TECHNOLOGY
Microsoft's 13-inch Surface Laptop: A Confusing Mix of Old and New
USAFri Jun 27 2025
Microsoft released a new 13-inch Surface Laptop. It's not quite as good as last year's 13. 8-inch model, but it's also not a good replacement for the cheaper Surface Laptop Go. It's a bit cheaper than last year's models, but only because Microsoft removed some lower-priced options.
This laptop is okay, but it feels like a step back from last year's model. It's a decent choice if you want a basic laptop, but it's not as good as the more expensive models. The new laptop is somewhere between the older Surface Go and the newer Surface Laptop 7. It uses parts from both, but it doesn't feel like a full upgrade.
Inside, the new laptop has a smaller version of the processor used in the bigger Surface Laptops. It also has a special chip for AI tasks and 16GB of RAM. The storage options are 256GB or 512GB. Unlike the Surface Go, this laptop has enough power for most tasks.
The new laptop is smaller and lighter than the 13. 8-inch model but heavier than the Surface Go. It has a 13-inch screen with a lower resolution than the bigger model. The starting price is $899, which is less than the 13. 8-inch model but more than the Surface Go.
It's unclear where this laptop fits in Microsoft's lineup. It's not a clear upgrade over the Surface Go, and it's not as good as the bigger Surface Laptops. It's a confusing mix of old and new parts, making it hard to recommend over other options.
continue reading...
questions
What are the long-term implications of Microsoft's decision to use Arm-based processors in the 13-inch Surface Laptop?
If the 13-inch Surface Laptop is too good to be a Surface Go replacement, does that mean it's a Surface Pro in disguise?
What are the trade-offs between the 13-inch Surface Laptop and the Surface Laptop Go 3 for budget-conscious consumers?
actions
flag content