Surface Pro 4 vs Surface Pro 7: Which Should You Buy?
Struggling to decide between two titans in the 2-in-1 world? You’re not alone. The Microsoft Surface Pro lineup has consistently set the bar for portable productivity, but choosing the right one can be tricky. This comparison dives deep to help you make the best decision.
We’re putting the Surface Pro 4 and the Surface Pro 7 head-to-head to see which tablet reigns supreme. From performance and display quality to battery life and features, we’ll break down everything you need to know. Get ready to discover which Surface Pro model is the perfect fit for your needs and budget.
Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply someone who enjoys on-the-go computing, this comparison will provide valuable insights. We’ll explore the key differences and similarities between the Surface Pro 4 and the Surface Pro 7, ensuring you’re well-equipped to make an informed choice.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Surface Pro 4 | Surface Pro 7 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | October 2015 | October 2019 |
| Processor | 6th Gen Intel Core m3/i5/i7 | 10th Gen Intel Core i3/i5/i7 |
| RAM | 4GB, 8GB, 16GB | 4GB, 8GB, 16GB |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| Display | 12.3-inch PixelSense Display | 12.3-inch PixelSense Display |
| Resolution | 2736 x 1824 | 2736 x 1824 |
| Graphics | Intel HD Graphics 520 / Intel Iris Graphics | Intel Iris Plus Graphics / Intel UHD Graphics |
| Ports | Mini DisplayPort, USB 3.0, microSD card reader, Surface Connect, Headphone Jack | USB-C, USB-A, Surface Connect, Headphone Jack |
| Battery Life (Typical) | Up to 9 hours | Up to 10.5 hours |
| Weight | Starting at 1.73 lbs (786 g) | Starting at 1.70 lbs (770 g) |
| Operating System | Windows 10 Pro | Windows 10 Home |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor
- Surface Pro 4: Equipped with Intel Core m3, i5, or i7 processors of the 6th generation (Skylake). Offers decent performance for everyday tasks, but can struggle with more demanding applications. It can experience thermal throttling under heavy loads.
- Surface Pro 7: Features Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 processors of the 10th generation (Ice Lake). Provides a significant performance boost over the Surface Pro 4, handling more intensive tasks with greater efficiency. Offers improved graphics performance.
- Winner: Surface Pro 7
Display
- Surface Pro 4: Boasts a 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824 pixels. Offers vibrant colors and good viewing angles, but the bezels are relatively thick by modern standards.
- Surface Pro 7: Also has a 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a 2736 x 1824 resolution. Maintains the excellent display quality of its predecessor while the bezels remain unchanged.
- Winner: Tie
RAM and Storage
- Surface Pro 4: Available with 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB of RAM and SSD storage options ranging from 128GB to 1TB. RAM configurations can be limiting for multitasking.
- Surface Pro 7: Offers 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB of RAM and SSD storage options from 128GB to 1TB. Provides more modern RAM and storage options to increase performance.
- Winner: Surface Pro 7
Ports
- Surface Pro 4: Includes a Mini DisplayPort, a USB 3.0 port, a Surface Connect port, and a headphone jack. Lacks a USB-C port, limiting connectivity options.
- Surface Pro 7: Features a USB-C port, a USB 3.0 port, a Surface Connect port, and a headphone jack. The addition of USB-C enhances versatility.
- Winner: Surface Pro 7
Battery Life
- Surface Pro 4: Battery life is generally around 6-7 hours of typical usage. Battery life can be shorter when running demanding applications.
- Surface Pro 7: Offers improved battery life, typically lasting around 10-11 hours under normal use. Provides a significant advantage for on-the-go productivity.
- Winner: Surface Pro 7
Design
- Surface Pro 4: Features a sleek and lightweight design, similar to the Surface Pro 3. The design is dated, but still stylish.
- Surface Pro 7: Maintains a similar design aesthetic to the Surface Pro 4, with minor refinements. It is slightly heavier than the Surface Pro 4.
- Winner: Tie
Connectivity
- Surface Pro 4: Supports Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.0. Connectivity options are standard for its time.
- Surface Pro 7: Supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. Offers faster and more reliable wireless connectivity.
- Winner: Surface Pro 7
Price
- Surface Pro 4: Typically available at lower prices on the used market, making it an affordable option. The lower price reflects its age and performance.
- Surface Pro 7: Generally more expensive than the Surface Pro 4, reflecting its newer technology and improved performance.
- Winner: Surface Pro 4 (for budget)
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | Surface Pro 7 |
| Port Selection | Surface Pro 7 |
| Battery Life | Surface Pro 7 |
| Value | Surface Pro 4 |
| Overall | Surface Pro 7 |
What They Have in Common:
- Display: Both devices share the same 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a 2736 x 1824 resolution, providing a sharp and vibrant visual experience. This ensures a consistent display quality across both models, ideal for productivity and entertainment.
- Design: Both the Surface Pro 4 and Surface Pro 7 retain the iconic Surface Pro design, featuring a built-in kickstand and compatibility with Surface accessories like the Type Cover and Surface Pen. This allows users to easily transform the tablet into a laptop-like experience.
- Portability: Both devices are designed to be highly portable, making them ideal for users who need a device they can easily carry around. They are both lightweight and compact, perfect for travel or working on the go.
- Surface Connect: Both Surface models utilize the Surface Connect port for charging and connecting to the Surface Dock, offering a convenient way to expand connectivity options. This allows users to connect to external displays and other accessories.
- Type Cover Compatibility: Both devices support the Surface Type Cover, transforming them into a laptop-like experience. This is a crucial feature for users who prefer typing on a physical keyboard.
Surface Pro 4 vs Surface Pro 7 Buying Guide
Performance & Processing Power
The Surface Pro 7 significantly outperforms the Surface Pro 4 in terms of processing power. The Pro 7 boasts Intel’s 10th generation Core processors, offering substantial gains in speed and responsiveness compared to the Pro 4’s 6th generation chips. This translates to faster boot times, smoother multitasking, and improved performance in demanding applications. The Pro 7’s architecture enables it to handle complex tasks with greater efficiency and less lag, making it a better choice for users requiring strong processing capabilities.
Display & Visuals
While both devices share a similar PixelSense display technology, the Surface Pro 7 has a slightly improved screen. The Pro 7 offers a brighter display and better color accuracy than the Pro 4. The visual experience is enhanced due to these improvements, providing a more vibrant and immersive experience for content consumption and creative work. The difference is subtle but noticeable in side-by-side comparisons, impacting overall user satisfaction.
Battery Life & Portability
The Surface Pro 7 has a noticeable advantage in battery life. The Pro 7 can last several hours longer on a single charge than the Pro 4. This means less time tethered to a power outlet and more freedom to work or play on the go. Both devices maintain a very portable form factor, but the extended battery life of the Pro 7 makes it a more practical choice for users who prioritize mobility and on-the-go productivity.
Design & Build Quality
Both devices feature a similar design aesthetic with the Surface Pro 7 offering a refinement. The Pro 7 has a more modern look, with slightly rounded edges. The build quality on both is high, with durable materials used throughout. Both feel premium. The Pro 7’s design is slightly more refined, and small improvements contribute to a more modern and premium feel. It is a slight upgrade.
Connectivity & Ports
The Surface Pro 7 surpasses the Surface Pro 4 in connectivity. The Pro 7 features a USB-C port, a significant upgrade over the Pro 4’s Mini DisplayPort. USB-C offers faster data transfer speeds and broader compatibility with modern peripherals. While both have a Surface Connect port, the inclusion of USB-C makes the Pro 7 more versatile and future-proof in terms of connecting to external devices and accessories.
Price & Value
Considering their respective ages, the Surface Pro 7 generally offers a better value. The Pro 7, despite being the newer device, often available at competitive prices, especially in the used market. The Pro 4, while still functional, may be overpriced if the price is close to a used Pro 7. The Pro 7 gives better performance and features for the current market. The value proposition favors the newer device.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Surface Pro 4 If…
- You’re on a tight budget and want a Surface Pro experience at a lower price.
- You primarily need a device for basic tasks like web browsing, email, and document editing.
- You don’t need the latest processing power and are comfortable with older hardware.
- You already own Surface accessories and want to upgrade without replacing them all.
Buy Surface Pro 7 If…
- You want the latest performance with a newer processor and faster graphics.
- You need a device with a USB-C port for modern connectivity.
- You value slightly improved battery life and Wi-Fi performance.
- You want the latest features and are willing to pay a premium for them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference in processing power?
The Surface Pro 7 utilizes Intel’s 10th generation Core processors, offering a significant performance boost over the Surface Pro 4’s 6th generation chips. This translates to faster speeds, smoother multitasking, and better handling of demanding applications. The Pro 7 is better equipped for complex tasks.
How does the display quality compare between the two?
The Surface Pro 7 features a slightly improved display with better brightness and color accuracy compared to the Surface Pro 4. This results in a more vibrant and immersive visual experience. While the differences are subtle, the Pro 7’s screen offers a more enjoyable viewing experience, especially for media consumption.
Which device offers better battery life?
The Surface Pro 7 provides significantly improved battery life compared to the Surface Pro 4. The Pro 7 can last several hours longer on a single charge, making it a more practical choice for users who need extended use without access to a power outlet. This makes a big difference.
What are the key differences in connectivity options?
The Surface Pro 7 includes a USB-C port, which is a major upgrade over the Surface Pro 4’s Mini DisplayPort. USB-C offers faster data transfer speeds and wider compatibility with modern accessories. The Surface Pro 7 is more versatile in terms of connecting to external devices and future-proof.
Are there any significant design differences?
While both devices share a similar design language, the Surface Pro 7 has a more refined look with slightly rounded edges. The build quality remains high for both, but the Pro 7 offers a more modern aesthetic. It’s a subtle but noticeable update that enhances the overall premium feel of the device.
Which device is better for portability?
Both devices are highly portable, but the Surface Pro 7’s extended battery life makes it a more practical choice for on-the-go use. The lighter weight and compact size of both devices are almost identical. Pro 7’s battery life is the main advantage for portability.
Which device offers better value?
Considering the performance and features offered, the Surface Pro 7 generally provides a better value. Although the Pro 7 is the newer device, it can be found at competitive prices, particularly in the used or refurbished market. The improved performance, features, and connectivity of the Pro 7 contribute to a better overall value proposition.
Final Verdict
The Surface Pro 7 emerges as the superior choice due to its enhanced performance, improved display, extended battery life, and more modern connectivity options. While the Surface Pro 4 remains a functional device, the advancements offered by the Pro 7 make it a more capable and versatile tablet for most users. The improved processing power is the most important factor.
Winner: Surface Pro 7