14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft hasn’t yet launched its low-cost Surface model, but with the unveiling expected later this year, we already know pretty much everything about it.
A new benchmark, however, provides us with a closer look into how the more affordable Surface would compete against a more powerful rival like Apple’s 2017 MacBook. While the comparison isn’t exactly the most appropriate given the two devices have different purposes, it does show that the new Surface wouldn’t be very far behind the MacBook despite the low-cost hardware.
Microsoft won't equip its new product with Intel Core i5 or i7 processors but is more likely to use underpowered Pentium chipsets, such as the 4415Y unit shown in this benchmark. This particular processor runs at 1.60 GHz, has 2 cores and 4 threads.
For comparison, the 2017 MacBook features an Intel Core i5-7Y53 chip clocked at 1.30 GHz, but obviously more powerful given its architecture.
10-inch screen, 4GB RAM
By the looks of things, Microsoft will pair the chipsets with 4GB RAM, while Apple uses 8GB RAM on the MacBook. With a score of 17647 in the benchmark, the MacBook is obviously the more powerful option versus the Surface with 15992 points, though the price difference between the two is obviously huge.
Microsoft’s new Surface is expected to carry a price tag of approximately $400 and be particularly aimed at students and teachers. A new range of accessories is prepared as well, including keyboards that would allow the tablet to become a laptop on the go, just like the Surface Pro.
With a 10-inch screen, the low-cost Surface would score extra in terms of portability, and it’s believed the Redmond-based software giant would also launch LTE versions for on-the-go Internet access. The device is most likely projected to go live in the fall, just ahead of the back-to-school season when a model specifically targeting students makes sense.