 19 hours (13.5" AMD), up to 17.5 hours (15" AMD), up to 17 hours (13.5" Intel), up to 16.5 hours (15" Intel).

The Surface Laptop 4 offers a choice between 11th Gen Intel Core and custom AMD Ryzen Microsoft Surface Edition processors, providing flexibility for diverse performance demands. Its PixelSense display, with a 3:2 aspect ratio, is well-suited for productivity tasks. While RAM and storage configurations are competitive, the port selection is limited, notably lacking Thunderbolt 4 support. Manufacturer battery life claims are high, but real-world usage typically yields lower figures.

Support & Compatibility

• Operating System Support: Ships with Windows 10 Home, with a free upgrade path to Windows 11.
• End of Support Date: As a Microsoft first-party device, it receives consistent Windows updates and long-term operating system support.
• Available Drivers: Drivers and firmware are available for manual download from Microsoft.
• Compatibility: Compatible with Surface Pen, Surface Dock 1st Gen, and Surface Dock 2.

As a Microsoft product, the Surface Laptop 4 benefits from robust operating system support, ensuring timely updates and broad compatibility within the Windows ecosystem. Standard driver availability is maintained through official Microsoft channels. Its integration with Surface accessories enhances its overall utility and ecosystem value.

Security Status

• Security Features: Hardware TPM 2.0 chip, Windows Hello face sign-in (via IR camera).
• Vulnerabilities: No widespread, publicly documented vulnerabilities are specifically highlighted for this model.
• Recommendations: AMD models are Secured-Core PCs; Intel models feature Windows enhanced hardware security.

The Surface Laptop 4 incorporates strong built-in security features, including a hardware TPM 2.0 chip and Windows Hello facial recognition, providing robust protection for both enterprise and personal use. Microsoft's emphasis on hardware-level security enhances its suitability for secure computing environments.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores:
  • Geekbench 5: Single-core scores range from 1,173 to 1,356; multi-core scores range from 4,918 to 6,748, varying by processor configuration.
  • Cinebench R23: Multi-core scores are approximately 4,998 (Intel) to 6,750 (AMD); single-core scores are around 1,070 (AMD) to 1,440 (Intel).
  • PCMark 10 Home Office Battery Test: Achieves 13 hours and 20 minutes.
  • Handbrake (4K to 1080p video conversion): AMD models complete the task in approximately 8 minutes 21 seconds, while Intel models take around 17 minutes 1 second.
  • SSD Speed: Approximately 562.7 MBps.
• Real-world Performance: Capable of handling demanding multitasking, such as numerous browser tabs, music streaming, and communication applications, without significant slowdown. It performs well for everyday workloads and some video editing tasks.
• Comparison with Similar Devices:
  • Dell XPS 13: The Surface Laptop 4 often offers better battery life and a more vibrant display, but the XPS 13 can feature faster SSDs, higher resolution/brighter display options, and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity.
  • MacBook Air (M1): The M1 MacBook Air generally surpasses the Surface Laptop 4 in CPU efficiency, overall battery life, and specific benchmarks, particularly for video editing. The Surface Laptop 4 provides a touchscreen and a more comfortable keyboard.
  • AMD processor variants typically demonstrate superior multi-core performance and extended battery life, whereas Intel variants excel in single-core performance and offer more extensive RAM and storage options.

The Surface Laptop 4 delivers solid performance for daily tasks and moderate workloads, with AMD configurations showing strength in multi-core operations and Intel configurations in single-core. Its integrated graphics are suitable for light gaming and media consumption but not for graphically intensive applications. While battery life is sufficient for a full workday, real-world results are often below manufacturer claims and may be surpassed by competitors like the M1 MacBook Air. SSD speeds are not class-leading.

User Reviews & Feedback

Users consistently praise the Surface Laptop 4 for its lightweight design, extended battery life, and the high quality and comfort of its keyboard, particularly models featuring the Alcantara finish. Its portability and elegant aesthetics make it a favored choice for both professional and travel use. The ample RAM configurations are frequently noted for enabling smooth multitasking. Recurring criticisms include the limited port selection, specifically the absence of Thunderbolt 4, and the presence of thicker display bezels. Some users also report real-world battery performance falling short of advertised figures.

Summary

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 stands out as a premium, well-crafted notebook offering a refined Windows experience. Its key strengths include a choice of capable Intel or AMD processors, a vibrant 3:2 PixelSense touchscreen display ideal for productivity, and an exceptionally comfortable keyboard. The device provides robust security features like TPM 2.0 and Windows Hello. Performance is solid for everyday tasks and moderate workloads, with AMD variants excelling in multi-core scenarios. Battery life is generally good for a full workday, though real-world results vary and may not match manufacturer claims or compete with some rivals. Weaknesses include a limited port selection, notably the absence of Thunderbolt 4, and SSD speeds that are not class-leading. While its design remains largely unchanged from its predecessor, it retains a sleek and elegant aesthetic. The Surface Laptop 4 is an excellent choice for users prioritizing a premium build, a superior typing experience, and strong integration with the Windows ecosystem for general productivity and light creative work. However, users requiring extensive port options, cutting-edge graphical performance, or the absolute longest battery life might consider alternatives.

The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.