Microsoft Surface Laptop vs Surface Book specs, price review: Which device is better?

Promotional image for the Surface LaptopFacebook/surface

Microsoft just released the Surface Laptop, which runs their new operating system (OS), Windows 10 S. Since its release, the new laptop has been compared to Microsoft's top-of-the-line device — the Surface Book.

At first glance, there is a difference between the exterior of the two laptops. The Surface Laptop appears to be much thinner than the Surface Book. The newly released laptop is also lighter weighing in at 1.25 kg, while the Surface Book is 1.65 kg. The exterior of the Surface Laptop looks completely clean, as Microsoft has thought out the design to hide screws or hinges, as well as the speakers from showing. The speakers of the Surface Laptop are located underneath the keyboard.

In comparison, the Surface Book has completely visible hinges, which helps with the weight of the laptop and making sure it's balanced. The Surface Book also has a completely removable screen.

When it comes to the performance of the two, the Surface Laptop is expected to run quicker since it comes with the new OS, while the Surface Book runs the standard Windows 10.

Although the Surface Laptop is faster, the apps are limited to the Window Store since the new OS does not allow app downloads from other sources. Users who need to be more flexible when it comes to the use of apps may prefer the Surface Book since it operates on the full-featured OS, wherein apps are easily downloaded from any source.

When PC Advisor tested the Surface Book's battery, it was found out to provide a little more than 16 hours' worth of battery life. Meanwhile, the Surface Laptop reportedly has 14.5 hours of video playback. When it comes to battery life, the Surface Book wins, but it may be unfair since the Surface Book includes two batteries in the unit, so 14.5 hours on a single battery unit is not so bad.

The Surface Laptop Core i5 model is now available to pre-order for the price of $999 and will be available on-hand by June 15. On the other hand, the Surface Book is currently available on-hand.