However, I’m disappointed Microsoft only offers the Alcantara fabric with the platinum color (and on the smaller laptop, no less), since it offered additional Alcantara color options on prior models as recent as the Surface Laptop 4. Microsoft offers several unusual color options for a modern laptop, as I described above, and they help the Surface Laptop 5 stand out on the shelf compared to the muted palettes from other brands. While some might worry about its durability, I’ve used an original Surface Laptop (yes, the 2017 model) for years without significant wear to the fabric. The optional Alcantara fabric interior (only available with the 13.5-inch model) is a unique design decision that adds a touch of warmth and comfort to the device. The laptop's clean, sharp lines and smooth matte metal finish give it a luxurious yet professional look that punches over its mid-range price point. The Surface Laptop 5's minimalist look is a testament to Microsoft's design prowess. The Microsoft Laptop 5 can be described as both modern and minimalistic. The 15-inch version comes in platinum or black only. The 13.5-inch version comes in the following colors: platinum, sage, black, and sandstone. The most expensive Surface Laptop 5 configuration costs $2,400 before subscriptions or accessories. There’s also a 15-inch display configuration that supports up to 32GB LPDDR5x of RAM and up to 1TB of storage, but the only processor option is the Core i7-1255U. The Surface Laptop 5’s 13.5-inch model’s most performant configuration is also rather tame, maxing out with an Intel Core i7-1255U processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB solid state drive for $1,700. Paying another $300 nets you a 512GB solid state drive instead of the base model’s 256GB drive, but the two are otherwise identical. This configuration is the step-up from the base model, which retails at an MSRP of $1,000.

Warranty: One-year manufacturer warranty.

Wired connectivity: 1x Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C, 1x USB-A 3.1, 1x 3.5mm headphone jack, 1x Surface Connect.

Wireless connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1.Display: 13.5-inch IPS LCD (2256 x 1504 resolution) 60Hz refresh rate.

Here are the specs of the laptop we tested:

Microsoft surface laptop 5