Image: Matthew Smith / IDG
Microsoft’s Surface is the gold standard for Windows-powered laptops, so of course it was one of the first to get access to Qualcomm’s super-efficient Snapdragon processors for its latest generation. Normally priced at $1,000, today you can get a refurb version of the 13-inch base model for $599 on eBay. It’s a deep, rare discount.
$600 for an all-aluminum, sleek laptop like this is a dang good price, though I should point out that the core specs aren’t as good as some of the competition. 16GB of RAM is nice (it’s the minimum I would suggest for Windows 11 these days), but 256GB of storage is going to feel a little tight if you work with large files. The 10-core Snapdragon X Plus processor will make the battery last for a crazy amount of time, but it also means that this laptop won’t be able to handle many modern games. The IPS touchscreen is great, but some other laptops around in this price range can offer an OLED, at least when they’re on sale.
For more details, be sure to check out Matt Smith’s full review of this model — though note that the 4-star score was awarded to a higher-specced version, with a slightly faster processor and much more RAM and storage.
Like a lot of the deals on eBay lately, this is an “eBay Refurbished” laptop, which means that it’s in “like new” condition and comes with a two-year Allstate warranty. Considering that you’re saving $400 off the retail price, I’d say that’s a pretty good trade, though Microsoft is offering this model as a refurb for $720 (with a one-year warranty) if you’d prefer a more official source. If you’re looking for even more affordable laptops, check out PCWorld’s picks for the best.
Get a Surface Laptop with Snapdragon processor for $599
Author: Michael Crider, Staff Writer, PCWorld
Michael is a 10-year veteran of technology journalism, covering everything from Apple to ZTE. On PCWorld he’s the resident keyboard nut, always using a new one for a review and building a new mechanical board or expanding his desktop “battlestation” in his off hours. Michael’s previous bylines include Android Police, Digital Trends, Wired, Lifehacker, and How-To Geek, and he’s covered events like CES and Mobile World Congress live. Michael lives in Pennsylvania where he’s always looking forward to his next kayaking trip.