Quick summary
- The Envy x360, on the other hand, boasts a more traditional design with a brushed aluminum finish and a sleek profile.
- The Surface Laptop 4 offers a range of configurations, including the powerful Core i7-1185G7, while the Envy x360 provides options up to the Core i7-1165G7.
- The Envy x360 offers a more traditional design, a wider selection of ports, and a more affordable price point, making it a versatile and value-oriented option.
In the realm of convertible laptops, the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 and the HP Envy x360 stand out as formidable contenders. Both devices offer a premium experience, combining sleek designs with versatile functionality. But which one reigns supreme? Let’s dive into a comprehensive comparison to determine the best 2-in-1 laptop for your needs.
Design and Build Quality
The Surface Laptop 4 exudes elegance with its signature Alcantara-covered keyboard deck and anodized aluminum chassis. It’s available in a range of vibrant colors, adding a touch of style to your workspace. The Envy x360, on the other hand, boasts a more traditional design with a brushed aluminum finish and a sleek profile. Both laptops are well-built and durable, ensuring longevity and reliability.
Display
The Surface Laptop 4 features a 13.5-inch PixelSense display with a 3:2 aspect ratio. It offers exceptional clarity and color accuracy, making it ideal for creative professionals and content creators. The Envy x360 comes with a 13.3-inch OLED display that provides stunning visuals with deep blacks and vibrant colors. However, the Surface Laptop 4’s higher resolution and aspect ratio give it a slight edge in terms of overall display quality.
Performance
Both the Surface Laptop 4 and the Envy x360 are powered by Intel’s 11th-generation Core processors. The Surface Laptop 4 offers a range of configurations, including the powerful Core i7-1185G7, while the Envy x360 provides options up to the Core i7-1165G7. In real-world usage, both laptops deliver snappy performance for everyday tasks, multitasking, and light gaming.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial consideration for any convertible laptop. The Surface Laptop 4 boasts an impressive battery life of up to 17 hours on a single charge. The Envy x360, while not as impressive, still manages to provide up to 12 hours of battery life. This difference in battery life may be a significant factor for users who require extended usage without access to a power outlet.
Keyboard and Touchpad
The Surface Laptop 4’s keyboard is a delight to type on, with well-spaced keys and a comfortable key travel. The Envy x360’s keyboard is also responsive but has a slightly shallower key travel. Both laptops feature large and precise touchpads that support multi-touch gestures.
Connectivity and Ports
The Surface Laptop 4 offers a limited selection of ports, including one USB-C port, one USB-A port, and a Surface Connect port. The Envy x360 provides a more comprehensive set of ports, including two Thunderbolt 4 ports, one USB-A port, and an HDMI port. This versatility allows for easier connectivity to external devices and peripherals.
Convertible Functionality
As 2-in-1 laptops, both the Surface Laptop 4 and the Envy x360 offer versatile convertible functionality. They can be used as traditional clamshell laptops, tablets, or anything in between. The Surface Laptop 4’s 360-degree hinge provides a smooth and effortless transition between modes, while the Envy x360’s hinge is slightly stiffer but still allows for flexible use.
Stylus Support
The Surface Laptop 4 is compatible with the Surface Pen, which provides a natural and intuitive drawing and writing experience. The Envy x360 also supports the HP Active Pen, which offers similar functionality. Both styluses allow for precise note-taking, sketching, and creative expression.
Conclusion: The Verdict
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 and the HP Envy x360 are both exceptional 2-in-1 laptops that cater to different user needs. The Surface Laptop 4 excels in areas such as display quality, battery life, and stylus support, making it an ideal choice for creative professionals and heavy users. The Envy x360 offers a more traditional design, a wider selection of ports, and a more affordable price point, making it a versatile and value-oriented option. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual priorities and preferences.
FAQ
Q1: Which laptop has a better processor?
A: Both laptops offer similar processor options, with the Surface Laptop 4 having a slight advantage with the Core i7-1185G7 configuration.
Q2: Does the Envy x360 have a backlit keyboard?
A: Yes, the Envy x360 features a backlit keyboard with adjustable brightness levels.
Q3: Can I use the Surface Pen with the Envy x360?
A: No, the Envy x360 is not compatible with the Surface Pen. It supports the HP Active Pen instead.
Q4: Which laptop is lighter?
A: The Surface Laptop 4 is slightly lighter than the Envy x360, weighing 2.79 pounds compared to 2.93 pounds.
Q5: Does the Surface Laptop 4 have a webcam?
A: Yes, the Surface Laptop 4 includes a 720p webcam with Windows Hello support for facial recognition.