Choosing Between Intel and Snapdragon: Which Surface Device Suits You Best?

When Microsoft typically releases a new Surface device, it’s often accompanied by considerable excitement. However, today’s launch feels noticeably subdued. While the new Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7 models are now available, don’t expect a flood of unboxing videos from popular YouTubers or a slew of simultaneous reviews. The reason? These new Surface iterations are tailored specifically for business users. Designed for professionals, these devices are equipped with Intel Core Ultra 5 or Ultra 7 series processors, presented in simple packaging.

The latest Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7 models look much like their Snapdragon-enabled peers, yet they host some notable differences. Intel-powered variants boast anti-reflective screens, and the Surface Pro with Intel also includes built-in NFC, a feature that enhances its appeal to business users. Notably, the Surface Laptop 7 with Intel will introduce a 5G model, though that is slated for later release this year.

While there are other contrasts between the Intel and Snapdragon versions of the Surface device series, it’s likely that the choice of processor will be a significant determining factor for buyers. These chips represent the core reasons one might opt for an Intel versus a Snapdragon.

### Honorary Mention: Color Options

Before diving into the main considerations for selecting a Surface Laptop or Surface Pro, it’s worth noting the distinct color choices available in business versus consumer models. Intel-based Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7 units come only in platinum or black. The business-centric Surface Pro keyboards are limited to these colors, though it is possible to pair a blue Surface Pro Flex Keyboard with an Intel-based Surface Pro 11.

In contrast, the Snapdragon-equipped Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7 offer color choices like sapphire, dune, in addition to platinum and black. For aesthetic choices, the Snapdragon variety takes the lead.

### Intel vs Snapdragon: Price

Pricewise, there’s a stark contrast in the new Surface devices. Intel-based versions start at $1,499.99, and fully upgraded, a Surface Pro 11 could set you back $2,499.99, offering an Intel Core Ultra 7 (Series 2), 32GB of RAM, and a 1TB storage. The Surface Laptop 7 for Business tops out at $2,599.99.

On the flip side, the Snapdragon Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7 models begin at $999.99. Consumer models have also seen discounts, and currently, both Snapdragon Surface options are knocked down by $200 at several retailers.

Given such a price difference, if your computing needs align with what a Snapdragon device provides (which I’ll explore shortly), opting for a Snapdragon model is a financially savvy decision.

### Intel vs Snapdragon: Battery Life

We don’t yet possess benchmark data for the battery life of the Intel-based Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7. However, we know the new Snapdragon X Elite chips are recognized for efficiency compared to similar Intel Lunar Lake processors.

While all models of Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7 will likely deliver solid battery endurance, the Snapdragon-powered ones are anticipated to hold the efficiency crown.

### Intel vs Snapdragon: Performance

Performance parallels the battery life discussion. While benchmarks for Intel’s new Surface devices are not available, historical performance of Snapdragon X processors suggests they typically outperform Intel’s for multi-core tasks, especially when considering unplugged device use. The performance advantage of Snapdragon shines with native apps; however, apps running in emulation could see reduced performance, an issue tackled further down.

Despite all Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7 models likely serving well in performance, Snapdragon devices might edge forward in this category.

### Intel vs Snapdragon: App Compatibility

PCs powered by Snapdragon chips often rely on emulation for certain applications that aren’t inherently supported. This factor is significant for the business crowd who might require specific enterprise or legacy apps, hence the need for Intel-powered devices.

The library of native Windows on Arm apps continues to expand and now includes many major names. Among apps not supported natively on Snapdragon PCs, many run via Microsoft’s advanced emulation technologies like Prism, albeit with decreased efficiency compared to native apps. However, there are critical apps incompatible with Snapdragon that could sway a user to an Intel-powered device instead.

### Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7: Intel vs Snapdragon

Having the option between Intel and Snapdragon models is beneficial for consumers. Many will find the Snapdragon versions of Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7 more appealing, thanks to their affordability, efficiency, and robust performance.

Yet, for users reliant on certain applications that don’t cooperate well with Snapdragon chips, the Intel Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7 present themselves as the preferred choices.