In the ever-evolving world of laptops, two giants stand out in 2024: Apple's MacBook Air M4 and Microsoft's Surface Laptop 7. Each brings its own strengths to the table, but when placed side by side, the Surface Laptop 7 not only competes—it excels.
The MacBook Air M4: A Step Forward or Merely a Reaction?
Apple's latest iteration of the MacBook Air, now powered by the M4 chip, comes with several updates, including a $100 price cut from its predecessor, settling at $999. On paper, these improvements aim to strengthen Apple's position in the competitive laptop market. However, when compared to Microsoft’s Surface Laptop 7, the MacBook Air M4 may not shine as brightly as expected.The Allure of the Surface Laptop 7
Launched in June 2024, the Surface Laptop 7 was immediately celebrated as the best Windows laptop on the market. From its superior haptic trackpad and large 120Hz touchscreen display to the Snapdragon X SoC that powers it, the Surface Laptop 7 delivers performance and battery life that are hard to match. It's praised for maintaining excellent performance throughout the day with minimal compatibility issues, making it a top choice for both power users and casual consumers alike.Performance Comparison: Not Just About the Processor
While the new M4 chip in the MacBook Air is a notable upgrade, offering more power than its predecessors, it does not significantly outpace the Surface Laptop 7's Snapdragon X SoC in everyday tasks. Where users will notice a difference, however, is in the display and battery life. The MacBook Air M4 still operates on a 60Hz display, which pales in comparison to the 120Hz screen of the Surface Laptop 7. This makes for a smoother, more responsive experience on the Surface Laptop 7, which is particularly noticeable when scrolling through web pages or playing videos.
Battery Life: A Closer Contest
Both laptops boast impressive battery life, with Apple claiming up to 18 hours for the MacBook Air M4 and Microsoft topping this with a claim of 20 hours for the Surface Laptop 7. Real-world usage will likely show that both devices can hold their charge through a full day of use, but the extra two hours could be a deciding factor for power users.Design and Usability: More Than Skin Deep
The MacBook Air M4 continues Apple's tradition of sleek, lightweight design, making it slightly thinner and lighter than many competitors. However, the Surface Laptop 7 offers features that many users find more practical, such as a faster refresh rate display, secure face unlock, and a more diverse port selection. These are not just quality-of-life improvements but are often crucial for professional use.Pricing and Value: Surface Laptop 7 Takes the Lead
One of the most compelling arguments for the Surface Laptop 7 over the MacBook Air M4 is its price point. Regularly on sale for less than its $999 MSRP, sometimes as low as $778, the Surface Laptop 7 presents an unbeatable value proposition. When considering the overall features and performance enhancements, it offers a more robust experience for a lower price.