Microsoft Surface Laptop 1st Gen, 256GB Storage, 8GB RAM

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85%
92%
Portability & Design
88%
Battery Life
91%
Keyboard Comfort
74%
Display Quality
85%
Performance for Everyday Use
90%
Build Quality
84%
Value for Money
87%
Ease of Setup
80%
Software & OS Experience
78%
Port & Connectivity
82%
Heat Management & Noise
85%
Long-Term Durability
More

Overview

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 1st Gen, 256GB Storage, 8GB RAM, is a well-rounded device offering a sleek and ultra-thin design that makes it easy to carry around. With a 13.5″ LED display, its resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels ensures crisp visuals for everyday tasks. Powered by a 7th Gen Intel Core i5 processor and equipped with 8GB of RAM and 256GB SSD storage, this laptop delivers responsive performance for typical office and multimedia use. It's a great balance between portability and functionality, without overwhelming users with excessive features that may go underused.

Features & Benefits

This laptop boasts an impressive battery life of up to 14.5 hours during video playback, making it perfect for long days at the office or on the go. Its premium aluminum casing ensures durability while providing a stylish, high-end look. The Alcantara fabric-covered keyboard enhances comfort during extended typing sessions, making it ideal for productivity. The laptop's combination of performance, aesthetics, and long-lasting battery makes it a solid option for anyone in need of a portable and reliable Windows device.

Best For

The Surface Laptop is best suited for students and professionals who require a lightweight and portable laptop for everyday tasks like word processing, browsing, and media consumption. Its 13.5″ screen offers a sharp enough display for casual use, though it may not satisfy those seeking a high-end viewing experience. This device works well for users who prioritize a balance of performance and portability over high-powered specs or specialized features, making it a reliable choice for light productivity tasks.

User Feedback

Users generally appreciate the premium design and compact size of this laptop, with many praising its portability. The keyboard is often highlighted as one of the best features, offering a comfortable and quiet typing experience. However, some users have noted that the screen's resolution (1366 x 768) can feel limiting for tasks like photo editing or video production, making it less suitable for creative professionals. Overall, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive, but it’s clear that this laptop is best for those with less demanding needs.

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Pros

  • Lightweight design makes it easy to carry around for students or professionals on the go.
  • The Alcantara fabric-covered keyboard offers a comfortable typing experience during long sessions.
  • Battery life lasts up to 14.5 hours, making it perfect for all-day use without needing to recharge.
  • Premium aluminum casing gives the laptop a high-end look and feel, enhancing its durability.
  • The 13.5″ screen is vibrant enough for everyday tasks like browsing, watching videos, and office work.
  • Compact and portable, this laptop is a good fit for those who need to work in various locations, like cafes or libraries.

Cons

  • The screen resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels may not be sharp enough for creative professionals who need high-quality visuals.
  • Some users feel the laptop lacks enough processing power for more demanding multitasking or heavy software use.
  • It is not suitable for gaming or running high-performance applications, as the integrated graphics are not powerful enough.
  • The relatively small screen size might be limiting for those who need larger displays for multitasking or detailed work.
  • The price is considered high by some users given its specs, particularly the screen resolution and processing power.
  • While portable, the 13.5″ display may be too small for those who prefer a larger viewing area for work or entertainment.

Ratings

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 1st Gen, 256GB Storage, 8GB RAM has earned a mix of praise and criticism across multiple verified platforms. After analyzing authentic user reviews worldwide, excluding any spam or incentivized feedback, it's clear that this device excels in design, portability, and usability for everyday tasks. However, users have also pointed out areas such as display resolution and its suitability for high-performance tasks. These scores reflect both the strengths and weaknesses of this laptop as expressed by global users in various languages and markets.

Portability & Design
92%
Users consistently praise this laptop's ultra-thin profile and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around during daily commutes or travel. The sleek aluminum finish also adds a premium feel, contributing to its overall high-end look. Whether for work or leisure, its portability is a standout feature for many buyers.
A few users have mentioned that the laptop's compact design comes with some trade-offs in terms of port availability and upgradeability. While the lightweight build is ideal for carrying, some feel that it sacrifices a bit of robustness compared to heavier, more rugged devices.
Battery Life
88%
The laptop’s battery life impresses many users, especially for long workdays or travel. With up to 14.5 hours of video playback, it handles all-day usage with ease. This extended battery life is particularly appreciated by users who need to rely on their device for productivity on the go.
Some users note that actual battery life can vary depending on usage and settings, especially with heavier tasks like video editing or gaming. While the 14.5-hour estimate holds up well for light tasks, it's not as long-lasting under more demanding conditions.
Keyboard Comfort
91%
The Alcantara fabric-covered keyboard is widely praised for its comfort and softness, which enhances the typing experience. Many users find it ideal for long typing sessions, providing a satisfying tactile feel. The smooth texture also makes it more enjoyable to use compared to traditional plastic keyboards.
While most users love the feel of the Alcantara keyboard, a few note that it can be prone to wear and staining over time, especially with frequent use. Some users also find that the material doesn't have the same durability as traditional plastic, leading to concerns about long-term maintenance.
Display Quality
74%
26%
The 13.5-inch display is bright and vibrant, delivering clear visuals for everyday tasks like browsing, watching videos, and working on documents. The size is well-suited for those who want a compact screen without compromising too much on clarity.
The 1366 x 768 resolution falls short for some users, particularly those working in fields that require high-definition visuals, such as graphic design or video editing. While fine for casual tasks, it leaves some users wishing for a sharper display, especially given the device’s premium build.
Performance for Everyday Use
85%
The 7th Gen Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM provide solid performance for most everyday tasks, such as web browsing, word processing, and light media consumption. Users report smooth multitasking, making it a reliable choice for productivity and casual use.
Although suitable for general productivity, some users find that the performance doesn't quite hold up for more intensive tasks like high-end gaming or heavy video editing. The laptop can struggle with resource-heavy applications, leading to occasional slowdowns when under load.
Build Quality
90%
The premium aluminum casing is a major plus, providing a durable yet lightweight structure. Many users report that the build feels solid, with minimal flex. This attention to quality construction makes the laptop a durable companion for everyday use, offering confidence in its longevity.
A small number of users have pointed out that, while the aluminum casing is sturdy, it can also be prone to showing fingerprints and smudges. Regular cleaning may be necessary to keep the device looking its best, which could be an inconvenience for some.
Value for Money
84%
Many users feel that this laptop strikes a good balance between price and performance. With its premium design, solid performance, and strong battery life, it offers good value for anyone seeking a high-quality, portable device for everyday tasks. It stands out in the mid-range laptop market.
However, some buyers feel that the laptop's price could be more competitive given its relatively low resolution and limited processing power for more demanding tasks. Compared to other devices with similar specs, a few users feel that the Surface Laptop's price may not always be fully justified.
Ease of Setup
87%
Users find the initial setup process quick and user-friendly. The device comes preloaded with Windows 10, making it easy to get started right out of the box. The smooth setup experience is appreciated by those who want to get up and running without any hassle.
Some users have experienced minor issues with software updates after setup, particularly with drivers or pre-installed apps. Although these problems are generally easy to resolve, they can be an inconvenience for users looking for a completely smooth out-of-the-box experience.
Software & OS Experience
80%
20%
Windows 10 provides a familiar and versatile operating system, with many users appreciating the integration of Microsoft’s ecosystem. The operating system offers solid performance and a smooth user interface for both work and entertainment.
A few users have expressed frustration with occasional glitches or slowdowns in Windows 10. Some find the pre-installed bloatware unnecessary, and the system can feel sluggish at times, especially after prolonged use or with multiple apps running simultaneously.
Port & Connectivity
78%
22%
The device provides essential connectivity options, including USB ports, a headphone jack, and a full-size SD card reader. Many users find these ports sufficient for most daily needs and appreciate the solid, reliable connections for peripherals.
However, some users have noted the limited selection of ports compared to other devices in its category. The absence of USB-C and other modern ports might be a deal-breaker for users who need faster data transfer speeds or prefer newer connections.
Heat Management & Noise
82%
18%
The laptop generally performs well in terms of heat management, with minimal fan noise during normal tasks. Even under moderate load, the system remains quiet and comfortable, making it a pleasant device for work or leisure.
Under heavier usage or intensive applications, a few users have reported that the laptop heats up and the fan becomes noticeably louder. While not overwhelming, the increase in noise can detract from the overall experience for those in quieter environments.
Long-Term Durability
85%
The robust build quality, combined with solid internal components, assures users that this laptop can withstand the rigors of daily use. Many report that the device continues to function well even after extended use, maintaining good performance over time.
Some users have concerns about long-term wear, particularly regarding the keyboard material, which may degrade or stain over time. Additionally, the laptop’s relatively fixed components mean that upgrades or repairs can be more challenging compared to other, more modular devices.

Suitable for:

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 1st Gen, 256GB Storage, 8GB RAM is ideal for students, professionals, or casual users who prioritize portability and a sleek design. Its lightweight build and long battery life make it a great option for anyone who needs a reliable device on the go, such as those commuting or traveling frequently. The laptop’s premium aluminum casing and comfortable Alcantara keyboard offer an enjoyable user experience, especially for those focused on everyday productivity tasks like browsing, word processing, or media consumption. It’s also a solid choice for those looking for a well-rounded device for light office work or academic use, where a balance of performance and portability is key.

Not suitable for:

This laptop is not well-suited for users who require higher-end performance or advanced graphics capabilities. Creative professionals, such as graphic designers or video editors, may find the 1366 x 768 screen resolution limiting, as it’s not ideal for tasks that demand sharper visuals. Additionally, those looking to run resource-heavy software or play demanding games may find the Intel Core i5 processor and integrated graphics insufficient. Given its focus on light productivity, this laptop is less suitable for power users or anyone needing high-performance specs for demanding applications or multitasking.

Specifications

  • Display: 13.5-inch LED display with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels.
  • Processor: Powered by a 7th Gen Intel Core i5 processor, offering balanced performance for everyday tasks.
  • Memory: Equipped with 8GB of RAM for efficient multitasking and smooth operation.
  • Storage: Contains 256GB SSD storage for fast boot times and quick file access.
  • Battery: Up to 14.5 hours of battery life for video playback, providing long-lasting use on a single charge.
  • Operating System: Pre-installed with Windows 10 for a user-friendly and reliable computing experience.
  • Build Material: Premium aluminum casing provides a durable yet lightweight design.
  • Keyboard: Features an Alcantara fabric-covered keyboard, known for its comfort and luxurious feel.
  • Weight: Weighs 2.76 lbs, making it lightweight and easy to carry around.
  • Portability: Ultra-thin design ideal for users on the go, balancing performance and portability.
  • Graphics: Integrated Intel HD Graphics 620 suitable for light media consumption and everyday tasks.
  • Audio: Stereo speakers with Dolby Audio Premium for an enhanced audio experience.
  • Ports: Includes 1 USB 3.0 port, 1 USB 3.1 Type-C port, and a headphone jack.
  • Connectivity: Supports Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.0 for wireless connectivity.
  • Camera: Front-facing 720p HD camera suitable for video calls and conferencing.
  • Resolution: 1366 x 768 pixels display resolution, suitable for everyday use but not ideal for high-end creative work.
  • Warranty: Comes with a standard one-year manufacturer warranty.
  • Dimensions: Measures 12.1 x 8.8 x 0.6 inches (307 x 223 x 14.48 mm), compact and easy to carry.
  • Touchscreen: 13.5-inch display features a touchscreen for intuitive navigation and interaction.

FAQ

This laptop offers a sleek, ultra-thin design, a 13.5″ LED display with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels, and is powered by a 7th Gen Intel Core i5 processor with 8GB of RAM and 256GB SSD storage. It's built with a premium aluminum casing and features an Alcantara fabric-covered keyboard for comfort.

The battery life on this laptop can last up to 14.5 hours during video playback, which is great for all-day use without needing to recharge, making it ideal for travel or long work sessions.

No, this device is not designed for gaming. It has integrated graphics, which are fine for light tasks like web browsing and office work, but it's not powerful enough to handle graphic-intensive games.

No, the RAM and storage in this laptop are not upgradeable. The 8GB of RAM and 256GB SSD are built into the device, so it's important to choose the right configuration at the time of purchase.

For everyday tasks like browsing, word processing, and media consumption, the 1366 x 768 resolution is adequate. However, for detailed work like photo editing or graphic design, it might feel limiting due to the lower resolution.

The laptop features a soft Alcantara fabric-covered keyboard, which many users find comfortable and pleasant to type on, especially during extended typing sessions.

Weighing only 2.76 lbs and having a slim profile, this laptop is highly portable and easy to carry around. It's well-suited for students and professionals who need a device for on-the-go productivity.

While the laptop can handle light productivity tasks like word processing and web browsing, its moderate screen resolution and integrated graphics make it less ideal for professional video editing or high-end creative work.

Yes, the laptop features a premium aluminum casing that provides a durable, high-end feel. It should hold up well for everyday use, but it's still advisable to handle it with care due to its slim design.

The Surface Laptop 1st Gen comes pre-installed with Windows 10, offering a full Windows experience for work, entertainment, and productivity.