Quick summary
- The Surface Laptop comes with a number of unique features, including Windows Hello facial recognition, a built-in microphone array, and a Studio Mode that allows you to use the device as a tablet.
- The ThinkPad offers a wide range of features, including a fingerprint scanner, a webcam with privacy shutter, and a dedicated TrackPoint for navigation.
- The ThinkPad is a better option for those who need a rugged and durable laptop with a wide range of features.
In the realm of premium laptops, two giants stand tall: the Microsoft Surface Laptop and the Lenovo ThinkPad. Both devices offer exceptional performance, sleek designs, and innovative features. But which one is the right choice for you? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll pit the Microsoft Surface Laptop against the Lenovo ThinkPad, comparing their key aspects to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Microsoft Surface Laptop: The Surface Laptop boasts a sleek and minimalistic design. Its all-aluminum unibody is both stylish and durable. The device is ultra-portable, weighing in at just 2.76 pounds and measuring a mere 0.57 inches thin.
Lenovo ThinkPad: The ThinkPad is renowned for its ruggedness and durability. Its iconic black chassis is made from a combination of carbon fiber and magnesium alloy, providing exceptional protection against bumps and drops. The ThinkPad is slightly heavier than the Surface Laptop, weighing in at 3.3 pounds and measuring 0.78 inches thick.
Display
Microsoft Surface Laptop: The Surface Laptop features a vibrant 13.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2256 x 1504. It supports multi-touch gestures and has excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles.
Lenovo ThinkPad: The ThinkPad offers a variety of display options, including a 14-inch IPS panel with a resolution of 1920 x 1080. The ThinkPad’s display is known for its sharp image quality and good color reproduction.
Performance
Microsoft Surface Laptop: The Surface Laptop is powered by Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, paired with 8GB or 16GB of RAM. It features a 256GB or 512GB solid-state drive (SSD) for fast storage.
Lenovo ThinkPad: The ThinkPad comes with a range of processor options, including Intel Core i5, i7, and i9 processors. It can be configured with up to 32GB of RAM and offers SSD storage capacities ranging from 256GB to 1TB.
Battery Life
Microsoft Surface Laptop: The Surface Laptop has a battery life of up to 14.5 hours on a single charge.
Lenovo ThinkPad: The ThinkPad’s battery life varies depending on the configuration, but it typically lasts for around 10-12 hours on a single charge.
Keyboard and Touchpad
Microsoft Surface Laptop: The Surface Laptop’s keyboard is comfortable and responsive, with well-spaced keys and a good amount of key travel. The touchpad is large and supports multi-touch gestures.
Lenovo ThinkPad: The ThinkPad is known for its excellent keyboard, which offers a tactile typing experience and customizable backlight. The touchpad is also large and responsive, with support for precision gestures.
Features
Microsoft Surface Laptop: The Surface Laptop comes with a number of unique features, including Windows Hello facial recognition, a built-in microphone array, and a Studio Mode that allows you to use the device as a tablet.
Lenovo ThinkPad: The ThinkPad offers a wide range of features, including a fingerprint scanner, a webcam with privacy shutter, and a dedicated TrackPoint for navigation.
Price
Microsoft Surface Laptop: The Surface Laptop starts at $999 for the base model.
Lenovo ThinkPad: The ThinkPad starts at $1,099 for the base model.
The Verdict
Both the Microsoft Surface Laptop and the Lenovo ThinkPad are excellent laptops that offer a premium experience. The Surface Laptop is a great choice for those who prioritize style, portability, and touch functionality. The ThinkPad is a better option for those who need a rugged and durable laptop with a wide range of features.
Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the factors discussed in this guide to make an informed decision and find the perfect laptop for your work and personal life.
Questions You May Have
Q: Which laptop is better for business use?
A: The Lenovo ThinkPad is generally preferred for business use due to its ruggedness, durability, and wide range of features.
Q: Which laptop has a better display?
A: The Microsoft Surface Laptop has a slightly better display with higher resolution and better color accuracy.
Q: Which laptop is more portable?
A: The Microsoft Surface Laptop is more portable, weighing in at just 2.76 pounds.
Q: Which laptop has a longer battery life?
A: The Microsoft Surface Laptop has a longer battery life, lasting up to 14.5 hours on a single charge.
Q: Which laptop has a better keyboard?
A: The Lenovo ThinkPad has a better keyboard, offering a tactile typing experience and customizable backlight.