Quick notes
- If you’re looking for a lightweight and affordable device for browsing the web, checking email, and streaming videos, the Surface 2 is a solid choice.
- If you’re a student or artist who requires a device for digital note-taking and drawing, the Surface 4 with its Surface Pen support is the clear winner.
- The Surface 2 features a sleek and compact design, while the Surface 4 has a slightly larger footprint and a more premium feel.
The Microsoft Surface series has been a game-changer in the world of computing, offering a unique and versatile blend of laptop, tablet, and desktop functionality. Two standout models in the lineup are the Surface 2 and Surface 4, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Microsoft Surface 2 vs 4, helping you make an informed decision about which device is right for your needs.
Display
Surface 2: Features a 10.6-inch ClearType HD display with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. The display offers vibrant colors and good viewing angles, but its resolution is relatively low compared to modern standards.
Surface 4: Boasts a 12-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824 pixels. The display is stunningly sharp and provides an immersive viewing experience, making it ideal for content creation, gaming, and video streaming.
Processor and Performance
Surface 2: Powered by a quad-core Intel Atom Z3740 processor with 2GB of RAM. This combination provides adequate performance for basic tasks such as browsing the web, checking email, and watching videos. However, it may struggle with demanding applications or multitasking.
Surface 4: Equipped with a 6th-generation Intel Core m3 processor with 4GB (or 8GB in higher-end models) of RAM. The Core m3 processor offers significantly faster performance than the Atom processor, allowing for smooth multitasking, efficient productivity, and casual gaming.
Storage
Surface 2: Comes with 32GB or 64GB of eMMC storage. eMMC storage is slower than traditional SSDs, but it’s still fast enough for most tasks. However, the limited storage capacity may require external storage solutions.
Surface 4: Offers 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of SSD storage. SSD storage is much faster than eMMC storage, providing lightning-fast app loading and file transfers. The larger storage capacity makes it suitable for storing large amounts of media, software, and documents.
Operating System
Surface 2: Originally ran Windows RT, a restricted version of Windows 8 that only allowed apps from the Windows Store. However, it has since been upgraded to Windows 10 S, which offers a more robust app selection and the ability to run legacy desktop applications.
Surface 4: Runs full-fledged Windows 10 Home or Pro, providing access to the entire Windows ecosystem, including desktop applications, games, and software.
Battery Life
Surface 2: Offers up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge, making it a good choice for extended use away from an outlet.
Surface 4: Boasts up to 9 hours of battery life, which is slightly less than the Surface 2. However, the faster processor and brighter display may account for the reduced battery life.
Accessories
Surface 2: Supports the Surface Type Cover 2, which provides a keyboard and trackpad for a laptop-like experience.
Surface 4: Compatible with the Surface Type Cover 4, which offers a more refined typing experience and a built-in fingerprint scanner for added security. Additionally, the Surface 4 supports the Surface Pen, which allows for precise drawing, note-taking, and annotation.
Which One is Right for You?
The choice between the Microsoft Surface 2 vs 4 ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget.
- For basic productivity and entertainment: If you’re looking for a lightweight and affordable device for browsing the web, checking email, and streaming videos, the Surface 2 is a solid choice.
- For demanding tasks and multitasking: If you need a device that can handle intensive applications, multitasking, and creative work, the Surface 4 with its faster processor, larger storage capacity, and full Windows 10 operating system is the better option.
- For note-taking and drawing: If you’re a student or artist who requires a device for digital note-taking and drawing, the Surface 4 with its Surface Pen support is the clear winner.
Beyond the Comparison: Key Considerations
In addition to the key differences outlined above, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing between the Microsoft Surface 2 vs 4:
- Design: The Surface 2 features a sleek and compact design, while the Surface 4 has a slightly larger footprint and a more premium feel.
- Connectivity: Both devices offer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, but only the Surface 4 has a built-in cellular option for on-the-go internet access.
- Price: The Surface 2 is typically more affordable than the Surface 4, especially for entry-level models.
Popular Questions
Q: Which device has a better camera?
A: The Surface 4 has a better rear-facing camera than the Surface 2, with 5MP resolution compared to 3.5MP.
Q: Can I upgrade the storage on the Surface 2?
A: No, the Surface 2’s storage is not upgradeable.
Q: Does the Surface 4 support USB-C?
A: No, the Surface 4 only supports USB 3.0.
Q: Which device has a longer warranty?
A: Both the Surface 2 and Surface 4 come with a standard one-year warranty from Microsoft.
Q: Can I use the Surface Pen with the Surface 2?
A: No, the Surface 2 does not support the Surface Pen.