Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 Review 2025: Still Worth Buying?

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 continues to spark interest among professionals and students in 2025, four years after its initial launch. This premium ultrabook combines sleek design with solid performance, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a reliable Windows laptop.

Many buyers wonder if the Surface Laptop 4 remains relevant in today’s competitive laptop market, especially with newer models available.

The Surface Laptop 4 stands out for its exceptional build quality, vibrant touchscreen display, and comfortable typing experience. While it may not feature the latest processors, it delivers consistent performance for everyday tasks and maintains Microsoft’s signature premium aesthetic. Users appreciate its lightweight design and long battery life, making it ideal for mobile productivity.

In this detailed review, we examine every aspect of the Surface Laptop 4 to help you make an informed purchasing decision in 2025.

Key Takeaways

• Premium Design Excellence: The Surface Laptop 4 features Microsoft’s signature aluminum construction with Alcantara fabric keyboard deck, creating a luxurious feel that rivals MacBook build quality
• Strong Performance Options: Available with both Intel 11th Gen and AMD Ryzen processors, offering 60-100% better performance than previous Surface Laptop generations for multitasking and productivity work
• Outstanding Display Quality: The 13.5-inch PixelSense touchscreen delivers sharp 2256×1504 resolution with excellent color accuracy, perfect for creative work and media consumption
• Impressive Battery Life: Real world testing shows 10-11 hours of active use, though falling short of Microsoft’s 19-hour claims, still providing full day productivity
• Limited Port Selection: Only one USB-A, one USB-C, and headphone jack available, requiring dongles for users needing multiple connections
• Competitive Pricing in 2025: With prices starting around $360-$600 for renewed models, the Surface Laptop 4 offers excellent value compared to newer premium ultrabooks

Surface Laptop 4 Design and Build Quality

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 maintains the elegant design philosophy that made the Surface Laptop series popular. Microsoft crafted this laptop with precision, featuring a premium aluminum chassis that feels solid and durable. The laptop weighs just 2.79 pounds for the 13.5-inch model, making it highly portable for daily use.

The Alcantara fabric keyboard deck sets the Surface Laptop 4 apart from competitors. This unique material provides a soft, comfortable typing surface that stays cool during extended use. However, some users express concerns about long-term durability and staining potential. The fabric requires careful maintenance to preserve its appearance over time.

Color options include Platinum, Matte Black, Ice Blue, and Sandstone, giving buyers flexibility to match their personal style. The matte black version features a traditional metal keyboard deck instead of Alcantara, appealing to users who prefer conventional laptop materials.

Build quality remains exceptional throughout the laptop. The hinge mechanism operates smoothly, supporting the touchscreen display at various angles without wobbling. Microsoft engineered the Surface Laptop 4 to withstand daily use while maintaining its premium appearance. The laptop passes Microsoft’s durability testing standards, ensuring reliable performance over years of use.

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Display Performance and Visual Experience

The Surface Laptop 4 features a 13.5-inch PixelSense touchscreen display with 2256 x 1504 resolution, delivering sharp and vibrant visuals. This display technology provides excellent color accuracy, making it suitable for creative professionals and media consumption. The 3:2 aspect ratio offers more vertical space compared to traditional 16:9 displays, improving productivity for document editing and web browsing.

Brightness levels reach up to 320 nits, providing adequate visibility in most indoor environments. However, outdoor usage in direct sunlight may present challenges due to the glossy screen surface. The display supports 10-point multi-touch functionality, responding accurately to finger inputs and gestures.

The touchscreen integration works seamlessly with Windows 11, supporting modern touch gestures and stylus input. Users can interact naturally with applications, scroll through documents, and navigate the interface using touch controls. The display maintains consistent brightness and color temperature across different viewing angles.

Color gamut coverage reaches approximately 100% sRGB, making it suitable for photo editing and graphic design work. Content creators appreciate the accurate color reproduction for professional projects. The display maintains good contrast ratios, ensuring text remains readable and images appear vibrant.

Anti-reflective coating reduces glare in most lighting conditions, though some reflections remain visible under bright lights. The touchscreen glass feels smooth and responsive, supporting precise touch interactions without lag or missed inputs.

Processor Options and Performance Analysis

Microsoft offers the Surface Laptop 4 with multiple processor configurations to meet different performance needs. Intel 11th Generation Core i5 and i7 processors power the 13.5-inch models, while AMD Ryzen 5 and 7 Surface Edition processors are available in both 13.5-inch and 15-inch variants. This variety allows users to choose the configuration that best matches their workload requirements.

Intel configurations deliver strong single-core performance, making them ideal for applications that rely on high clock speeds. The Intel variants excel in tasks like video conferencing, web browsing, and office productivity software. Integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics provide modest improvements over previous generations, supporting light gaming and creative applications.

AMD Ryzen configurations offer superior multi-core performance, benefiting users who run multiple applications simultaneously. These processors handle video editing, 3D rendering, and compilation tasks more efficiently than their Intel counterparts. AMD integrated graphics also provide better gaming performance compared to Intel alternatives.

Benchmark testing reveals significant performance improvements over the Surface Laptop 3. Geekbench 5 scores show 60-100% performance increases depending on the configuration and workload type. Real-world performance translates to faster application launches, smoother multitasking, and reduced wait times for processor-intensive tasks.

Thermal management remains effective across all configurations. The laptop maintains consistent performance during extended use without excessive fan noise or thermal throttling. Microsoft’s thermal engineering ensures sustained performance during demanding workloads while keeping surface temperatures comfortable.

Memory and Storage Configuration Options

The Surface Laptop 4 offers various memory and storage combinations to accommodate different user needs and budgets. RAM options range from 8GB to 32GB, while storage configurations span from 256GB to 1TB SSD. These options provide flexibility for users with varying performance requirements and budget constraints.

8GB RAM configurations handle basic productivity tasks effectively, including web browsing, document editing, and light multitasking. However, users running multiple applications simultaneously may experience performance limitations with this entry-level memory configuration. Professional users should consider higher memory options for optimal performance.

16GB RAM represents the sweet spot for most users, providing sufficient memory for multitasking, creative applications, and modern software requirements. This configuration handles video editing, graphic design, and development work without significant slowdowns. Most professionals find 16GB adequate for their daily workflows.

32GB RAM configurations target power users who run memory-intensive applications like virtual machines, large datasets, or professional video editing software. This configuration ensures smooth performance even under heavy workloads but comes at a premium price point.

SSD storage performs exceptionally well across all configurations. Microsoft uses high-quality NVMe SSDs that deliver fast boot times, quick application launches, and responsive file operations. The storage remains non-upgradeable after purchase, making initial configuration selection crucial for long-term satisfaction.

Keyboard and Trackpad User Experience

The Surface Laptop 4 keyboard provides an excellent typing experience that rivals the best laptops in its class. Key travel measures approximately 1.3mm, offering satisfying tactile feedback without being too shallow or too deep. The keys feature good spacing and sizing, reducing typing errors during extended use sessions.

Backlighting illuminates all keys evenly, with adjustable brightness levels to match different environments. The backlight timing can be customized through Windows settings, automatically turning off after periods of inactivity to preserve battery life. Key symbols remain clearly visible in both bright and dark conditions.

The Alcantara fabric surrounding the keyboard provides a unique and comfortable palm rest area. This material feels soft and warm to the touch, creating a premium experience during extended typing sessions. The fabric maintains its texture over time with proper care and cleaning.

The precision trackpad measures 4.25 inches diagonally, providing ample space for gestures and cursor control. Microsoft’s trackpad drivers integrate seamlessly with Windows 11, supporting multi-finger gestures, smooth scrolling, and precise pointer movement. The trackpad surface feels smooth and responsive to both light and firm touches.

Click mechanism operates quietly and consistently across the entire trackpad surface. Both left and right clicks register reliably, while the trackpad supports pressure-sensitive clicking for different actions. Windows precision drivers ensure smooth operation without cursor jumping or missed inputs.

Battery Life and Charging Performance

Battery life represents one of the Surface Laptop 4’s strongest selling points, though real-world performance differs from Microsoft’s marketing claims. Microsoft advertises up to 19 hours of battery life, but actual usage typically yields 10-11 hours of mixed productivity work. This discrepancy reflects the difference between controlled testing conditions and real-world usage patterns.

Intel-powered models generally achieve 10-12 hours of battery life during typical office work, including web browsing, document editing, and video conferencing. These results assume moderate screen brightness, wireless connectivity, and standard productivity applications. Power users running intensive applications will see reduced battery life.

AMD Ryzen configurations often deliver slightly better battery life, particularly the 15-inch models which feature larger batteries. These variants can achieve 11-13 hours during light usage scenarios, making them excellent choices for all-day productivity without charging interruptions.

Charging performance utilizes Microsoft’s proprietary Surface Connect charging port, supporting fast charging capabilities. The included 65-watt power adapter can charge the battery from 0% to 80% in approximately one hour. Full charging typically requires 1.5-2 hours depending on usage during charging.

USB-C charging support provides additional flexibility for users who prefer universal charging solutions. The laptop accepts USB-C Power Delivery up to 65 watts, allowing the use of third-party chargers and power banks. This feature proves useful for travel or shared charging environments.

Connectivity and Port Selection

Port selection on the Surface Laptop 4 reflects modern minimalist design trends, though some users may find the options limiting. The laptop includes one USB-A 3.1 port, one USB-C port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and the proprietary Surface Connect charging port. This configuration covers basic connectivity needs but may require adapters for users with extensive peripheral requirements.

The USB-A port supports high-speed data transfer and can power most USB accessories without issues. This legacy port proves valuable for users with existing USB-A devices, eliminating the need for adapters in many situations. The port placement on the left side provides easy access without interfering with mouse usage.

USB-C functionality includes data transfer, display output, and Power Delivery charging. Users can connect external monitors, charge the laptop, or transfer files using a single USB-C cable. The port supports DisplayPort alternate mode for connecting high-resolution external displays up to 4K resolution.

Wireless connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, providing fast and reliable connections to networks and peripherals. Wi-Fi 6 support ensures optimal performance on modern networks, with improved speed and reduced latency compared to previous Wi-Fi standards. Bluetooth connectivity works reliably with headphones, mice, and other accessories.

The absence of additional ports like SD card readers or additional USB-C ports may frustrate some users. Photographers and content creators particularly miss built-in SD card support, requiring external adapters for memory card access. Microsoft likely prioritized thinness and battery life over port variety.

Audio Quality and Speakers

The Surface Laptop 4 delivers impressive audio quality that exceeds expectations for a thin laptop. Microsoft engineers positioned speakers underneath the keyboard, creating an innovative design that projects sound upward through speaker grilles. This configuration produces clearer dialogue and better stereo separation compared to traditional bottom-firing speakers.

Audio output provides excellent clarity across different frequency ranges, with particularly strong performance in mid-range frequencies where vocals and dialogue reside. Music playback sounds balanced and enjoyable, though audiophiles may notice limitations in deep bass response due to physical size constraints.

Maximum volume levels prove adequate for most environments, including small conference rooms and personal use scenarios. The speakers maintain clarity even at higher volume levels without significant distortion or crackling. Audio remains audible over typical office noise and light background sounds.

Omnisonic speakers utilize advanced digital signal processing to optimize audio output for different content types. The system automatically adjusts equalization for music, movies, and voice calls to provide the best possible listening experience. Users can further customize audio settings through Windows sound controls.

The 3.5mm headphone jack supports high-quality wired audio output, providing an alternative for users who prefer private listening or professional audio work. The output drives most headphones effectively without requiring additional amplification. Audio quality through headphones maintains excellent fidelity and low noise levels.

Webcam and Video Conferencing Features

The Surface Laptop 4 includes a 720p HD webcam positioned above the display, supporting Windows Hello facial recognition for secure authentication. While the resolution remains lower than some competitors offering 1080p cameras, the image quality proves adequate for video conferencing and basic photography needs.

Windows Hello facial recognition works reliably in various lighting conditions, providing quick and secure login functionality. The infrared camera enables authentication even in low-light environments where traditional cameras struggle. Setup takes minutes, and subsequent logins complete within seconds.

Video call quality meets professional standards for business meetings and personal video chats. The camera produces clear images with good color accuracy under normal lighting conditions. However, performance degrades in low-light situations, producing grainy or dim video output.

Dual far-field microphones capture clear audio during video calls and voice recordings. The microphone array effectively reduces background noise and focuses on the speaker’s voice, improving communication quality during meetings. Audio pickup range covers typical laptop usage distances without issues.

Privacy considerations include a hardware camera switch that physically disconnects the camera when privacy is required. This feature provides peace of mind for security-conscious users who worry about unauthorized camera access. The switch operates independently of software controls, ensuring complete privacy protection.

Gaming Performance and Graphics Capabilities

Gaming performance on the Surface Laptop 4 varies significantly depending on the processor configuration and graphics expectations. Intel configurations feature Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics, while AMD models include Radeon integrated graphics. Neither configuration targets serious gaming, but both handle casual games and older titles reasonably well.

Intel Iris Xe graphics deliver modest gaming performance suitable for esports titles like League of Legends, Counter-Strike, and similar games at medium settings. Modern AAA games require significant graphics compromises to achieve playable frame rates. The graphics solution works better for productivity applications than demanding games.

AMD Radeon graphics typically outperform Intel alternatives in gaming scenarios, providing 15-25% better frame rates in most titles. This improvement makes AMD configurations more suitable for users who occasionally game or run graphics-intensive applications. However, dedicated gaming laptops still provide far superior performance.

Thermal limitations affect sustained gaming performance across all configurations. Extended gaming sessions may trigger thermal throttling, reducing performance to maintain safe operating temperatures. The laptop’s thin design prioritizes portability over cooling capacity, limiting gaming potential compared to thicker gaming-focused laptops.

Creative applications benefit from the integrated graphics, handling photo editing, light video editing, and graphic design work effectively. Adobe Creative Suite applications run smoothly with reasonable performance for most professional workflows. The graphics capabilities support multiple external displays for expanded workspace configurations.

Software Experience and Windows Integration

The Surface Laptop 4 ships with Windows 11 Home or Pro, depending on the configuration and intended market. Microsoft’s tight integration between hardware and software creates a cohesive user experience that takes advantage of Surface-specific features and optimizations.

Windows 11 feels optimized for touchscreen interaction, with larger touch targets, improved gestures, and better tablet mode functionality. The operating system adapts well to the Surface Laptop 4’s touchscreen capabilities, providing smooth navigation and responsive touch controls throughout the interface.

Surface-specific software enhancements include battery optimization, display calibration, and audio tuning that maximize hardware performance. Microsoft regularly updates these optimizations through Windows Update, ensuring continued performance improvements and new feature additions over time.

Bloatware remains minimal compared to many Windows laptops from other manufacturers. Microsoft includes essential utilities and avoids loading unnecessary trial software or promotional applications. This approach provides a cleaner initial experience and reduces the need for software cleanup after purchase.

Driver updates arrive automatically through Windows Update, eliminating the need for manual driver management in most cases. Microsoft maintains tight control over Surface hardware drivers, ensuring compatibility and stability with each Windows update cycle.

Thermal Management and Noise Levels

The Surface Laptop 4’s thermal management system effectively balances performance with acoustics, though some compromises exist due to the thin chassis design. Microsoft employs a single fan cooling system with heat pipes to distribute thermal load across the laptop’s internal components.

Fan operation remains relatively quiet during light usage scenarios like web browsing, document editing, and media consumption. The fan typically stays inactive or runs at very low speeds during these tasks, maintaining a silent computing experience that suits quiet environments like libraries or meetings.

Moderate workloads trigger audible fan operation, though noise levels remain reasonable for most users. Video conferencing, light photo editing, and multitasking scenarios activate the cooling system without becoming distractingly loud. Fan noise stays below levels that interfere with conversation or concentration.

Heavy workloads generate more noticeable fan noise as the thermal system works to maintain safe operating temperatures. Extended video rendering, compilation tasks, or gaming sessions push the cooling system harder, resulting in clearly audible fan operation. However, noise levels remain acceptable compared to many ultrabooks.

Surface temperatures stay comfortable during typical usage, with minimal heat buildup on the keyboard deck or bottom panel. The aluminum construction helps distribute heat evenly, preventing hot spots that could cause discomfort during extended use sessions.

Value Proposition and Pricing Analysis

The Surface Laptop 4’s value proposition in 2025 depends heavily on finding the right price point and configuration. Current pricing for renewed models ranges from $360-$600, making it significantly more attractive than its original launch pricing. This price reduction positions it competitively against newer budget and mid-range laptops.

Compared to current-generation ultrabooks, the Surface Laptop 4 offers excellent build quality and design at reduced prices. While it lacks the latest processors and features, the performance remains adequate for most productivity tasks and professional work. The premium materials and construction justify higher prices than budget alternatives.

Educational and business buyers often find excellent value through Microsoft’s volume licensing programs and educational discounts. These channels sometimes offer better pricing than consumer retail, making the Surface Laptop 4 attractive for institutional purchases or student use.

Longevity concerns center around processor age and future software support. While current performance remains strong, the 11th Gen Intel and Ryzen 4000 series processors will eventually limit the laptop’s ability to run future software efficiently. However, for typical productivity use, the hardware should remain viable for several more years.

Resale value tends to remain strong for Surface products, particularly well-maintained units in desirable configurations. Microsoft’s brand reputation and build quality help preserve value better than many Windows laptop alternatives, providing some protection against depreciation.

Pros and Cons Summary

Advantages include exceptional build quality, comfortable keyboard experience, excellent display quality, and strong battery life for productivity work. The premium materials and Microsoft’s attention to detail create a laptop that feels expensive and well-engineered. The touchscreen integration works seamlessly with Windows 11, providing versatile input options.

The PixelSense display delivers outstanding visual quality with accurate colors, sharp text, and responsive touch functionality. Content creators and professionals appreciate the color accuracy and screen real estate for detailed work. The 3:2 aspect ratio improves productivity compared to traditional widescreen displays.

Drawbacks include limited port selection, which may require adapters for users with extensive peripheral needs. The aging processor options, while still capable, lack the efficiency and performance improvements found in newer laptop generations. Gaming performance remains limited for users interested in modern titles.

Webcam resolution stays behind current standards, with only 720p capability when many competitors offer 1080p or better. The Alcantara fabric, while luxurious, requires careful maintenance and may show wear over time. Some users prefer traditional materials for durability and cleaning ease.

Long-term Reliability and Support

Microsoft’s track record with Surface product support provides confidence in long-term reliability and software updates. The company typically provides 4-5 years of driver and firmware updates for Surface devices, ensuring compatibility with new Windows versions and security updates.

Hardware reliability generally meets or exceeds industry standards, though some users report issues with specific components like keyboards or charging ports after extended use. Microsoft’s warranty service has improved significantly since the early Surface generations, with faster turnaround times and better customer service.

Replacement parts and repair services remain available through Microsoft and authorized service centers, though costs can be significant for major component failures. The integrated design makes user repairs difficult, requiring professional service for most issues beyond basic troubleshooting.

Software support will continue as long as Microsoft maintains Windows 11 compatibility with the hardware specifications. The Surface Laptop 4 meets Windows 11 system requirements comfortably, suggesting several more years of official support and feature updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Surface Laptop 4 still worth buying in 2025?

Yes, the Surface Laptop 4 remains a solid choice in 2025, particularly at current reduced pricing. While it doesn’t feature the latest processors, the performance handles most productivity tasks effectively. The premium build quality, excellent display, and strong battery life justify its continued relevance for professional and student use.

How does battery life compare to Microsoft’s claims?

Real-world battery life typically achieves 10-11 hours during mixed productivity work, falling short of Microsoft’s 19-hour advertising claims. However, this performance still provides full-day usage for most users and compares favorably to many competing ultrabooks in the same category.

Can the Surface Laptop 4 handle video editing and creative work?

The Surface Laptop 4 can handle light to moderate video editing and creative applications, particularly in higher-end configurations with 16GB+ RAM. However, professional video editors working with 4K footage or complex projects should consider laptops with dedicated graphics cards for better performance.

What are the main differences between Intel and AMD configurations?

Intel configurations typically offer better single-core performance and longer battery life, while AMD variants provide superior multi-core performance and slightly better integrated graphics. AMD configurations often deliver better value for users who multitask heavily or run parallel workloads.

Does the Surface Laptop 4 support external monitors?

Yes, the Surface Laptop 4 supports external monitors through its USB-C port using DisplayPort alternate mode. It can drive displays up to 4K resolution, though higher resolutions may impact battery life and performance depending on the connected display and usage patterns.

How does the keyboard feel compared to MacBook keyboards?

The Surface Laptop 4 keyboard generally receives praise for its comfortable typing experience, with better key travel than recent MacBook keyboards. The Alcantara fabric provides a unique texture that many users prefer, though some may prefer traditional materials for durability and maintenance reasons.

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 continues to offer compelling value in 2025, particularly for users who prioritize build quality, display excellence, and productivity performance over cutting-edge specifications. While newer laptops offer more advanced processors and features, the Surface Laptop 4’s combination of premium materials, solid performance, and reduced pricing creates an attractive package for many buyers. Consider your specific needs, budget, and long-term requirements when evaluating this laptop against current alternatives.

Last update on 2025-06-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.