When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission.
- A video showing the Neo’s apparent strengths versus Windows laptops went viral on X
- It wasn’t a fair comparison, as pointed out in Microsoft’s response — but the reaction of the computing public is even more telling
- A rumor is also circulating that Microsoft has ditched a couple of more affordable Surface devices
The landscape for laptops is currently fraught with challenges, particularly as rising RAM prices continue to affect the market. In this context, Microsoft has launched a strategic counteroffensive against Apple’s MacBook Neo, which has recently seen price increases. However, Microsoft’s own Surface lineup is not without its troubles, with whispers of potential model cancellations adding to the uncertainty.
Windows Latest recently highlighted the stir caused by a viral video on X, which showcased the MacBook Neo’s superiority over a generic Windows laptop. This clip, posted by @Ahmadansari2233, amassed an impressive 5.4 million views. However, the comparison was far from equitable, as the video featured an HP Victus gaming laptop, raising questions about the validity of such a juxtaposition. Why pit a budget gaming notebook against the MacBook Neo? The video selectively highlighted weaknesses in the HP model, such as lid flex, which is a known issue for that particular device.
In response to the video’s popularity, Microsoft took to X to showcase the Dell XPS 13, demonstrating its sturdiness and features, including a touchscreen, all while emphasizing its competitive price of 9—just as Apple raised the price of the MacBook Neo by 0. Dell has also lent its support to Microsoft in this endeavor.
Surface issues — and a bigger problem of entrenched perceptions
While Microsoft’s defense is understandable, given the skewed nature of the original video, it faces its own set of challenges. Recently, Microsoft implemented significant price hikes across its Surface range, which, despite Apple’s own adjustments, have raised eyebrows among consumers. The recent rumors surrounding the discontinuation of more affordable Surface models only add to the unease.
Reports from Windows Central indicate that the Surface Go 4 and Surface Laptop Go 3 are becoming increasingly difficult to find, with no plans for replacements on the horizon. Although the Surface Laptop Go 3 has been effectively replaced by the Surface Laptop, the latter starts at a notably higher price point—approximately 20% more expensive. The absence of the Surface Go 4, a device that found favor in the enterprise sector for its affordability, will likely be felt keenly.
Beyond pricing and product rumors, the most pressing concern for Microsoft is the public’s reaction to its rebuttal against the MacBook Neo. While the response was deemed appropriate by some, many on platforms like Reddit expressed skepticism about Windows laptops in general. One user succinctly noted, “The problem with Windows machines is that they have Windows on them.”
This sentiment was echoed by others, with some users highlighting concerns about the reliability of Windows updates. Despite the advancements made in Windows 11, including improvements exemplified by the Dell XPS 13, a significant portion of the audience remains unconvinced. This persistent negativity underscores the uphill battle Microsoft faces in reshaping perceptions of its operating system, a challenge that is likely to continue as the company strives for progress in the coming years.
