Key Takeaways
1. The Microsoft Surface Laptop 13 is an upgraded version of the Surface Laptop Go 3, featuring a bigger display and improved build quality.
2. It runs on the slower Snapdragon X1 Plus, which may cause compatibility issues with older software and games.
3. Priced at 1099 Euros, its specifications (16 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD, 60 Hz display, no USB 4) are considered lacking for the cost.
4. Competing alternatives like the Apple MacBook Air 13 offer a faster M4 processor, a slimmer design, and a more vibrant display, despite having a similar 60 Hz refresh rate.
5. The Surface Laptop 13’s marketing strategy is questioned due to its pricing compared to other Microsoft models and competitors.
The new Microsoft Surface Laptop 13 can be seen as the upgraded version of the Surface Laptop Go 3. While it features a slightly bigger display, it improves in nearly every aspect. The build quality is impressive, and its performance is adequate for typical daily use. However, one must keep in mind that it runs on the slower Snapdragon X1 Plus, and the ARM architecture might lead to some compatibility problems with older software and games.
Pricing and Specifications
The previous Surface Laptop Go 3 was already considered pricey, and now the Surface Laptop 13 kicks off at 1099 Euros. This presents two main issues: the specifications—16 GB of RAM, a 256 GB SSD, a 60 Hz display, and no USB 4—are rather lacking for this price point. An even bigger concern is that Microsoft’s own Surface Laptop 13.8 also starts at 1099 Euros for its basic model. This version includes a faster Snapdragon X1 Plus, USB 4 support, and a superior 120 Hz display with a P3 color gamut. Although its battery life may be shorter, it raises questions about how Microsoft plans to market the new Surface Laptop 13 at this price. The Surface Laptop 13.8 has even gone for less than 1000 Euros at times (including from Microsoft directly).
Competing Alternatives
Apart from Microsoft’s alternatives, there’s also the Apple MacBook Air 13, which comes with the speedy M4 processor and operates without any fans. Its design is noticeably slimmer, the screen is more vibrant, it covers the P3 color gamut, and it has less glare. However, like the Surface Laptop 13, it also features a 60 Hz display. While the Surface Laptop 13 boasts a slightly comfier keyboard and extended battery life, the MacBook Air ultimately presents a stronger overall package. For more insights, check out our review on the latest Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.
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