What To Know
- The Surface Laptop 4 runs on Windows 10, providing a familiar and versatile operating system with a wide range of software compatibility.
- The MacBook Air M1 runs on macOS Big Sur, Apple’s latest operating system, which offers a user-friendly interface, seamless integration with Apple devices, and a growing library of optimized apps.
- However, the Surface Laptop 4 may be a better choice if you prefer Windows 10 or value the versatility of the 3.
The world of premium laptops is filled with two titans: Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 and Apple MacBook Air M1. Both devices offer sleek designs, powerful performance, and portable form factors. But which one is the right choice for your needs? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dissect the Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 vs. MacBook Air M1, examining their key features, performance, and value to help you make an informed decision.
Display and Design
Microsoft Surface Laptop 4:
- 13.5-inch PixelSense touchscreen with a 3:2 aspect ratio
- 2256 x 1504 resolution
- 400 nits brightness
MacBook Air M1:
- 13.3-inch Liquid Retina display with a 16:10 aspect ratio
- 2560 x 1600 resolution
- 500 nits brightness
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 offers a slightly larger display with a unique 3:2 aspect ratio, providing more vertical space for productivity tasks. The MacBook Air M1, on the other hand, boasts a higher resolution and brighter display, delivering sharper visuals and better visibility in direct sunlight.
Performance
Microsoft Surface Laptop 4:
- Intel Core i5 or i7 11th Gen processors
- Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- Up to 16GB of RAM
- Up to 1TB of SSD storage
MacBook Air M1:
- Apple M1 chip
- 8-core CPU and 7-core or 8-core GPU
- Up to 16GB of unified memory
- Up to 2TB of SSD storage
The MacBook Air M1 dominates in performance thanks to Apple’s revolutionary M1 chip. This custom-designed processor delivers exceptional CPU and GPU performance, handling demanding tasks like video editing and graphic design with ease. The Surface Laptop 4, while powered by Intel’s latest processors, falls short in direct comparisons.
Battery Life
Microsoft Surface Laptop 4:
- Up to 17 hours of battery life
MacBook Air M1:
- Up to 18 hours of battery life
Both devices offer impressive battery life, but the MacBook Air M1 has a slight edge. Its efficient M1 chip and optimized software allow it to squeeze out an extra hour of usage, making it ideal for extended work or travel sessions.
Keyboard and Touchpad
Microsoft Surface Laptop 4:
- Alcantara-covered keyboard with 1.33mm key travel
- Large and responsive Precision Touchpad
MacBook Air M1:
- Backlit Magic Keyboard with 1mm key travel
- Force Touch trackpad
The Surface Laptop 4’s Alcantara keyboard provides a comfortable typing experience with slightly deeper key travel. The MacBook Air M1’s Magic Keyboard offers a more traditional layout and backlit keys for easier typing in dim environments. Both devices feature large and responsive touchpads that support multi-touch gestures.
Connectivity
Microsoft Surface Laptop 4:
- 1x USB-C port
- 1x USB-A port
- 1x Surface Connect port
- 3.5mm headphone jack
MacBook Air M1:
- 2x Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports
- 1x MagSafe charging port
- 3.5mm headphone jack
The MacBook Air M1 offers superior connectivity with its two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports, which support high-speed data transfer and external display connections. The Surface Laptop 4 has a limited selection of ports, including only one USB-C port and one USB-A port.
Operating System
Microsoft Surface Laptop 4:
- Windows 10 Home or Pro
MacBook Air M1:
- macOS Big Sur
The Surface Laptop 4 runs on Windows 10, providing a familiar and versatile operating system with a wide range of software compatibility. The MacBook Air M1 runs on macOS Big Sur, Apple’s latest operating system, which offers a user-friendly interface, seamless integration with Apple devices, and a growing library of optimized apps.
Value and Pricing
Microsoft Surface Laptop 4:
- Starting at $999.99
MacBook Air M1:
- Starting at $999.00
Both devices start at the same price point, but the MacBook Air M1 offers better overall value considering its superior performance, battery life, and connectivity options. However, the Surface Laptop 4 may be a better choice if you prefer Windows 10 or value the versatility of the 3:2 aspect ratio display.
Verdict: A Close Call
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 and MacBook Air M1 are both excellent premium laptops, but each has its own strengths and weaknesses. The Surface Laptop 4 offers a unique 3:2 display, comfortable keyboard, and Windows 10 operating system. The MacBook Air M1, on the other hand, boasts superior performance, impressive battery life, and versatile connectivity options. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
1. Which device has a better display?
The MacBook Air M1 has a higher resolution and brighter display.
2. Which device is more powerful?
The MacBook Air M1 offers superior performance thanks to its Apple M1 chip.
3. Which device has longer battery life?
The MacBook Air M1 has a slight edge in battery life, providing up to 18 hours of usage.
4. Which device has a better keyboard?
Both devices offer comfortable keyboards, but the Surface Laptop 4’s Alcantara-covered keys provide a slightly deeper key travel.
5. Which device has better connectivity options?
The MacBook Air M1 offers superior connectivity with its two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports.
