Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2 hands-on MacBook envy
Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2 hands-on MacBook envy
The Surface Laptop Studio 2: A Versatile and Powerful Device
If you’re in the market for a laptop that stands out from the rest, then look no further than Microsoft’s Surface Laptop Studio 2. This unique device features a tiltable hinge that allows it to switch between different modes, including “regular laptop mode,” stage mode, and studio mode. In stage mode, the display is angled like a tent, while in studio mode, the display is laid flat, screen-side up, like a tablet. With its shape-shifting form factor, the Surface Laptop Studio 2 offers a one-of-a-kind user experience.
The previous version of the Surface Laptop Studio also featured this innovative design, but the latest model outshines its predecessor in terms of performance. It boasts an improved 13th Gen Intel Core H-class processor, NVIDIA’s latest RTX 4050/4060 GPUs, and an Intel NPU on Windows for optimized video calling. Microsoft has made it clear that this laptop is designed for gaming and content creation, and the upgrades under the hood align perfectly with these purposes.
However, there is one pressing question that lingers – how effectively can Microsoft manage the heat generated from these more intensive workloads? The previous model had some battery life issues, and it’s unclear whether this year’s “up to 18 hours of typical device usage” will address this concern. To mitigate the heat, the Laptop Studio 2 now comes with an improved ventilation system and an Intel NPU to offload some tasks from the CPU and GPU when running AI-related applications. Further testing will reveal just how well the laptop handles different use cases.
Apart from its impressive performance, the Surface Laptop Studio 2 also comes with a higher price tag. Starting at $1,999, it is positioned as a competitor to the MacBook Pro, targeting professional users who can justify the investment. As I held the laptop, I couldn’t help but draw comparisons to the MacBook, appreciating the cool-touch aluminum frame and the large touchpad. These similarities highlight the Surface Laptop Studio 2’s premium quality and design.
Speaking of the touchpad, Microsoft has made significant improvements in this area. The Laptop Studio 2 features a wider sensitivity range and haptic feedback, creating a mousing experience suitable for all users, including those with disabilities. During my hands-on experience with the laptop, I found the touchpad to be highly responsive and user-friendly, making it a win in terms of usability.
- Surface Laptop Studio 2 vs. Surface Laptop Studio | ENBLE
- 5 top OLED gaming monitors found in clearance bin | ENBLE
- Microsoft’s Surface Laptop Studio 2 reviewed by ENBLE.
Furthermore, the Laptop Studio 2 now offers additional connectivity options. It includes a USB-A port and a microSD card reader in addition to the dual USB-C (Thunderbolt 4) ports, 3.5mm headphone jack, and Surface Connect charging port found on the previous model. This is great news for creators who require extra storage space or frequently transfer photos and videos from their cameras. However, it would have been even better if the card reader supported full-sized SD cards, as many professional devices rely on this format.
Microsoft’s Surface Laptop Studio 2 is undeniably a versatile and powerful device. Its unique form factor, improved performance, and enhanced features make it a standout choice for gamers, content creators, and professionals. Despite its higher price tag, the Laptop Studio 2 offers a premium experience that rivals the MacBook Pro. With its range of connectivity options and user-friendly touchpad, it caters to a wide range of users. If you’re searching for a laptop that can adapt to your various needs, the Surface Laptop Studio 2 is a compelling option to consider.
