What to know
- If you prioritize premium design, a long battery life, and a streamlined software experience, the Surface Laptop 5 is an excellent choice.
- However, if you need a more versatile device with a wider display, dedicated graphics, and a wider range of connectivity options, the Envy x360 is the superior option.
- The HP Envy x360 has a wider range of connectivity options, including two USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 4, two USB-A ports, an HDMI port, and a microSD card slot.
In the realm of premium 2-in-1 laptops, the Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 and HP Envy x360 stand out as formidable contenders. Both devices offer a blend of style, functionality, and performance, but which one emerges as the ultimate choice? This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of each laptop, providing an in-depth analysis to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Microsoft Surface Laptop 5:
- Sleek and minimalist aluminum chassis
- Signature “Alcantara” fabric-covered keyboard deck
- Available in Platinum, Sandstone, Matte Black, and Cobalt Blue
HP Envy x360:
- Stylish gem-cut design with a polished aluminum finish
- Two-tone color scheme with a matte black keyboard deck
- Available in Ceramic White, Natural Silver, and Nightfall Black
Display
Microsoft Surface Laptop 5:
- 13.5-inch or 15-inch PixelSense Flow display
- 3:2 aspect ratio for a spacious workspace
- Dolby Vision HDR support for vibrant colors and deep blacks
HP Envy x360:
- 13.3-inch or 15.6-inch OLED display
- 16:9 aspect ratio for a wider viewing experience
- 400 nits of brightness and 100% DCI-P3 color gamut
Performance
Microsoft Surface Laptop 5:
- 12th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors
- Integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics
- Up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of SSD storage
HP Envy x360:
- 12th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors
- Optional NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 discrete graphics
- Up to 32GB of RAM and 1TB of SSD storage
Battery Life
Microsoft Surface Laptop 5:
- Up to 18 hours of battery life (13.5-inch model)
- Up to 17 hours of battery life (15-inch model)
HP Envy x360:
- Up to 15 hours of battery life (13.3-inch model)
- Up to 14 hours of battery life (15.6-inch model)
Connectivity and Ports
Microsoft Surface Laptop 5:
- 1x USB-C with Thunderbolt 4
- 1x USB-A port
- 1x Surface Connect port
- 3.5mm headphone jack
HP Envy x360:
- 2x USB-C with Thunderbolt 4
- 2x USB-A ports
- 1x HDMI port
- 1x microSD card slot
- 3.5mm headphone jack
Features and Software
Microsoft Surface Laptop 5:
- Windows 11 Home or Pro
- Windows Hello face recognition for secure login
- Studio Mics for enhanced audio quality
HP Envy x360:
- Windows 11 Home or Pro
- HP Command Center for device customization and performance optimization
- Bang & Olufsen audio system
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 and HP Envy x360 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Choose the Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 if:
- You prioritize a premium build quality and minimalist design
- You value a long battery life and a spacious display
- You prefer a more streamlined software experience
Choose the HP Envy x360 if:
- You require a more versatile device with a wider display
- You need dedicated graphics for demanding tasks
- You appreciate a wider range of connectivity options
The Verdict: A Close Call
Both the Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 and HP Envy x360 are exceptional 2-in-1 laptops that offer a compelling combination of style, performance, and features. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual priorities and usage scenarios. If you prioritize premium design, a long battery life, and a streamlined software experience, the Surface Laptop 5 is an excellent choice. However, if you need a more versatile device with a wider display, dedicated graphics, and a wider range of connectivity options, the Envy x360 is the superior option.
What You Need to Learn
1. Which laptop has a better display?
The HP Envy x360 has a wider 16:9 display with an OLED panel, offering superior color accuracy and contrast.
2. Which laptop has longer battery life?
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 has a longer battery life, lasting up to 18 hours on the 13.5-inch model.
3. Which laptop is more portable?
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 is slightly more portable, weighing 2.89 pounds for the 13.5-inch model compared to 2.93 pounds for the 13.3-inch HP Envy x360.
4. Which laptop is better for gaming?
The HP Envy x360 offers optional NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 discrete graphics, providing better gaming performance than the Surface Laptop 5’s integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics.
5. Which laptop has more connectivity options?
The HP Envy x360 has a wider range of connectivity options, including two USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 4, two USB-A ports, an HDMI port, and a microSD card slot.