The Microsoft Surface Laptop 1st Gen isn’t just another piece of tech; it marks a pivotal moment in Microsoft’s journey into premium laptops. With its sleek design and lightweight build, it’s clear that Microsoft aimed to create a device that could easily compete with Apple’s MacBook series. Its combination of style and substance makes it a notable choice for anyone in the market for a high-performing, yet elegant laptop.
One of the standout features of this device is the Alcantara keyboard. Not only does it add a touch of luxury, but it also improves the overall typing experience. The 13.5-inch touchscreen display is crisp and responsive, making everyday tasks feel smooth and effortless. Packed with an Intel Core i7 processor and up to 16 GB of RAM, it provides the power to handle most demanding tasks without breaking a sweat.
We also can’t overlook the all-day battery life. Imagine working on-the-go without constantly searching for an outlet. That’s what Microsoft promises, and from our experience, it delivers. Whether you’re writing reports, streaming videos, or browsing the web, this laptop keeps ticking. Let’s dive deeper into what makes the Surface Laptop 1st Gen such a compelling choice.
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Microsoft Surface Laptop (1st Gen) Overview
The Microsoft Surface Laptop (1st Gen) is a sleek and powerful device. It was designed to compete directly with Apple’s MacBook line. Unveiled on May 2, 2017, it catches the eye with its stylish design and impressive specs.
We love the 13.5-inch PixelSense touchscreen which offers a QHD resolution of 2256 x 1504. This gives us crisp and clear visuals. The 3:2 aspect ratio is great for productivity, providing more vertical space for reading and editing documents.
Here’s a quick look at the key specs:
| Processor | Memory | Storage |
| Intel Core m3/i5/i7 | Up to 16 GB | Up to 1 TB SSD |
The laptop initially ships with Windows 10 S, a streamlined version for better security and performance. We can switch to full Windows 10 at no extra cost, but once switched, there’s no going back to S mode.
One of the most notable features is its all-day battery life. In our experience, it easily lasts us through a full workday, making it a great companion for meetings and travel.
The Surface Laptop (1st Gen) comes in different colors, but the Platinum version is the standard. The Alcantara fabric-covered keyboard feels comfortable and luxurious.
Overall, the Microsoft Surface Laptop (1st Gen) integrates style, performance, and portability, making it a standout in the market.
Key Features Of Microsoft Surface Laptop (1st Gen)
The Microsoft Surface Laptop (1st Gen) is a sleek device packed with useful features. Let’s dive into its key aspects.
| Component | Details |
| Display | 13.5-inch PixelSense touch display (2256 x 1504) with 3:2 aspect ratio |
| Processor | Intel Core m3-7Y30, Core i5, Core i7-7660U (Kaby Lake) |
| RAM | 4GB, 8GB, 16GB LPDDR3 RAM |
| Storage | SSD options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| Graphics | Intel HD Graphics 615 (m3), Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 |
We love that the laptop comes with Windows 10 S for a streamlined experience and enhanced security. You can switch to Windows 10 Pro if you need more flexibility.
It also boasts impressive battery life lasting up to 14.5 hours which is great for students and professionals.
For connectivity:
- Wi-Fi: 802.11ac Wi-Fi
- Bluetooth: Bluetooth 4.0
- Ports: USB 3.0, Mini DisplayPort, 3.5mm headset jack
Additional features include a webcam, microphones, and an ambient light sensor for adaptive brightness.
We appreciate the comfortable keyboard and responsive touchscreen. The Surface Pen support is a nice touch as well.
Do you remember how difficult it used to be carrying heavy laptops? The Surface Laptop (1st Gen) is lightweight, making it perfect for on-the-go use.
Design And Build Quality
The first-generation Microsoft Surface Laptop has an elegant design and sturdy build quality that stands out. It’s crafted with top-notch materials and is remarkably portable, making it ideal for use on the go.
Materials And Durability
We can’t help but admire the premium materials used in the Surface Laptop. The sleek aluminum chassis gives it a modern and stylish look. Available in colors like platinum, graphite gold, burgundy, and cobalt blue, it caters to different tastes. The laptop features an Alcantara fabric keyboard deck, which adds a touch of luxury and is pleasant to the touch.
The durability is evident in its feel. It can withstand daily use without showing significant wear and tear. Unlike some competitors, the fabric resists stains and spills quite well. Simply put, it feels built to last.
Portability And Weight
At just under 3 pounds, the Surface Laptop is feather-light. It’s great for slipping into a backpack or carrying around the office. Its compact dimensions make it easy to handle, even on crowded trains or in small coffee shops.
The thin profile doesn’t compromise the device’s robustness. It strikes a balance between slim design and solid build, which is ideal for students and professionals alike. In short, it’s portable without sacrificing quality.
| Material | Finish | Weight |
| Aluminum & Alcantara | Sleek Colors | 2.76 lbs |
The balance between aesthetic appeal and practical use in the Surface Laptop is remarkable. It’s designed for those who value both style and function.
Display Quality
The Microsoft Surface Laptop (1st Gen) is renowned for its outstanding display. It offers high-resolution clarity and excellent touchscreen capabilities.
Resolution And Clarity
The Surface Laptop’s 13.5-inch PixelSense display is a real showstopper. With a QHD resolution of 2256 x 1504, every detail pops with clarity. This resolution ensures that text looks sharp and images are beautifully detailed.
We appreciate the 3:2 aspect ratio; it’s perfect for browsing and document editing. Compared to the standard 16:9 aspect ratio, we get more vertical space, which means less scrolling.
| Feature | Specification |
| Resolution | 2256 x 1504 (QHD) |
| Aspect Ratio | 3:2 |
| Display Size | 13.5 inches |
Colors on this screen are crisp and vibrant. Whether we’re watching videos or editing photos, the quality remains consistently remarkable.
Touchscreen Functionality
Touchscreen functionality is another strength of the Surface Laptop. It responds swiftly to our taps and swipes. This responsiveness makes navigating through apps and websites a breeze.
Using the Surface Pen? It’s like butter on hot toast—smooth and precise. Drawing or note-taking feels natural, almost like writing on paper. There’s little to no lag, which is crucial for creativity and productivity.
We also enjoy the multi-touch feature. Pinching to zoom, scrolling with two fingers, or rotating images has never been more enjoyable. The touchscreen’s high sensitivity ensures that even the lightest touch is registered accurately.
In short, the touch experience on this device is top-notch, making it one of the most versatile laptops in its range.