New service will see hundreds of Surface computers repaired |
Biggest change: |
This improves the experience when modelling, coding, editing, rendering and encoding.
It now features a 13th gen Intel Core i7-13800H processor as standard. With Six Performance Cores, plus Eight Efficiency Cores, the new 14 core processor provides considerably more performance than the first Surface Laptop Studio's Four Core 11th gen processor. The Intel Core i5 option has been removed, which makes sense for a mobile workstation device.
The new model provides considerably more power than the 10 core Surface Laptop 5 and Surface Pro 9 tablets.
It now features a 13th gen Intel Core i7-13800H processor as standard. With Six Performance Cores, plus Eight Efficiency Cores, the new 14 core processor provides considerably more performance than the first Surface Laptop Studio's Four Core 11th gen processor. The Intel Core i5 option has been removed, which makes sense for a mobile workstation device.
The new model provides considerably more power than the 10 core Surface Laptop 5 and Surface Pro 9 tablets.
Surface Laptop Studio 1Intel Core H35 i5-11300H 4 core Intel Core H35 i7-11370H 4 core processor No separate AI processor |
Surface Laptop Studio 2Intel Core i7-13800H 6 Performance Core and 8 Efficiency Core processor Intel Cen3 Movidius VPU AI Accelerator |
The Movidius VPU AI Accelerator is optimised for efficient AI and computer vision, which bodes well for users of software that can make use of it for activities including video tracking and recognition, object recognition, 3D scanning, and image restoration, among other emerging technologies.
Equally improved NVIDIA RTX graphicsIn addition to the entry-level Intel iRIS Xe graphics carried over from the previous model, the new model has a range of NVIDIA RTX processors ranging from the GeForce RTX 4050, to the RTX-4060 and Workstation Application Certified NVIDIA RTX 2000 Ada. In general expect a large performance increase between the iRIS Xe option and the RTX 4050, and a similar jump from the RTX 4050 to the 4060 or RTX 2000 Ada. |
The lowest cost NVIDIA option (RTX 4050) benchmarks at an average of 70% more powerful than the old model's NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti. Source: NotebookCheck.com
Surface Laptop Studio 1Intel iRIS Xe (entry level) NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti 4GB NVIDIA RTX A2000 4GB |
Surface Laptop Studio 2Intel iRIS Xe (entry level) NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 6GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 8GB NVIDIA RTX 2000 Ada Gen 8GB |
DisplayHDR400 certified
The Surface Laptop 2 has VESA DisplayHDR400 certification with up to 500 nits brightness for standard content, and a very high 650 nits for HDR (High Dynamic Range) content including 3D and 4K video.
Finding a monitor that can match the quality of the Surface Laptop Studio 2 may be challenging - we recommend something like a 27 inch or larger HP Z series 4K display with DreamColor, or a Philips 4K Mini-LED Thunderbolt 4 monitor for similar pixel density, scaling and display performance.
Finding a monitor that can match the quality of the Surface Laptop Studio 2 may be challenging - we recommend something like a 27 inch or larger HP Z series 4K display with DreamColor, or a Philips 4K Mini-LED Thunderbolt 4 monitor for similar pixel density, scaling and display performance.
More memory options
The new model now supports up to 64GB memory with 16 and 32GB options available. Memory is not upgradeable, so choose wisely based on your application workloads. Memory has also been upgraded from LPDDR4x to LPDDR5x for faster throughput and lower power consumption.
More connectivity
The new model adds a USB Type A port for legacy devices including wireless keyboard dongles. Bluetooth connectivity is also upgraded from 5.1 to Bluetooth 5.3, and wireless networking is upgraded from Wi-Fi 6 to Wi-Fi 6E with 6GHz compatibility.
More repairable
Repairability remains the most important way to reduce the carbon foot print and e-waste associated with your devices - especially when minor components are damaged on otherwise perfect devices.
The Surface Laptop Studio 2 features the most repairable design to date, including replaceable display, mainboard, casing, and ports - making things like accidental cord-trip damage a much lower risk to your total cost of ownership.
The Surface Laptop Studio 2 features the most repairable design to date, including replaceable display, mainboard, casing, and ports - making things like accidental cord-trip damage a much lower risk to your total cost of ownership.
What stays the same?
The Surface Laptop Studio already provided an exceptional end-user experience with one of the best displays on the market, and a high level of flexibility for user interaction.
Weight has increased with the very heavy-duty performance components to just under 2.0kg for NVIDIA RTX 2000 Ada models, this compares well with other equivalent mobile workstations on the market (few of which offer the flexibility, interactivity or display quality of the Surface Laptop Studio 2 as standard).
Weight has increased with the very heavy-duty performance components to just under 2.0kg for NVIDIA RTX 2000 Ada models, this compares well with other equivalent mobile workstations on the market (few of which offer the flexibility, interactivity or display quality of the Surface Laptop Studio 2 as standard).
The industrial design of the Surface Laptop Studio is maintained including:
- Raised plinth base for efficient cooling under heavy loads to reduce performance throttling
- Flip-forward screen with high resolution 14.4 inch PixelSense Flow display
- Up to 120Hz display refresh rate (switchable from 60Hz for actions including page scrolling and pen-inking in supported applications)
- Dolby Vision IQ support.
- Touch screen with Surface Pen support
- Up to 2TB removable high speed SSD storage
- Glass trackpad and backlit keyboard
- USB-C / Thunderbolt 4 ports, Surface Connect and audio port
- Magnetic stowage and wireless charging for optional Surface Slim Pen 2
- 1080p webcam with Windows Hello face authentication
- Quad Omnisonic speakers with Dolby Atmos
- Battery life with 512GB or 1TB SSD is up to 18 hours for typical usage, however heavy duty application use with the screen turned up to full brightness will understandably reduce that.
- 2TB SSD models are rated up to 16 hours.
The Laptop Company is a multi-award-winning Microsoft Surface Reseller and an official supplier of Surface devices to the All of Government IT Hardware Contract. Contact us for pricing, and to access a demo device.
Find out more
Speak to your account manager at The Laptop Company.
If you do not already work with TLC, click the 'Contact us' button or call 0800 527 867 to find out more.
If you do not already work with TLC, click the 'Contact us' button or call 0800 527 867 to find out more.
ā ē ī ō ū
With the recent launch of selected Lenovo laptops that include tohutō (macron) keys, you might be wondering whether your computers support these too. The good news is, both Windows 11 and Windows 10 support tohutō on any device with a standard keyboard.
Through this, Tongan and Samoan speakers also have toloi/fakamamafa and fa’amamafa support respectively.
Through this, Tongan and Samoan speakers also have toloi/fakamamafa and fa’amamafa support respectively.
How to type tohutō characters
- Tap the ~ ` (tilde or backquote) key on your keyboard
(this is usually on the left hand edge below the ESC key - highlighted in yellow above) - Then type ā, ē, ī, ō, or ū (highlighted in blue above)
Tohutō are only applied to vowels
Other tips
- To capitalise a vowel (Ā, Ē, Ī, Ō, Ū)
Hold the shift key when typing the letter (or use CAPS lock) - To type a backquote ( ` )
Tap the tilde key twice. To type a ~ (tilde) character hold the shift key and click the tilde key - If you tap the tilde key then type a consonant or special character
A leading backquote character ( ` ) will be typed before the consonant or special character
What if it doesn't work?
When you have the correct language settings turned on in Windows 10 or 11 computer, this behaviour is automatic. If it doesn't work for you, do the following:
Enable tohutō in Windows 11
Since late 2021, new Windows 11 in New Zealand have the New Zealand Māori language pack installed by default. If tohutō characters aren't available, you may need to toggle from US keyboard settings to NZ Aotearoa. To toggle between US and NZ Aotearoa keyboards, hold the Windows key on your keyboard and tap the spacebar until English (New Zealand) NZ Aotearoa is highlighted.
Enable tohutō in Windows 10
If you have managed devices, your IT team may have deployed support for tohutō already, this is also available to clients that use Modern Fleet Management and device management services from The Laptop Company. If your Windows 10 device doesn't have tohutō support working, do the following:
- Click the Windows icon in the bottom left corner of your screen
- Type Language
- Select Language Settings or Region & Language from the Best match list to load the Language settings box
4. Under Preferred languages, click English (New Zealand)*. If this option is not visible, see asterisk below. 5. Click Options to load the Language options for English (New Zealand) 6. Under Keyboards, click Add a keyboard to display a list of keyboard options 7. Scroll down and select Māori QWERTY, then close the Language settings box. |
The Windows taskbar will display a new clickable keyboard language icon near your clock marked ENG MI.
To toggle between Māori and US keyboard settings, hold the Windows key on your keyboard and tap the space bar. This will switch between making tohutō characters available or not with the tilde key.
To toggle between Māori and US keyboard settings, hold the Windows key on your keyboard and tap the space bar. This will switch between making tohutō characters available or not with the tilde key.
* If English (New Zealand) is not displayed under the Preferred languages list, do the following in the Language settings box:
- Click + Add a language to show the Choose a language to install box.
- Type New Zealand in the search box.
- Click English (New Zealand) from the list of results and click Next.
- Windows will then download and install the New Zealand language pack. When this is complete it will be added to your list of Preferred languages.
- Click English (New Zealand) and click the up arrow to make it the default language for your computer, then complete steps 4 to 7 above to enable tohutō character typing.
Added benefits
When you select English (New Zealand) as your preferred language, most applications including Word and Excel 365 will also use New Zealand spell checking in place of US spellings.
Try, before you decide.
Available for fleet buyers throughout New Zealand.
With the majority of organisations we sell Surface devices to being new to the brand, we make it easy to access the latest Surface devices for evaluation in your environment, and your users.
Try the new Surface range with either Windows 10 or 11 and your own specialist applications, docking stations, monitors, and other peripherals in your user environment. Take a guided tour with The Laptop Company and access deal pricing, industry-leading fleet and device management services, and solutions for managing your existing devices.
Try the new Surface range with either Windows 10 or 11 and your own specialist applications, docking stations, monitors, and other peripherals in your user environment. Take a guided tour with The Laptop Company and access deal pricing, industry-leading fleet and device management services, and solutions for managing your existing devices.
View the Surface Range
The Laptop Company. Multi-award-winning Surface Partner of the Year,
All of Government IT Hardware Supplier for Microsoft Surface to the public sector.
Solutions for New Zealand's largest high performance organisations with UXx Enhanced User Experiences.
All of Government IT Hardware Supplier for Microsoft Surface to the public sector.
Solutions for New Zealand's largest high performance organisations with UXx Enhanced User Experiences.
The difference
is more than just 5G
Updated January 2024
Microsoft has made changes to its new Surface Pro line-up, with Intel and ARM versions now both marketed as Surface Pro 9. Previously, Intel and ARM based versions had separate sub-brands: Surface Pro 8 for Intel, and Surface Pro X for ARM.
Both offer the same screen, design, support for pen and touch, keyboard options, and overall look, weight and feel.
Key differences are under the hood, and important to note for corporate buyers and power users.
Both offer the same screen, design, support for pen and touch, keyboard options, and overall look, weight and feel.
Key differences are under the hood, and important to note for corporate buyers and power users.
What is Microsoft SQ 3?
Instead of an Intel or AMD CPU, the Surface Pro 9 with 5G is powered by the Microsoft SQ 3. This is based on ARM, the processor architecture used in most smart phones, new Apple laptops and tablets. ARM processors have also been used in some older Surface devices, including the Surface Pro X, and even the very first Surface model from 2012.
ARM processors are typically highly power efficient, support near instant-on responsiveness, and use multiple processor cores - usually a combination of high performance and low power-consumption cores. This mix provides good responsiveness and performance in native applications, and efficient handling of background tasks. Intel has taken a similar approach for its latest mobile processors, with performance and efficiency cores, for similar reasons.
ARM processors are typically highly power efficient, support near instant-on responsiveness, and use multiple processor cores - usually a combination of high performance and low power-consumption cores. This mix provides good responsiveness and performance in native applications, and efficient handling of background tasks. Intel has taken a similar approach for its latest mobile processors, with performance and efficiency cores, for similar reasons.
What is Windows 11 ARM64?
The way ARM processors work is different from Intel and AMD. Software written for one doesn't natively work on the other. Because of this, Windows 11 ARM 64 for ARM-based processors is installed on the Surface Pro 9 with 5G. The Windows 11 user-experience is the same as that found on Intel and AMD powered Surface devices. Native ARM apps for Windows 11 include Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, OneNote, Teams, OneDrive and PowerPoint, Adobe Photoshop, Edge, and Firefox.
As well as running native ARM apps for Windows, Windows 11 ARM is able to run many applications designed for Intel or AMD processors via emulation, with considerably faster performance than in earlier Surface Pro X models. There can always be exceptions to this - this could include software used by power-users including 3D games and software, drivers for external peripherals including printers or scanners, and potentially custom in-house software applications. For large organisations in particular, these custom in-house applications might be for mission critical things like enterprise resource planning, customer management or patient records. Because of this, we recommend you test before you buy. Please contact us to request a demo.
As well as running native ARM apps for Windows, Windows 11 ARM is able to run many applications designed for Intel or AMD processors via emulation, with considerably faster performance than in earlier Surface Pro X models. There can always be exceptions to this - this could include software used by power-users including 3D games and software, drivers for external peripherals including printers or scanners, and potentially custom in-house software applications. For large organisations in particular, these custom in-house applications might be for mission critical things like enterprise resource planning, customer management or patient records. Because of this, we recommend you test before you buy. Please contact us to request a demo.
Performance
Early cross-platform benchmarks give the advantage to the Intel Core i5-1245U found in the standard Surface Pro 9 over the Snapdragon 8CX Gen 3 that the Microsoft SQ 3 is based on. These benchmarks also indicate much better performance than the older Microsoft SQ 2 found in the outgoing Surface Pro X. Native ARM apps provide similar overall performance to their Intel-based equivalents. Applications that require emulation to run on the SQ 3 will have a performance hit, however unlike the Surface Pro X, emulation of x86 64 bit software is now supported.
Benchmark sources:
https://www.cpubenchmark.net/compare/4131vs4733vs4774/Microsoft-SQ2-vs-Intel-i5-1245U-vs-Snapdragon-8cx-Gen-3
https://browser.geekbench.com/v5/cpu/compare/17938735?baseline=18076980
Benchmark sources:
https://www.cpubenchmark.net/compare/4131vs4733vs4774/Microsoft-SQ2-vs-Intel-i5-1245U-vs-Snapdragon-8cx-Gen-3
https://browser.geekbench.com/v5/cpu/compare/17938735?baseline=18076980
Mobile data options
With the Surface Pro 8 with LTE now discontinued in early 2024, Intel versions of the Surface Pro do not currently offer 5G or 4G mobile data support.
Graphics
Surface Pro 9 with Intel features Intel iRIS Xe graphics, while the Surface Pro 9 5G features Adreno 8CX Gen 3 graphics. Intel versions support OpenGL and DirectX 12, while the 5G model supports DirectX 12.
Sources:www.videocardbenchmark.net/compare/4518vs4265/Qualcomm-Adreno-8cx-Gen-3-vs-Intel-Iris-Xe
Sources:www.videocardbenchmark.net/compare/4518vs4265/Qualcomm-Adreno-8cx-Gen-3-vs-Intel-Iris-Xe
USB-C
Surface Pro 9 with 5G features 2x USB-C ports running at USB 3.2 speeds. Unlike the Surface Pro 9 and 8, the Surface Pro 9 with 5G does not support Thunderbolt 4 or USB-4 high speed devices, but does support a maximum of two external monitors at up to 4K resolution. These can be connected via USB-C or using the optional Surface Dock or Surface Dock 2, each available separately.
Windows Studio Effects
Microsoft has reserved new auto-framing capability for the ARM based Surface Pro 9 5G. This uses the high quality 5 megapixel front facing camera to pan and zoom automatically to keep your face in frame in Skype and Teams calls, even if you are moving around the room. The Microsoft SQ 3 Neural Processing Unit is used for tasks including background blurring in Teams.
Find out more about the Surface Pro 9 with 5G
Click the button for full specifications (and prices for authorised government buyers).
New to The Laptop Company?
Call 0800 527 867 during business hours or Get in touch to enquire below.
Call 0800 527 867 during business hours or Get in touch to enquire below.
Microsoft has just announced the new Surface Laptop 5 and Surface Pro 9 tablet for Business. These feature major performance improvements for users, as well as continuity for existing fleet owners.
We have a summary of features, differences and improvements for procurement teams and fleet managers below. General availability is scheduled for October 25th.
We have a summary of features, differences and improvements for procurement teams and fleet managers below. General availability is scheduled for October 25th.
Surface Laptop 5
The updated Surface Laptop 5 continues the class-leading industrial design of the Surface Laptop range with more performance, and better usability where it counts.
Key specifications
Display 13.5 or 15" PixelSense™ display Dolby Vision IQ™® support Individually colour calibrated 400 nits high brightness Touch screen Surface Pen compatible Sight and sound 720p web cam Windows Hello facial recognition Omnisonic speakers, Dolby Atmos® Ergonomics Backlit keyboard, Glass touchpad Alcantara® keyboard option for 13.5" model (colour-dependent) |
Performance Intel® Core™ i5-1245U or i7-1265U 2x P-cores + 8x E-cores Intel® iRIS® Xe 80EU or 96EU 8, 16 or 32GB memory Up to 1TB removable SSD storage Connectivity USB-C® 4 + Thunderbolt™ 4 port USB-A 3.1 port Surface Connect port 3.5mm audio jack Wi-Fi® 6, Bluetooth® 5.1 Design Aluminium chassis Clamshell laptop |
Surface Pro 9
Following a major update for the Surface Pro 8, the new Pro 9 adds more power with Intel Hybrid Performance Architecture. Surface Signature Pro Keyboard and Surface Slim Pen 2 with wireless charging (pictured) are available separately.
Key features (Intel model)
Display 13" PixelSense™ Flow display Up to 120Hz Dynamic Refresh Rate Touch screen Dolby Vision IQ™ support Surface Slim Pen 2 compatible Sight and sound 5MP front + 10MP 4K rear camera Windows Hello facial recognition Stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos® Optional detachable keyboard Surface Pro Signature Keyboard Backlit keys, Glass touchpad Stow+charge for Surface Slim Pen 2 |
Performance Intel® Core™ i5 1245U or i7 1265U 2x P-cores + 8x E-cores Intel® iRIS® Xe 80EU or 96EU 8, 16 or 32GB memory Up to 1TB removable SSD storage Connectivity 2x USB-C® 4 + Thunderbolt™ 4 Surface Connect port Wi-Fi® 6, Bluetooth® 5.1 Design Aluminium chassis Adjustable kickstand tablet Gorilla® Glass 5 |
New features for both
Intel Performance Hybrid Architecture
In place of four identical processor cores, the new Surface Laptop 5 and Pro 9 feature two high performance P-cores for fast single-core performance and application responsiveness. These are paired with 8x efficient E-cores for high performance multi-core processing and low-power consumption for background tasks. When used with Windows 11, Intel Thread Director intelligently allocates processes to specific cores for optimal performance. |
Benchmark comparison
+29% |
+42% |
In Passmark, the Intel Core i5 in the new Surface Laptop 5 and Pro 9 provides an average 29% improvement over previous models. This increases to 42% for multi-core performance in Windows 11 using Intel Thread Director.
Graphics
Intel® iRIS® Xe is carried over from the Surface Laptop 4, Surface Pro 7+ and Pro 8. Buyer advice for performance users: Intel iRIS Xe on the Intel® Core™ i7 features 96 Execution Units against 80 for the i5 at a higher clock speed. This results in around 25% higher benchmark scores for i7 models in 3DMark 3DM11. We recommend the i7 model for power users, including content creators and data visualisers. |
New features for Surface Laptop 5
USB-C® 4 + Thunderbolt™ 4
Offers double the USB-C bandwidth of previous models. Supports DisplayPort Alt Mode for connecting up to 5K resolution external DisplayPort monitors without image compression. Thunderbolt 4 adds support for external graphics controllers (including NVIDIA and AMD workstation eGPUs), high speed storage arrays, and high performance docking stations and monitors that support for up to 4K external monitors and daisy-chaining. The Surface Laptop 5 maintains a USB Type-A port for legacy peripherals, including wireless keyboards. |
Discontinued features for Pro 9
4G LTE mobile data with Intel
The option of 4G-LTE mobile data is being discontinued in the Intel version of the Surface Pro 9. Mobile data will be available on the Surface Pro 9 with 5G powered by Microsoft SQ3. This is an ARM-based Windows 64 bit model. The Surface Pro 9 with 5G replaces the Surface Pro X, and removes the Intel processor, Intel iRIS graphics and Thunderbolt 4 features found on the non-5G models. Microsoft has extended availability of Surface Pro 8-LTE and Surface Pro 7+ 4G (while stocks last) for buyers who need mobile data and Intel-based processors. If you wish to evaluate the ARM-based models, please speak to us. |
3.5mm audio port
USB-C ports now on left
While retaining the overall look and feel of the Surface Pro 8 and Pro X, the Surface Pro 9 has moved the position of the USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports from the right hand edge to the left. While this will provide ergonomic benefits to right-handed users, left-handers may be less impressed. This also means that the Surface Pro 9 requires different protective cases and covers from previous generation devices. Despite this, compatibility with the Surface Pro Signature and Surface Pro X Keyboards is maintained, as is the Surface Pen.
Procurement advice
Windows 11 optimised features
Dynamic Refresh Rate (PixelSense Flow)
Intel Thread Director (Hybrid performance core management)
Haptic feedback with optional Surface Slim Pen 2
Intel Thread Director (Hybrid performance core management)
Haptic feedback with optional Surface Slim Pen 2
The new Surface models are optimised for Windows 11 with the features above only available on the new operating system. Thankfully, our testing has proven the transition from Windows 10 to 11 to be achievable for most users, this is something we are progressively migrating internally for our own staff.
If you would like to know how we are helping teams across the country migrate to Windows 11, with UXx optimal end-user experiences and Modern Fleet Management from The Laptop Company, please get in touch. We are also able to roll back Windows 11 devices to Windows 10 for teams that need this before migrating.
If you would like to know how we are helping teams across the country migrate to Windows 11, with UXx optimal end-user experiences and Modern Fleet Management from The Laptop Company, please get in touch. We are also able to roll back Windows 11 devices to Windows 10 for teams that need this before migrating.
Mobile Data
Microsoft has removed the option of 4G LTE mobile data from the new Intel-powered Surface Pro 9, this feature is now available with Microsoft SQ 3 ARM models only. For teams that require Surface Pro devices with Intel processors, Microsoft is extending availability for the Surface Pro 7+ model, and the Surface Pro 8 with mobile data will be available while stocks last. Mobile data is not available on Surface Laptop, Laptop Go or Laptop Studio models.
Surface Laptop 4 and Pro 8 Deals
You may wish to take advantage of current deal pricing for Surface Laptop 4 and Surface Pro 8 devices while stocks last, these offer a similar look and feel and competitive performance for standard users.
Demo devices
Contact us to trial the new Surface range in your environment.
Speak to your account manager to find out more.
Speak to your account manager to find out more.
- The Surface Laptop Studio demo machine is on our desk at The Laptop Company right now.
If you want to try it, please speak to your account manager or Contact us.
The Surface Book is no more
While we miss the engineered style of the Surface Book 3 Dynamic Fulcrum Hinge (and its name), the new Surface Laptop Studio is probably a better bet for users in the real world.
The Surface Book (and the new Surface Laptop Studio) compete with 360-degree 2-in-1 laptops including the Lenovo Yoga and HP x360s hybrids. Unlike those models, flipping the screen on the old Surface Book required detaching and reattaching the tablet display. This meant users had to interrupt the connections to their ports, keyboard and graphics card, all of which were housed in the Surface Book’s keyboard. This required some disruption to the user's workflow, as well as a bit of fumbling.
The Book's dynamic hinge...
The Surface Laptop Studio's hinge...
The new hinge should be less disruptive than the 360 alternatives, which need to be picked up from the desktop to flip the display. It's certainly less disruptive than removing and re-attaching the display.
We might be seeing a few more 2-in-1 hybrid laptops like this. We know of one or two already.
We might be seeing a few more 2-in-1 hybrid laptops like this. We know of one or two already.
The Surface Laptop Studio can switch from laptop, to easel, to tablet without interrupting any applications or needing to unplug anything. From laptop mode, you can flick the top half of the screen back and pull it forward in to an easel position (with magnetic tethers to hold in place) or pull forward until fully flat for use as a tablet.
The non-detachable screen means the display can no longer be removed for use as a lightweight standalone tablet. That said, using the older Surface Book's detachable screen as a tablet meant forgoing the NVIDIA graphics that were housed inside the keyboard. Otherwise, the screen needed to be detached, rotated, and reattached to the keyboard, making a bulkier tablet overall.
By comparison, switching between modes on the new Studio is a matter of push and pull.
By comparison, switching between modes on the new Studio is a matter of push and pull.
Full specs for the Surface Laptop Studio
Available at The Laptop Company
The big change for the new Surface Laptop 4 is the choice of AMD or Intel for business and government buyers.
How do the two options compare, and which should you choose for your users?
How do the two options compare, and which should you choose for your users?
Faster cores versus more cores
The biggest difference between AMD and Intel options is the number of processor cores. The new 11th gen Intel Core i5 and i7 have four, while the 4th gen AMD Ryzen 5 has six and the Ryzen 7 has eight. The new AMD options also cost less than their equivalent Intel options. All processor options are available on the 13.5 inch Surface Laptop 4, while the 15 inch version offers the choice of AMD Ryzen 7 or Intel Core i7.
AMD - more cores
More cores mean more calculations can be made at the same time. To gain an appreciable performance boost, you need to be using apps and doing tasks that are designed for multi-core processing. These include media encoding, 3D rendering, complex Excel calculations and image transformations. If you have a team working on video or content creation, then their encoding time will be faster, making the AMD models a good choice. The AMD versions are also a bit less expensive. With The Laptop Company's deployment and migration services, you can migrate users without anyone noticing they're not using an Intel-powered device. It offers a substantial boost over the Surface Laptop 3, and extra battery life over the Intel versions.
Intel - faster cores
The faster cores of the Intel models make them well suited for single core processes, these include scripting, general application responsiveness, software development, testing and any software that's not multicore optimised. Microsoft is recommending the Intel version for data scientists, developers and researchers. This comes at a reasonable price premium.
The new Intel option provides an even greater performance boost over the Surface Laptop 3. Battery life is up to 17 hours for the 13.5 inch model, or up to 16.5 for the 15 inch one.
The new Intel option provides an even greater performance boost over the Surface Laptop 3. Battery life is up to 17 hours for the 13.5 inch model, or up to 16.5 for the 15 inch one.
By the benchmarks
Benchmarks by PC World so far indicate overall performance for the Surface Laptop 4 Ryzen models trailing that of the 11th gen Intel powered Surface Pro 7+ (the same CPU used in the new Surface Laptop 4 Intel option), this helps justify the price premium commanded by the Intel versions:
https://www.pcworld.com/article/3614716/the-surface-laptop-4-really-is-twice-as-fast.html
The notable exception is HandBrake media encoding and Cinebench 3D rendering, where twice the cores equals twice the performance for the Ryzen 7. If your job is heavy on the media-encoding front, the AMD will be a boon.
Both processors provide a performance advantage over the outgoing Surface Laptop 3, and provide a substantial performance improvement over 7th-8th generation processors that were supplied with Intel 620 graphics.
https://www.pcworld.com/article/3614716/the-surface-laptop-4-really-is-twice-as-fast.html
The notable exception is HandBrake media encoding and Cinebench 3D rendering, where twice the cores equals twice the performance for the Ryzen 7. If your job is heavy on the media-encoding front, the AMD will be a boon.
Both processors provide a performance advantage over the outgoing Surface Laptop 3, and provide a substantial performance improvement over 7th-8th generation processors that were supplied with Intel 620 graphics.
What about graphics?
Despite AMD's reputation as a GPU leader, the AMD Radeon Microsoft Surface Edition graphics has not benchmarked as fast as the new Intel iRIS Xe found in both Intel options so far. Intel's iRIS Xe graphics have also benchmarked around 50% faster than the previous generation Intel iRIS Plus graphics used in the Laptop 3. Both are more than adequate for most users, and have sufficient power to run the Surface Laptop 4's high resolution PixelSense display and up to two 4K monitors at 60 hz.
3D creators are likely to opt for the more expensive Surface Book for the option of powerful dedicated NVIDIA graphics, higher resolution 3K+ displays and enhanced Pen and Touch support on a reversible tablet screen.
3D creators are likely to opt for the more expensive Surface Book for the option of powerful dedicated NVIDIA graphics, higher resolution 3K+ displays and enhanced Pen and Touch support on a reversible tablet screen.
Which would I choose for my team?
For most users, either look to be a viable choice and provide a performance increase over the now discontinued Surface Laptop 3 as well as the lower cost Surface Laptop Go. Either is suitable for fleetwide deployment in corporate environments and each provides a significant performance boost for users migrating from older 8th generation Intel Core i5 or i7 laptops, particularly for graphically intensive tasks.
We recommend talking to your account manager to see what models suit your team best (and which are likely to be delivered sooner). There are still stock constraints across the PC industry, so getting your order and your preferred specification in ahead of time will save time and hassle.
If you don't have an account manager at The Laptop Company yet, enquire below or contact us.
We recommend talking to your account manager to see what models suit your team best (and which are likely to be delivered sooner). There are still stock constraints across the PC industry, so getting your order and your preferred specification in ahead of time will save time and hassle.
If you don't have an account manager at The Laptop Company yet, enquire below or contact us.
Find out more:
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go, Surface Laptop 13 or Surface Laptop 15?
There are now 3 different Surface Laptops to choose from. Which is best for which members of your team and how do they compare to the competition? If you're considering a switch, we've created this guide for you.
What’s the deal with Surface Laptops?
Unlike most business laptops, the Surface Laptop range starts with the 10th generation Ice Lake Intel Core i5. This means graphics power is improved from between a little (Surface Laptop Go) to a lot (Surface Laptop 3) compared to standard business laptops. They provide the similar application performance to other 10th generation Intel Core i business laptops at lower clock speeds. All are slim line devices with USB-C in place of VGA, HDMI or DisplayPorts, and a legacy USB-A port, headphone port plus Surface Connect port for connecting desktop monitors and accessories via the optional Surface Dock 2 (or a range of USB-C docks). All Surface Laptops feature a 3:2 aspect ratio display instead of the widescreen displays featured on most competitors. Touch screens and web cams are standard for all Surface devices.
1. Surface Laptop Go 12.4 inch:
Entry level. A 12.4 inch ultraportable laptop starting at 4GB memory and 64GB eMMC storage or our recommended 8GB memory with 128GB or 256GB SSD storage for business users.
Pros: The lowest cost, lightest 1.1kg Surface Laptop with touchscreen, fingerprint doubles as power-on button and great application performance from an Intel Core i5 1035G1 processor. Lower resolution display ensures icons and text in legacy in-house software is easily viewed by users. | Cons: Lower resolution screen and entry-level graphics not intended for power users, data analysts or content creators, no support for Surface Pen. Keyboard not backlit for presenters or night-time users. Fingerprint reader not included on 4GB model. | Alternatives: Users requiring Pen capability should consider the similar-cost Surface Go 2 tablet (for frequent Pen and App users). Users who wish to create content should consider the Surface Laptop 3. |
Recommended for: Everyday users, students, commuters and field workers who need a light laptop on the road that can power workplace and office applications in the office and at home.
Users moving from older WXGA resolution fleet laptops will appreciate the upgraded screen, extra performance and lower weight of the new Surface Laptop Go.
Users moving from older WXGA resolution fleet laptops will appreciate the upgraded screen, extra performance and lower weight of the new Surface Laptop Go.
2. Surface Laptop 3 13.5 or 15 inch
Pros: Excellent performance for content creators with Intel Iris Plus graphics, Windows Hello facial recognition, lightweight design and great application performance from an Intel Core i5 1035G7 or Intel Core i7 1065G7 processor, both offering roughly double the graphics power of the Surface Laptop Go. Excellent ergonomics with touch screen, backlit keyboard and on-screen Surface Pen support.
Cons: More expensive than the Surface Laptop Go. Icons and text on legacy in-house software applications may appear smaller on screen due to the Surface Laptop 3 models' high resolution displays. Not designed for frequent Pen use as screen is not designed to be detached or flip into tablet mode (see Surface Book 3 for this capability).
2.a Surface Laptop 3 13.5 inch:
Mid-range: A 13.5 inch ultraportable laptop starting at 8GB memory and 128GB SSD storage for business users with high resolution display and Windows Hello facial recognition.
Pros: Compact lightweight 1.29kg design with high resolution 13.5 inch display that balances screen real estate with portability. | Cons: Not designed for full-time Pen users, but screen can be used with a Surface Pen. | Alternatives: Tablet users should opt for Surface Pro 7. Users with everyday performance requirements can also consider the slightly smaller, lighter, lower-cost Surface Laptop Go. |
Recommended for: Enterprise application users, commuters and power users who run multiple windows on their screens at the same time.
Users moving from alternative mid-range business laptops will appreciate the screen quality and additional graphics performance of the Surface Laptop 3.
Users moving from alternative mid-range business laptops will appreciate the screen quality and additional graphics performance of the Surface Laptop 3.
2.b Surface Laptop 3 15 inch:
Mid-range: A 15 inch ultraportable laptop starting at 8GB memory and 128GB SSD storage for business users and content developers with high resolution display and Windows Hello facial recognition.
Pros: Big, beautiful 15 inch display in comparatively lightweight 1.5kg design with excellent screen real estate for content creation and data analysis. | Cons: Large display may be impeded on airplane tray tables, high end content creators may want higher screen resolutions and dedicated graphics for tasks including 3D, modelling, VR or motion picture makers. | Alternatives: Power and tablet users should opt for the Surface Book 3 15 inch with dedicated NVIDIA GeForce GTX or Quadro RTX graphics and higher resolution screen with Pen support. |
Recommended for: Web and application developers and power users who run multiple windows on their screens at the same time, as well as users who need a larger display and Windows accessibility features enabled for enhanced accessibility.
Users switching from other big-screen laptops will appreciate the high screen quality and slimmer, lighter design of the Surface Laptop 3 15 inch. Graphics performance compared to older 15 inch business laptops with dedicated graphics will be similar.
Users switching from other big-screen laptops will appreciate the high screen quality and slimmer, lighter design of the Surface Laptop 3 15 inch. Graphics performance compared to older 15 inch business laptops with dedicated graphics will be similar.
Try the Surface range now
Fleet buyers in New Zealand can access a seed unit at no cost through The Laptop Company before switching to Surface when you register your interest. Contact us now to secure yours and for terms and conditions. Click the Contact Us button.
How does it compare?
Microsoft announced its new Surface Laptop Go – a few of you might want to know whether it’s worth buying for business and how it compares. As with most Surface devices, there's no direct competitor for the new entry-model. Here’s the run-down.
What is it?
Microsoft's new entry-level laptop offering. With a smaller 12.4 inch display, the Surface Laptop Go, slots in below the Surface Laptop 3. Like the Surface Go 2 tablet, it's smaller, lighter and less expensive than its larger peers.
How does it compare to the Surface Laptop 3 13.5 inch?
The closest alternative in the Surface range is the entry-level Surface Laptop 3 with Intel Core i5.
We’re omitting the entry level Surface Laptop Go from this comparison. Although it’s powered by the same processor as the upgrade models, we don’t recommend the entry-level model’s 4GB of RAM or 64eMMC storage for business users. That model also misses out on the fingerprint reader that's standard on the upgrade models.
We’re omitting the entry level Surface Laptop Go from this comparison. Although it’s powered by the same processor as the upgrade models, we don’t recommend the entry-level model’s 4GB of RAM or 64eMMC storage for business users. That model also misses out on the fingerprint reader that's standard on the upgrade models.
Surface Laptop Go
12.4 inch at 1536 x 1024 resolution
Touch screen 10th gen Intel Core i5 1035G1 8 or 16GB RAM* 128GB SSD or 256GB SSD Fingerprint reader for Windows Hello Aluminium lid, Polycarbonate base 1.11kg Up to 13 hours battery Standard keyboard Pros and cons
Lower cost
Lower weight Longer battery charge No facial recognition Fingerprint reader No Surface Pen support No illumination for keyboard |
Surface Laptop 3
13.5 inch at 2256 x 1504 resolution
Touch screen with Surface Pen support 10th gen Intel Core i5 1035G7 (optional i7) 8 or 16GB RAM 128GB, 256GB or 512GB SSD Infrared facial recognition for Windows Hello Aluminium casing 1.28kg Up to 11.5 hours battery Backlit keyboard Pros and cons
Much higher screen resolution
Much more powerful Intel Iris Plus graphics Much higher performance upgrade options Facial recognition No fingerprint reader Surface Pen supported Illuminated keyboard |
Bold indicates better. *4GB Surface Laptop Go available in consumer range, 16GB model available in Platinum
Performance: Better than we expected.
Application performance from the Intel Core i5 1035G1 is generally excellent, and roughly equivalent to both the entry-level Surface Laptop 3 and other current 10th generation Intel Core i5 business laptops. It’s notably more powerful than the Surface Go 2 tablet.
The Surface Laptop Go uses the latest version of the Intel UHD ‘G1’ graphics, which is competitive with most other brand devices – but it can’t match the Intel Iris Plus ‘G7’ graphics that’s standard on the Surface Laptop 3. The upgrade options available on the Surface Laptop 3 are also more powerful – if you want an i7 processor, or more 256GB storage, opt for the Surface Laptop 3.
The Surface Laptop Go uses the latest version of the Intel UHD ‘G1’ graphics, which is competitive with most other brand devices – but it can’t match the Intel Iris Plus ‘G7’ graphics that’s standard on the Surface Laptop 3. The upgrade options available on the Surface Laptop 3 are also more powerful – if you want an i7 processor, or more 256GB storage, opt for the Surface Laptop 3.
Display: Smaller, less detailed than Surface Laptop 3.
The Surface Laptop Go has a smaller 12.4 inch touch screen – as with other Surface Devices this is the squarer 3:2 aspect ratio shape than most competitors widescreen displays.
The display resolution is noticeably lower the Surface Laptop 3’s 13.5 inch display with approximately one third lower horizontal and vertical resolution. At 1536 x 1024, its resolution is lower than the typical 1920 x 1080 displays seen on other laptops. This may be a good thing for business users given many in-house legacy software interfaces don’t work well with small screens at high resolutions. The pixel density is roughly equivalent to a 15.6 inch Full HD screen. Not recommended for users who stack multiple documents or applications on their laptop screen at the same time, unless they want to use an external monitor.
The display resolution is noticeably lower the Surface Laptop 3’s 13.5 inch display with approximately one third lower horizontal and vertical resolution. At 1536 x 1024, its resolution is lower than the typical 1920 x 1080 displays seen on other laptops. This may be a good thing for business users given many in-house legacy software interfaces don’t work well with small screens at high resolutions. The pixel density is roughly equivalent to a 15.6 inch Full HD screen. Not recommended for users who stack multiple documents or applications on their laptop screen at the same time, unless they want to use an external monitor.
Surface Pen not supported:
The Surface Laptop Go is the first Surface device not to support the Surface Pen for on-screen writing and drawing. That's probably a moot point for most Surface Laptop users. Unlike the Surface Book, Surface Go or Surface Pro, the Surface Laptop 3 does not have a detachable or reversible keyboard for dedicated pen users.
Fingerprint reader is a first for Surface:
Both SSD versions of the Surface Laptop Go include an integrated fingerprint reader for Windows Hello authentication. This is in place of the infrared facial recognition of the Surface Laptop 3. The fingerprint reader is integrated into the power button for instant-on authentication.
Users: Commuters and general fleet users apply:
Both the Surface Laptop 3 and new Surface Laptop Go are good choices for commuters, students and travellers – both are light, slim and offer good battery life. Surface Laptop Go users miss out on the illuminated keyboard of the Surface Laptop 3, which is invaluable for presenters and travellers.
Power users, heavy admin-users and creatives should opt for the Surface Laptop 3 to enable stacking of documents onscreen, better graphics performance and should consider the 16GB upgrade. Further up the tree, the Surface Book 3 with dedicated graphics provides the highest performance and greater versatility for power users, professionals and content creators.
Power users, heavy admin-users and creatives should opt for the Surface Laptop 3 to enable stacking of documents onscreen, better graphics performance and should consider the 16GB upgrade. Further up the tree, the Surface Book 3 with dedicated graphics provides the highest performance and greater versatility for power users, professionals and content creators.
Our pick: Surface Laptop Go with 8GB or 16GB and 256GB SSD.
This provides sufficient storage for most business users and application performance that's competitive with any other 10th generation business laptop powered by Intel Core i5 despite the entry-level billing.
If you’re considering switching your users to the Surface Laptop Go, please contact us for deal pricing and to book in a demo when these become available. Being a new form-factor, it's worth trying before buying under our seed programme.
If you’re looking to switch to Surface, ask about our fleet and user migration services to make the move painless.
If you’re considering switching your users to the Surface Laptop Go, please contact us for deal pricing and to book in a demo when these become available. Being a new form-factor, it's worth trying before buying under our seed programme.
If you’re looking to switch to Surface, ask about our fleet and user migration services to make the move painless.
Contact us for pricing, or to find out more:
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