Microsoft Surface Laptop - Does it Deserve to Exist??

The video examines the Microsoft Surface Laptop with a critical yet balanced approach, starting from design language and portability. The host notes the distinctive Surface branding while highlighting a key caveat: the laptop cannot be laid completely flat, which affects drawing and noting with a stylus. Despite this limitation, the build quality is praised, with minimal chassis flex and a sturdy screen hinge in a device weighing just under 3 kilograms. The burgundy color option is singled out as unexpectedly appealing, and the overall premium feel comes through in daily interactions, from keyboard response to touchpad usability. The display is described as high quality, with good color accuracy and a sharp IPS panel that makes everyday tasks enjoyable, while Windows Hello integration via the infrared webcam is noted as convenient for quick logins. Battery life is characterized as respectable, delivering over six hours in typical work usage and surpassing nine hours under lighter conditions, though not enough to fully free users from recharging. The core internals are modest: a midrange Core i5, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB NVMe SSD, which supports web browsing, document editing, and light multitasking but is not intended for gaming or heavy media editing. The reviewer emphasizes the importance of choosing adequate storage and memory at purchase since the chassis is sealed and not upgradable, which is a notable limitation for longevity. The keyboard earns high praise, described as among the best laptop keyboards experienced, with a tactile yet smooth feel and a refined palm rest design that favors in-lap use. The software experience is straightforward, with Windows 10 S preinstalled and a quick upgrade path to Windows 10 Pro, ensuring broader software compatibility for power users. Audio from the speakers under the keyboard is surprisingly strong for a thin device, though the review returns to a major drawback: a sparse array of IO ports that require dongles for many peripherals. The single USB-A port, mini DisplayPort, and headphone jack are highlighted as outdated, and the optional Surface Dock is expensive, adding about 200 USD but expanding connectivity. In conclusion, the Surface Laptop is portrayed as a strong overall notebook with excellent keyboard and display, fair battery life, and premium build, but the limited ports and non-upgradable internals temper its appeal for power users who value expandability and future-proofing. The reviewer wraps up by recommending the device to light-to-moderate users who prioritize portability, premium typing experience, and a refined screen, while suggesting potential buyers weigh the total cost of ownership against the need for additional IO and future upgrades.

Topics · technology · laptops · hardware · consumer electronics