Surface Laptop (2024), Windows 11 Copilot+ PC, 13.8" Touchscreen Display, Snapdragon X Plus (10 core), 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD Storage, Platinum

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.

While I have a current model MacBook, I have always preferred the Windows operating system and the Surface Laptop implements it wonderfully. It has a perfect dimensions with a screen aspect ratio of 3:2 - just as wide as most 13.5 inch [the Surface has a 13.8 inch screen] laptops but with a taller screen. I find that this ratio hits the sweet spot. The case is solid magnesium-aluminum alloy with no flex. The keyboard is also very solid with a really good feel on pressing the keys. This unit has the new Windows AI key but it just replaces a redundant key so that skin keyboard covers for older Surface Laptops will fit this one as well. As with all recent Surface Laptops, the case design is the most elegant of any laptop that I have had. The slots for air ventilation and sound from the internal speakers are hidden. There are no laptops with as clean a case as this one. The new Snapdragon X Plus processor is ultra-fast and power-efficient. It can now be left on indefinitely like Apple iPads or MacBooks, with little lost of battery charge. I just let it go to sleep and when I return to work on it, it uses the Windows Hello IR camera for instant back-to-work. It continues to use the Microsoft magnetic charging system that I like since it is designed to detach from the computer when the cable is pulled. I notice that some will complain about proprietary charging connectors but they overlook the fact that this Surface Laptop can be also charged with any USB charger using its USB-C port.