MicrosoftSurface Laptop (2024), Windows 11 Copilot+ PC, 13.8" Touchscreen Display, Snapdragon X Plus (10 core), 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD Storage, BlackEPEAT

I recently purchased the Microsoft Surface Laptop (2024), and overall, I’m incredibly impressed with its performance. The 13.8" touchscreen display is vibrant and crisp, and the Snapdragon X Elite (12-core) processor makes multitasking a breeze. With 16GB of RAM and 1TB SSD storage, this laptop handles everything I throw at it—whether it’s video editing, running complex software, or just casual browsing. Windows 11 runs smoothly, and the device feels premium and well-built. Battery life is outstanding, and it’s surprisingly lightweight, making it great for both work and travel. The laptop is fast, responsive, and does exactly what I need without any hiccups. However, my one gripe is that after spending nearly $2,000 on this high-end machine, I still have to pay extra for Copilot+. Given the price of the laptop, I would have expected this feature to be included, especially since it’s one of Windows 11's flagship features. While Copilot+ is a helpful AI tool, it feels like it should be a standard part of the package. Overall, I’m still giving it 5 stars because the hardware is fantastic, and it excels at everything I use it for. I just wish Microsoft would rethink the pricing model for Copilot+.

Before making your purchase, consider what you're getting into. Most computers use an x86-64 CPU (a Complex Instruction Set Computer). However, this device uses ARM architecture (a Reduced Instruction Set Computer), not x86. Unlike macOS, which brute-forced compatibility by compelling developers to support ARM on their platform, Windows has not made such a choice but instead intends to support both ecosystems. Developers must now choose to create native ARM versions of their software for compatibility. Some have even blocked ARM support, as evidenced by reports of certain online exam programs restricting ARM-based Windows machines.My primary motivation for purchasing this laptop was its battery life, which is excellent depending on how you use it. My job primarily runs off web applications, so I have no issues there. While performance isn’t top-tier—hence why I rely on my desktop—it’s still snappy enough for everyday tasks. However, those involved in heavy development might find it underwhelming.I get an average of 10 hours of real usage, which is absolutely stellar for me. I never worry about running out of battery. However, screen brightness impacts battery life. My 10-hour estimate assumes a 60% setting since the display is quite bright. Turning it down doesn’t make it difficult to read.The screen size is ideal for me. Previously, I used a 13-inch device but found my workplace-issued 16-inch model too bulky for travel despite its larger display. The Surface Laptop 7 is very portable.The touchscreen seems more like a novelty. While scrolling is occasionally handy, the lack of foldability or 180-degree opening makes its utility limited. Still, it doesn’t detract from the overall experience.If gaming is your priority, consider a used desktop for affordability or a Steam Deck for portability. Reflecting on my own experience, I deeply regret not saving up for a proper desktop after high school. Gaming on a laptop simply doesn’t compare. Not to mention the gaming compatibility issues that will arise as most games that support ARM are mobile games and they're trash.The price of this laptop is fantastic (When it is on sale.) I bought a used one for $600, I would still be completely happy paying the just under $800 currently.A base model with 256GB of storage is a bit of a crime, however. I'm fairly technically inclined and have my own homelab so I just have a vpn network drive that I use for large files.

I have had this laptop a couple of days now and so far, I'm pleased. This was a luxury purchase in the sense that this is the most expensive laptop I have ever bought and in deciding to do it, I did a lot of research. And I would recommend that to anyone thinking of purchasing the Surface laptop. Some of the biggest complaints I saw were regarding the Snapdragon processor and that a lot of programs didn't work with ARM. I do some photoediting and use GIMP with no issue, as well as doing some writing, but since that's on Word on a Microsoft laptop, I didn't expect issues with their own products anyway. Outside of that, I installed VLC, which has an ARM compatible download. There are a few other programs I haven't decided if I'm going to install here or keep only on my old laptop, but those also have ARM compatible downloads. The point is if you have never heard of ARM and don't know if the programs you use are ARM compatible, do your research before spending the money.The laptop is very responsive, although the start-up is a little slower than I'm used to compared to my last laptop, which I had made RAM upgrades to (32 GB there compared to 16GB on the Surface laptop). The display is bright and the touchscreen works very well. I have been on an off othe laptop all day since 6 AM and 7 hours later, I still have 80% battery. I also splurged and bought the Arc Mouse and the pairing was quick and simple. Overall, I am very happy with this purchase.