Surface Laptop Archives

Winsage

February 14, 2025

This Surface Laptop 7 with Snapdragon is “basically perfect,” and it’s almost half the price of the Surface Laptop 7 with Intel

Microsoft's Surface Laptop 7 is currently priced at 9.99, reflecting a 0 reduction from its standard retail price due to President's Day sales. It features a Snapdragon X Plus processor, 16GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage. The laptop has received a perfect score in reviews for its design, keyboard, display, and performance. It has undergone a design refresh that allows for easier repairs, with replaceable components available for purchase from Microsoft. The Snapdragon processors provide exceptional battery life and performance, making the Surface Laptop 7 a cost-effective choice compared to the entry-level Intel variant, which retails at ,499.99.

Winsage

February 3, 2025

Surface Laptop 7 Intel vs. Qualcomm: Which Copilot+ PC is better for you?

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 features two variants: one powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite chipset and the other by Intel's Core Ultra Series 2 (Lunar Lake) chipset. The Qualcomm model starts at 9 for the 13.8-inch version and ,299 for the 15-inch version, while the Intel variant starts at ,499 for the 13.8-inch model and is projected to be around ,799 for the 15-inch model. Both models offer up to 32GB of RAM and up to 1TB of storage, with identical display options of a 13.8-inch (2304 x 1536) 120Hz touchscreen and a 15-inch (2496 x 1664) 120Hz touchscreen. The Intel model has a USB-A 3.2 port, while the Qualcomm model has a USB-A 3.1 port. Battery life estimates suggest up to 22 hours of video playback for the Qualcomm model and up to 12 hours for the Intel model. Initial performance tests indicate that the Snapdragon X Elite has a multi-core score of 14,426, while Intel models are expected to score between 11,033 and 11,125. The Qualcomm model demonstrated a practical battery life of 15 hours and 44 minutes under web browsing conditions. Compatibility with Windows on Arm applications is improving, but notable gaps remain, such as the lack of a native Steam app. The Intel variant will be available starting February 18, 2025.

Winsage

December 28, 2024

I’ve been a Windows on Arm user for years — Snapdragon X Elite has changed everything

The author has been using Arm-based computers, specifically an M1 Mac Mini and a Qualcomm Snapdragon-powered Windows two-in-one PC, and has found Apple's silicon consistently impressive while Microsoft's offerings have lagged. In April 2024, Microsoft introduced the Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus chipsets, enhancing the compatibility layer for applications on Windows on Arm through a new emulator called Prism, which matches the efficiency of Apple's Rosetta 2. Testing the Honor MagicBook 14 Art, powered by the Snapdragon X Elite, revealed significant improvements, including native support for previously struggling applications like Google Drive and ExpressVPN. The MagicBook features a 12-core Snapdragon X Elite, offering seamless application launch and multitasking without the random freezes seen in earlier models. Its thermal performance is commendable, achieving around ten hours of usage in "Balanced" mode. The device also includes a Neural Processing Unit for enhanced AI capabilities. Compatibility advancements allow mainstream applications to run natively, and upcoming Windows updates promise to expand this further. The MagicBook 14 Art is priced at approximately ,750, featuring 32GB of RAM, a 1TB SSD, and a detachable webcam for privacy. Despite the progress, the market for Snapdragon X computers remains niche, and Qualcomm's disputes with Arm could impact future sales.

Winsage

December 28, 2024

Microsoft’s wins, fails, and WTF moments of 2024

In 2024, Microsoft made significant advancements and faced challenges. The Surface Pro 11th Edition, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite, showed improved compatibility with applications like Slack and Google Drive. The Microsoft Recall feature encountered skepticism due to delays and privacy concerns. The Windows 11 2024 Update confused users with multiple release channels and contradictory hardware requirements. The Surface Laptop 7 received praise for its battery life and design. Game Pass evolved into a complex array of tiers, complicating user experience. The Surface Studio 2+ was discontinued, disappointing fans. Microsoft’s Copilot initiative faced challenges, and the HoloLens 2 quietly exited the commercial market. Flight Simulator 2024 struggled with technical issues at launch. Microsoft integrated generative AI into core applications like Paint and Photos. The Windows95Man Paperclip emerged as a cultural phenomenon.

Winsage

December 26, 2024

Windows Recall support for Intel & AMD PCs: Eligible PC List

Microsoft has introduced an AI feature called Recall for Windows PCs, enabling users to retrieve actions or searches by capturing and storing screenshots in an encrypted format. Users can search for specific content using keywords, but Recall will only be available to select Windows 11 PCs. Initially exclusive to Snapdragon X SoCs, Recall now supports newer Intel and AMD CPUs with a 40 teraflops Neural Processing Unit (NPU). To use Recall, the system requirements include: - Windows 11 PC enrolled in the Insider Program (Canary or Dev channel) - 16 GB RAM - 256 GB SSD - CPU with 8 logical processors - NPU with 40 teraflops - Windows Hello for sign-in security and device encryption activated. Compatible devices include: - Acer Swift 14 AI - ASUS Vivobook S 15 and ProArt PZ13 - Dell Latitude 7455, XPS 13, and Inspiron 14 - HP OmniBook X 14 - Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x and ThinkPad T14s - Microsoft Surface Laptop Copilot+ PC - Microsoft Surface Pro Copilot+ PC - Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge Supported CPUs are: - AMD Ryzen AI 300 series - Intel Core Ultra 200V series - Snapdragon X Elite - Snapdragon X Plus More compatible systems and CPUs are expected by 2025.

Winsage

December 20, 2024

The best Windows laptops we tested in 2024: Our pick lasts longer than the M4 MacBook Pro

The landscape of Windows laptops in 2024 features a variety of options, including robust workstations powered by Qualcomm technology, dual-display devices, and discreet gaming machines. The 13-inch Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 is highlighted as the top choice, equipped with the Snapdragon X Elite processor and exceptional battery life. The HP Omnibook X 14 is noted as the best mid-range option, while the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3 is recommended for budget-conscious users. The Lenovo Yoga 9i (Gen 9) is recognized as the best 2-in-1 laptop, and the Alienware m16 R2 is identified as the best gaming laptop. Upcoming models include the Dell XPS 13, HP Omnibook Ultra Flip, and Framework Laptop 13, with updates expected after testing. The HP Omen 17 gaming laptop received mixed reviews, praised for performance but criticized for keyboard, speakers, and battery life.

AppWizard

December 14, 2024

Save big on last-minute gifts with Microsoft Store’s Countdown Sale, featuring discounts on Surface Copilot+ PCs, Xbox and PC games, and more

The Microsoft Store is hosting a Countdown Sale with significant discounts on gaming and entertainment products, offering fast and free 2-3-day shipping and flexible payment options. Discounts include up to 50% on PC games, up to 60% on Xbox games, up to 65% on select movies and TV shows, and up to 50% on select apps. Xbox Wireless controllers are discounted until December 22. Customers purchasing the Xbox Series X – 1TB Digital Edition will receive a bonus console wrap until January 1, 2025. Surface devices are also discounted, with offers valid until December 24. A limited-time trade-in offer provides up to 0 cash back for eligible devices until December 31. The Microsoft Store offers free extended returns, 24/7 online support, and price protection through January 31, 2025. An AI-powered Store Assistant is available to help customers find gifts.

Winsage

December 10, 2024

Unwrap the magic of Windows 11 PCs this holiday

Windows 11 and Copilot+ PCs are introduced as innovative devices ideal for the holiday season, offering security features, performance for work and leisure, and AI-enabled functionalities. Notable models include: - Acer Swift Go 14 AI: Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus processor, up to 28 hours battery life. Starting at 9.99. - Acer Swift X 14: Intel Core Ultra processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics, 2.8K OLED display. Starting at ,299.99. - ASUS ProArt P16: AMD Ryzen™ AI 9 HX 370 processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics. Starting at ,699.99. - ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16: AMD Ryzen™ AI 9 HX 370 processor, GeForce RTX graphics. Starting at ,099.99. - Dell Inspiron 14 Plus: Snapdragon X Plus platform, up to 15 hours battery life. Starting at 9.99. - Dell XPS 13: Intel® Core™ Ultra Processors, up to 26 hours battery life, FHD+ display. Starting at ,159.99. - HP OmniBook X: High-resolution display, Snapdragon X Elite processor. Starting at ,089.99. - Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition: 15.3-inch display, 22 hours battery life. Starting at 9.99. - Lenovo IdeaPad 5x 2-in-1: Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus CPU, 14-inch OLED screen. Starting at 9.99. - Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge: AMOLED display, Snapdragon X Elite processor. Starting at 9.99. - New Surface Pro (11th Edition): AI-accelerated Copilot+ experiences. Starting at 9.99. - New Surface Laptop (7th Edition): Next-generation performance and Copilot+ experiences. Starting at 9.99. Various retailers, including Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart, offer these devices. Prices are U.S.-only and subject to change.

Winsage

December 7, 2024

Exclusive report: What’s next for Surface in 2025, including a possible 11-inch mini Surface Laptop?

Surface introduced the Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6 in March, featuring Intel Core Ultra processors and anti-reflective screens. Microsoft later announced the Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7 with Qualcomm Snapdragon X SoCs. New iterations of the Surface Pro, Surface Laptop, and Surface Laptop Studio are expected, including a Surface Laptop with an Intel Lunar Lake processor and a potential new 11-inch device powered by a Snapdragon X Plus SoC. The upcoming Surface devices may include features like a card reader and 5G connectivity. Copilot+ features are anticipated to extend to the Surface Laptop Studio, requiring a neural processing unit (NPU) with 40+ TOPS. A new Surface Dock is also expected, with details yet to be revealed. The new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop are likely to launch in the first quarter of 2025, with additional products potentially released from spring to fall.

AppWizard

December 6, 2024

Android app price drops and freebies: Mortal Crusade, Skel and Defense, Dungeon Maker, more

Google Play is offering significant discounts on various Android games and apps. Notable deals include the Samsung Galaxy S10+ and Ultra with discounts up to 0, and the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 at an all-time low price with a 0 discount. The Ring Smart Video Doorbell Pro is available at Black Friday pricing. Best Buy is hosting its 25 Days of Deals. Featured games include Mortal Crusade, Skel and Defense, Dungeon Maker, The Quest, and Front Armies.