Quick summary
- The Microsoft Surface Laptop starts at $999 for the base model with an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage.
- The Dell Latitude starts at $1,099 for the base model with an Intel Core i3 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage.
- The Dell Latitude is a better option for users who require a rugged and customizable device with a wide range of security features.
When it comes to choosing a laptop for professional use, two leading contenders emerge: the Microsoft Surface Laptop and the Dell Latitude. Both devices offer a range of features and capabilities tailored to the needs of business users. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between these two laptops to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Microsoft Surface Laptop
The Microsoft Surface Laptop boasts a sleek and sophisticated design with a premium aluminum chassis. It features a 13.5-inch or 15-inch PixelSense display with a vibrant and high-resolution image quality. The device is lightweight and portable, weighing just 2.76 pounds for the 13.5-inch model.
Dell Latitude
The Dell Latitude has a more traditional business-oriented design with a sturdy carbon fiber and magnesium alloy chassis. It also comes with a 13.3-inch or 14-inch FHD display with anti-glare properties for enhanced visibility in bright environments. The Latitude is slightly heavier than the Surface Laptop, weighing 3.15 pounds for the 13.3-inch model.
Performance
Microsoft Surface Laptop
The Microsoft Surface Laptop is powered by Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, offering fast and responsive performance. It comes with 8GB or 16GB of RAM and up to 1TB of SSD storage. The integrated Intel Iris Plus Graphics or NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 GPU provides adequate graphics capabilities for everyday tasks and light gaming.
Dell Latitude
The Dell Latitude offers a wider range of processor options, including Intel Core i3, i5, and i7 processors. It can be equipped with up to 32GB of RAM and up to 1TB of SSD storage. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics or NVIDIA GeForce MX150 GPU provides similar graphics performance to the Surface Laptop.
Features
Microsoft Surface Laptop
The Microsoft Surface Laptop comes with a built-in Windows Hello facial recognition camera for secure login. It also features a precision touchpad with Windows Precision drivers for smooth and accurate navigation. The device has a signature Alcantara fabric keyboard that provides a comfortable typing experience.
Dell Latitude
The Dell Latitude offers a wide range of customization options, allowing users to tailor the device to their specific needs. It can be equipped with a variety of security features, including a fingerprint reader, smart card reader, and TPM 2.0 chip. The Latitude also has a backlit keyboard for easy typing in low-light conditions.
Battery Life
Microsoft Surface Laptop
The Microsoft Surface Laptop has a battery life of up to 14.5 hours on the 13.5-inch model and up to 17 hours on the 15-inch model. This makes it a great choice for users who need all-day battery life without having to carry a charger.
Dell Latitude
The Dell Latitude has a battery life of up to 18 hours on the 13.3-inch model and up to 16 hours on the 14-inch model. The longer battery life makes it ideal for users who frequently travel or work on the go.
Price
Microsoft Surface Laptop
The Microsoft Surface Laptop starts at $999 for the base model with an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage. The price increases depending on the processor, RAM, and storage options selected.
Dell Latitude
The Dell Latitude starts at $1,099 for the base model with an Intel Core i3 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage. The price increases depending on the processor, RAM, storage, and security features selected.
Which Laptop is Right for You?
The Microsoft Surface Laptop is a great choice for users who prioritize style, portability, and a premium user experience. The Dell Latitude is a better option for users who require a rugged and customizable device with a wide range of security features.
Alternatives
In addition to the Microsoft Surface Laptop and Dell Latitude, here are a few other laptops that you may want to consider:
- Apple MacBook Air: A premium ultraportable laptop with a long battery life and a high-resolution display.
- Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon: A lightweight and durable business laptop with excellent performance and security features.
- HP EliteBook 840 G8: A versatile business laptop with a sleek design and a variety of customization options.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. Which laptop has a better display?
Both the Microsoft Surface Laptop and Dell Latitude offer high-quality displays, but the Surface Laptop has a slight edge due to its higher resolution and PixelSense technology.
2. Which laptop has longer battery life?
The Dell Latitude has a slightly longer battery life than the Microsoft Surface Laptop, making it a better choice for users who need all-day battery life.
3. Which laptop is more customizable?
The Dell Latitude offers a wider range of customization options than the Microsoft Surface Laptop, allowing users to tailor the device to their specific needs.