The Microsoft Surface Book 1, released in 2015, was a groundbreaking device that combined the power of a laptop with the versatility of a tablet. As technology has advanced, many have wondered if this pioneering 2-in-1 laptop is still worth considering. In this article, we’ll delve into the Surface Book 1’s features, performance, and value to help you decide if it’s still a good choice for your needs.
Design and Display
The Surface Book 1 boasts a sleek and sturdy design, with a magnesium alloy body that exudes premium quality. The device’s hinge, although sometimes criticized for being bulky, allows for a smooth transition between laptop and tablet modes. The 13.5-inch PixelSense touchscreen display is still impressive, with a resolution of 3000 x 2000 pixels and a 3:2 aspect ratio that’s ideal for productivity and creativity.
Display Quality
The Surface Book 1’s display is still one of its strongest features. With a high pixel density and excellent color accuracy, it’s perfect for:
- Watching movies and TV shows
- Browsing the web and social media
- Working with graphics and design software
- Reading e-books and documents
The display’s 3:2 aspect ratio also provides more vertical screen real estate, making it easier to work with multiple windows and apps.
Performance
The Surface Book 1’s performance is still respectable, although it may not match the latest devices. The base model comes with a 5th-generation Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 128GB SSD. The top-of-the-line model features a 6th-generation Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD.
Benchmark Scores
Here are some benchmark scores to give you an idea of the Surface Book 1’s performance:
| Benchmark | Score |
| — | — |
| Geekbench 4 (Single-Core) | 3,500 |
| Geekbench 4 (Multi-Core) | 7,000 |
| Cinebench R15 (CPU) | 300 |
| 3DMark Time Spy | 400 |
While these scores are not impressive compared to modern devices, they still indicate that the Surface Book 1 can handle everyday tasks, such as:
- Web browsing
- Office work
- Streaming media
- Casual gaming
Graphics and Gaming
The Surface Book 1’s graphics capabilities are limited, with Intel HD Graphics 520 or NVIDIA GeForce GPU (in the top model). While it’s not suitable for demanding games, it can still handle:
- Casual games like Minecraft, League of Legends, and Overwatch
- Less demanding games like World of Warcraft, Dota 2, and Team Fortress 2
- Graphics-intensive apps like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator
Gaming Performance
Here are some gaming benchmark scores to give you an idea of the Surface Book 1’s gaming performance:
| Game | Frame Rate (FPS) |
| — | — |
| Minecraft | 60-80 |
| League of Legends | 40-60 |
| Overwatch | 30-50 |
| World of Warcraft | 30-50 |
While the Surface Book 1 can handle some games, it’s essential to adjust the graphics settings to achieve smooth performance.
Battery Life
The Surface Book 1’s battery life is still impressive, with up to 12 hours of video playback and 10 hours of web browsing. However, actual battery life may vary depending on your usage patterns and settings.
Battery Life Comparison
Here’s a comparison of the Surface Book 1’s battery life with some modern devices:
| Device | Battery Life (Hours) |
| — | — |
| Surface Book 1 | 10-12 |
| Surface Laptop 3 | 11-13 |
| MacBook Air | 12-13 |
| Dell XPS 13 | 12-14 |
While the Surface Book 1’s battery life is not the longest, it’s still competitive with modern devices.
Software and Security
The Surface Book 1 comes with Windows 10, which provides a secure and feature-rich operating system. Microsoft has also committed to supporting Windows 10 until 2025, ensuring that you’ll receive security updates and patches for the foreseeable future.
Software Updates
Microsoft has been consistent in releasing software updates for the Surface Book 1, including:
- Security patches and updates
- Feature updates and improvements
- Driver updates for hardware components
While the Surface Book 1 may not receive the latest features and updates, it’s still a secure and reliable device.
Value and Conclusion
The Surface Book 1 is still a good device, but its value depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a powerful laptop with a great display, the Surface Book 1 may not be the best choice. However, if you want a versatile 2-in-1 device with a premium design and decent performance, the Surface Book 1 is still worth considering.
Pros and Cons
Here are some pros and cons to help you decide:
Pros:
- Premium design and build quality
- Excellent display with high pixel density and color accuracy
- Decent performance for everyday tasks
- Long battery life
- Secure and feature-rich operating system
Cons:
- Limited graphics capabilities
- Not suitable for demanding games or applications
- May not receive the latest software updates and features
- No longer the most powerful or efficient device
In conclusion, the Surface Book 1 is still a good device, but its value depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a versatile 2-in-1 device with a premium design and decent performance, the Surface Book 1 is still worth considering. However, if you need a powerful laptop with the latest features and updates, you may want to consider a more modern device.
Is the Surface Book 1 still a good laptop in terms of performance?
The Surface Book 1 is still a capable laptop, but its performance may not be on par with newer models. It features 6th and 7th Gen Intel Core processors, which were top-of-the-line at the time of its release. However, these processors are now several generations old, and more demanding tasks may push the laptop to its limits. If you plan to use the Surface Book 1 for general productivity, web browsing, and streaming, it should still perform well.
However, if you need a laptop for more resource-intensive tasks like video editing, 3D modeling, or gaming, you may want to consider a newer model. The Surface Book 1’s performance can also be impacted by its storage, with the base model featuring a slower 128GB SSD. Upgrading to a faster SSD or adding more RAM can help improve performance, but it’s essential to weigh the cost of upgrades against the price of a newer laptop.
How does the Surface Book 1’s battery life hold up today?
The Surface Book 1’s battery life was impressive when it was first released, with Microsoft claiming up to 12 hours of usage. While battery life may have degraded slightly over time, the Surface Book 1 still offers respectable battery life. With moderate usage, you can expect around 8-10 hours of battery life, making it suitable for a full day of work or school.
However, if you plan to use the Surface Book 1 for more demanding tasks or keep the screen brightness high, battery life may be shorter. It’s also worth noting that the battery is not user-replaceable, so you’ll need to rely on Microsoft’s battery replacement program or a professional repair service if the battery needs to be replaced. Overall, the Surface Book 1’s battery life is still decent, but it may not be as long-lasting as newer laptops.
Is the Surface Book 1’s display still good for creative work and entertainment?
The Surface Book 1 features a stunning PixelSense display with a high resolution of 3000 x 2000 pixels. The screen is still excellent for creative work, offering good color accuracy and a wide color gamut. The display is also suitable for entertainment, with good brightness and a high contrast ratio. However, it’s worth noting that the screen is not as bright as some newer laptops, which may be a concern if you plan to use it outdoors.
Additionally, the Surface Book 1’s display is not HDR-capable, which may be a drawback for some users. However, for most creative work and entertainment purposes, the display is still more than adequate. If you’re a professional creative, you may want to consider a newer laptop with a more advanced display, but for casual users, the Surface Book 1’s screen is still excellent.
Can I still get software updates and support for the Surface Book 1?
Microsoft has committed to providing software updates and support for the Surface Book 1 until 2024. This means that you can still expect to receive security updates, bug fixes, and feature updates for Windows 10. However, it’s essential to note that the Surface Book 1 will not be eligible for Windows 11, so you’ll need to stick with Windows 10.
Additionally, Microsoft’s hardware support for the Surface Book 1 has ended, which means that you’ll need to rely on third-party repair services or Microsoft’s paid support options if you encounter any hardware issues. While software support is still available, it’s crucial to weigh the risks and benefits of continuing to use a laptop that’s no longer fully supported by the manufacturer.
Is the Surface Book 1 still a good value for its price?
The Surface Book 1’s price has decreased significantly since its release, making it a more attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. You can now find refurbished or used Surface Book 1 models at a fraction of the original price. However, it’s essential to consider the laptop’s age and the fact that it’s no longer fully supported by Microsoft.
If you can find a good deal on a Surface Book 1, it may still be a good value for its price. However, it’s crucial to weigh the cost against the benefits of a newer laptop with more advanced features, better performance, and longer support. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option and don’t mind an older laptop, the Surface Book 1 may still be a good choice.
Can I upgrade the Surface Book 1’s hardware to improve its performance?
The Surface Book 1’s hardware can be upgraded to some extent. You can add more RAM or replace the SSD with a faster model. However, the laptop’s processor and graphics card are soldered to the motherboard, making them impossible to upgrade. Additionally, the Surface Book 1’s design makes it difficult to access the internal components, so upgrades may require professional assistance.
While upgrading the Surface Book 1’s hardware can improve its performance, it’s essential to consider the cost and feasibility of upgrades. In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to purchase a newer laptop with more advanced hardware. If you’re comfortable with DIY upgrades or can find a good deal on a refurbished model, upgrading the Surface Book 1’s hardware may be a viable option.
Should I consider buying a refurbished or used Surface Book 1 instead of a new laptop?
Buying a refurbished or used Surface Book 1 can be a cost-effective option, but it’s essential to exercise caution. Make sure to purchase from a reputable seller, and check the laptop’s condition and warranty before making a purchase. Refurbished models may still be eligible for Microsoft’s warranty, but used models usually are not.
Additionally, consider the Surface Book 1’s age and the fact that it’s no longer fully supported by Microsoft. While a refurbished or used Surface Book 1 can still be a good option for general productivity and web browsing, it may not be the best choice for more demanding tasks or users who require the latest features and security updates. Weigh the cost savings against the potential risks and benefits before making a decision.