• Microsoft has cut the price of last year's Surface Pro 12-inch and Surface Laptop 13-inch models
• The freshly introduced entry-level models have 8GB of RAM and provide some relief from recent major price hikes
• This isn't a compromise that some people are happy about, and they're arguing that 8GB isn't enough for a laptop these days

Microsoft has given us some more affordable Surface devices, models that are back under a grand in the US due to price cuts – but there's a catch, and that's the compromise made to achieve this pricing.

Windows Central reports that Microsoft's chosen tactic here is to push out new variants of the Surface Pro 12-inch and Surface Laptop 13-inch from last year with just 8GB of RAM to cut the cost. Previously, the baseline models had 16GB of system memory.

These new 8GB versions are priced at $849 for the Surface Pro and $949 in the case of the Surface Laptop on the Microsoft store in the US.

Note that there aren't fresh 8GB models for the recently introduced new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, which remain with a 16GB loadout at the entry-level.

The new prices for last year's models follow major price hikes for those devices in April 2026. The Surface Pro 12-inch (with 16GB of RAM) was jacked up to $1,049 in the US, whereas previously it started at $799. And the Surface Laptop 13-inch rose to $1,149 versus the original base MSRP of $899.

Analysis: A Neo approach some are questioning

While the new prices are a fair old drop down from the painful hikes that happened a couple of months back, Microsoft has sacrificed half the system RAM to get that reduction. This means these Surface devices are no longer Copilot+ PCs with exclusive AI features, as 16GB of RAM is required for that (although not everyone will miss these AI trimmings).

What else is a bit of a downer here is that the new low prices for half the RAM loadout are still $50 more than the original MSRPs for these Surface products back at launch, when they packed 16GB of RAM.

The other potential aggravation for would-be buyers here is the worry over whether 8GB of RAM is enough these days, a concern that looms ever larger. I've written about this in the recent past, and while yes, you can get by on 8GB for everyday computing duties, I am worried about how future-proofing is going to pan out for Windows 11 laptops (or indeed MacBooks, by which I mean the Neo with 8GB).

Okay, granted, Microsoft is working to make Windows 11 more performant in general, and to ensure the OS is happier with a low allocation of RAM like 8GB — and it is low these days, if you were in any doubt — but what about in five years? I don't know about you, but I expect my laptop to last half a decade, if not longer, and a non-upgradable 8GB is, I fear, going to feel wonky before too long.

Still, I take the point that the option for a more affordable Surface is good to have, and more choice is good — plus that 8GB may remain tenable for longer than you expect if you're sticking to basic computing tasks.

As Windows Central's Zac Bowden points out on X: "Microsoft tells me that it's working behind the scenes to optimize Windows 11 to run better on 8GB RAM, and these devices will be more than capable enough for day-to-day productivity workflows, internet browsing, and media consumption tasks."

Other people are a lot more doubtful, though, as you can see in the replies on that thread, which range from: "8GB of RAM in Windows isn't going to run well regardless of optimizations. You can't stop modern software bloat" to the far more blunt: "8GB RAM in 2026 is a scam."

• Microsoft has launched new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop devices
• They are built around the Snapdragon X2 processor
• The OLED screen is back for the Surface Pro, but prices are steep, even at the entry-level

Microsoft has revealed new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop devices powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon X2 processor.

There's a new Surface Pro 13-inch, alongside fresh Surface Laptop 13.8-inch and 15-inch models, all of which pack the Arm-based Snapdragon X2, with a choice of the X2 Plus (10-core) and X2 Elite (12-core) CPUs.

These consumer devices follow the launch of versions of the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop targeted at businesses which were unveiled a month ago.

The new Surface Laptop offers what Microsoft claims is up to 58% faster graphics performance than the previous generation of its notebook.

The company also tells us to expect up to 20 hours of battery life with the more compact 13.8-inch model, and up to 19 hours with the 15-inch laptop (with local video playback).

The Surface Laptop is available from today in platinum, black, and dune colorways, with the 13.8-inch offering a new color: jade. The device starts at $1,599 in the US (around £1,190 / AU$2,260) for the 13.8-inch model with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage.

Pricing elsewhere is yet to be announced — although outside of the US, it's worth noting that the entry-level storage will start at 256GB for the 13.8-inch device.

As for the Surface Pro 13-inch, it's a very similar bump in graphics performance courtesy of the Snapdragon X2 processor, with a claimed 53% leap over its predecessor. You get up to 15.5 hours of battery life here based on Microsoft's internal testing (again for local video playback).

The new Surface Pro 13-inch is available from now in platinum, black, and dune colors, with this hybrid starting at $1,149 / £950 / AU$1,999 for the configuration with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage.

Other than the major move in upgrading the Snapdragon chips, there's one other notable change to the core specs here, namely that Microsoft has brought back an OLED option for the Surface Pro (so you can choose that as an option, or the basic LCD screen).

The OLED gives you vivid colors and deep blacks, as you'd expect, and a better level of HDR peak luminance, boasting 900 nits of brightness versus 600 nits for the LCD.

Analysis: Snappier but not happier?

While the upgrades to the Snapdragon X2 chips are very welcome in terms of the additional performance for these Surface machines, the price tags are eye-watering — certainly if you compare them to the previous generation of these respective devices. If you recall, the previous Surface Laptop 13-inch started at not far off half the price tag we see here ($900 in the US, versus $1,599 now).

However, we knew this was coming because not so long ago, Microsoft announced some big price increases across the whole Surface range (and rumors insisted these would be applied to these new consumer offerings, which only made sense).

So, there's no surprise in seeing such major increases, but they remain disappointingly hefty compared to the hikes seen elsewhere from other laptop makers.

The Surface Laptop starting at $1,599 / £1,449 / AU$2,799 isn't easy to stomach, frankly, although at least you're getting 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage for that money (as opposed to 256GB, although there will be an international version of the laptop that does drop to this level of SSD capacity).

The Surface Pro 13-inch kicking off at $1,499 / £1,399 / AU$2,699 with 256GB of storage is a real wallet worrier, too. There is, however, a sweetener of sorts for the remainder of June in the US, whereby buyers get a free Surface Pro 13-inch Keyboard bundled by Microsoft (or there's a free Surface Arc Mouse with the new Surface Laptops).

While these Microsoft devices have generally been very well-received over the past few years, that wasn't quite so much the case for TechRadar when we reviewed both new models last year — and with these prices hikes, the Surface is starting to look a dubious value proposition I'm afraid. Especially in light of Apple launching the MacBook Neo with a surprisingly affordable price tag in this RAM-starved climate.

• Rumor has it the next-gen Surface devices have been delayed by a month
• A further suggestion is that "prices are probably going to be so bad" that nobody will be able to afford them
• Big price hikes on existing Surface devices have already raised concerns that the new hardware will be really expensive

Ever since the recent leak about Microsoft's next-gen Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, there have been concerns that the devices will be too pricey, and a fresh rumor will be precious little comfort to those laboring under that fear.

It should be made clear that the hardware itself is still a rumor, but another well-known leaker believes these refreshes are inbound, but they've apparently been slightly delayed, and might be very pricey.

Notebookcheck.net spotted Roland Quandt posting on Bluesky that: "So it looks like Surface got pushed out by about a month. Wonder why that is. Shouldn't matter as the prices are probably going to be so bad, noone will be able to afford the things anyways..."

As per the most recent rumor on these Surface devices, the hardware with Intel CPUs inside was expected to arrive in the spring in the US, followed by the Snapdragon (Arm) models in the summer (from June). So, given that May is the last month of spring and what looks like the targeted launch month at this point, the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop are now coming in June instead. And that would align with a reveal at Microsoft Build 2026, early in that month.

All of this is in theory, of course, as is the info on pricing, so sprinkle seasoning liberally.

Analysis: increasingly ominous

A reply to Quandt's post on Bluesky questions whether this means Microsoft is set to launch the Arm and Intel variants of these devices at the same time now. That might be the case, and Quandt acknowledges it, though he doesn't know.

Whatever he's heard then is presumably vaguer whispers on the release schedule, and nothing concrete on how the timing between the Arm and Intel-powered versions might fall.

That prices are expected to be "so bad" that no one can afford the new Surface Laptop or Pro sounds ominous to say the least. Unfortunately, expensive next-gen devices make sense given what's happened with current-gen models recently.

Microsoft just hiked the prices of the existing Surface range significantly, with some versions getting jacked up to the tune of $500 in the US. And while I wouldn't trust early pricing from retailers – because these are placeholder guesswork, as a rule – the hints we've caught from European websites suggest price tags will be weighty indeed.

If true, that'll be a shame, as Surface products themselves tend to be good, but pricing could very much spoil the appeal if they end up being very costly. Especially if price tags are pushed to extremes, whereby MacBooks end up seeming relatively affordable.

These rumors – and the very real price hikes on existing Surface products – underscore how Microsoft is struggling with the RAM crisis and, what I can only assume, weakness in its hardware supply chain. The rumored delay in launching the new Surface Laptop and Pro would make sense in that light, too.

Apple looks much more robust in this respect, especially considering it has managed to launch a successful new budget laptop in this climate, the MacBook Neo.

It's no secret that Apple has more hardware clout than Microsoft, but the extent to which the latter seems to now be flailing is perhaps worrying. Microsoft may argue that its software is way more important than the hardware anyway – and of course, it is, and the focus is naturally that big drive to fix Windows 11 – but it's not a good look if the firm's laptop range is starting to come apart at the seams, which seems to be the suggestion from the rumor mill.

• Rumors have emerged about next-gen Surface Pro and Surface Laptop models
• They will be relatively minor upgrades, although notably an OLED option should be added to the Surface Laptop
• Intel CPUs could be deployed across both ranges, even in baseline models – but there are worries about the price tags here

Microsoft has apparently refreshed Surface Pro and Surface Laptop models due this year, some of which should be arriving soon – although a new rumor suggests any changes will be mostly minor, and there's a lot of concern around the possible price tags.

Windows Central grabbed the scoop here, with sources spilling a whole bunch of info on the new Surface portables, which will come in two flavors: one powered by Intel Core Ultra 3 (Panther Lake) processors and the other will be Arm-based, built on Qualcomm's chips.

The latter with be Snapdragon X2 Plus and X2 Elite CPUs, we're told, but there won't be a model packing the flagship Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme. Similarly, Intel's Panther Lake chips won't extend to Core Ultra 9 processors – the new Surface products will be built on Core Ultra 5 and 7 silicon.

Unusually, we're told that the Surface devices with Intel chips will come first, launching in spring in the US – which effectively means they're about to debut, possibly within the next month or so – followed by the Snapdragon models in the summer (from June to August).

As noted, don't expect major changes from Microsoft, with the design of both the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop remaining much the same as the current incarnations (although we'll get some new colors).

The most notable change will be the introduction of an OLED version for the higher-end Surface Laptop configurations, complete with a bumped-up screen resolution (and the Surface Pro will again offer OLED).

For the lower-end models of these Surface devices, seemingly the biggest move will be that Microsoft is set to offer a choice of Intel CPUs as well as Snapdragon chips, rather than reserving Intel silicon for (pricier) business-targeted models. Note that the current-gen Surface Pro and Surface Laptop for consumers exclusively run on Snapdragon CPUs (the latter is our top-rated Windows 11 laptop, incidentally).

Early retailer listings have already given us a glimpse of the memory and storage specs for these devices, which are rumored to start at 16GB and 256GB respectively, rising to 64GB and 2TB at the top-end – which sounds perfectly plausible.

Remember, add seasoning with all of this, as it's just chatter from the grapevine, albeit from a reliable source for all things Microsoft.

Analysis: pricing is an obvious concern

The upgrades on offer aren't particularly compelling, then, although it's common practice that some generations of hardware will be more of a lowkey affair (usually a new CPU and trimmings). The only sizeable move is the addition of an OLED option to the Surface Laptop range (matching the Surface Pro in that regard).

I say that, but the processor changes are important, too, and actually, the apparent decision to use Intel chips once again in consumer models is a big switch for Microsoft.

With the current generation of these Surface devices, Microsoft has championed Arm silicon for the consumer because of the huge battery life benefits from Snapdragon chips. Something recently changed on the Intel front, though, namely that Panther Lake has proven to offer eye-opening battery stamina too – and so maybe this plays into the decision here.

Perhaps more to the point, Windows Central notes that the supply of Qualcomm's Snapdragon chips is supposedly looking shaky, and that could be the reason why Microsoft is launching Intel versions of the Surface devices first, then Arm models. And that'd make sense as to why Intel silicon needs to be used across the whole range, perhaps.

There is, of course, likely to be another major difference with the next-gen Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, and that's the price. While there's no rumored price tag as such, Microsoft has just hiked the pricing across its Surface line-up in a big way, and that must surely reflect on how much the new models will cost.

With the Surface Laptop 13-inch getting a price increase of $300 on the Microsoft Store, and other models getting up to $500 jumps in their price tags – nasty indeed – the stage is fully set for more expensive hardware with the next-gen range in 2026.

There's no two ways about that really, and in the online reaction to Microsoft's move, people are already taking this as read. One Redditor's comment on the rumored incoming Surface models was: "What a boring release. And disappointed they aren't offering the high spec'd Snapdragon. For their new crazy price point, it should have been included."

That 'crazy' price point is just theoretical, of course – although we're all suitably prepared for a shock. And as noted in the replies, the likelihood is that the Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme (the mentioned 'high spec'd Snapdragon') won't be a good fit for these Surface devices due to thermals and space issues within these slim pieces of hardware.

At any rate, there's a general air of gloom around the Surface range right now, and how with the freshly hiked pricing, it's failing to compete with Apple's MacBooks – which are hardly regarded as value champion laptops themselves. Except for the new MacBook Neo, mind, and it's also notable that Microsoft doesn't intend to push out a Surface to fight the Neo on wallet-friendlier turf (yet).

That said, Microsoft hasn't had much time to react to the early popularity of the MacBook Neo, although it seems to have added some urgency to the campaign that's underway to make Windows 11 better.

• The RAM crisis has forced Microsoft to put up price tags on Surface laptops
• These hikes are across the board, with increases of up to $500 in the US
• Samsung Galaxy phones and tablets also received some hefty price increases

A fresh round of price hikes on hardware, namely Microsoft's Surface devices alongside Samsung's Galaxy smartphones and tablets, is the latest blow dealt to consumers by the RAM crisis.

Windows Central noticed that prices for Surface laptops have been hiked across the board at the Microsoft Store. Some of the worst price jumps here mean that baseline devices have been increased by an eye-watering $500 in the US.

For example, the Surface Laptop 13.8-inch started at $999 when the device first emerged in 2024, but it's now $1,499 (with 16GB of RAM — the same configuration as all these entry-level models).

If you want the 15-inch model of this notebook, you'll pay $300 more than at launch, with an outlay of $1,599 (which isn't as much of a leap, but still a nasty increase).

Turning to the Surface Pro 13-inch, that's been hiked by $500. The Surface Pro 12-inch and Surface Laptop 13-inch haven't been hit quite as hard, but are still $250 and $300 more expensive, respectively, for the entry-level configuration.

A top spec Surface Pro 13-inch with 64GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD will lighten your wallet to the tune of $3,649.

Expect equivalent hikes in other regions, no doubt, and these new prices will be coming to other retailers selling Surface products, as you might expect.

Microsoft told Windows Central: "Due to recent increases in memory and component costs, Surface is updating pricing on Microsoft.com for its current‑generation hardware portfolio. We remain committed to delivering value to customers and partners while upholding our standards for quality and innovation."

Meanwhile, Phone Arena reports some price hikes on certain models of Samsung's Galaxy smartphones and tablets, which have just quietly come into play in the US.

The Galaxy Z Flip 7 variant with 512GB of storage has been upped in price from $1,219.99 to $1,299.99, with the Galaxy S25 Edge (512GB) also getting bumped from $1,219.99 to $1,299.99. Furthermore, the Galaxy S25 FE has had a price hike from $709.99 to $749.9 (in this case for the 256GB model).

As for Samsung's tablets, price increases have been actioned for Galaxy Tab S11, Tab S10, and Tab A11 models in the US. That includes hikes of $100 to $200, or even close to $300 in some cases (the Tab S11 Ultra with 1TB is up from $1,619.99 to $1,899.99).

Analysis: Samsung worries and Apple value

At least the price rises are relatively slight with the Samsung phones, although $80 is still a bit of a sting (the S25 FE at $40 is much more palatable). Compared to what's happened with Samsung's tablets, though, and the Surface range in particular, that's relatively insignificant. Also, Microsoft's increases are across the board, whereas Samsung has only hiked a few phones here (and not the entry-level products, either, crucially).

Still, this does come off the back of other Samsung phones and tablets getting pricier earlier this month (including the Galaxy Z Fold 7). Unfortunately, all of this points to further possible price increases from Samsung down the line.

As for Microsoft, the current-gen Surface line-up is great in many ways — the Surface Laptop 13-inch is still rated as the top Windows 11 device in our best laptop roundup — but these new prices really put a dent in the appeal of the range. Microsoft's devices are now a lot more expensive overall, and they hardly majored in affordability before, either (particularly not with beefier RAM and SSD configurations).

This is particularly bad news for Microsoft right now, because it makes Apple's MacBooks look a lot more tempting in terms of the value proposition versus a Surface purchase. Apple seems to be weathering this PC component storm in a more graceful fashion so far, and with the affordable MacBook Neo already threatening the dominance of Windows laptops, it could be a dangerous time for Satya Nadella's company, both on the hardware and software fronts.

As a Redditor observed in a thread where multiple people are mulling, or have already made, a macOS defection: "Perfect timing for Microslop, a month after Apple announced the Neo. What could they have been thinking? Apple is now the value brand, lol..."

Next-gen chips are on the way, but it's hard to argue with these prices for the current generation of Microsoft Surface devices if you're shopping for a new laptop. You can pick up a well-rated Snapdragon device from as little as $599.99 right now, thanks to several big price cuts at the likes of Amazon and Best Buy.

Starting with the cheapest option, you can pick up the Microsoft Surface Pro at Best Buy for $599.99 (was $799.99).

This is the lowest-ever price for the smaller 12-inch version of the slick laptop/tablet hybrid, which also boasts a speedy and efficient Snapdragon X Plus processor, 16GB of RAM, monumental battery life and 256GB of SSD storage. Just be aware that you need to buy the keyboard cover separately.

If you want an all-in-one device, then I'd go for this Microsoft Surface Laptop at Best Buy for $849.99 (was $1,199.99). This is an excellent offer for the premium workstation that we awarded five stars in our Microsoft Surface Laptop review, as it features a top-end spec that's ideal for work, business and productivity tasks.

In this model, you get a more powerful Snapdragon X Plus processor, a slick 13.8-inch touchscreen, 16GB of RAM and a larger 512GB SSD. We wrote that: "performance, battery life, the light and thin [design], price, sound quality, and more, are all top-notch."

Check out the trio of top offers on Microsoft Surface devices I've picked out below. Even with newer models expected in the spring, I think it's well worth considering these, as they offer exceptional levels of power, performance and efficiency for the cost – and are still some of the best laptops you can buy today.

Today's best Microsoft Surface deals

If you need some more advice before deciding on the above, you can check out more of today's best laptop deals I've found from my regular search around the web. Be sure to check the latest Microsoft promo codes for more ways to save, too, if you'd prefer to buy direct from the manufacturer.

Microsoft Surface Pro 12 (2025): Two-minute review

The new Microsoft Surface Pro 12 (2025) comes at an interesting time for the Surface family of devices. Once upon a time, Surface products were pitched as flagship devices that were showcases for the latest and greatest Windows features, while also allowing Microsoft to directly compete with its arch nemesis Apple and its MacBook and iPad devices.

Surface devices were also often quite innovative, with unusual form factors that would again be used to showcase various Windows features, and they were championed by Panos Paney, an enthusiastic spokesperson for Surface devices. This meant that despite Surface devices never gaining the kind of mainstream success that Apple’s devices enjoyed, it was always interesting to see what new products the Surface team were working on.

But times change. Panay left for Amazon, and a lot of the enthusiasm and excitement about Surface devices seemed to leave Microsoft with him. The company simplified the Surface lineup, dropping some of the more experimental models, and focused more on commercial customers. The Surface Pro 12 (2025) is seemingly out to prove that Microsoft hasn’t abandoned its consumers, nor has it forgotten about its Surface lineup – I just worry if it’s a case of too little, too late.

The trimming down of the Surface product line means there’s going to be no more Surface Go devices (I asked Microsoft about this directly), which were affordable versions of the usual premium Surface devices. While I appreciated the aim of Surface Go devices – it’s always nice to see a company make more affordable versions of its expensive devices – they never quite hit the mark in my view, with a few too many compromises being made to lower the price at the expense of performance.

Thankfully, that doesn’t mean that people on a budget won’t be able to afford a Surface device, as the base model of the new Surface Pro 12-inch (2025) is now considered the entry level model. Starting at $799.99 / £799 / AU$1,499, it is now the cheapest Surface Pro model, and is a fair bit less expensive than last year’s Surface Pro 11, which started at $999.99 /£1,049.99 / AU$1,899.99.

It’s also a lot less expensive than its biggest competitor, the iPad Pro 13-inch (2024), which launched at a rather staggering $1,299 / £1,299 / $2,199.

While at first glance this seems like a great deal – a newer model for a lot less than the previous model – there are a number of differences between the Surface Pro 12 and Surface Pro 11 that show that Microsoft has still made certain sacrifices to lower the price of the new model. I certainly wouldn’t think of it as an upgrade, rather a more affordable alternative to last year’s model. That’s not a bad thing, of course, but it’s worth pointing out so you know what you’re getting if you buy the new Surface Pro 12 (2025).

Let’s start with the screen: rather confusingly, the number in the Surface Pro 11’s name refers to the fact that it is the 11^th edition of the Surface Pro.

Meanwhile, the Surface Pro 12 is named after its screen-size. So, the Surface Pro 11 actually has a larger screen – and a higher resolution as well.

The Surface Pro 12 comes with a 12-inch screen with a 2196 x 1464 resolution and refresh rate of up to 90Hz. The Surface Pro 11, meanwhile, comes with a 13-inch screen with a 2880 x 1920 resolution and up to 120Hz refresh rate. It can also be configured to come with an OLED panel.

Other changes are that the Surface Pro 12 comes with just one memory configuration: 16GB, whereas last year’s model can be configured up to 32GB. The Surface Pro 12 comes with a single processor choice – the Arm-based, eight-core Snapdragon X Plus, a more affordable, yet less powerful, version of the 10-core X Plus that comes in the Surface Pro 11. That model can also be configured with the even more powerful 12-core Snapdragon X Elite chip.

The Surface Pro 12 also drops support for 5G data connections (though it still features cutting-edge Wi-Fi 7 technology), and the two USB-C ports in this model are USB 3.2, rather than the faster USB4 connections in last year's model.

These are quite substantial differences, and while some people might consider them a downgrade compared to the Surface Pro 11, it’s important to note that Microsoft continues to sell that model alongside the Surface Pro 12, so if you’re looking for a flagship experience, you’ll want the (slightly) older model. This could, of course, confuse people who assume the latest model is also the most powerful, or that the only difference between them are the screen sizes. But, you know: Microsoft and confusing product names – name a more iconic duo.

As with previous Surface Pro devices, the Surface Pro 12 is a Windows 11 tablet, and Microsoft is one of the few companies continuing to release them. The dominance of iPads running iPadOS and Android tablets has seemingly turned off many manufacturers from making Windows tablets.

In a way that’s a shame, as while Windows 11 isn’t an operating system primarily designed for touchscreen devices, unlike iPadOS or Android, the touchscreen experience has come a long way, and you can comfortably find your way around Windows 11 and run most tasks and actions via the touchscreen thanks to large, easy-to-hit, icons and buttons. However, there are still times when Windows 11’s origins as an operating system designed for desktop PCs are apparent, such as when a menu or dialogue box appears that feels clumsy when prodded by a finger and requires a mouse and keyboard for the best experience.

On the other hand, by running Windows 11, you can install full desktop versions of applications, such as Microsoft Word or Adobe Photoshop, rather than the more limited tablet apps. This is the one area I feel Microsoft has the advantage over Apple’s iPad Pro, which, despite featuring the powerful M4 chip found in the best MacBooks and Macs, still uses iPadOS, which means it’s limited to the same basic apps that the iPad mini and iPad Air can run. This makes it feel like a lot of that power is wasted, and it’s something that the Surface Pro 12 avoids by being able to run almost any full desktop program. Plus, the Surface Pro 12 (2025) is nowhere near as powerful, or as expensive, as the iPad Pro, meaning you won’t be quite as concerned about paying for performance you’re not using.

I say ‘almost’ every Windows 11 app because it’s important to note that the Surface Pro 12 uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus chip, which is based on Arm architecture. Without getting too caught up in the weeds of tech mumbo-jumbo, in the past most consumer laptops and PCs used x86-based chips, primarily from Intel and AMD, and that meant that the majority of Windows applications were coded for x86 hardware, so Windows devices using Arm hardware couldn’t run them – instead you had to hope that the app makers would take the time to make an Arm-compatible version, and because sales of Windows on Arm hardware was so small compared to x86, very few developers thought it was worth doing.

Thankfully that’s changed a lot, mainly because the recent generation of Windows 11 laptops using Arm hardware (specifically the Snapdragon X), pushed by Microsoft’s Copilot+ PC branding, have been very popular (and deservedly so, just check out our Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 review and Dell XPS 13 (2024) review for two recent examples of why Snapdragon X laptops are so good).

Microsoft has also released its Prism tool, which is essentially an emulator that allows x86 apps to run on Arm hardware with minimal impact to performance. This, combined with a growing library of native Arm apps for Windows 11 means that most of your favorite apps will run on the Surface Pro 12 – though there might still be cases where an app you often use can’t run.

The Surface Pro 12 (2025) can also be fitted with the Surface Pro 12-inch Keyboard, which offers a tactile, comfortable-to-use, full-size keyboard and trackpad, while also doubling as a protective cover for the screen. This turns the Surface Pro 12 into a 2-in-1 device that can be used as both a tablet and a keyboard, and for pretty much any task where you need to write reams of text, it’s an essential add-on.

Sadly, you have to buy it separately, which adds a further $149.99 / £149.99 / AU$274.95 – a not insubstantial extra expense that I feel most people will need to pay for to get the most out of the Surface Pro 12.

The Surface Pro 12-inch Keyboard snaps on easily thanks to a proprietary magnetic connection, but because of the new screen size, it means you can’t use keyboards from older Surface devices. You can, at least, use a standard Bluetooth or wired keyboard, but that means you miss out on the portability.

Surface Pro 12 (2025): Price and availability

• How much does it cost? Starts at of $799.99 / £799 / AU$1,499
• When is it available? On sale now
• Where can you get it? You can get it in the US, UK, and Australia

With the affordable Surface Go lineup seemingly chucked in the trash, the Surface Pro 12 (2025) is now the most affordable way to get a new Surface Pro, with a starting price of $799.99 / £799 / AU$1,499, which is a fair bit cheaper than 2024’s Surface Pro 11 which starts at $999.99 /£1,049.99 / AU$1,899.99. Microsoft is continuing to sell the Surface Pro 11 alongside the Surface Pro 12, pitching the older model as the premium, flagship device, while the Surface Pro 12 takes the place of the Surface Go as the entry-level.

For that starting price, you get a Snapdragon X Plus 8-core CPU, 16GB RAM, and 256GB of storage. You can also configure it to come with 512GB of SSD storage for an extra $100 / £100 / AU$200. Apart from that, you’re unable to configure any other aspect of the hardware, though you can choose different colors (more of that in a moment).

The starting price is certainly competitive, especially considering the iPad Pro 13-inch starts at $1,299 / £1,299 / $2,199. Meanwhile, the latest iPad Air 13-inch starts at a similar $799 / £799 / AU$1,299 price, but comes with less storage and memory, and lacks Wi-Fi 7 support.

As a reasonably powerful tablet, then, the price is very good, though there are budget Android tablets out there for a lot less.

What’s not included in the price is a wall charger. The Surface Pro 12 no longer uses the proprietary Surface Connect port to charge – instead, any USB-C charger will work, so the lack of an included charger probably won’t be a huge deal for a lot of people, and at least helps keep the price down and reduce waste. If you need a charger, then you can buy an official one for $69.99 / £49.99 / AU$89.95, but because any USB-C power supply above 27W will work, there are plenty of cheaper options.

However, to get the most out of the Surface Pro 12 (and Windows 11, the operating system it runs), you’ll need the Surface Pro 12-inch Keyboard, which turns it into a 2-in-1 device that can be used as either a tablet or a laptop.

The Surface Pro 12-inch Keyboard is sold separately and will set you back $149.99 / £149.99 / AU$274.95, so unless you just want to use the Surface Pro 12 as a tablet, you should factor that into the price.

You can also get the 12-inch Keyboard with the Slim Pen stylus in a bundle for $249.99 / £249.99 / AU$454.95.

In the US and Australia, you can also buy the Surface Slim Pen on its own for $129.99 / AU$229.95. While the stylus is less essential to the overall experience, this does show that from the reasonable starting price, the Surface Pro 12 can quickly jump in cost when you start configuring it.

• Value: 4 / 5

Microsoft Surface Pro 12: Specs

Microsoft Surface Pro 12 (2025): Design

• New screen size
• Thinnest Copilot+ PC
• New color options

If you’ve ever seen a Surface Pro device in the wild, then you’ll pretty much know what to expect with the Surface Pro 12 (2025). On its own it looks like a pretty standard tablet, though I have to say that the thick bezels around the screen does make it feel a little outdated compared to some of its rivals (and even the older Surface Pro 11 has thinner bezels on two of the sides of the screen).

As with previous models, the back has an embossed Windows logo, and the bottom half can be pulled out to make a kick stand, a nice feature that the likes of the iPad don’t have. In the center of the bottom side, there’s also a magnetic port that you use to affix the Surface Pro 12-inch Keyboard to – though if you have an existing Surface Keyboard or Type Cover it won’t work due to the new size.

There are some subtle – and mostly welcome – changes introduced to the design of the Surface Pro 12, however. The proprietary Surface Connect port has been ditched – thankfully – and instead you charge the Surface Pro 12 (2025) via one of the two USB-C ports. While this change has been mainly introduced to comply with a European Union (EU) directive that states that all new electronic devices sold in the EU must support USB-C charging, it’s a positive one for consumers I feel, and does mean that for many of us that already have plenty of USB-C chargers we’re not getting yet another charger that will just be wasted.

Because of the new, smaller, screen, the Surface Pro 12 feels more comfortable to hold in the hand than the larger 13-inch Surface Pro from 2024 (I have both). The Surface Pro 12’s dimensions of 10.8 x 7.47 x 0.30 inches (274mm x 190mm x 7.8mm) are noticeably more compact than the Surface Pro 11’s dimensions of 11.3 x 8.2 x 0.37 inches (287mm x 208.6mm x 9.3mm), and the weight difference (1.5 pounds (686g) for the Surface Pro 12 vs 1.97 pounds (0.89kg) for the Pro 11) means if portability is a priority for you (and if you’re planning on using it as a tablet, then it should be), the Surface Pro 12 could, on paper, be the device to get.

However, it’s not just the screensize that’s different, and you should be aware of some of the changes Microsoft has made to keep the price of the Surface Pro 12 down.

For a start, there’s no OLED model, and the refresh rate is capped at 90Hz (rather than 120Hz of the Surface Pro 11).

The Surface Pro 12 also has a lower resolution of 2196 x 1464 vs 2880 x 1920 of the Pro 11, and that also means a lower pixel density of 220 PPI (pixels per inch) compared to the 267 PPI of the Pro 11. This means the image quality isn’t as sharp on the Pro 12.

The Surface Pro 12 also lacks the easily accessed NVMe port of the Surface Pro 11, which was located on the older model behind the kickstand, and was a nice addition that allowed you to quickly upgrade the storage space of the Pro 11.

On the back of the Surface Pro 12 is a new indent which is where you magnetically attach the Slim Pen stylus (sold separately). Microsoft sent me one to review along with the Surface Pro 12, and I was impressed with how secure the Slim Pen felt when it was magnetically attached – I certainly didn’t worry that the stylus would drop off the tablet.

The Slim Pen also wirelessly charges when attached, which is a nice touch. Despite the indent, however, having the Slim Pen attached does mean that the Surface Pro 12 doesn’t sit flush when placed back-down on a table or desk.

Connecting the Surface Pro 12-inch Keyboard (also sold separately, and supplied by Microsoft for this review) is also quick and easy thanks to a magnetic connection. It adds a bit more weight and bulk, but when closed will protect the screen. It also allows you to use the Surface Pro 12 as a laptop-like device, and I think it’s worth getting. You’ll need to use the kickstand to support the Surface Pro 12 when it’s used as a screen, which isn’t the most comfortable if you’re using it on your lap, but it does work. However, you can’t really adjust the angle of the screen, unlike Apple’s Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro.

The Surface Pro 12’s USB-C ports are also limited to USB 3.2, rather than USB4, which is supported by the Surface Pro 11. You’ll still be able to plug in the same peripherals, but data transfer will be slower.

A more positive design tweak are the two new color schemes, Violet and Ocean, along with the same Platinum color that previous Surface Pros came in. I’ve seen the new Surface Laptop in Violet, and it looks lovely. However, the base model of the new Surface Pro, which I have, only comes in Platinum – you’ll need to pay extra for more storage if you want the Surface Pro 12 in either Violet or Ocean.

Overall, the design of the Surface Pro 12 is solid, though not that excited, especially if you get it in Platinum. Compared to the iPad Air (2025), which has a weight of 460g and dimensions of 247.6mm x 178.5mm x 6.1mm for the 11-inch model, it feels chunkier and cheaper than Apple’s tablet. If you’re used to iPad tablets, you will likely much prefer Appe’s design. The compromises to screen quality and USB speeds with the Surface Pro 12 are also a shame.

• Design: 3.5 / 5

Microsoft Surface Pro 12 (2025): Performance

• Good for general use
• 16GB RAM helps with multitasking
• AI features remain pointless

Microsoft might argue that the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus chip within the Surface Pro 12 is the most exciting component, and I’d agree, but likely not for the same reason.

The Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus is an Arm-based chip (similar to the M4 chip in the MacBook), with a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) of 45 Trillion Operations per Second (TOPS) – an essential specification for it to be called a ‘Copilot+ PC’, which is Microsoft’s catch-all term for Windows 11 laptops that come with NPUs that can handle on-device AI tasks.

You might have noticed that a lot of companies are shoving AI into their products, and Microsoft is arguably one of the most ambitious. Like it or not, AI tools are now tightly integrated into Windows 11, and there’s no sign of that slowing down, with Microsoft’s Copilot AI tool becoming a fundamental part of the operating system, even getting its own dedicated key on the keyboard.

Of course, if you don’t have a Copilot+ PC you can still use Copilot – the key difference is that thanks to the NPU, you can use Copilot and other AI tools locally on the Surface Pro 12 itself, rather than relying on an internet connection and cloud-based AI tools.

The benefits are that you can work offline with these tools, and as all the data you provide the AI with is stored locally, there should be no danger of your data being shared with third parties or used to train AI models. This is good if you’re using AI tools with personal and private information, but less so if you’re just messing around with turning scribbles into AI-generated images in Paint.

Speaking of which, doing that is OK on the Surface Pro 12. Asking Paint to generate an image based on a photo I loaded took about 20 seconds, and the results were… well, what you’d expect from AI-generated art these days. Fine, and initially impressive, but not much more than a brief diversion, as the ‘art’ it produces comes with familiar tell-tale signs that it’s been made by AI. It’s likely a tool you’ll try once and then forget about it.

The Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus’ NPU also gives you access to some exclusive Windows 11 features, namely Click To Do. This feature, which is still in ‘preview’, so not the finished article, is pitched by Microsoft as a way to do things more quickly and easily in Windows 11 with the help of AI.

By holding down the Windows key on the keyboard, you’ll see the mouse cursor turn into a white dot. Clicking on something (or tapping using the Surface Pro 12 screen) will give the screen a blue tint to show that Click To Do is enabled. If you only have the Surface Pro 12 and no keyboard, you can also bring this up quickly by swiping from the right-hand side of the screen.

Click To Do should then intelligently offer up some quick actions supposedly based on what it sees on your screen, such as opening an image in the Photos app and removing the background.

In theory, this could save some time, though to be honest, right-clicking a document and choosing what app to open it in covers a lot of that, is much faster, and doesn’t require a Copilot+ PC.

In practice, however, the feature seems pretty useless. I used Click To Do with my Pictures folder open, then clicked on a photo, then selected Remove background with Paint, thinking that this would open the photo in Paint and remove the background. Instead, it opened the thumbnail preview of the image (which is tiny and pixellated) and removed the background.

Thinking maybe it was Paint’s fault, I did it again, but this time selected Blur background with Photos. This opened up the Photos app, but again, it was just the thumbnail; it didn’t actually open the file.

So what Click To Do is really doing is taking a screenshot of whatever is open, and all you can really do is interact with the screenshot, not the actual files. Maybe I got the wrong end of the stick, but it felt like Click To Do was promising something quite complex, but in reality, it was just basic and of no use.

I tried it with a web browser open and some Bing (of course) search results. Click To Do offered to copy text to Notepad. A bit pointless, but I gave it a go, and it pasted a single line of unintelligible nonsense. Sure, Click To Do is supposedly still in ‘preview’, but it’s in no fit state at the moment, and as a key selling point of Copilot+ PCs like the Surface Pro 12, it’s embarrassing.

Recall, another feature touted as a key selling point for Copilot+ PCs, is in a similar preview state. I’ve gone over the controversies of this plenty of times before but the general thrust of this feature is that it runs in the background and takes constant screenshots that you can then scroll back through and search for things.

Recall was supposed to launch with the initial wave of Copilot+ PCs, but a big backlash amidst privacy and security concerns kept Microsoft from rolling it out. Now it’s here (albeit in preview form), and most of my privacy concerns have been alleviated. First, unusually for Microsoft, you have to turn on this feature yourself; it’s not turned on by default (as it was initially). All the images and data are stored locally, and thanks to the NPU, all AI tasks are done on the Surface Pro 12 itself.

Recall, and the data it collects, can also only be accessed by the user when logged in, and needs to have advanced Windows Hello biometric security enabled.

While the security aspect seems improved, if not completely perfect, my other big concern about just how useful Recall will prove to be remains. On the Surface Pro 12, it can feel a bit sluggish, and it even crashed once, and the results were mixed. It did find screenshots containing search results I’d asked for reasonably well, but once it brings up the screenshots, you’re a bit limited to what you can do – a lot like Click To Do, you can’t click on a file or folder to open it up, though to be fair it does allow you to open the folder location in Windows Explorer.

But it just doesn’t seem that useful, and because you now have to turn it on yourself, and considering the performance and storage impact Recall has when taking all these screenshots, Microsoft needs to really make Recall worth using – and so far it hasn’t.

On a (much) more positive note, the general performance of the Surface Pro 12 (2025) is good. Even demanding apps like Photoshop installed and launched without issue, and because you’re able to run Windows 11 applications, it makes the Surface Pro 12 (2025) a much better tool, in my mind, than the iPad Pro, which despite all its power is limited to iPadOS apps, which are more basic.

Having multiple desktop apps open at once and switching between them was fine, though if you are going to be mainly using standard Windows 11 apps, you’ll need to invest in the Surface Pro 12-inch Keyboard, frankly, as these apps can be fiddly if you’re just using the touchscreen to control them. I did notice, however, that trying to perform too many tasks at once can make the performance of the Surface Pro 12-inch lag, with the occasional app crash. Nothing too out of the ordinary if you’re used to Windows 11, but it means there’s not the slick experience you might expect from an iPad.

Logging into the Surface Pro 12 is handled by the Windows Hello biometric tool, which uses the built-in webcams of the tablet to recognise your face. I found it worked reliably in a range of different lighting conditions, and meant logging in was both quick and secure. If Windows Hello can’t detect you, you can use a PIN or password to log in.

The front-facing webcam does a decent job, though at 1080p, it’s not as sharp or detailed as the 1440p webcam on last year’s model. As the Surface Pro 12 is a Copilot+ PC, you can use the Windows Studio effects tool to tweak the webcam’s footage live. Using AI and the NPU of the Snapdragon chip, you can blur the background, or add creative filters that make you look like a cell-shaded animation, watercolor painting, and automatically center yourself in frame.

These work fine, but they are nothing we haven’t seen before, and the background blur feature seemed less effective as other background blurring features I’ve tried, such as when using Google Meet, with noticeable gaps in the blur where the clear background could be seen.

One feature I did like was Eye Contact, which uses AI to make it seem like you’re looking directly at the screen. As with a lot of devices, the webcam of the Surface Pro 12 is either at the top, bottom or side of the screen, depending on the orientation, and this can result in video calls where it appears like you’re looking away (as you’re usually focusing on the screen). With this feature, it does a good job of adjusting your eyes so they are looking directly at the person you’re talking to.

It sounds a bit creepy, but it does make video calls (or just taking selfies) feel more natural, and the feature does a good job of matching your eye color. When I first tried this feature a while ago, it felt fake, with a definite element of ‘uncanny valley’ where you can tell something isn’t quite right, but it seems the feature has been improved a lot.

The rear camera is Ultra HD, though the photos I took with it weren’t particularly impressive, with quite a bit of noticeable noise in darker conditions. While taking photos, the Camera app became unresponsive, which means I could not adjust the focus; instead, I had to wait a few seconds. This also means that some photos I thought I had taken hadn’t actually been saved, so I wouldn’t recommend depending on the Surface Pro 12 to take once-in-a-lifetime photos – you’d be much safer sticking to your smartphone.

Throughout my time with the Surface Pro 12, I appreciated how silent it was. Like Apple’s M-series chips in modern MacBook Air laptops, the Snapdragon X Plus is efficient enough that the Surface Pro 12 it powers doesn’t need internal fans to keep it cool, so you don’t get any distracting and annoying fan noise when the tablet is working hard. However, with the occasional hangs that I experienced using Windows 11 on the Surface Pro 12, trading silence for a more reliable experience (as cooling the components could improve performance) might have been one compromise I’d have liked.

• Performance: 3 / 5

Microsoft Surface Pro 12: Battery life

• Microsoft promises 16 hours of local video playback
• Lower refresh rate of screen helps give battery life a boost
• Almost 18 hours in our battery tests

A common frustration I have with Copilot+ PC devices running on Arm hardware is that the marketing material often focuses solely on AI features and capabilities, but they are the least interesting thing about products like the Surface Pro 12.

Thanks to the power efficiency of the latest Snapdragon X chips, battery lives of these Copilot+ PC devices are impressively long, and considering that battery life is one of the most important considerations people have when buying a new laptop (it is for me, anyway), it's a shame that this aspect is often glossed over.

The Surface Pro 12 continues this theme, with a battery that lasted an excellent 17 hours and 49 minutes in my battery life benchmark test, which involved playing a looped HD video until the battery died.

While this isn't the longest battery life I've seen with a Copilot+ PC, it's great that we seem to be in an era where battery lives for Windows 11 devices that are near 20 hours are increasingly common (though even the best gaming laptops won't get anywhere near that). You'll certainly be able to bring it on long international flights to work and watch films on, and have plenty of battery left.

Most importantly, it means you can go several work days on a single charge in most cases, since you likely won't be using it for 18 hours straight, making it a great choice for people looking for a thin and light device to work on.

• Battery Life: 5 / 5

Should you buy the Microsoft Surface Pro 12 (2025)?

Buy the Microsoft Surface Pro 12 if...

Don't buy it if...

Also consider

How I tested the Microsoft Surface Pro 12

• I spent about a week with the Surface Pro 12
• I used it for everyday productivity
• I ran our standard suite of Windows laptop benchmarks

I've been using the Surface Pro 11 daily to write articles (including some of this review), browse the web and make video calls. I switched between using it in tablet mode, and with the Surface Pro 12-inch Keyboard attached, turning it into a laptop-like device.

As well as using it for real-world tasks, I also ran TechRadar's standard suite of benchmark results. I've reviewed numerous iterations of Surface Pro devices, as well as competing tablets like the iPad Pro and some of the best laptops money can buy.

We pride ourselves on our independence and our rigorous review-testing process, offering up long-term attention to the products we review and making sure our reviews are updated and maintained - regardless of when a device was released, if you can still buy it, it's on our radar.

Read more about how we test

• First reviewed June 2025

• The Microsoft Surface 7 has been labeled "frequently returned" on Amazon
• No reason was officially given, but user reviews cite Arm-based incompatibilities
• It's believed this could be happening due to more competition being available

The Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite-powered Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 has been deemed "frequently returned" on Amazon.

According to our sister site, Windows Central, the warning applies to an Amazon listing for the Microsoft Surface Laptop (2024) featuring a 15-inch touchscreen, Snapdragon X Elite SoC, 32GB RAM, and 1TB of storage.

Despite having nearly 400 user reviews, with an overall rating of 4.2 / 5 stars, the laptop appears to be returned often according to the retailer, with the disclaimer telling prospective buyers to "check the product detais and customer reviews to learn more about this item".

Detailed top reviews on the laptop from verified buyers have rated the Microsoft Surface 7 with five stars, with particular praise for the battery life. However, a common complaint is that "a lot of programs didn't work with Arm" which is something we've said in our own coverage.

In our five-star review, we praised the incredible performance, excellent battery life, great display, and solid pricing, with the only minor negatives being a lacking port selection, lack of an OLED variant and slight issues with the touchpad's sensitivity. With that said, why are users returning it so frequently? Amazon has not issued any reason why.

Another reason the Microsoft Surface 7 could see so many returns is that people could trade the device in for a computer with a competitor's chip. That's because AMD has made waves with its Ryzen AI processors, such as the coveted Ryzen AI Max+ 395, which has just arrived in some of the best laptops and best ultrabooks on the market. Those wanting superior performance for general computing, AI workloads, and greater compatibility may return to x86 architecture.

We can also look at the pricing of the laptop compared to its competition. This listing is available on Amazon with an MSRP of $2,099.99. However, the machine has been discounted by 26% to $1,544.83 for some time. It's possible that those who purchased it for the sticker price could have buyer's remorse, especially when weighing up against similarly priced options like the Arm-based MacBook Pro M4 (starting at $1,599 for the 14-inch model) which came out after the Surface.

Consumers still don't know what they're getting themselves into

If you've kept a keen eye on the laptops over the past 12 months, you'll no doubt have heard the buzzword "AI PCs" when it comes to Snapdragon X Elite, Ryzen AI, and Lunar Lake laptops in 2024 and 2025. There has been a wealth of promise in advertising around all the new tools you can use through having a dedicated NPU, and how many TOPs of performance you can expect from Qualcomm and the competition in general.

However, to the average everyday computing consumer, there's been no solid throughline in what this tech does, and what it can offer you, especially in the jump from traditional x86 architecture and over to Arm-based silicon. Yes, the latter can have superior battery life and snappier performance in isolation, but it comes at the cost of compatibility.

Windows on Arm has come a long way in the last year as more devices (like the Microsoft Surface 7) adopt it over x86-based alternatives, but you're still not going to get to do everything that you could on that architecture. A lot of popular software is yet to offer an Arm version, and it's not been communicated to hardware manufacturers what's available and what isn't.

As such, users could buy the Microsoft Surface 7 expecting it to do everything their old laptop could, and then be disappointed when they run into problems. If you're asking people to spend $2,000, they will want everything to be perfect out of the box, and a common understanding of differing architectures (and compatibility overall) just isn't going to happen overnight.

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• Microsoft unveils new Surface Copilot+ PC enterprise devices
• Surface Laptop for Business available in two display options
• New Surface Pro for Business offers more connections and performance

Microsoft has unveiled the next generation of Surface Copilot+ PC devices aimed at business and enterprise users, with the new offerings firmly planting AI front and center.

The new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop offer “a significant leap in x86 performance”, the company says, providing boosts in performance and productivity alongside a boosted NPU for business-focused AI tasks.

The launches include a new Surface Laptop available in 13.8in or 15in display options, alongside an upgraded Surface Pro for those looking for something a bit more flexible.

Surface Laptop for Business

“Customers are choosing Surface Copilot+ PCs today for improvements in performance, battery life, and security,” noted Nancie Gaskill, General Manager, Surface.

“Paired with Microsoft 365 Copiloti and enhanced AI processing power, these devices transform the employee experience to amplify your team’s efficiency and creativity through Copilot+ PC experiences designed for work.”

Officially known as the Surface Pro 11th Edition and Surface Laptop 7th Edition, the two new releases are available with Intel’s latest (series 2) Core Ultra processors, but users will have the option of Intel or Snapdragon-powered devices.

Microsoft also revealed customers will soon have the option of a 5G-enabled Surface device, with an all-new Surface Laptop 5G arriving later in 2025 to give users even more connectivity when on the go.

Alongside its Intel power, the new Surface Laptop for Business includes up to 22 hours battery life, Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, added ports and even customizable haptic typing alongside a larger touchpad.

Microsoft says that despite the slightly smaller dimensions on paper, its 13.8in display actually offers a larger viewing space than other 14in displays on the market due to ultra-thin bezels and also features an anti-reflective display for added privacy.

The upgraded device also offers a major performance boost, with Microsoft claiming up to 26% faster performance when multi-tasking, up to 2x faster graphics performance, and even up to 3x the battery life when on Teams calls.

Alongside this, the device features a powerful NPU that Microsoft says makes it the ideal workplace AI companion, powering tools and functions such as the new Windows “Descriptive Search” function across local and OneDrive files, Click to Do, and Microsoft Teams upgrades such as “Super Resolution” and live captions in more than 40 languages.

Surface Pro for Business

Microsoft says the new Surface Pro for Business is designed to replace your existing laptop, tablet, pen and paper in a single device, offering its most powerful tablet device to date.

It also offers more connections than previous versions, with support for up to three external 4k displays, along with boosted hardware which provides 28% more performance than the Surface Pro 9, and 50% more battery life when on Microsoft Teams calls.

“It’s never been more effortless to get work done,” noted Gaskill. "These new Copilot+ PCs offer a solution for every employee."

"Surface Copilot+ PCs are the ideal choice to modernize your business, offering the best combination of hardware, software and unparalleled security to support your business needs - these devices help make your business future-ready."

Both the Surface Laptop for Business and Surface Pro for Business will be available from February 18, 2025 for $1499.

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• And here are the best business tablets on offer right now
• New Microsoft 365 AI offering means all your workers can use Copilot for free

• New Surface devices are on the way
• Intel and AMD chips could be involved
• Expect new products from March

Our Surface Pro 11 review and Surface Laptop 7 review will tell you we've been very impressed with Microsoft's own-brand computers this year – and it seems as though plenty more Surface products are heading our way in 2025.

A comprehensive leak from Windows Central outlines what's next for Microsoft Surface. We're apparently getting new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop models in 2025, both with Copilot+ PC branding and Intel Lunar Lake CPUs inside (as previously rumored).

These will be the first Intel-powered Surface computers with the AI-centric Copilot+ PC branding – following on from the Qualcomm-powered models mentioned at the start – as Lunar Lake brings with it the necessary neural processing architecture.

Don't expect too much to change in terms of the aesthetics though. Microsoft is likely to stick with the current designs for the Surface Pro and the Surface Laptop in 2025 and beyond, according to the Windows Central report.

A new mystery device

Some other tidbits: the new Surface Pro and Surface Studio will get anti-reflective screens (unlike the most recent versions), a card reader option will be available, and we may even see 5G on the Surface Laptop for the first time.

The Surface Laptop Studio is getting a 2025 refresh as well, it seems. Intel or AMD chips could be used here, but again the Copilot+ PC branding will be used. According to insiders, a 16-inch version is being mulled over at Microsoft.

A new 11-inch Surface device is in the pipeline as well, the report says, to be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset – though it's not clear what the form factor will be. Finally, a new Surface Dock is also rumored to be on the way.

We can expect these new products to start appearing from the first quarter of 2025, Windows Central says, so that's March at the latest. Plans and schedules can of course change, but it looks like 2025 will be a fun year for Microsoft Surface fans.

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The latest Microsoft Surface laptop dropped to its lowest price over Black Friday weekend. The good news? Amazon still has the Surface Laptop 7 for $899.99 (was $1,199.99) – but time is running out to secure the record-low we saw during Black Friday. If you've ever wanted a Windows laptop that feels just as light and looks as good as a MacBook Air, this is the device you've been looking for.

This configuration of the Surface Laptop 7 comes with a 10-core Snapdragon X Plus processor. While it might not be as heavy-duty as the Snapdragon X Elite, it offers more than enough power for applications you'd use on a work laptop. It also comes with 16GB of RAM and 512GB SSD storage, though you can upgrade both of those if you want.

Today's best Microsoft laptop deal

Any upgrades will cost you, but the discount still ensures a hefty saving for what you get. As a plus, the Surface Laptop offers a pretty selection of colors with Black, Platinum, Dune, and Sapphire.

In our Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 review, we awarded it a full five stars for its speedy performance, 20-hour battery life, and attractive display and keyboard. This deal just makes it all the more worth it at its cheapest price.

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 is also TechRadar's Laptop of the Year - not only for its powerful processor and sleek design but also for its place in the AI PC revolution. The Snapdragon X Elite processor is twice as powerful as the M3 chip in Apple's MacBook Air, featuring an NPU that can seamlessly support Copilot AI features like its Apple counterpart.

It's an ideal pick for an AI-friendly laptop with a lot else going for it. The only downsides to consider might be the limited port selection (two USB-C and one USB-A) and lesser ability to game than a dedicated gaming laptop.

The Surface Laptop 7 is just one of the best Windows laptops. If you want a wider range of recommendations, you can also check out the best laptops within a vast range of budgets.

Wow. Just... wow. This is a seriously killer deal, and you might have to act quickly if you're interested because you've got less than fifteen hours left to claim it (HP even has a menacing live timer on their website). In this Cyber Monday deal, you can get this 14-inch HP EliteBook 845 G10 Notebook laptop for just $589 (was $2,922) after a huge 79% cut at HP.

This laptop comes with Windows 11 Pro installed, as well as an impressive spec sheet that includes an AMD Ryzen 7 PRO 7840U processor with integrated AMD Radeon Graphics, a hefty 32GB of RAM, and 1TB of high-speed SSD storage. If you want to connect peripherals, it also has 2 USB-C ports and 2 USB-A ports. You can also connect a second display via its HDMI port.

If you don't want to use external headphones or microphones, it does come with dual stereo speakers and dual array microphones built into it.

Today's best 14-inch HP EliteBook 845 G10 Notebook laptop deal

With these kinds of specs, you can easily tackle everyday tasks, work, creative media, and a good deal of gaming. You can work and use it confidently, knowing that it can handle a pretty heavy workload. The EliteBook 845 G10 is a professional-grade laptop, and it shows.

In addition to its microphones and speakers, it also has a webcam and an HP Premium Keyboard that's spill-resistant. It has support for both Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 built-in, and a fingerprint reader for faster, more secure logins.

If all of that isn't enough, it's just 0.76 inches thick and weighs barely more than three pounds, so you can slip it into your bag and get moving with ease - and thanks to its long battery life, you can use this powerhouse wherever you please. With a ridiculous $2,333 off the retail price, this is one Cyber Monday deal that is not to be missed.

More of today’s Black Friday sales in the US

• Amazon: TVs, smart home & air fryers from $12.99
• Apple: AirPods, iPads, MacBooks from $89.99
• Best Buy: $1,000 off 4K TVs, laptops & headphones
• Cheap TVs: smart TVs at Best Buy from $69.99
• Christmas trees: top-rated trees from $54.99
• Dell: best-selling Inspiron & XPS laptops from $279.99
• Dreamcloud: mattress deals from $349 + free shipping
• Holiday: decor, lights, Christmas trees & PJs from $10.99
• Home Depot: 40% off tools, appliances & furniture
• Lowe's: holiday decor, appliances & tools from $17.31
• Nectar: up to 50% off all mattresses
• Nordstrom: 46% off boots, coats, jeans & jewelry
• Samsung: $1,500+ off TVs, phones, watches & appliances
• Target: save on furniture, tech & clothing
• Walmart: cheap TVs, robot vacs, furniture & appliances

Black Friday has come and gone, but deals are still popping up for Cyber Monday - like this 16-inch HP Envy 2-in-1 TouchScreen laptop deal. Formerly, it was $1,099.99 and it's been discounted to $649.99 at Best Buy, which is a big price cut of $450!

This HP Envy is equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, 16GB of RAM, and 1TB of SSD storage, and comes in Glacier Silver color. This model has a 16-inch touchscreen, so it's a good size for users who want to multitask.

Today's best HP Envy 2-in-1 TouchScreen Laptop deal

As with several other modern laptops running Windows 11, this laptop also comes with Microsoft's AI assistant, Copilot. This will enable you to quickly use AI features like swiftly summarizing documents and web pages and AI image generation.

If you're not after AI novelty features, this is still a pretty good PC. It'll handle multitasking easily, thanks to its specs, and you can use it for pretty advanced and resource-heavy media editing.

You can even get some gaming done (though this is not a gaming laptop, and you'll likely only be able to play less demanding older or indie games, rather than modern AAA titles), and the games will look nice thanks to its large, high contrast Full HD display. It's a 2-in-1 laptop so you can rotate the display using its hinges and it also has a backlit keyboard.

More of today's Cyber Monday sales in the US

• Amazon: TVs, smart home & air fryers from $12.99
• Apple: AirPods, iPads, MacBooks from $89.99
• Best Buy: $1,000 off 4K TVs, laptops & headphones
• B&H Photo: up to $900 off cameras, laptops, accessories
• Cheap TVs: smart TVs at Best Buy from $69.99
• Dell: best-selling Inspiron & XPS laptops from $279.99
• Dreamcloud: mattress deals from $349 + free shipping
• Holiday: decor, lights, Christmas trees & PJs from $10.99
• Home Depot: 40% off tools, appliances & furniture
• Lowe's: holiday decor, appliances & tools from $17.31
• Nectar: up to 50% off all mattresses
• Nordstrom: 46% off boots, coats, jeans & jewelry
• Samsung: $1,500+ off TVs, phones, watches & appliances
• Target: save on furniture, Halloween, tech & clothing
• Walmart: cheap TVs, robot vacs, furniture & appliances

Cyber Monday is here, and there are loads of Microsoft Surface deals to be had. Even though Black Friday is done for another year, retailers have continued to cut prices on Microsoft's premium devices for Cyber Monday – and we're here .

With Black Friday now here, I've been on the hunt for great deals on Microsoft's Surface devices. While I've been a big fan of Microsoft's chief rival Apple and its MacBooks, the latest Surface Pro tablet and Surface Laptop devices have got me seriously considering going back to Windows 11 – and the Surface Laptop currently sits at the top of our list of the best laptops you can currently buy.

It means if you like the idea of Apple's iPads and MacBooks, but prefer using Windows 11, then Microsoft's Surface devices are great alternatives, and below you'll find all the best Cyber Monday deals on a range of Surface devices that I've found.

Today's best Microsoft Surface Cyber Monday deals in the US

Today's best Microsoft Surface Cyber Monday deals in the UK

Microsoft's Surface product line has languished in mediocrity for years, with Windows on Arm (WoA) struggling to make an impact - but with the arrival of Qualcomm's Arm-based Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus chips, that changed.

Now, a next-gen Surface device is a portable powerhouse: a Windows tablet or laptop capable of going toe-to-toe with the likes of the iPad and MacBook Air, while retaining the same clean design and smooth functionality that the Surface lineup always had nailed down. The deals above are the cheapest we've seen these new Surface devices, so don't miss out - Black Friday is the best time to snap up a discount like these.

More of today's Cyber Monday sales in the US

• Amazon: TVs, smart home & air fryers from $12.99
• Apple: AirPods, iPads, MacBooks from $89.99
• Best Buy: $1,000 off 4K TVs, laptops & headphones
• Cheap TVs: smart TVs at Best Buy from $69.99
• Christmas trees: top-rated trees from $54.99
• Dell: best-selling Inspiron & XPS laptops from $279.99
• Dreamcloud: mattress deals from $349 + free shipping
• Holiday: decor, lights, Christmas trees & PJs from $10.99
• Home Depot: 40% off tools, appliances & furniture
• Lowe's: holiday decor, appliances & tools from $17.31
• Nectar: up to 50% off all mattresses
• Nordstrom: 46% off boots, coats, jeans & jewelry
• Samsung: $1,500+ off TVs, phones, watches & appliances
• Target: save on furniture, tech & clothing
• Walmart: cheap TVs, robot vacs, furniture & appliances

More of today's Cyber Monday sales in the UK

• Amazon: up to 68% off toothbrushes and TVs
• AO: savings on games consoles and appliances
• Argos: up to 50% off toys, Lego, TVs and gifts
• Boots: up to 50% off Dyson, Oral-B and Philips
• Currys: early deals on TVs, appliances, laptops
• Dell: laptops, desktops, monitors from £299
• Dyson: up to £150 off
• Ebay: up to 50% off refurbished tech
• EE: up to £600 off Samsung and Apple
• John Lewis: up to £300 off appliances and TVs
• LG: £1,000 or more off TVs and appliances
• Samsung: up to £600 off TVs, phones and tablets
• Very: up to 30% off phones, appliances & clothing

We are now in the second half of Black Friday and we're going to expect the deals to pull back a little and shift to Cyber Monday. If you're still looking for savings, however, there are still respectable deals to be had like this 2024 Microsoft Surface Copilot+ PC Laptop deal from Amazon. It's been reduced to $899, getting discounted from $1,199.99.

It features a Snapdragon X Plus (10 core) processor, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage. The 13.8-inch HDR display is also conveniently touchscreen for quick actions like ending a call or pausing a video.

The Surface 2024 comes with Windows 11 Home and Copilot, Microsoft's AI assistant, is integrated into its design to maximize how much you can get out of it. You'll also have the ability to try upcoming AI features like Recall.

Its battery life lasts up to 15.5 hours, so you can use it on the go with no problem even if you don't take your charger.

Whether you want it to do work, do some media editing, or try your hand at gaming, you can do it all on this laptop. The capacity for better AI assistance is built in with its NPU, expanding the number of things you can try.

As modern as it is with its AI flourish, it does also has a USB port and two USB-C ports.

Today's best Microsoft Surface Copilot+ PC Laptop deal

More of today’s Black Friday sales in the US

• Amazon: TVs, smart home & air fryers from $12.99
• Apple: AirPods, iPads, MacBooks from $89.99
• Best Buy: $1,000 off 4K TVs, laptops & headphones
• Cheap TVs: smart TVs at Best Buy from $69.99
• Christmas trees: top-rated trees from $54.99
• Dell: best-selling Inspiron & XPS laptops from $279.99
• Dreamcloud: mattress deals from $349 + free shipping
• Holiday: decor, lights, Christmas trees & PJs from $10.99
• Home Depot: 40% off tools, appliances & furniture
• Lowe's: holiday decor, appliances & tools from $17.31
• Nectar: up to 50% off all mattresses
• Nordstrom: 46% off boots, coats, jeans & jewelry
• Samsung: $1,500+ off TVs, phones, watches & appliances
• Target: save on furniture, tech & clothing
• Walmart: cheap TVs, robot vacs, furniture & appliances

More of today’s Black Friday sales in the UK

• Amazon: up to 68% off toothbrushes and TVs
• AO: savings on games consoles and appliances
• Argos: up to 50% off toys, Lego, TVs and gifts
• Boots: up to 50% off Dyson, Oral-B and Philips
• Currys: early deals on TVs, appliances, laptops
• Dell: laptops, desktops, monitors from £299
• Dyson: up to £150 off
• Ebay: up to 50% off refurbished tech
• EE: up to £600 off Samsung and Apple
• John Lewis: up to £300 off appliances and TVs
• LG: £1,000 or more off TVs and appliances
• Samsung: up to £600 off TVs, phones and tablets
• Very: up to 30% off phones, appliances & clothing

We’ve reached that time of year when Black Friday deals are getting special, with some especially strong Black Friday laptop deals up for grabs. Even better, we’re not at Thanksgiving yet so you don’t have to worry about juggling turkey cooking at the same time as ordering.

One huge highlight is the latest Microsoft Surface Laptop at Amazon for $1,099.99 (was $1,299.99). That's a $200 saving off the regular price, but crucially, this is an all-time low for the laptop. Since its launch earlier this year, the laptop has rarely dipped in price until the last few weeks.

The Microsoft Surface Laptop tops our look at the best laptops so you really can’t do better here. Its revolutionary Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite chip helps Windows 11 feel fast and responsive, while still maintaining seriously impressive battery life.

Today’s best Microsoft Surface laptop deal

In our Microsoft Surface Laptop review, we gave it five stars, stating that it’s “well-rounded and high-performing”. It offers “incredible performance [and] excellent battery life” which is precisely why it’s top of the list when it comes to the best Windows laptops.

The only issues here are its port selection is terrible (buy a hub) and the touchpad has some sensitivity issues, but otherwise, you’ll love your time with the Microsoft Surface Laptop. It’s ideal for working effectively on the move with no risk of running out of battery any time soon. Suitable for both students and those working on the move, this is an investment built to last.

Of course, if you don't want something for work, you can check out the best Black Friday gaming laptop deals as they are better suited to those needs.

More of today's Black Friday sales in the US

• Amazon: TVs, smart home & air fryers from $12.99
• Apple: AirPods, iPads, MacBooks from $89.99
• Best Buy: $1,000 off 4K TVs, laptops & headphones
• B&H: $600 off Nikon, GoPro, Canon & Sony
• Dell: best-selling Inspiron & XPS laptops from $279.99
• Dreamcloud: mattress deals from $349 + free shipping
• Holiday: decor, lights, Christmas trees & PJs from $10.99
• Home Depot: 40% off tools, appliances & furniture
• Lowe's: holiday decor, appliances & tools from $17.31
• Saatva: up to $600 off luxury mattresses
• Samsung: $2,500+ off TVs, phones, watches & appliances
• Target: save on furniture, Christmas decor, tech & clothing
• Walmart: cheap TVs, robot vacs, AirPods & appliances
• Wayfair: 70% off furniture, decor & Christmas

If you can't choose between a laptop or tablet, then why not consider buying a hybrid option like the highly-rated Microsoft Surface Pro? Well, thanks to Black Friday you can do just that and get the Microsoft Surface Pro 11 at Best Buy for $899.99 (was $1,199.99).

That's the biggest discount yet and a record-low price for what we called the "best Surface ever" in our Surface Pro 11 review. This device not only looks great but also packs in loads of power with the latest Snapdragon X Plus processor, 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD that dramatically boosts performance and battery life.

Its size also makes it perfect for portability so you can take it to a coffee shop, into the office, or just use it at home. Even though it doesn't come included with the handy keyboard cover, it's still one of the best offers I've seen so far in the Black Friday laptop deals.

Today’s best Microsoft Surface Pro deals

More from our verdict of the Surface Pro 11: we said it has "snappy performance, excellent battery life, improved compatibility, and new AI-powered apps that will only get better with time". Sounds good to me if you want an all-around high-end laptop.

We love the touchscreen, which delivers highly responsive and smooth images thanks to the dynamic refresh rate that can go right up to 120Hz. Dolby Vision also helps ensure visuals are bold and bright, perfect for watching movies or catching up on your favorite shows once work is done for the day.

We've curated a wide range of more traditional laptops, many of which have even more power and storage, in our laptop deals page.

If I could point to a single inflection point for the computing industry this year, it would be the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7.

Not only is it an incredible device that features great performance, outstanding battery life, and a design to die for, but the 2024 Surface Laptop is the vanguard of the AI PC revolution that has taken over the industry this year.

With the help of Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite and Snapdragon X Elite Plus, Microsoft's Copilot+ PCs finally brought AI out of the cloud and onto your laptop thanks to a powerful enough NPU that can actually perform useful AI workloads.

What's more, it was also the first laptop to bring AI to the consumer market, despite Apple having a nearly four-year head start in local AI hardware with its M-series chips.

In the end, the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 not only brought AI to consumers in a practical way, it also threatens the Apple MacBook's coveted FOMO status and gave customers a real alternative to the MacBook while keeping the convenience, familiarity, and practicality of a newly invigorated Windows on Arm platform.

Kicking off the AI PC revolution…

There's been a lot of talk about AI over the last year, thanks to Nvidia's soaring stock price, OpenAI's ChatGPT, and Microsoft's aggressive push for its Copilot AI tools, but it wasn't until the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 landed in May that anyone was able to get AI from anything other than the cloud.

Tools like Midjourney and Dall-E for image generation, Claude AI and ChatGPT for text-generation, and generative AI plug-ins for just about every app under the sun have all had to previously rely on an internet connection and a cloud server to process user requests.

This is less than ideal for any number of reasons, but the first generations of local AI hardware for laptops, also knows as NPUs, simply hadn't been powerful enough to do anything truly functional for end-users without having to resort to cloud processing.

That changed with the Surface Laptop 7, which sports a Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite system-on-a-chip (SoC) that more than doubles the NPU performance of the Apple M3's NPU, and could now be leveraged to generate text from prompts, perform video and audio processing to remove background noise and blur backgrounds during video calls (or any video recording, for that matter), generate images from text prompts using Stable Diffusion, and, eventually, provide a way to contextually search through your computer's history to find lost files, resume internet searches, and more through Windows Recall.

While other Intel and AMD-powered laptops have since been released that can do all of this as well (and in many cases, do it even better), it all started with the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7.

…while breathing life into Microsoft Surface lineup

While the AI functionality of the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 obviously gets a lot of attention, it wouldn't have mattered one bit if the Surface Laptop 7 wasn't also an incredible laptop, and it truly is one of the best laptops you can buy today.

I have always loved the look of the Surface Laptop, and the Sapphire colorway of the Surface Laptop 7 absolutely pops with color and character (as opposed to the stale and rather boring MacBook design). The problem is that the previous Surface Laptops just weren't good laptops. Microsoft's Surface Laptop and Surface Pro always seemed to be a generation or two behind what everyone else, especially Apple, was doing, and their price made them too hard to recommend.

Now, however, thanks to the super-efficient ARM architecture in the Snapdragon X Elite SoC, we have a Surface Laptop that is powerful and has all-day battery life. Before the Surface Laptop 7, only Apple silicon could offer users 15 to 20 hours of useful battery life, with even the best Windows laptop getting 10-12 hours if you were lucky.

While there are some issues with the new ARM architecture in the Surface Laptop 7, especially around app compatibility, that keep it from hitting perfection, it still smashes all expectations we had for what the Surface Laptop line and Windows on Arm could do, and for that, it is the most compelling Windows laptop I've seen in years.

One of the best Windows laptops and best laptops of 2024 has dropped in price, making it more affordable than ever. It's got a sleek design, solid battery life, and excellent performance. For a limited time, you can buy the Microsoft Surface Laptop at Best Buy for $1,099.99 (was $1,399.99).

The star of the show is the Snapdragon X Elite CPU which delivers an incredible level of power for a portable machine. This along with the display and AI features meant we had no qualms about giving it five out of five stars - something we only do very rarely.

Today's best Microsoft Surface Laptop deal

The Microsoft Surface Laptop provides solid productivity performance. Its CPU and memory guarantee all the hardware required for making video calls, editing documents, surfing the web, and more while never sacrificing performance on any level.

Considering the specs, this laptop is actually incredible value for money. It's also lightweight and thin so you'll have no problem taking it into the office, college or university. Read our Microsoft Surface Laptop review to find out more reasons why you should buy it.

If you're on the lookout for one of the best laptop deals then we've curated a whole list of them. If you're open to considering Apple laptops then we also have all the latest MacBook deals.

Microsoft’s latest Surface Laptop was very well-received, indeed it tops our list of the best laptops currently, although some folks may still remain unconvinced about its Arm CPU and certain drawbacks therein – but if you’re waiting for a model with an Intel chip instead, it looks like that wait could soon be over.

Windows Central noticed that a purported Surface Laptop 7 with Intel Lunar Lake mobile CPU – as opposed to the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite (Arm-based) processor that powers existing models – has surfaced (ahem) on Reddit.

The prerelease (sample?) model is actually up for sale on a Chinese auction site (Goofish), and the listing describes it as having an Intel Core Ultra 7 268V chip (which is Lunar Lake as mentioned) with 32GB RAM plus a 1TB SSD.

Add some healthy piles of salt at this point, of course, and we can have our usual doubts about such leaks, but that said, the listing seems to be authentic and it’s complemented with photos of the supposed Surface Laptop 7.

On top of that, reliable leaker Zac Bowden of Windows Central tells us that his sources have said that Microsoft is indeed testing an Intel Lunar Lake-toting Surface Laptop – but it isn’t clear whether this will be a variant of the existing Surface Laptop 7, or a new Surface Laptop (presumably a version 8).

However, the design remains the same – as stated in the sales listing – so the former seems to make more sense. Bowden further notes: “It’s likely that Microsoft intends to offer both Intel and Qualcomm variants of the Surface Laptop with its updated design going into 2025.”

That echoes the Goofish seller, who informs prospective purchasers (who really shouldn’t be risking going anywhere near this laptop, we should add) that the Core Ultra 7-packing notebook won’t go on sale until 2025.

Analysis: Business as usual? We hope not

What’s the big deal about an Intel version of the Surface Laptop 7 (or indeed 8)? As noted, while the Snapdragon X Elite-powered notebook is fantastic – we gave the device a glowing review – the Arm chip still has some weaknesses, for example in terms of software (and games) support. Those compatibility quirks are bugbears that an Intel (x86) spin on the Surface Laptop won’t be hampered by.

The best bit, though, is that Lunar Lake CPUs have really impressed since their launch, and these chips won’t let the side down in terms of the strong suits of the Snapdragon chip – you should still get excellent battery life as well as performance with Intel.

The drawback, then, might be the price tag, and this leak doesn’t air good news in this respect.

The Goofish seller tells us that the price from the Microsoft Store for the model in question will be around 19,000 Chinese Yuan, which works out at about $2,700 (or £2,000 / AU$4,000). We’re assuming this applies to the mentioned 32GB plus 1TB model, anyway, but a ‘listing price’ (translation could be shaky) is also provided, pitched at 10,990 Chinese Yuan, which converts to around $1,500 (or £1,200 / AU$2,300). Might that be the entry-level price tag?

We don’t know, but we’re pretty heavy on the skepticism with these figures, given that the current Surface Laptop 7 with 32GB plus 1TB has an MSRP of $1,600 in the US, so for it to be inflated to the tune of two-thirds seems a bit ridiculous. That said, we anticipate a Lunar Lake chip will indeed push the price up a fair bit – but surely not that much.

Finally, Bowden mentions a potential major wrinkle here – could this Intel-toting Surface Laptop be a business-only device? That’s how Microsoft played it with Meteor Lake (in the Surface Laptop 6), and might the same be true for Lunar Lake? Could that go some way towards explaining the eye-watering pricing, perhaps?

Well, we’d forget about the prices put forward here, in all honesty, but we can’t so readily dismiss the idea of a business-centric launch. Let’s just hope consumer models are inbound, as it’ll be very disappointing if they aren’t in the cards.

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The new Microsoft Surface Pro is excellent and we think it's one of the best devices made by the manufacturer. There's now a slight but significant price cut on this powerful new machine – enough that it's cheaper than Surface Pro 10 bundles – and you can get the Microsoft Surface Pro at Best Buy for $1,299.99 (was $1,499.99).

The $200 discount applies to both 512GB and 1TB storage options with a Snapdragon X Elite processor and 16GB of RAM, though it is limited to what you might consider the less popular colors such as beige-gold and blue. Still, if you're happy with that design then this is an ideal opportunity to snag a top-end configuration of this brilliant tablet-laptop hybrid for a great price.

Today's best Microsoft Surface Pro laptop deal

In our Microsoft Surface Pro 11 review, we highlighted the performance, battery life, OLED display, and new Flex keyboard as some of its finest features. The Snapdragon X Elite processor runs 90% faster than the Surface Pro 9 and supports the new Surface Pro's Copilot Plus PC features without lag. Then there's the gorgeous OLED display that shines with its vivid colors and brightness, plus an optional touchscreen if you prefer tablet use. 

The Surface Pro's lightweight and flexible body makes it easy to tuck into a bag, fold into a tablet, or prop up for use as a laptop. To add to its portability, it lasts up to 14 hours on a full battery and doesn't take long to charge.

Keep track of all Microsoft's sales with the best Surface Pro deals right now and browse our guide to all the best laptops for more options to consider.

Microsoft has announced the upcoming release of several devices which it claims will revolutionize business productivity utilizing advanced AI technology.

Among the new offerings are the Surface Pro 10 with 5G, Surface Pro 11th Edition, Surface Laptop 7th Edition, and the Surface Keyboard.

Microsoft says these business laptops are built to empower users with enhanced performance, seamless connectivity, and innovative AI-driven features.

Enhanced business performance

The Surface Pro 10 with 5G is a productivity-focused device targeting business users, powered by the latest Intel Ultra Core processors. Its design emphasizes portability and flexibility, featuring a detachable keyboard that allows users to switch between laptop and tablet modes, making it particularly attractive for professionals on the go.

Microsoft has partnered with T-Mobile to make the transition to 5G more cost-effective for U.S. business customers. Qualifying businesses can receive a subsidy credit of up to $400 on Surface Pro 10 with 5G devices through the T-Mobile Partner Plus program.

In addition to 5G connectivity, there's also support for Wi-Fi 6, and two Thunderbolt 4 ports for fast data transfer and versatile peripheral connectivity. The display is designed with an anti-reflective coating, enhancing visibility in various lighting conditions, making it ideal for both work and entertainment.

In terms of usability, the device boasts an all-day battery life, allowing users to remain productive without frequent recharging. It will also include the Surface Pro Flex Keyboard, which features backlit keys and a large haptic touchpad. The device is set to be available on September 26, with the price yet to be announced.

Microsoft also announced the Surface Pro, 11th Edition, bringing AI-enhanced capabilities such as Windows Studio Effects, automatic framing, and enhanced voice focus, which boost user experience, particularly in video conferencing and content creation.

The new laptops are powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus processors, which aim to deliver 20% more AI processing power and battery life is up to 14 hours on a single charge, making them a decent choice for teams that require robust performance and long battery life.

Security is also a priority, with an integrated NFC reader allowing for passwordless authentication with devices like the YubiKey 5C, ensuring that sensitive data always remains protected. The Surface Slim Pen further enhances the device’s versatility, enabling precise notetaking, sketching, and annotation.

The availability of Wi-Fi models is scheduled for September 10, while 5G models will be released on September 26. Pricing details are yet to be announced.

The Surface Laptop, 7th Edition is the latest iteration of the Surface Laptop series and is designed to boost team productivity with major upgrades in display quality, connectivity, and user experience.

The new Surface Laptop is available in two sizes, 13.8 inches, and 15 inches, featuring ultra-thin bezels and brighter screens for an enhanced viewing experience. Both models are equipped with advanced connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 7 and multiple ports, ensuring integration with various devices and networks. The laptops promise impressive battery life, with the 15-inch model lasting up to 22 hours, making them suitable for extended use without frequent charging.

The Surface Laptop’s Full HD Surface Studio Camera, paired with AI-powered Windows Studio Effects, should mean users look their best during video calls, with features like Automatic Framing, Portrait Blur, and Eye Contact.

It also sports Omnisonic Speakers and AI-enhanced Studio Mics with Voice Focus to further enhance the audio experience, making it easier for teams to collaborate and communicate effectively. This model is set to be available on September 10, with pricing details also yet to be announced.

Recognizing many business users prefer a larger keyboard for desk-based work, Microsoft is introducing a new Surface Keyboard, a full-sized offering designed to complement Surface PCs and offers enhanced functionality for those who spend significant time working at a desk.

The new keyboard features an expanded keyset, including the dedicated Copilot key, which provides instant access to AI functionalities, allowing users to integrate AI into their workflow, and replaces the traditional menu key.

Compatibility is a key focus, as this keyboard is designed to complement Microsoft’s Surface Pro and Surface Laptop devices. The keyboard will be available starting October 3, with pricing details yet to be announced.

More from TechRadar Pro

• These are the best laptops for programming
• The best Surface Pro deals in September 2024
• Take a look at our pick of the best laptops

Laptops and tablets feel like they’re getting sleeker and more portable than ever and one such highlight is the Microsoft Surface Pro 11. This might be one of the best deals to get you ready for going back-to-school because you can now buy this bundle with a Microsoft Surface Pro 11 at Best Buy for $1,499.99 (was $1,679.98) and get a free Surface Pro Keyboard.

This is a great option for anyone who wants power, good looks and a Microsoft Surface keyboard. This means it’s all ready to go as a highly portable laptop. It’s one of the laptop deals to go for today if you can’t decide between buying a tablet or laptop but you don’t want to miss out on the flexibility of either.

Today’s best Microsoft Surface Pro 11 deal

The Microsoft Surface Pro 11 does a good job while you work thanks to the included keyboard. The touchscreen is also highly responsive and silky smooth thanks to the Dynamic Refresh rate of up to 120Hz, while Dolby Vision means it’s perfect for watching movies on the move when the working day is over.

It may not be on our best laptops guide but there aren't any better options when it comes to tablets for both working and relaxing. After our Surface Pro 11 hands-on review, we found it to be the best Surface ever – and it'll only get better.

If you're looking for something more traditional with more power or storage, then check out our other laptop deals. We've included options to suit all budgets.

Update: This original offer with a $200 saving has now expired. However, it's been replaced with a new deal that includes the new Microsoft Surface Pro 11 and a free Signature Keyboard Cover – effectively a saving of nearly $200. It's not often that these items are bundled together making it a good opportunity to pick up the laptop-tablet hybrid with one of its near-essential accessories at a good price.

Original story: Effortlessly stylish and remarkably powerful, the Microsoft Surface Pro Copilot Plus PC is at Best Buy for $1,299.99 (was $1,499.99), marking the first time it's been on sale. This one truly stands out as it's only recently launched, too, so discounts have been fairly thin on the ground. 

We're especially excited as the Microsoft Surface Pro Copilot Plus PC is one of the best 2-in-1 laptops out there based on our testing. It easily switches between laptop and tablet mode so you get the best of both worlds here. 

Powerful and running Windows 11, it’s the ideal all-in-one solution for anyone who needs to be productive on the move but wants to look good doing so.

Today’s best Microsoft Surface Pro deal

The Microsoft Surface Pro Copilot Plus PC oozes useful AI features which should simplify your life. This includes Recall which means you can search across time to find the content you need, while there are also Live Captions for understanding different languages quickly. It’s all very useful from a time-saving perspective. 

AI also extends to its ultra-wide front-facing camera for taking video calls with automatic framing, while the Surface Slim Pen helps you fill in the gaps through generative AI. All those features aren’t to the detriment of battery life either with up to 14 hours promised and our Microsoft Surface Pro 11 review confirming that in general use. 

Likely to be one of the best laptops for many people, the Microsoft Surface Pro 11 also feels like a genuine alternative to the iPad Pro so it has multiple purposes.

There are other Microsoft Surface Pro deals going on at the moment, but you may wish to focus on specific laptop deals or tablet deals if you simply want one or the other. It could work out better value for your situation.

Microsoft is sweetening the deal on its best Surface Pro yet. The retailer's back-to-school sale includes discounts on the Microsoft Surface Pro Copilot+ PC Essentials bundle, which starts at $1,189.18. 

This deal discounts the bundle on items you might have wanted with the Surface Pro rather than just the tablet itself. The Surface Pro Essentials bundle comes with a Microsoft 365 Personal 15-Month Subscription (for the price of the 12-Month Subscription) plus 2 to 4 years of Microsoft Complete anti-virus protection. It also offers up to 20% off additional accessories like a keyboard, pen, or mouse, which could come in handy for working on the go. 

Today's best Microsoft Surface Pro deal

Our Microsoft Surface Pro 11 review called it the "best Surface ever" for a reason. It flaunts fantastic performance, impressively long battery life for a Windows tablet, and quality-of-life updates like a fully functional OS that make it stand out. It's also the latest AI-powered tablet with features like Copilot at the forefront. Thanks to the Snapdragon NPU, the thirsty AI processes won't interfere with multitasking. That said, these improvements don't come cheap.

Here's where the math comes in. The cheapest Surface Pro tablet costs $999.99 and features a Snapdragon X Plus processor, LCD, 16GB RAM, and 256GB SSD. Meanwhile, the most expensive offering costs $2,099.99 and features a Snapdragon X Elite processor, OLED display, 32GB RAM, and 1TB SSD. You can customize the specs for your Surface Pro based on your needs.

For more Surface Pro sales, see TechRadar's best Surface Pro deals in August 2024. We also have separate lists for the best Windows tablets and best iPads, in case you're still sifting through for the best tablet options.

Microsoft Surface Laptop 7: Two-minute review

It's no secret that I'm not fond of the Microsoft Surface Laptop series, so even with the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite chip and all the new Copilot+ AI bells and whistles attached to the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7, I wasn't expecting much of an upgrade. But to my surprise, it's quickly turning into one of the best Windows laptops and best laptops of the year thanks to a sleek design, solid battery life, and excellent performance.

The display is quite beautiful no matter which version you purchase, as the lowest resolution is still an impressive 2304 x 1536 (above 2K) with a pretty solid 120Hz refresh rate. The specs range is also great, coupled with some of the best pricing for an AI PC I've seen so far. It's thin and light too, an absolute breeze to carry around for work, school, and more.

The Surface Laptop 7 sports great specs, which translates to excellent performance - comparable to two other AI PCs: the Dell XPS 13 (2024) and the Asus Vivobook S 15. Battery life is also quite great, competing with the likes of the best Macbooks in that regard.

The Snapdragon X Elite CPU is truly excellent but it's not perfect, at least at this time due to its Arm-based OS. These issues don't surface when it comes to productivity work (unless you come across rare compatibility issues with a few Bluetooth accessories), but through gaming, they can be more noticeable.

Prism emulation does compensate for most games and more apps are being released on Arm, there are still roadblocks before it reaches complete compatibility for Windows on Arm. The positive is that Arm has already made incredible progress in terms of these improvements, so it shouldn't be more than several months before the remaining issues are cleared up.

Microsoft Surface Laptop 7: Price & availability

• How much does it cost? Starting price is $999.99 / £1,049.99 / AU$1,899
• When is it available? Available now
• Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, and Australia

The starting price for the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 13.8-inch model is $999.99 / £1,049.99 / AU$1,899, netting you a Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus processor with 16GB RAM and 256GB SSD storage. The 15-inch model starts at $1,299.99 and comes with a Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processor, 16GB RAM, and 256GB SSD.

It's cheaper than the entry-level M3 MacBook Air 13-inch and matches the starting price of the M3 MacBook Air 15-inch, while the highest configuration roughly matches the price of the highest configuration of the MacBook Air. It's also cheaper than the Asus Vivobook S 15 or Dell XPS 13 (2024), and with comparable specs to boot.

Microsoft Surface Laptop 7: Specs

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 13.8-inch model starts with a Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus processor with 16GB RAM and 256GB SSD storage. The 15-inch model starts out with a Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processor, 16GB RAM, and 256GB SSD.

Microsoft Surface Laptop 7: Design

One of the most consistent aspects of the Surface Laptop series are the designs. The chassis is always sleek and lightweight yet sturdy, there's a nice variety of colors to choose from, and the keyboard feels snappy and responsive while typing. Thankfully, the Laptop 7 doesn't change on that front but instead embraces its positives while focusing its efforts on enacting improvements it actually needs.

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 boasts a 13.8-inch (2304x1536) HDR-supported display with a high refresh rate of 120Hz - especially high for a non-gaming laptop. It weighs less than three pounds, ensuring its super portability - an absolute gem for any office worker or student who needs to transport it around between home and work offices or to and from school. I wish it also featured an OLED screen option but omitting it keeps the cost down, so it makes sense.

Its keyboard is also just as snappy and responsive as you'd expect, though the touchpad has minimal response issues that need to be rectified by adjusting the sensitivity settings. The webcam is the standard 1080p fare, nothing too shabby, but it lacks a physical shutter which for its price point is an oversight worth mentioning.

Port selection isn't the worst, as it comes with two USB Type-C ports, a USB Type-A port, and a combo port. But it's certainly not well-balanced either, with it missing several important ports like ethernet, SD card reader (there is a microSD slot in the larger 15-inch model, however), and an HDMI. Even worse, Microsoft still insists on that abysmal Surface Laptop connect charging port, which only serves to take up space that could have been given to literally anything else.

It has a solid sound quality as well, with instruments sounding clear and distinct from each other in music. Bass isn't too shabby as well, which is always surprising when it comes to a non-Ultrabook or gaming laptop.

Microsoft Surface Laptop 7: Performance

Another defining feature of the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 is its AI Copilot+ integration, including the Copilot key that Windows AI laptop keyboards are now outfitted with. As of now, however, the Copilot key simply doesn't work and there's no way to reprogram the key to make it work either.

The Copilot feature does work, and quite well I might add. I tested out the Copilot chatbot on all three levels - creative, balanced, and precise - and it performed quite well on all three. The answers, ranging from basic math to a mock interview to an outline for a novel, were well thought out and well sourced. You can also enable various plug-ins for more types of conversations or to help with shopping for a variety of products.

I also tried out two other features included in Microsoft Paint called Cocreator and Image Creator, both powered by AI model DALL-E. The former transforms your own drawing into an AI-generated picture, and you can choose between several styles as well as the level of 'creativity' (aka how much of the finished product is from you versus the AI). Unfortunately, Image Creator uses a credit system, in which you're awarded 50 credits when you sign up for the service and each image generation costs one credit, so you'd need to pay for additional images after you run out of credits.

There was one feature that I couldn't test out, the infamous Windows 11 AI Recall. Set to launch alongside Windows AI PCs, it was kicked back to the Windows Insider Program when its numerous security issues came to light. 

Basically, Recall takes screenshots every few seconds, building up a library of images you can search via AI. But the issue is that the Recall database, which contains all the data from those screenshots and the history of your PC usage, is stored in plain text (in an SQLite database).

This makes it light work for hackers to obtain highly sensitive information like finances, passwords, work data, and more. So as of right now, Recall is not available for me to test out, and until Microsoft works out the safety issues it shouldn't be.

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7's benchmark results are quite impressive, comparing well to the Dell XPS 13 (2024) and the Asus Vivobook S 15 in both specs and general performance. It does beat out the latter in a few tests including GeekBench and CrossMark while matching the former in those same areas.

Even without a proper gaming GPU, the CPU does an incredible job of maintaining a high level of performance no matter which and how many tasks you're currently balancing. These benchmarks prove that the Laptop 7 can handle productivity work, conference calls, streaming, and more.

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 I tested featured a Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite CPU and boy does it make all the difference. A common denominator between the past Surface Laptops is their poor performance, as they juggle a massive amount of tasks behind the scenes that result in major slow down, freezes, and even the aptly named 'Blue Screen of Death.'

But the Laptop 7's Qualcomm chip rounds out and fills in the numerous issues. It starts up and runs quickly, it's responsive when it comes to loading video websites as well as AI tools, and programs run as smoothly as they can. 

The latter is especially important as one of the biggest drawbacks was constant crashing when certain large programs booted up, including benchmarks like PCMark 10. But since I've been using it, there have been no performance hiccups in the slightest - in fact, I genuinely enjoyed my time with this laptop and would jump at the chance to make it my official work machine.

Microsoft Surface Laptop 7: Battery

The battery life has also been rejuvenated, with an absolutely incredible 15 hours of off-AC power when it comes to regular use and just over ten hours with the TechRadar movie test. It's rare to find a laptop with that kind of lasting power outside of MacBooks these days, and coming from a Windows laptop it's even more unbelievable.

Another improvement is the ventilation system, as I never experienced any overheating even when the Laptop 7 had been running for several hours without break. Better vents also lead to better performance and less risk of crashes, going hand in hand with its superior battery life.

Should you buy the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7?

Buy the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 if...

Don't buy it if...

Microsoft Surface Laptop 7: Also consider

If my Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 review has you considering other options, here are two more laptops to consider...

How I tested the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7?

• I tested the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 for a week
• I tested it using productivity and creative applications
• I stress-tested the battery using the TechRadar movie test

First, I tested the general weight and portability of the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 by carrying it around in a laptop bag. After I set it up, I ran several benchmarks to thoroughly test out the new Qualcomm processor. Finally, I used a variety of programs and applications to test out both battery life and general performance during work-like conditions.

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 is meant to be a portable laptop with a thin and light chassis. I had to spend a good amount of testing not only on performance issues but also looking for any ventilation issues. I also tested out battery life to see how long it could last off AC power.

I've tested plenty of gaming PCs and laptops, making me more than qualified to understand benchmark test results and how to properly stress test machines to see how well they perform as a work machine.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed June 2024

Microsoft Surface Pro 11: Three-minute review

OK, so it's time for me to eat some crow.

Last year around this time, I scoffed at the idea of Microsoft making its own Arm chip to power its Surface lineup, and I was, frankly, pretty savage in my opinion of Windows-on-Arm based on the limited number of examples that'd actually made it to market (all of which were pretty much garbage).

If I had less integrity, I could say that 'what I was really talking about was Microsoft designing its own chips and having them fabbed by TSMC the way Apple does with its M-series chips, not partnering with Qualcomm for the new Microsoft Surface Pro 11!'

But that wouldn't be honest. The new Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite SoC in the Surface Pro 11 was co-developed by Microsoft specifically to run a new generation of Copilot+ AI PCs, with its Surface Pro and Surface Laptop leading the way. Functionally, yes, it's different than what Apple is doing, but substantively, it's not, and what Microsoft is doing is better than what Apple is doing, and the Surface Pro 11 is as good an example of that as any of this new generation of laptops now hitting the scene.

Before I go into why I think this might be the best laptop released this year, I will front-load my criticisms of the device, since I don't want them to get lost amid the praise, of which there will be a lot in this review.

First, this isn't a tablet. It's a full-featured Windows 11 OS, so making a keyboard an optional, extra purchase starting at $139.99 / £129.99 / AU$239.95 is ludicrous, and making the Surface Pro Flex Keyboard with Slim Pen (included in this review) an additional $449.98 / £439 / AU$499.95 purchase absolutely takes away from the appeal of this device. This is somewhat mitigated by a starting price of $999.99 /£1,049.99 / AU$1,899.99, so even with the additional keyboard expense, it's going to be cheaper than many of the best 2-in-1 laptops out there, but having to pay extra for a keyboard for a laptop PC will never sit right with me.

Second, Microsoft PRISM does an admirable job as an emulation layer, letting you run a lot of Windows x86 apps on the Snapdragon X Elite without any real (or at least noticeable) performance degradation, but there are still some apps that won't run at all, at least not yet. It also goes without saying that any app running through emulation is going to run slower than an app programmed specifically for Arm architecture like that in the Snapdragon X Elite.

Finally, the much-touted AI features of Copilot+ laptops are still very limited. Recall has been held back for a few months (which is fine, honestly), and Studio Effects and Cocreator work well but can feel gimmicky at times. If you buy this laptop hoping to see the future of AI PCs right now, you're going to be disappointed. Real AI-powered apps are coming soon, but they aren't here yet.

With that out of the way, and with all that still top of mind, the Microsoft Surface Pro 11 is my favorite laptop of the year, and I don't see any on the horizon that will dislodge it. I've reviewed dozens of laptops over my last four-plus years writing for TechRadar, and the Surface Pro 11 is the device I'll want to take with me when I have to travel for work, or when I want to work somewhere outside the home or office.

From its incredible design, gorgeous display, and all-day-plus battery life, the Microsoft Surface Pro 11 is more than a match for the iPad Pro, and thanks to its full Windows 11 OS, it can do more than an iPad Pro could ever dream of doing in terms of features and functionality.

Its performance might lag behind the latest iPad Pro with Apple M4 overall, but it is still very competitive nonetheless. That said, the Surface Pro 11 was able to actually run all of my standard benchmark tests, something a MacBook can't do (an iPad even less so), and there weren't any standout weaknesses when it comes to most users.

And even though the Surface Pro 11's gaming performance is pretty laughable overall, it's not like the MacBook Air is a gaming laptop either (no matter how much Apple wants you to believe it is), and the Surface Pro 11's gaming chops are about the same as the best ultrabooks out there.

Where the Surface Pro 11 really shines, however, is its design and battery life. Easily the best-looking detachable laptop on the market, it also sports up to a 2.8K OLED display with far better color accuracy than an iPad Pro according to our tests, a 1440p webcam along the edge of the display for better framing when in landscape mode, and a lightweight but solid build that feels like the investment it is.

In terms of battery life, I'll get into more detail in a bit, but this device lives up to Microsoft's 14-four battery life claim, even edging closer to 15 hours in my local video playback tests. This is a hell of an accomplishment for an OLED laptop and underscores just how good Arm architecture is for power efficiency.

All in all, then, the Microsoft Surface Pro 11 does exactly what it has to do, does it well, and even pushes past what most users are going to expect from even the best Windows laptop of the past few years. It's not perfect, but as more developers release Arm versions of their apps and more AI apps and features roll out, this is a phenomenal laptop that will only get better over the next year and beyond.

Microsoft Surface Pro 11: Price and availability

• How much does it cost? Starting at $999.99 /£1,049.99 / AU$1,899.99
• When is it available? The Microsoft Surface Pro 11 is available now
• Where can you get it? You can get it in the US, UK, and Australia

The Microsoft Surface Pro 11 is available now in the US, UK, and Australia, starting at $999.99 /£1,049.99 / AU$1,899.99.

For this price, you get a 10-core Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus chip, a 2.8K LCD display, 16GB RAM, and 256GB SSD. You can upgrade to an OLED display with a 12-core Snapdragon X Elite chip, 16GB RAM, and 512GB SSD starting at $1,499.99 / £1,549 / AU$2,699. With the LCD model, you only have the option to increase storage capacity, as all configurations come with 16GB RAM. 

The top-level configuration, with a Snapdragon X Elite, OLED display, 32GB RAM, and 1TB SSD, will cost you $2,099.99 / £2,149.99 / AU$3,599. As mentioned before, all of this is before spending additional money for one of several compatible keyboards. Only Wi-Fi models are available at this time, but 5G-enabled models are due out later this year.

Compared to the iPad Pro 13-inch, the Surface Pro 11 generally comes in, though the iPad Pro is going to have a better display to start. On the flip side, it starts with much less memory and you do get a fully functional Windows 11 operating system, not a beefed-up mobile OS like you get with the iPad.

• Value: 4 / 5

Microsoft Surface Pro 11: Specs

Microsoft Surface Pro 11: Design

• Gorgeous display
• Surface Pro Flex keyboard is fantastic
• Get it in Sapphire Blue, trust me

The Microsoft Surface Pro 11 is not all that different from the Surface Pro devices that came before it, but this one hits different thanks to the gorgeous Sapphire Blue colorway and lovely OLED panel in my review unit.

Featuring a 2880x1920p resolution, a dynamic refresh rate of 120Hz, and a contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1, the display is as good or better than just about any other you'll find on the market at this price. The Surface Pro 11's display also features far better color gamut coverage in our testing than the iPad Pro released earlier this year, with the Surface Pro 11's OLED panel capturing 162.7% of the sRGB and 115.2% of the DCI-P3 color gamuts, making this a fantastic 2-in-1 for creatives.

The HDR brightness on the Surface Pro 11's OLED panel is also much brighter than the iPad Pro's, with the Surface Pro 11 peaking at 878 nits while the iPad Pro was only able to get to 498 nits brightness. Meanwhile, the SDR brightness of the Surface Pro 11's OLED panel averaged about 564 nits to the iPad Pro's 476 nits.

Flipping the Surface Pro 11 over, you'll find the characteristic kickstand that Surface Pro devices are known for, and it opens easily enough but stays firm however you set it. It also has a fairly wide range, with its widest open position letting you pretty comfortably take written notes or do design work on a slightly angled surface.

The review unit I received came with a Surface Pro Flex keyboard and Slim Pen, both of which performed very well during my time with the Surface Pro 11. The keyboard is among the most comfortable I've ever typed on, and the Slim Pen, while nothing special as far as a 4,096-point stylus goes (and certainly not up to the level of a professional artist's digital tablet and pen), works pretty well with the Surface for note taking, photo editing, and illustrating work.

The keyboard easily attaches to the pins along the edge of the Surface Pro 11 and they don't detach easily, letting you carry it around without worrying that you're going to drop the keyboard.

The Flex keyboard also lets you detach it and roll the connector flap underneath the top edge of the keyboard, giving you a better typing angle. Also along the top of the keyboard is the magnetized slot for the Slim Pen. If there's a knock I have on the design, it might be that this magnet is too strong, forcing you to sometimes have to really dig in to get the pen. Considering how well Microsoft incorporates accessibility into its products, this was a surprising slip on its part, but it's not deal-breaking by any means.

You only get two Thunderbolt 4 ports, but for a tablet-like device, that's not bad at all. Being Thunderbolt 4, the ports feature charging, data transfer, and DisplayPort 1.4a video output.

The webcam is positioned along the landscape edge of the Surface Pro 11, rather than at the 'top' of the tablet like with the iPad Pro. This makes video calls much less awkward, and the 1440p webcam sends out a crisp, clear image at 30 fps. The webcam also integrates into Windows Hello for better security on the device.

The speakers are fine for a tablet-like device, but they won't wow you. If you want proper sound, you'll need to look into getting a headset to pair with the Surface Pro 11, as there is no headphone/microphone jack.

I won't speak about the other colorways, because I honestly don't want to. The only color you should consider for the Surface Pro 11 is Sapphire, which is an eye-catching powder/sky blue. It's simply much nicer aesthetically than Dune, Platinum, or Black. If you do, you'll have easily one of the prettiest laptops going, and you might even get some jealous looks from Apple diehards.

• Design: 5 / 5

Microsoft Surface Pro 11: Performance

• Great overall performance
• Prism Emulation is pretty decent
• Lags Intel, AMD, and Apple laptops

Windows-on-Arm has come a long way in the four or so years since Microsoft began rebuilding its x86-defining OS for a whole new architecture.

I won't bore you with the finer details of chip-level instruction sets and all that, but it's important to know a few things before you buy a Microsoft Surface Pro 11. 

Once you've built an operating system on the foundation of a certain defined table of machine-language operations that make it all work, switching out that table of operations for a different, albeit similar, set of operations is a lot like immersive language learning. 

Think about it like this: if all you've ever known your whole life is English or Spanish, landing in Beijing and trying to learn Chinese from scratch isn't an impossible task, but it is going to be much, much harder than if you'd grown up speaking it.

Microsoft has struggled for years with even some of the basics of speaking Arm, having spent four-plus decades speaking x86, and Windows-on-Arm historically struggled in that intermediate range where the OS would work, but nothing else installed on the OS would (assuming it would even install). Microsoft still isn't fully fluent in Arm, so to speak, so Windows 11 on the Surface Pro 11 still suffers the occasional app incompatibility here or there, but it is lightyears ahead of where it was in 2020, and that's largely thanks to Prism emulation.

Built into Windows 11 on the Surface Pro 11 is a software layer that acts as a translator for apps that can't work on Arm hardware, taking an app's code and converting its x86 instructions into Arm instructions. Apple's Rosetta works the same way, but just like relying on a translator in a foreign country is going to slow down the pace of conversations, translating an x86 app into Arm takes time that does impact the app's performance.

And this is where the Microsoft Surface Pro 11 really surprised me. I was genuinely surprised at how well apps ran, even in emulation. They were nowhere near as fast as native apps, but they were more than fast enough that 95% of users wouldn't even notice a difference.

Still, there are differences, and they show up pretty clearly in benchmarks.

On the plus side, the Snapdragon X Elite's multicore performance in Geekbench 6.3 was toe-to-toe with the Apple M4 in the iPad Pro, so there is a lot of room for Windows-on-Arm to grow, rather than be held back by slower Arm-based chips as it had been in the past.

But in benchmarks like CrossMark Productivity, the Surface Pro 11 lagged behind the iPad Pro considerably, scoring only 1,327 to the iPad Pro's 1,771.

In terms of creative performance, in my PugetBench for Creators Photoshop benchmark tests, the Surface Pro 11 scored 5,600 compared to the Apple MacBook Air 13-inch with M3's 8,583 in the same test. Pretty much across the board, it was the same wherever the Surface Pro 11 has to rely on Prism Emulation to run a benchmark, which puts the Surface Pro 11 at a disadvantage right out the gate.

These differences are very real, and if you need high performance for your work, then there are going to be few cases right now where the Microsoft Surface Pro 11 is going to outperform an Intel, AMD, or Apple silicon-powered laptop. You'll almost certainly be better off with one of those laptops than the new Surface Pro 11.

But performance isn't strictly a numbers game. More often than not, it's more vibes than anything, and most people need good to great performance and responsiveness and the ability to use the apps they want without any or as little fuss as possible. I spend my days testing the best computer hardware for the consumer market on the planet, and for non-gaming, non-intensive creative work, I found the Surface Pro 11's real-world performance to be a match for any of the dozens of ultrabooks I've tested in the past two years.

• Performance: 3.5 / 5

Microsoft Surface Pro 11: AI features

While not an official scoring category here at TechRadar (at least not yet), it's worth breaking out the Surface Pro 11's AI features into its own discussion apart from general performance.

AI PCs are very much in their infancy, with the first consumer laptops with NPUs only shipping in early 2024. Most developers don't even have developer kits with NPUs in them yet, so the number of AI features you're going to find in an AI laptop right now is pretty small.

The Surface Pro 11 does have some nifty features though, which show the potential of NPUs for consumers. If you've used Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet, you've probably done a video call where you could blur your background or even swap it out for something kitschy or fun.

Studio Effects does something similar on-device, even allowing you to bring these changes into online calls so your video data isn't being processed in the cloud (at least not the blurring stuff. The video encode/decode is still being processed online). The list of available features in Studio Effects will likely expand as it moves from its current 'preview' state to a more mature production feature, so this is probably just a glimpse at what will be possible with Studio Effects over the next year or two.

Another interesting feature is Cocreator, which lets you sketch an idea out in Microsoft Paint and Cocreator will generate a more detailed/refined image based on a text prompt and some other parameters. You can even click on the generated image and move it to the canvas, where you can refine your idea further. 

Of the three AI 'launch' features for the Surface Pro 11 (the other being Recall, which isn't available as of yet), Cocreator is the most interesting. The images aren't necessarily great, and don't get me started on generative AI, copyright, and its theft from countless artists both alive and dead, but Cocreator is something I can actually see people using, if only for themselves.

The quality of the images being produced isn't nearly good enough to pass as actual art (the 45 TOPS NPU doesn't have nearly the processing power to do proper generative AI as we see from Midjourney and other gen AI tools that work in the cloud), and they're even too rudimentary for clip art or slideshow backgrounds.

Still, as an inspirational tool for the actual creative process (not just visual, but for writers and others as well), this could be something people might find helpful. It's not the kind of feature that's worth upgrading your laptop over just to get it, but it does point to where the future of the AI PC is likely to go in the next 2-3 years.

For now, that's really the only AI the Surface Pro 11 is offering as discrete features, but it's early yet. With the release of Microsoft Copilot+ Runtime, developers have a whole host of new tools to leverage the NPU to carry out AI workloads, so it's only a matter of time before AI apps hit the scene in force, and when they do, the Surface Pro 11 will be ready to run them.

Microsoft Surface Pro 11: Battery life

• Nearly 15 hours of local video playback
• Takes about an hour to charge to full

The keystone feature of the new Microsoft Surface Pro 11 isn't its performance, AI tools, or even its appealing design. What really sets the Surface Pro 11 apart from many Windows laptops is its battery life, which is robust enough to challenge even the best MacBooks for longevity.

In our web surfing test, the Surface Pro 11 managed a very impressive 12 hours and 10 minutes of battery life. Even more impressive was our local video playback test. With the display set to full brightness, energy saving turned off, and volume at 50%, the Surface Pro 11 squeezed out 14 hours and 33 minutes of battery life.

Considering that this is an OLED laptop, getting more than half a day's worth of use is something we really haven't seen. The iPad Pro with M4, for instance, got 14 hours and 50 minutes of battery life in our testing, and the MacBook Air 13-inch with M3 managed 15 hours and 13 minutes in our web surfing test. With some settings tweaks, there's no question that the Surface Pro 11 can go well beyond the 12-15 hours it got in our tests and stretch well into the 18-20 hour range, if not even longer.

The 47WHr battery charges fairly quickly with the included charger, but fast charging is available with a 65W or higher power cable, either through the Surface charging port or through USB.

• Battery Life: 5 / 5

Should you buy the Microsoft Surface Pro 11?

Buy the Microsoft Surface Pro 11 if...

Don't buy it if...

Also consider

How I tested the Microsoft Surface Pro 11

• I spent about a week with the Surface Pro 11
• I used it for everyday productivity and content creation work
• I ran our standard suite of Windows laptop benchmarks

I spent about a week with the Microsoft Surface Pro 11, using it mostly for everyday work, futzing about online, streaming movies, and the like.

I also ran TechRadar's standard suite of Windows laptop benchmarks on the device after installing the tools as normal and with no special flags or settings used besides the tool defaults.

I've been reviewing laptops and computer hardware for TechRadar for more than four years, and have personally reviewed many dozens of laptops in just two years alone. I know what to expect from a laptop in this class and how a laptop's performance ought to match up to its price based on its competition.

We pride ourselves on our independence and our rigorous review-testing process, offering up long-term attention to the products we review and making sure our reviews are updated and maintained - regardless of when a device was released, if you can still buy it, it's on our radar.

Read more about how we test

• First reviewed June 2024

Microsoft’s Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 7 Copilot+ PCs are finally launching, and, as it turns out, they are some of the most repairable laptops on the market.

According to a new breakdown of the laptops thanks to iFixit, they praised how easily technicians can service them. Shahram Mokhtari from the official YouTube channel walks through the process of detaching each component, including the motherboard, to demonstrate how straightforward it is to remove and repair them.

Under the case of each device are several labels and QR codes that feature a wrench symbol above them. Microsoft calls the labels ‘Wayfinder Markings,’ and they inform you how what kind of screws you need and how many of them to secure components in that area. Meanwhile, the QR codes bring you to Microsoft’s official service guides page for easy instructions.

The ease of parts removal has been greatly improved, which is especially a boon for laptops. For instance, batteries in the Surface Laptop can now be removed by simply removing the bottom feet and back cover, compared to older models that required nearly every other component to be taken out first. This was especially egregious when the battery was the only serviceable part of the laptop. SSD cards are also simple to take out. Unfortunately, memory is soldered to the motherboard, making it difficult for the average user to detach and replace.

The Surface Pro is just as easy to work on, with the SSD replaceable without disassembly, and removing the display is much simpler than other tablets. However, due to the adhesive securing the screen, replacing other components like the battery can be a bit more challenging.

The Surface Pro and Surface Laptop each receive a repairability score of 8 out of 10, a massive improvement compared to Microsoft’s disastrous scoring back in 2017, when iFixit gave the original Surface Laptop a zero out of ten score for repairability. It seems that after that, Microsoft was determined to turn over a new leaf, even partnering with iFixit in 2021 to start selling Surface repair tools.

Meanwhile, MacBooks and Chromebooks are among the worst laptops for repairability, according to a report called Failing the Fix, which was compiled by the Public Interest Research Group (PIRG), a consumer advocacy organization in the U.S. Sounds like Apple and Google should be taking a page from Microsoft’s book and overhaul their own PCs to be far more user friendly. 

You might also like

• My week so far with Copilot+ PC laptops: they might be the future
• Microsoft says its new Surface Laptops beat the MacBook Air
• I asked a Copilot+ PC to make me a beach ball, it gave me what I needed

Microsoft has just announced a slate of new laptops under the Copilot+ PC moniker, and they’re paired with an Arm-based Snapdragon chip that boosts the laptops’ performance and efficiency. However, given that these chips do not use an Intel or AMD architecture, you might be wondering how compatible they are with all the best Windows games and apps.

Microsoft has said these PCs have vastly improved compatibility over their predecessors, but what if you want to check a specific game? Fortunately, a new website has launched that lets you see just that.

Called Works on Windows on Arm, the website lets you search for a game and see whether it runs on the new laptops. Each title is given a compatibility grade (‘unplayable,' ‘runs,’ ‘playable,’ or ‘perfect’) and the site lists the frame rates you can expect, what drivers the game uses, and more. 

It should be a helpful resource if you’re considering buying a new Copilot+ PC but aren’t sure if you’ll be able to bring your favorite games along for the ride. Though, we'll call out that Works on Windows on Arm "does not absolutely guarantee that a game will run. The results have been tested, but may not work on your specific machine and configuration." They'd like you to contribute your findings if you get a different result. 

Automatic Super Resolution

The website also notes whether a game supports Microsoft’s Automatic Super Resolution (Auto SR) feature, which works a little bit like Nvidia’s DLSS. Auto SR lowers a game’s rendering resolution and then uses artificial intelligence (AI) to scale its graphics back up. The result is smoother gameplay that is less taxing on your system and enables lower-spec PCs to play games at decent frame rates.

At its recent Surface and Copilot event, Microsoft said that most games should work on its new Arm-powered laptops since there is an emulator built-in that automatically works to translate the apps to work on the new architecture. Microsoft claims it’s as good as Apple’s Rosetta 2 translation layer.

At the time of writing, there were 1,481 games in Works on Windows on Arm’s database, which means there’s a decent chance you’ll be able to check your favorite titles on the website. That’s great news if you’re thinking of making the switch to a new Copilot+ PC.  

You might also like

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May has been a good month for fans of OLED displays. With Apple’s new iPad Pro and Microsoft’s upgraded Surface Pro being unveiled at almost the same time, there’s now plenty of choice when it comes to high-end tablets that boast top-notch screen tech.

Yet a recent comparison from display industry expert Ross Young shows some massive discrepancies between the two devices that you might not have been aware of if you’d just stuck to the two companies’ marketing materials. It follows a previous claim from Young that the iPad Pro would come with several industry firsts, and when you look a little closer, it becomes clear that the iPad Pro’s display is leaps ahead of the Surface Pro’s, on paper.

What’s immediately obvious is the benefit brought by the iPad Pro’s tandem OLED display. The Surface Pro uses a regular OLED panel, which means it tops out at 900 nits of peak brightness and 600 nits of full screen brightness. The iPad Pro, meanwhile, hits 1,600 nits and 1,000 nits in those two categories, respectively. That’s a huge disparity and one undoubtedly facilitated by the iPad’s more advanced tandem OLED technology.

The differences don’t end there. The iPad Pro has a wider refresh rate range (10Hz to 120Hz compared to the Surface Pro’s 60Hz to 120Hz), offers stronger login protection in the form of Face ID versus a fingerprint reader, is significantly thinner and lighter, and offers a chip with a more efficient and advanced 3nm manufacturing process. 

Despite all of that, it still comes in cheaper, starting at $1,299 / £1,299 / $2,199 compared to the $1,499 (around £1,180 / AU$2,250) Microsoft charges for the OLED version of the Surface Pro.

Which is better?

Of course, not everything is quantifiable by tech specs, and much comes down to how a device feels to hold and use. 

The Surface Pro is a 2-in-1 computer that can be used as either a tablet or a laptop, while the Apple requires you to shell out an extra $299 if you want its keyboard for the iPad Pro. That alone might make Microsoft’s device more attractive to you.

The Surface Pro also pulls ahead in a couple of important ways. For instance, it starts with more storage (512GB versus 256GB), supports Wi-Fi 7 instead of Wi-Fi 6E, offers more CPU cores and potentially more GPU cores (although the latter is uncertain right now), starts with more memory and offers a higher memory limit.

Yet it’s hard to avoid the fact that the iPad Pro is most likely the better choice if the display is your most important consideration. While there’s a lot to like about the Surface Pro, Apple has the display crown for the time being.

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Microsoft recently held its 'AI Era' live event which saw a new line of laptops featuring the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus chips, and offerings from its laptop manufacturing partners. 

All the machines detailed below meet the minimum requirements for Windows Copilot+, the AI-powered assistant that Microsoft is pushing hard. Multiple manufacturers, including not only Microsoft but also Dell, and HP, are going all in with AI and choosing the Arm-based Qualcomm Snapdragon X line over x86 architecture. 

Below, we're going in-depth with an overview of what's been announced and what's expected after the Microsoft event. The best laptops are changing right before our eyes and it's one of the most exciting shake-ups of the established formula from what we've seen over the past handful of years. Let's get into it. 

New Microsoft Surface Laptop and Surface Pro in detail

The manufacturer has unveiled brand-new revisions for the Microsoft Surface Laptop and Microsoft Surface Pro, starting with the new Microsoft Surface lineup. Both new devices will be utilizing the Qualcomm Snapdragon X processors, which is in direct contrast to the current generation Surface Pro 10 running Intel Meteor Lake.

It's an interesting move considering that said Surface Pro 10 was only released a handful of months ago running Intel Core Ultra 100 hardware. The same can be said of the Surface Laptop 6, which has only been on the radar for a handful of months. It looks like Microsoft is ditching the numbered naming convention for these new models, perhaps to emphasize their newfound AI capabilities.

What's particularly exciting about both new products is the quoted battery life and alleged performance improvements when switching to Arm from older Intel x86 chips. According to Microsoft, the new Surface Laptop features up to 22 hours of video playback with 15 hours of web browsing. It's claimed to be twice as fast as Apple's MacBook M3.

The new Surface Laptop will be available with configurations up to 64GB of RAM and 1TB SSD which is no slouch, however, the display is most exciting. That's because both the 13.5-inch and 15-inch models will feature a 120Hz HDR touchscreen. Connectivity also sees a boost with 2x USB-C ports, a 3.5mm jack, and a MicroSD card reader. New Colorways include silver, black, blue, and bronze.

Similar can be said of the new Surface Pro device. It's reportedly 90% faster than the Surface Pro 9 from 2022 with a vastly overhauled camera system. That's because it features a QHD portrait camera and a 4K rear shooter. Additionally, there's also up to 32GB RAM and a 1TB SSD with a 120Hz display as standard, and an OLED model available, too.

Dell unveils new Snapdragon X laptops

Dell has announced a new revision of the XPS line which is ready for the AI computing revolution. The new laptop will be powered by the new Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processor which is a massive departure from the current Dell XPS hardware running Intel Core Ultra (Meteor Lake) CPUs. 

Traditionally, Dell has only ever utilized Intel silicon with its machines, which can be considered among the best ultrabooks on the market. The new XPS 13 will feature a refined aluminum chassis with up to 13.4 inch OLED 3K touchscreen display. Colorways include Platinum and Graphite, which appear to be quite slick. 

As well as the advent of the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite SoC, the new Dell XPS 13 will feature up to 64GB RAM, up to 4TB Gen 4 NVMe SSD, and a 1080p webcam. If the price is right then this machine could rival a similarly specced-out Apple MacBook while running Arm-based Windows with its advanced AI functionality. 

However, that's not the only new laptop that Dell unveiled. That's because there's also there's also new Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus-powered Dell Inspiron 14 and 14 Plus models coming, too. Unlike the XPS 13, these new revisions are more to serve the mid-range market with the Plus chip instead of the Elite SoC found in the flagship. 

With that said, the Snapdragon X Plus is no slouch of an SoC as it's running the same custom Hexagon NPU with the same Adreno integrated graphics for a similar level of performance overall. As with other AI-first laptops, the new Dell Inspiron 14 and 14 Plus feature a dedicated Copilot button on the keyboard. 

Acer also goes all-in on AI

Acer is also jumping on the AI computing train with its new line of Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite and Plus processors. Several versions of the aptly named Acer Swift 14 AI will be available, all of which are geared up to use Copilot's suite of features like Recall and Windows Studio Effects. 

The new Acer Swift 14 AI features a 14.5-inch WQXGA (2560x1600) 120Hz display with up to 32GB LPDDR5X RAM with up to 1TB SSD, and an impressive 100% sRGB color gamut. Connectivity also sees a boost as well with Wi-Fi 7 as standard alongside Bluetooth 5.4, and ports include 2x USB-C, 2x USB 3.2, HDMI 1.4, and a 3.5mm jack. 

In terms of pricing, the first Acer Swift 14 AI will retail for $1,099 (around £865 / AU$1,645) in July in the US, however, no availability in other regions or pricing has been confirmed as of yet. It's an exciting development for Acer as it moves into AI computing and its price tag seems consistent with the other entry-level models mentioned above. 

For more events as it happened, you can check out our Microsoft Surface AI event live blog which goes over all the details. We'll be bringing you updates on these announced devices as they roll out over the next handful of months. 

Samsung launches the GalaxyBook4 Edge for AI

Samsung has also confidently announced its new GalaxyBook4 Edge AI laptop which is "powered by GalaxyAI" and Microsoft Copilot in tandem. It's also running the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processor featuring the Hexagon NPU running at 45 TOPs. Pre-orders are available now in the US and the UK and shipping on June 18. 

The Samsung GalaxyBook4 Edge will be available in two sizes, either 14-inch or 16-core, all of which feature the Snapdragon X Elite 12-core CPU. The starting price is $1,349 for the base model and up to $1,749 for the top-end version. Interestingly, the 14-inch is actually heavier at 3.4 lbs compared to the 2.6 lbs of the 16-inch version.

According to the press release, Samsung claims its new GalaxyBook4 Edge features up to 22 hours of battery life with "super-fast charging" for all-day usage. The display appears to be a sweeping improvement over its predecessors with a "dynamic 2X AMOLED" display sporting a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth operation. 

Security and business usage appear to be another arm of the GalaxyBook4 Edge as well. The new laptop is backed by Samsung Knox (after Fort Knox) which is said to detect real-time threats and protect against any potential vulnerabilities. Said functionality reportedly makes it ideal for AI-powered business use for local and cloud computing. 

The Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x AI laptop arrives 

Lenovo is the latest manufacturer to bet all its chips on the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite chipset with its newly revealed Yoga Slim 7x. This machine weighs in at just 2.82lbs and is only 0.5 inches thick. The machine features quite a staggering display as well with a 14.5-inch, 16:10 3K OLED screen with a 90Hz refresh rate. 

It's nice and bright as well with a peak brightness of 1,000 nits and benefits from a 100% sRGB color gamut coverage. There's a starting price of $1,199 (around £950 / AU$1,795) with availability expected in June. The Yoga Slim 7x appears to be geared towards video conferencing with a 1080p webcam armed with four microphones and a quad-speaker setup. If you're frequently in meetings, this one shows promise. 

HP backs the Snapdragon X Elite chip for business too

While many of the computers covered above have focused on consumer use, HP has shown how the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite chip can be utilized for business. Enter the EliteBook Ultra G1q which positions itself as a premium option for professionals and it looks the part. 

The EliteBook Ultra G1q weighs in at just 2.9lbs with a 2.2K 14-inch display. There's also Wi-Fi 7 connectivity included and a sizable 59WHr battery with quickcharging functionality, able to juice up to 50% in only 30 minutes through the included AC adapter. It's also claimed that this ultrabook features a 26 hour battery life, which is very impressive if it's accurate. 

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Microsoft has unveiled new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop devices that it says can directly compete with – and outperform – Apple’s MacBook Air. Yet while their performance is truly impressive, there’s a notable caveat that suggests the MacBook Air comparison isn’t quite on the money.

Yesterday, Microsoft put on a special show for its new laptops, which come equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite chips based on the Arm architecture. This is the same architecture that Apple’s latest M3 chips are built on, and it is known for its ability to combine blistering performance with ice-cold efficiency.

In tests seen by The Verge, Microsoft’s laptops – dubbed Copilot+ PCs – beat the M3 MacBook Air in a series of benchmarking trials measuring chip performance. In terms of battery life, too, Microsoft apparently came out on top, managing just under 17 hours in a web browsing test and over 20 hours of video playback. 

Microsoft tested the MacBook Air in these areas too, and it clocked in at 15 hours and 25 minutes in the first and 17 hours and 45 minutes in the second, putting Microsoft’s device comfortably ahead.

The Arm advantage

So, is this the end of the MacBook Air’s reign? Well, not quite. As pointed out by Ars Technica, Microsoft says its new laptops come with fans, which the MacBook Air does not. 

That means Microsoft has a distinct advantage in terms of cooling, which will always help a chip eke out extra performance. The MacBook Air can achieve its remarkable performance while remaining completely silent, and while the Surface’s performance is undoubtedly incredibly impressive, equipping it with a set of fans means it’s always likely to pull ahead of Apple’s fanless laptops.

Perhaps a more apt comparison is with the Intel-based Microsoft Surface laptops that came before the latest Snapdragon X Elite models. The Verge notes that 2022’s Intel-based Surface Laptop 5 offered eight hours and 38 minutes in a web browsing battery test – just half of what the latest Surface can now offer.

If you’ve got an Intel-based Surface laptop now and are thinking of upgrading to the Snapdragon model, you will likely notice a sizable improvement in performance and battery life. Microsoft also says it has radically stepped up app compatibility for its Arm-based chips, with a new emulator called Prism that Microsoft claims is as good as Apple’s Rosetta 2 at running non-native apps.

The new Surface Laptop starts at $1,000 / AU$1,899 for a 13-inch model with Snapdragon X Plus chip, 16GB of memory, 256GB of storage and an IPS LCD display. The Surface Pro, meanwhile, starts at $1,049 / AU$1,899 for an LCD screen or $1,549 / AU$2,699 for an OLED display. Its base model offers 16GB of memory and either 256GB or 512GB of storage, depending on which display option is chosen.

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Microsoft just announced its new lineup of Surface devices on Monday at a special 'AI Era' press event at its Washington state headquarters. The new devices will come with Qualcomm's new Snapdragon X chips, potentially making them a very compelling competitor to the latest Apple MacBooks and iPads.

We've seen two new devices so far, the Surface Laptop and Surface Pro. That's right - no numbers appended to the end of these two as part of Microsoft's rebranding push under its 'AI Era' of AI-powered Surface products.

The new Surface Laptop sports impressive battery life thanks to the new Snapdragon X Elite processor, with up to 22 hours of local video playback and 15 hours of web browsing. Microsoft was also keen to show off Adobe Photoshop (and other Creative Cloud apps) running natively on the Arm-based processor at twice the speed of Apple's competing M3 MacBook Air, along with new Prism emulation to bridge the gap between Windows on Arm and existing x64 and x86 software.

It'll have up to 64GB of RAM and up to 1TB of SSD storage paired with a 120Hz HDR touch display in either 13.8- or 15-inch sizes. USB-A is alive and well here, too, joined by two USB-C ports, a headphone jack, and a Micro SD card reader. It's available in four colorways: silver, black, blue, and bronze.

Meanwhile, the definitely-not-the-Surface-Pro-11 is reportedly a massive 90% faster than the 2022 Surface Pro 9 5G thanks to its new Snapdragon chip. It offers an impressive QHD front-facing camera and a rear camera that can capture 4K video. Microsoft was keen to tout the new accessibility-focused design features baked into the keyboard and trackpad, too.

It'll pack up to 32GB of RAM and up to 1TB of storage with a 120Hz display with Dolby Vision IQ. There is an OLED screen option, but it will cost you more. It comes with Microsoft's AI-powered Cocreator tool, and there's also a new Surface Slim Pen that can be garaged in the new 'Surface Pro Flex Keyboard' type cover as well as triple external monitor support via USB-C. All of this could make this the perfect device for digital creatives.

Both the new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop will feature Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, with the former having optional 5G functionality. They also feature dual studio mics with AI-enhanced 'voice focus' and Dolby Atmos speaker support.

A new era of Surface

Both devices fall under Microsoft's 'Copilot + PC' umbrella, which mandates a set of minimum requirements for new AI PCs and laptops. Copilot + PC requires 16GB of RAM, at least 256GB SSD storage, and an integrated NPU from either Qualcomm, Intel, or AMD (in this case, the former).

The new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop will both start at $999 / AU$1,899 (UK is yet to be announced) for the entry-level models. That'll get you 16GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD for both devices.

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The day before the start of Microsoft's annual Build conference, the tech giant is holding a major news conference and TechRadar is on the ground in Washington to bring you the latest news as it breaks.

There's been almost no hint of what is being prepped for announcement, so I'll be hearing the news for the first time myself right along with you, and while the event will not be live-streamed, I'll make sure to keep you posted on everything that Microsoft announces as I hear it.

The big guess ahead of Build has been that Microsoft's heavy focus on AI will lean into the slew of new processors hitting the market from Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm, with the latter's Snapdragon X Elite and Snapdragon X Plus chips giving a lot of people hope that Windows on Arm could finally be getting a real shot in the, well, arm. I couldn't help that one, sorry.

But it's also likely that, since this is a developer conference, we're going to see a lot of chatter about Microsoft Copilot. This might include new tools and features, deeper ChatGPT integration, and more along those lines.

Of course, the real wildcard would be Windows 12, but I highly doubt that we're there yet, but we'll see soon enough.

Here we go, folks! This is John, live from Microsoft's Redmond campus in Washington state, where the venerable tech giant is holding a special event ahead of its annual Microsoft Build conference. We're all expecting some exciting stuff from the event, so stay tuned as I bring you everything I see and hear over the next hour.

We're underway now as Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella takes the stage. I can tell you right now, given the number of Qualcomm folks I've seen around here and how the Copilot logo is plastered all over the campus, it's not really a mystery that this event is going to be heavily weighted towards Microsoft's gargantuan AI ambitions and that Qualcomm's Snapdragon X chips are going to play a pretty big role in Microsoft's Surface device plans.

We're starting with Copilot.

Copilot + PC is the new platform Microsoft is introducing, though we don't know a whole lot yet. This is absolutely about integrating AI into the entire Windows platform, not just a tool slapped like a barnacle on the side of a non-AI operating system. 

Yusuf Medhi is taking the stage to tell us about the new category of PC platform.

We're talking about a new system architecture running at 40+ trillion operations per second, 58% faster than the MacBook Air with M3, according to Mehdi.

Copilot is going to be integrated into Windows 11 Settings, Notifications, and other systems.

OpenAI's ChatGPT-4o is going to be fully integrated into Windows, letting ChatGPT-4o help you navigate Minecraft if you've never played the game, kind of like an interactive walkthrough.

As far as demos go, the ChatGPT-4o walkthrough of how to play Minecraft is pretty impressive. As a lifelong gamer, its the kind of use case that makes sense for real people.

We're onto Recall now, which promises to leverage your use history with on-device AI to allow you to pull data you didn't even know you forgot had been processed on your PC. Carolina Hernandez, the product lead for Recall, is describing how to use the Recall function to search for webpages you once visited using natural language, such as the blue dress that you were looking at as a present for a family member.

We're onto privacy and safety. Recall data will only be used on device, with control over what data is retained on your device, and it will never be used to train Microsoft's AI models.

Windows Recall also incorporates Timeline, which lets you scroll through your device history to find what you're looking for.

The idea of having a 'history' for your PC, much like a web browser, that lets you backtrack through offline work is genuinely innovative. If it's on device and secure, I'm absolutely on board with this kind of AI.

We're now onto Windows Copilot Runtime, an OS-level framework that will allow developers to better utilize the power of an NPU for their apps.

OK, we're now talking about the partnerships between Microsoft, Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm. The video is featuring Gelsinger, Su, and Amon, like an Avengers superteam. I guess Apple is Thanos in this case?

We're now onto native Arm apps, including Microsoft 365 apps completely rebuilt from the ground up for ARM.

OK, Prism emulation for Windows on Arm, effectively bridging the x86/x64/Arm gap.

New Microsoft Surface Laptop and Surface Pro with Copilot and Snapdragon X chips. Up to 22 hours of on device video playback, 15 hours of web browsing battery life.

Adobe Creative Suite will now run native on Copilot + PC devices, which require 16GB of RAM, 256GB SSD storage, and an integrated NPU.

In a live demonstration of Adobe Photoshop running on the new Surface Laptop, it processed multiple images about twice as fast on the Surface Laptop as it was on the Apple MacBook Air with M3. 

OK, so Live Captions will use the NPU to provide live translations of any audio as it plays, with a video demo showing a global team on a Teams call all speaking different languages, but the captions stayed consistent across three different languages, with 40 languages supported to start.

The new Surface Pro is up to 90% faster than the Surface Pro 9.

The Surface Pro features a QHD front facing camera, with a rear camera that can capture 4K video.

The keyboard and touchpad will feature more accessibility-friendly touchpad and keys, again, showing Microsoft's leadership on accessibility tech across their product lines. 

We're now onto generative AI. Cocreator, a text-to-image tool, will take text and brushstroke input collaboratively. It can also let you iterate on your own sketching, which is going to be a powerful tool for artists who are brainstorming designs.

In CapCut, the NPU in the Surface Pro entirely handled the work of removing the background from a minute and a half video clip and replaced it with a new one in very little time at all. 

I've been messing around with NPUs for several weeks now, and they've honestly kind of sucked. I think the most important development here might be Copilot Runtime. This might be the key that unlocks these nueral processors to actually create useful AI apps for everyday use.

All the major manufacturers are getting in on all this, with their major lines.

These new devices will be available for preorder today with deliveries starting June 18, with starting prices from $999.99.

OK, so that is a wrap on the press briefing, but there is a lot to dig into and digest, which will take a couple of minutes, but the bottom line is that Qualcomm's Snapdragon X chips, especially the Snapdragon X Elite, are going to be a massive challenge to Apple's MacBook Air.

There is still the question of compatibility on Arm architecture, but if Prism emulation can match what Rosetta was able to do for Apple Silicon, then that might not really matter much, and given how much all the major players have come together to produce these Snapdragon X Elite laptops, software developers have no choice but to build native Arm apps. 

Incredibly, seemingly against the odds, Microsoft might actually deliver on the promise of Windows on Arm.

The pressure is now going to be on Intel and AMD to live up to the battery life promise of these new Arm chips. 22 hours of local video playback on an Intel or AMD chip is laughable right now, and for laptops, this will give Qualcomm a significant advantage if these chips can at least come within striking distance of Intel and AMD's performance and compatibility.

As for all of the Copilot AI demos I saw, there's only so much I can say without testing any of these myself independently. That said, if these new Copilot + PC devices live up to what I've seen in the live demos, then customers (especially everyday people, not necessarily just tech enthusiasts) will have a real reason to upgrade their laptops to those with an integrated NPU.

All of this, I think, is a function of Copilot Runtime. Programmers who actually make the apps that will leverage an NPU will need base-level system access to the NPU hardware, and just as DirectX powered a revolution in PC game development by giving game developers an easy way to harness the hardware in a computer to generate increasingly realistic graphics, Copilot Runtime might do something very similar for all these new NPUs.

I'm going to have much more to say about all of this over the next few days, but I now have to go run out to check out some live hands-on demos (and maybe a sandwich as well).

As always, friends, be kind to each other.

Laptops and tablets feel like they’re getting sleeker and more portable than ever and one such highlight is the Microsoft Surface Pro 9. Today, you can buy the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 at Best Buy for $1,099.99 (was $1,539.99).

A great option for anyone who wants power  as well as good looks, the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is even more appealing while you can save so much. This particular deal comes with a Surface Pro keyboard so it’s all ready to go as a laptop that is highly portable. It’s one of the laptop deals to go for today if you can’t decide between buying a tablet or laptop but you don’t want to miss out on the flexibility of either.

Today’s best Microsoft Surface Pro 9 deal

The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 looks great. Rumors regarding a Microsoft Surface Pro 10 continue to linger but for now, you can’t get newer than the Microsoft Surface Pro 9. Its performance is reliably mid-range but the thing we love most is its screen. It’s the kind of screen that means when we compared the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 and Apple iPad Pro, we were impressed. 

The touchscreen is highly responsive and silky smooth thanks to the Dynamic Refresh rate of up to 120Hz, which will adapt to whatever task you're carrying out. Dolby Vision means it’s perfect for watching movies on the move, but the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 also does a good job while you work thanks to the included keyboard. It may not quite be one of the best laptops but there’s a reason why that many still love it -- it’s just so convenient in mostly every way.

One great idea is to use it as a laptop for work then relax in tablet form in the evening.

With Memorial Day sales approaching, we’re hopeful for more Surface Pro deals like this but we’ll be surprised if they go cheaper than this. Of course, there are always other laptop deals if you’d prefer something more powerful (or with more storage). 

We’ve all been waiting for new Surface hardware to debut, and as we gear up for Microsoft’s upcoming event in May it seems like Surface fans are in for a serious treat. We know that the Surface Pro 10 will come fitted with a Snapdragon X Plus chip, and now we finally have solid Geekbench specs for the upcoming device. 

According to Windows Report, the Surface Pro 10 will be fitted with the Snapdragon X Plus, a powerful but lower-cost variant of the Snapdragon X Elite. Think Apple's M1 versus the M1 Pro. So, rather than 12 cores like the Elite, the Snapdragon X Plus has 10 cores, and will come with 16GB of RAM. 

Under the Surface

So, why is it exciting news that this new Qualcomm chip is appearing on the Surface Pro 10? As we said earlier, the Snapdragon X Plus may be the laptop chip of Intel and Apple’s nightmares, and the Surface Pro 10 is highly anticipated to debut with better quality, brighter OLED screen, and boosted front-facing webcam (including AI capabilities). If the rumors are true the Surface refresh is expected to bring about huge performance jumps and overall quality-of-life improvements. 

It seems quite clear that Microsoft is focused on delivering AI capabilities to users, and to do so would require not just a powerful processor but appropriate software as well - like Copilot, for example. Right now, most people can already use Microsoft Copilot on their Windows devices and take advantage of a lot of its features. 

However, as Microsoft continues to put out powerful AI-focused computers like the Surface Pro 10, we could see a whole new list of power-user features that take advantage of the Snapdragon X Plus. Qualcomm could be the perfect ally for Microsoft as it forges ahead in the AI race - and we can't wait to see how the new Surface performs.

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One of Microsoft’s top brass who headed up the design team for Surface devices (and Xbox, plus Phones) has departed the company after a lengthy term of service.

Ralf Groene, who was Head of Industrial Design, Microsoft Devices, for the best part of a decade, has been at Microsoft for 17 years in total.

As Windows Central spotted, Groene just announced his retirement on LinkedIn. His new role as a retiree is “helping friends to design things” going by his LinkedIn profile.

While the original Surface hybrid was launched in late 2012, a few years before Groene was given the position heading up the design team, he took the lead with the crafting and realization of a whole load of Surface hardware from 2015 onwards. That included the likes of the Surface Book (which first hit shelves later in 2015, in fact) and the Surface Duo.

The timing is interesting, as it’s been a period of great change at the top for Microsoft in recent times.

Late last year, we witnessed Panos Panay, the driving force behind the creation of the Surface line, depart Microsoft, and more recently, Pavan Davuluri has taken the reins of Windows from Mikhail Parakhin (Davuluri is now VP of Windows + Devices).

Analysis: The state of Surface – and what this could mean for the future

Back at that initial launch in 2012, the Surface line of products represented Microsoft’s attempt to build flagship hardware to fully showcase the abilities of its Windows OS. Now, over a decade since then, what does the Surface range represent exactly?

Clearly over the years the devices on offer have become a good deal more diverse, and there are now a lot of members of the Surface family in addition to that original hybrid.

Even so, of late, things have felt rather stale, certainly with the core offering of the Surface Pro tablet (with detachable keyboard accessory). Recall last year, for example, which witnessed a very flat line-up of new Surface offerings, with little fizz to the additions in evidence – and a lot of scratching of heads about where the next Surface Pro was.

Now, of course, we have seen the Surface Pro 10, as well as Surface Laptop 6 – but only for businesses, at least thus far. Consumer models are going to be unveiled in May, but it has been a long old wait for them – and if the rumors are right, the consumer Surface Pro 10 might only offer an ARM chip (with no Intel CPUs even as an option).

That’s just a thin and rather wispy rumor mind, but it seems a risky play if it does pan out – or a measure of Microsoft’s confidence in Windows on ARM given the new Snapdragon X Elite SoC coming in, perhaps. Microsoft clearly feels that ARM silicon is coming into its own, and is now sufficiently powerful to make emulating x86 apps work smoothly enough that it won’t matter (too much) that software isn’t running natively on Surface devices. There are high hopes that said Snapdragon could beat out Apple’s M3 (also ARM-based) silicon, in fact.

In that regard, we could see something very different with the core Surface offering, then, although the design – as per the revelation of the business-focused devices in March – again stays to the tried-and-trusted, and distinctly risk averse, chassis and lines that we’re used to. It’s very much the same case with the Surface Laptop 6, too.

In some ways, we get this – if it ain’t broke and all that. But maybe with a change at the top of the design team, someone new coming in will start to shake up things more for future Surface devices to make their mark on the range in a more meaningful way.

Alternatively, could this be a chance for Microsoft to wind down its Surface line-up? To give up the fight against Apple? After all, Surface devices have been less profitable of late. However, we don’t see that as a realistic proposition, at least not yet – particularly given the push Microsoft is currently giving ARM chips as part of its big AI PC drive – but depending on how well all that goes, things could change quite rapidly, perhaps.

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Microsoft is getting involved with the current round of seasonal offers by launching a Surface Spring sale featuring discounts of up to $700 on several Surface devices.

• Browse the full Microsoft Surface sale

I've looked through the sale and picked out the best Microsoft Surface deals for both home and business users that should also suit several different needs or budgets. Some big savings are available now if you're interested in the versatile tablet hybrid Surface Pro or the more traditional Surface Laptop.

Of most interest is this Microsoft Surface Pro 9 for $1,099.99 (was $1,539.99). It's a solid all-around machine as it features an Intel i5 processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD for storage. It also comes bundled with the extremely useful and near-essential Surface Pro Keyboard accessory at over 50% off. This handy piece of tech combines an attachable Bluetooth keyboard and a protective screen cover, plus is usually sold separately at a premium.

Today's best Microsoft Surface deals

It's just not these two devices in the Microsoft Spring Sale, as it also features up to 20% off select Surface accessories. And for gamers, there are deals on Xbox controllers as well as up to 80% off Xbox games. 

Be sure to check the latest Microsoft promo codes for more ways to save, too.

If you need some more advice before deciding on the laptops above, you can check out our Surface Pro 9 review and Surface Laptop 5 review for our thoughts on both devices. I've also included a few of today's best laptop deals below so you compare them with what else is out there today and see some more budget-friendly options.

Microsoft recently unveiled its upcoming Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6, and while they’ll be initially targeted towards schools and businesses rather than regular consumers like you and me, the Redmond-based company has a new design ethos that will – hopefully – benefit everyone.

Both new Surface devices have been designed from the ground up with repairability in mind, comprising more replaceable components than ever before and a new focus on improving ease of repair. Internal parts will be marked with QR codes to help easy identification, along with “clear visual icons and built-in repair instructions”, according to Surface general manager Nancie Gaskill.

So why is this important? Well, for starters, I’ve always been a champion of sustainable and repairable hardware; it’s the reason I scored the Framework Chromebook so highly when I reviewed it, despite its high price tag. Giving the user – or, at the very least, third-party vendors – the ability to easily and safely repair electronic devices might not be very attractive from a pure profitability standpoint, but it helps consumers save money in the long run, and it’s good for the planet as well.

The e-waste conundrum

"E-waste", as it’s called, is a rapidly mounting problem. According to The World Counts, we’ve collectively tossed more than 11 million tonnes of electronics just since the start of 2024 – a staggering, upsetting quantity. In the time it takes me to write this article, another few thousand tonnes will be sent to landfill.

In other words, we’re wasteful – but we don’t have to be. Planned obsolescence in tech hardware has been going on for years, and we’ve all noticed it: home appliances that simply don’t last as long as they used to; phone contracts that push us to upgrade every other year; laptops with short manufacturer warranties and no options for self-repair. Microsoft is taking a stand, and I couldn’t be happier about it.

Now, I don’t want to give the tech giant (or any large tech company, really) too much credit here. In fact, cynics could easily argue that Microsoft has an ulterior motive. Back in 2017, tech repair site iFixit gave the original Surface Laptop a zero out of ten score for repairability, claiming that it was “not meant to be opened or repaired”. It also stated that replacing the battery – something that was near-effortless in older laptops, thanks to modular battery units – was “difficult and dangerous”, thus limiting the device’s lifespan.

It seems that Microsoft took this personally; future Surface products were far easier to repair, and the company even teamed up with iFixit to start selling Surface repair tools in 2021. The new Surface Pro 10 and Laptop 6 are just the latest step for Microsoft, but that doesn’t make that step any less important – and even if Microsoft’s efforts are geared more towards repairing its public image, it’s still a very good thing.

Reduce, reuse, recycle… repair!

There’s nothing more frustrating than when a device breaks, and you can’t get it repaired cheaply and easily. You take it to a repair shop, only to find it can’t do anything. The only option is to send it off to the manufacturer, pray that your warranty is honored, and wait. Let’s be honest: that's not ideal.

Luckily, Microsoft isn’t alone in this recent push against e-waste. Earlier this year, Lenovo claimed it would make its newest ThinkPad laptops last for longer than ever, forging its own partnership with iFixit. Elsewhere, Acer has been working on its rather excellent line of Vero laptops, with eco-minded devices such as the Aspire Vero 15. And, of course, I couldn’t not mention the Californian company Framework, with its brilliant commitment to repairable, modular laptops. What, I already mentioned those guys? Hell, they’re so good at eco-friendly tech, I’ll mention them twice.

The question, of course, is this: will it be enough? After all, many heavy hitters in the tech industry are nowhere near Microsoft’s level. Just consider Apple claiming its Apple Watch 9 is "carbon neutral" – a neat little distortion of reality that fails to address the core causes of e-waste. We’ve been around the block enough to know that "carbon credits" are a sham, and "greenwashing" has become an ugly issue among multinational corporations.

Still, I don’t want to be too much of a Negative Nancy here. Every step towards truly sustainable tech is a worthwhile one, no matter how small. Microsoft, I commend you... but you might want to stop killing the planet with AI, too.

Update: Best Buy has increased the price by $100 since we first shared this deal so the article has been updated to reflect that price increase. It's still a really strong offer for a Surface Pro 9 and Keyboard Cover bundle so I'd still recommend it, but it obviously stings a little now that you have to pay more.

The Microsoft Surface range of tablet and laptop hybrids is one of the best options if you need a capable, flexible, and portable Windows machine. The problem? They're damn expensive - especially when you need to buy the near-essential Keyboard Cover accessory on top. But this current offer at Best Buy helps alleviate that issue with a massive price cut on a Surface Pro 9 bundle that includes a free Keyboard Cover.

• See all Microsoft Surface deals at Best Buy

For a limited time, you can get this Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (with Keyboard Cover) at Best Buy for $1,099.99 (was $1,539.99). That's $100 more than the record-low price from last week, which is disappointing, but it remains one of the best laptop deals available today. It likely won't be around for much longer as this is likely a move to clear stock as it's rumored that the Surface Pro 10 will launch soon.

It's still worth getting the current version as we found it to be a well-built device for the price that will cover all of your everyday and general work needs in our Surface Pro 9 review. I'm a big fan of Surface devices, too, as I used one regularly during my freelancing days and still do for quick jobs at home when I don't need to sit at the computer.

The particular specification in this Best Buy deal is decent with a 13-inch touchscreen, a speedy Intel i5 processor and a whopping 16GB of performance-boosting RAM. I'm a little disappointed by the 256GB SSD, which is smaller than I'd like to see on a modern machine at this price. Still, it's OK for essential files and apps yet slightly underwhelming when it comes to storage capacity.

Today's best Microsoft Surface deal at Best Buy

If you prefer a more traditional device, there are also a variety of Microsoft Surface deals in the Best Buy Microsoft Surface sale to choose from with specifications suited for general use to more creative and professional-oriented powerhouses.

You should also check out the latest Best Buy discount codes as they can usually offer extra ways to save on a whole variety of products at the retailer.

Though Apple has long since rejected the idea of a touchscreen for its iMac, new information hints that the tech giant might be considering backtracking on its stance.

An updated patent application (reported on by 9to5Mac) that was first filed in 2023 revealed an iMac design with a pivoting stand. The reasoning behind the patent is that such a stand would be much easier to transport around as well as take up less space. However, looking at the images for the iMac brings up some familiar design choices.

Apple doesn’t normally make it a habit of reusing designs for its patents, especially ones that are so well known by now. So there’s a strong possibility that the company could be disguising a touchscreen iMac, which would be similar to the Microsoft Surface Studio. It would also make sense from a competitive standpoint, as Apple would be taking on a rival by offering a product that clearly has generated plenty of interest.

Not to mention that it would be a boon for artists, who are one of Apple’s top customers since its line of desktop PCs and laptops are perfect for creative work and video editing. And this would be an excellent opportunity to insert itself into the touchscreen desktop PC market and take it over, as Microsoft hasn’t put out a Microsoft Surface Studio since 2020.

Apple should reconsider its touchscreen stance 

Back in 2016, Apple’s SVP of worldwide marketing Phil Schiller boldly stated that the concept of a touchscreen iMac wouldn’t work: “Can you imagine a 27-inch iMac where you have to reach over the air to try to touch and do things? That becomes absurd.”

However, he also stated that Apple has been experimenting with the idea, with Schiller admitting the company worked on touchscreen Macs "a number of times over the years." It seems that whatever resulted from said experimentation soured the tech giant’s opinion of such technology.

But that was in 2016 and touchscreen technology has only improved by leaps and bounds since then. If Apple isn’t already testing it out, it’s high time to get back into the swing of things and test out iMac touchscreens again. Hopefully, this updated patent turns out to be a step in the right direction.

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Back in my freelancing days, I used a Microsoft Surface Pro 6 as my go-to device when working on the move. And, while I'm no longer travelling to and from events, I still use the tablet/laptop hybrid for general everyday tasks when I don't need to sit at the computer. Safe to say, I highly recommend one if you need a capable, flexible, and portable Windows machine.

That's why I'm shouting out this Microsoft Surface sale at Best Buy that features huge savings across several devices - including the latest Surface Pro 9 and Surface Laptop 5.

• See all Microsoft Surface deals at Best Buy

The one I particularly want to draw your attention to is this Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (with Keyboard Cover) at Best Buy for $999.99 (was $1,539.99). Our Surface Pro 9 review found this one to be a well-built device for the price that and one that will cover all of your everyday and general work needs,

Specifically, there's a 13-inch touchscreen, a speedy Intel i5 processor and a whopping 16GB of performance-boosting RAM. The only downside is the 256GB SSD, which is OK for essential files and apps yet slightly underwhelming when it comes to storage capacity.

However, it does include the near-essential Keyboard Cover as part of the price. This handy clip-on Bluetooth keyboard means you get the complete laptop experience and a slick way to protect the screen when it's not in use.

If you prefer a more traditional device, there are also a variety of Microsoft Surface deals in the sale to choose from with specifications suited for general use to more creative and professional-oriented powerhouses. You can see all the best laptop deals I've picked out below, along with the standout Surface Pro 9 deal.

Today's best Microsoft Surface deals at Best Buy

If your laptop purchasing budget is circa $500 and you want - or even need - the fastest laptop in that price range, then you can’t go wrong with the Asus Zenbook 14X. 

Currently available from Best Buy for $499.99 (a saving of $300), this is a laptop with an OLED touchscreen display and an Intel Core i5 13500H CPU. Just to clarify, this is not a convertible laptop; the touchscreen display is just that. 

It’s an absolutely gorgeous one with specs to match: 2880 x 1800 pixels, a peak brightness of 500 nits, a 120Hz refresh rate and 100% DCI-P3 color gamut on a 14.5-inch diagonal. Simply put, there’s no laptop with a better display on offer for $500 or less.

That’s not all though. The Core i5-13500H CPU that powers it is very note worthy, too. It has 12 cores, which is an indication of the firepower it can deploy. The other headline number worth keeping in mind is its base power dissipation (45W) meaning it can maintain a high clock speed. 

It scores more than 23,000 points on the popular Passmark benchmark, the highest ever for a laptop in this price range (for a new product).

The rest of the specifications is as expected. There’s a 512GB SSD (Gen4), a fingerprint reader, a webcam, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a huge 90WHr battery (probably the biggest under $500), an HDMI connector, a USB Type-A one, and a backlit keyboard. It’s ultra thin, too at less than 19mm and weighs under 1.6Kg.

The only reservation we have - and it’s a big one - is that it has only 8GB of RAM and that system memory is not upgradable.

We reviewed an older 14X Model in May 2022 and found out that it had poor battery life and was expensive. The new model solves both of these problems and keeps the main features of the 14X: its gorgeous design and its stunning OLED screen.

Early Cyber Monday deals are already here and Amazon has dropped a huge offer on one of Microsoft's popular tablet hybrids, generally used as a business laptop. The Surface Pro 10 may launch next year, but you can now get the current generation Surface Pro 9 for a mere $789 (but without the Type Cover).

That's a huge $210 saving on the normal price, but it is a shame that the almost necessary Type Cover accessory which usually costs around $130 by itself is not included. Without that, you have to make do with the on-screen keyboard, which isn't the easiest or most convenient option if you intend to use the Surface Pro for work or more involved tasks.

This version of the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 comes with a 12th generation Intel i5 processor, 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD. That's a fairly basic spec but is able to handle all of your day-to-day computing needs and light work. We're especially glad to see 8GB of RAM at this price, which will ensure solid performance when multitasking.

Meanwhile, the 13-inch touchscreen is a clear and crisp display that supports high-end resolutions up to 2880 x 1920 pixels for excellent image quality; that is almost 3X the resolution on a standard full HD laptop display.

A study kickstand and full HD front-facing camera make the Surface Pro ideal for video calls from anywhere, too. It also helps that the device weighs less than two pounds, so it's easy to take with you anywhere.

Just a small word of warning about that portability, though. Microsoft suggests that battery life is up to 15.5 hours on a single charge, but in our most recent x86-based Microsoft Surface Pro 7 review, we found that it often fell below this mark and lasted anywhere between four to eight hours.

We reviewed the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 5G which sports a different processor altogether, a custom Microsoft CPU based on Arm, that unfortunately doesn't provide with a straight apple-to-apple comparison with today's deal. Back in December 2022, we said "With its bigger screen, nested and slim pencil, and day-beating battery life, the Surface Pro 9 5G moves Microsoft's Surface line in the right direction, but the custom ARM chip brings with it a host of hiccups."

Microsoft has recently introduced a bunch of major updates to Windows 11, and now, it’s even updated how you get the updates. If you happen to be getting one of the new Microsoft Surface laptops or tablets anytime soon, you’re in for a treat. 

When you first open up your sparkling new device, you’ll inevitably have to sit through a setup and update process for a little while before you can dive in. Now, Microsoft has made the installation process less lonely by being able to play a game while you wait. 

You can also see our impression of Microsoft's Surface models.

This development was first spotted by Tom Warren of the Verge when he opened and started up the Surface Laptop Studio 2, he was able to play a modernized version of SkiFree, originally an online game created by Microsoft programmer Chris Pirih and released in 1991. 

Where else can you find the game?

This isn’t the first time Microsoft has mined SkiFree for nostalgic mini-game distractions - it’s actually been something of an easter egg you could stumble upon in Microsoft’s Edge browser since 2020. You can still access the game by typing in edge://surf in your Edge browser.

If you have pending Windows updates that are available or are restoring settings from a previous Windows Backup, it might be possible to play the game. It’s not totally clear if this is only available during the setup process of new Surface devices or if you can also play the game while updating any existing device with Windows 11. The Verge asked for more information on the topic from Microsoft but the company has yet to respond. 

Either way, it’s still a fun tidbit to pass the time and it’s the latest improvement Microsoft has made to make the dreaded Windows update process a little less dull. I think it shows that Microsoft developers do pay attention at more precise levels than people realize to improve the overall user experience. The current setup process is already a big step up even from recent Windows versions, which would have Cortana talking you through the process extensively - something some users found unhelpful or annoying.

Where Microsoft may have found inspiration

BetaNews goes as far as to speculate that Microsoft actually nabbed the idea from a third-party Windows enthusiast developer, concept designer 'AR 4789', who developed his own version of Windows with additional features named 'Windows Utopia'. Windows Utopia also lets you play games, as well as browse the web, while you install the custom operating system. 

This news has seemingly been received quite positively by Windows fans so far, and Microsoft could use the goodwill as it rolls out its very novel AI assistant, Windows Copilot, which has been received with a less enthusiastic response. The appearance of the surfing minigame does show that Microsoft is still very detail-oriented when it comes to the user experience, so I hope that it continues to be that way when it comes to delivering huge new features just as it does with the smaller ones.

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Microsoft has unveiled the latest versions of its leading laptops which it hopes will appeal to business customers using its software, including the latest AI tech it has to offer.

The company said its three new business laptops have been designed with productivity, creativity, and collaboration in mind, but beyond that, they aim to appease IT professionals and other decision-makers in their control and longevity.

At the same time, the company announced its latest whiteboarding and video conferencing screen for the meeting room, the Surface Hub 3, which we’ve covered separately.

Trio of new Surface laptops for business

The first device to get the latest treatment is the brand-new Surface Laptop Studio 2, which blends the functionality and practicality of a laptop with the versatility of a tablet: the touchscreen is compatible with Surface Slim Pen 2 for on-the-go note-taking and design work.

Microsoft says that the latest 13th Gen Intel Core processors deliver more than twice the performance of its predecessor. These and the Nvidia RTX 2000 Ada Generation or Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 and 4060 GPUs make it ideal for media-intensive workloads.

The upgraded Surface Laptop Go 3 is most befitting to a typical office worker, though it can handle some pretty intensive workloads with up to 16GB of RAM. It promises 15 hours of battery life, and fast charging to replenish that fairly quickly.

Finally, the Surface Go 4 has been upgraded with an improved battery and now delivers up to 4.5x more performance than the original Surface Go. Redmond sees this tablet-laptop-hybrid suiting best to healthcare and retail workers thanks to its compact size.

The new laptops are available to buy from the Microsoft store, costing companies $3,669 for the Surface Laptop Studio 2, $1,279 for the Surface Laptop Go 3, and $959 for the Surface Go 4.

"Our new Surface devices have been built for the needs and wants of end-users to be more productive, creative and collaborative while supporting the needs of IT professionals to deploy, manage and support these devices at scale through the lifecycle," noted Nancie Gaskill, General Manager, Surface.

"With these new products, we not only bring new innovation and technology but are delivering on some of the most requested commercial features with more performance, improved security, manageability and repairability."

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The Microsoft Surface Event 2023 has been and gone, and the tech giant has given us a lot to look forward to. The announcements included some big improvements and additions to the company’s AI roster, including a Windows-wide rollout of Copilot, and the long-awaited Surface Laptop Go 3 and Surface Laptop Studio 2. 

Aside from the new hardware, Microsoft made clear that it’s putting a lot of time and energy into its AI-powered products. A good portion of the hour-long event was dedicated to Microsoft Copilot, an AI feature in Windows 11 and Microsoft 365 that assists users by helping with repetitive, boring tasks like writing documents, summarizing emails, and lending a hand with presentations. 

Bing AI also got a lot of love during the event, and will be bringing new features and better contextual answers very soon. Personally, I’m super-excited to start using Bing as a shopping assistant. 

If you’re interested in picking up what Microsoft is putting down, have a look at our roundup of the most interesting announcements from Microsoft’s Surface Event 2023. 

1. Microsoft Copilot 

No, it's sadly not the return of Clippy. About half of Microsoft’s special event was dedicated to its next big dive into the world of AI – Copilot. Previously introduced as Microsoft 365 Copilot, it’s an intelligent assistant designed to enhance productivity apps, and was presumed to be for enterprise users only. Now, a more public version of Copilot is here, and will be available on all devices that receive the next Windows 11 update on September 26. 

Copilot will make its way to PCs, tablets, and laptops, and will be integrated into the OS in what Microsoft calls “the age of copilots.” The intelligent feature can now ask you what you need, answer in the most helpful and natural way possible, and then take action to help you navigate the task in hand. 

According to the official blog post, we’re going to see Copilot in the taskbar ready to go, or activated using the Win+C keyboard shortcut to provide quick assistance alongside your apps. 

2. AI is coming to Microsoft Paint 

We’ve all got some kind of history with Microsoft Paint. I have fond memories of popping the application open whenever I was in IT classes, or just a little bored at home and looking for a place to doodle. 

Now, my beloved Paint application is getting an AI boost for drawing and digital creation, which includes the ability to automatically remove backgrounds and layers, plus the power of generative AI. I’m looking forward to playing around with Paint again with these new enhancements, and to seeing what talented artists do with the updated program. 

3. AI aiding and abetting my next shopping spree

When you’re using Microsoft Bing or browsing in Microsoft Edge, you'll soon be able to get better, and hopefully exact, results for what you’re looking for online. You could ask Bing for information on an item – say a new Amazon Kindle – and Bing will then ask you a few more questions to give you personalized suggestions. 

You’ll also soon be able to drop a photo of the item you’re looking for into Bing or Edge, and use that as a starting point for your shopping. This will be perfect for those times you see something on social media that you’re interested in buying, letting you get accurate shopping information at the drop of a hat.

4. Bing gets a better memory 

Microsoft Bing AI will now use your chat history to inform your future results, adding much-needed context to the rest of your conversations going forward. So instead of having to give the same contextual information before you actually ask your question, Bing will go back through your chats, ready to answer any query using details from your past conversations. 

Let’s say you’ve asked Bing about an artist you’ve been following or a concert you’re planning to attend. The next time you ask Bing for information about the artist or upcoming gigs, Bing can tell you if that artist is performing near your city. If that’s a bit too personal for you, you can always turn the feature off in Bing settings. 

5. Surface Laptop Go 3 

The wait is over! We finally got an official look at the Surface Laptop Go 3, coming in hot with 15 hours of battery life and an 88% jump in performance compared to the original model. 

Unfortunately, the Laptop Go 3 does have a slightly higher starting price at $799 (UK and AU pricing for the new Surface devices is TBC). 

The new entry is keeping the 12.4-inch touch display and 720p HD front camera, which is pretty disappointing considering the asking price. We're expecting to see the Laptop Go 3 fitted with a 12th-Gen Alder Lake chip (also a bit outdated!) for the consumer model, and with 8GB or 16GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage. 

A big plus is that the laptop is still available in the same popular colors – Sage, Ice Blue, Sandstone, and Platinum – although it's a shame that we didn’t see Microsoft introduce some new options. 

Surface Laptop Studio 2

A more professional-focused device, this long-anticipated follow-up to the expensive Surface Laptop Studio looks to share the same price tag, but offers some updated internal hardware that makes it a more attractive proposition.

Chief among these additions is a new Neural Processing Unit designed by Intel, a dedicated chip that's designed to handle machine-learning tasks, like the generative AI tools that will be found in Windows Copilot.

Like the original Surface Laptop Studio, it's a sleek device with a nifty central screen hinge that allows for multiple different configurations, helping you achieve maximum creative productivity on this portable workstation.

Surface Go 4... sort of

Although it wasn't announced during the presentation, Microsoft actually did confirm the existence of the Surface Go 4 today – but with a quiet press release, rather than a big showcase.

This is likely due to the fact that Microsoft is targeting the Surface Go 4 as an enterprise device for businesses, and that's fine, but it's a little unclear at this point when it'll receive a wider launch, and the specs look a bit underwhelming for a brand-new tablet in 2023.

Running on an Intel N200 chip, the 'Surface Go 4 for Business' features 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of storage – nothing special for a Windows 11 device, in other words. At least the physical design looks nice.

The Microsoft Surface Event is over, and anyone hoping to see the Surface Laptop 6 will be disappointed - it's nowhere to be seen, with Microsoft instead revealing a slender lineup of two new devices, the Surface Laptop Go 3 and Surface Laptop Studio 2.

A great deal of the event was instead focused (a bit confusingly for a Surface-themed event) on Microsoft's machine learning efforts in Windows 11, most prominently the new Copilot AI assistant.

Earlier in 2023, there were some rumors about a reported two Surface Laptop 6 models as well as possible specs. The wellspring of information dried up after May, however, and we haven't heard a peep since. This is odd, considering that Microsoft usually has an annual release of the laptop, with the exception of 2020.

But there's still a chance that we could see the refresh before the end of 2023. And if that last report from May holds true, we could be looking at a laptop that could even challenge the 15-inch MacBook Air, which is a successor to what's considered one of the best MacBooks and even one of the best laptops on the market.

Now that it's over, you can see our blow-by-blow of the event by checking out our Microsoft Surface Event 2023 liveblog.

Microsoft Surface Laptop 6: cut to the chase

• What is it? The next Microsoft Surface Laptop device
• When is it out? Possibly Q3 or Q4 2023
• What will it cost? May sit at a higher price point than its predecessor

Microsoft Surface Laptop 6: Price and release date

Since the Surface Event will take place on September 21, 2023, we can expect the Surface Laptop 6 to make its debut later in 2023. The price is a bit easier to predict, as it's always been at the same $999 starting price point for every release, and there's no reason for Microsoft to deviate now.

The pricing for the higher-spec models is a bit more difficult to pin down. Last year, the 15-inch model was $1,399 with a jump to $2,499 for the 32GB RAM and 1TB of storage. A bit steep considering the GPU was the standard mobile Intel one and not a proper gaming GPU.

There haven't been any reports or rumors on the pricing so we'll see what Microsoft has cooked up for the event.

Microsoft Surface Laptop 6: Design

We can't imagine Microsoft changing much of the design between the Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 and Surface Laptop 6, especially since there has been barely any information on what the refresh could look like. We do have something to go by, thanks to the Wccftech report from May 2023.

There should be 13.5-inch and 15-inch models for the laptop, with the smaller model having four colors to choose from: Platinum with an Alcantara palm rest, Matte Black with a metal palm rest, Emerald Brown with a metal palm rest, and Sandstone with a metal palm rest. The 15-inch, however, only offers two: Platinum with a metal palm rest and Matte Black with a metal palm rest.

As for port selection, a USB-C Thunderbolt 4 port, two USB-A 3.1 ports, a 3.5mm audio jack, and of course the Surface Connect port are expected.

It seems that those who may have wanted a shakeup will be disappointed, as Microsoft seems to have found a classic design it wants to stick with. Hopefully, the bezels will be a little thinner for this model at least, since Microsoft is clearly trying to compete with Apple's MacBook Air, which already ditched the thick bezels.

Microsoft Surface Laptop 6: Specs and performance

The report from Wccftech back in May 2023 revealed plenty of possible specs for the Surface Laptop 6. According to the website, there should be two models, one with a 13.5-inch display and 2256 x 1504 resolution and the other a 15-inch model with 2496 x 1664 resolution. 

The CPU options are rumored to be the Intel Core i5-1335U and the Core i7-1355U. The 13.5-inch can be configured with both options, while the 15-inch may only feature the more powerful i7 chip.

The 13.5-inch Surface Laptop 6 is reported to last for an hour longer than the 15-inch model. If true, this means that the former could possibly run for a massive 21 hours at best, though that claim would have to be thoroughly tested first. 

Other specs revealed include 8GB, 16GB, and 32GB LPDDR5X RAM configurations, though unfortunately they cannot be user-upgraded. The SSD, however, which is offered in both 256GB and up to 512GB, can be upgraded.

Today's best Microsoft Surface Laptop deals

Microsoft's Surface Event will be airing later today, and with it is a plethora of new Surface products ranging from the Surface Go to the Surface Pro line and more. It'll be interesting to see how the rumors and reports hold up to the reality of what we actually see at the event.

The Surface Event will run concurrently with what the tech giant calls a "special event" in New York City. And though we have no real confirmation of what exactly we'll see at the event, thanks to not even the journalists invited being told what to expect, there are plenty of educated guesses that can be made.

Along with the nearly-assured Surface laptops and tablets that might make our lists of the best Windows laptops and best Windows tablets, we might see some accessories at the event as well. Microsoft also has made plenty of investments in AI, and there's a more than a good chance that we would see the fruits of those labors during the livestream.

Regardless, we have the scoop on when the event is happening and how to watch it. We also have some predictions on what Microsoft might launch during the livestream.

Edit: Correction made to the live stream time, which is at 1PM EST not 1AM EST.

When is the Microsoft Surface event?

Microsoft revealed that both the Surface Event and the live stream will take place on September 21, 2023. Thankfully, the times are convenient for most global viewers, with nothing running too early or too late for the major time zones.

The live stream will air at 10AM PST / 1PM EST / 6PM BST, meaning that most viewers should be able to tune in during their respective air time. But whether you can make the time or not, TechRadar will be covering the event so feel free to keep checking back for the latest news. 

Whatever Microsoft reveals will definitely be interesting to see. Here’s how to watch the event.

How to watch the Microsoft Surface event

Microsoft revealed today that it won't be hosting a traditional live stream but instead will drop the whole presentation on its various official channels. You can view the event on the main Microsoft YouTube channel, the Microsoft Surface YouTube subchannel, as well as its own official website. 

Meanwhile, journalists have gotten a briefing through a more traditional presentation onsite of the event. The best way to see all the latest news as it happens is by checking out our Microsoft Surface Event 2023 liveblog.

Our Microsoft Surface event predictions 

We're expecting to see the Surface Laptop Studio 2 since it's been nearly two years since the original Surface Laptop Studio was released, and there have been tons of rumors supporting the reveal of its successor. According to said leaks, the laptop will feature a 13th-generation Intel Core i7-13800H processor with 64GB of DDR5 SDRAM.

The reveal of the Surface Pro 10 is almost assured, thanks to the very strict yearly launch cycle of the Pro series. So far, one of the most interesting reports is that we could be getting an 11-inch version along with the standard 13-inch version, which would directly compete with Apple's iPad.

We're also likely to receive a refresh of the Surface Go 4 2-in-1. Earlier in the year, Microsoft postponed an ARM-based Surface Go, though it's expected we'll get an Intel version, and the chip is expected to be an N200 so the 2-in-1 remains inexpensive to the business and education markets it targets.

For a more traditional laptop, the Surface Laptop Go 3 will most likely make an appearance. It will most likely be a minor refresh with a RAM increase from 4GB to 8GB, the 128GB SSD to double in size, and an Intel 12th-Gen Intel Core i5, all to prevent a major price hike.

There's a chance we'll see some Surface accessories like 2022's event, as well as some time devoted to new software and OS updates. AI has also been a large part of Microsoft's investment, so we should receive some updates on the tech giant's progress there.

Microsoft's big event in New York City is today, which we are closely following in in our Microsoft Surface Event liveblog, and the company just announced the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3, complete with 15 hours of battery life and a performance that's 88% faster than the original.

Speculations around the launch of new devices like the Surface Go 4, Surface Laptop Studio 2, and maybe even the Surface Laptop Go 3 have been buzzing around for days. And while Microsoft only actually announced two devices, focusing more on Copilot, it's nice that the Laptop Go line has finally been upgraded.

That's especially because there hasn't been significant activity in the Go, Laptop Studio, and Laptop Go product lines over the past year or so. The Surface Laptop Go, in particular, hasn't gotten the attention it deserves since the release of the Surface Laptop Go 2 back in June 2022 – a huge shame since it's an exemplary notebook that proves that a budget laptop can have premium features. 

While June 2023 came and went without a peep from Microsoft about the line, now's the best time for Microsoft to resurrect one of the best budget laptops we've seen since many are still struggling with the cost of living crisis. And while our hopes that the manufacturer will reinvent it in a massive way have been dashed, there's still a lot to talk about.

Can the new Surface Laptop Go 3 help the the line can reclaim its best touchscreen laptop status? Here's what you need to know to answer that.

Surface Laptop Go 3: cut to the chase

• What is it? The next Surface Laptop Go installment
• When is it out? Pre-order available now, shipping on October 3
• What will it cost? Starting at $799

Surface Laptop Go 3: Price and release date

Unfortunately, the Laptop Go 3 has an even slightly higher price of entry at $799 in the US, but as long as Microsoft the necessary improvements in its display,  webcam, and specs, it's not too bad. You can pre-order it today, but it starts shipping out on October 3.

The original Surface Laptop Go, which hit the shelves back in October 1, 2020, started at a nice and affordable $549 / £549 / AU$999, which offered an i5, 4GB of RAM and 64GB of eMMC storage, which was certainly good enough for people who didn't need a powerful notebook and wanted a budget option. It also capped at $899 / £899 / AU$1,549 for a RAM and storage bump of 8GB and 256GB.

Its successor, the Laptop Go 2, did get a small price rise, starting at $600 / £600 / AU$1,199, which was disappointing as, outside of swapping out that base eMMC storage for a proper SSD, it didn't really come with improvements that would warrant a price bump.

Surface Laptop Go 3: Design

Much-lauded for its premium build quality and stylish design despite its lower price of entry, the Surface Laptop Go line did had a lot going for it when it first hit the streets.

Obviously, because it is one of the best things about the line, it retains its portable nature. At only 10.95 x 8.12 x 0.62 and with a 12.4-inch screen, this is one of the most compact laptops in the world. It's still ultralight and portable, coming in at 2.4lbs (1.08kg), and it'll come in four colors.

Unfortunately, it is keeping its 12.4-inch 1536 x 1024 (148 PPI) PixelSense touch display. The panel boasts 1000:1 contrast ratio, 320 nits brightness, and 3:2 aspect ratio. Same sad news about the webcam, as it retains its 720p HD front-facing camera, basically a dinosaur in this day and age. And sadly, the keyboard still does not have backlighting.

On the plus side, it's still available in its predecessor's beloved colorways: Sage, Ice Blue, Sandstone, and Platinum. In addition, it now comes with a fingerprint power button. As for the ports, it will have a USB-C 3.2, a USB-A 3.1, 3.5 mm headphone jack, and the Surface Connect port. 

Surface Laptop Go 3: Specs and performance

As announced by Microsoft, the Surface Laptop Go 3 with have 15 hours of battery life and 88% faster performance than the original Surface Laptop Go.

The new Laptop Go 3 may be Intel Core i5-1235U, a 12th-Gen Alder Lake chip, and paired with Intel Xe Graphics, 8GB or 16GB RAM, and 256GB storage. This is for the consumer model. Opt for the commercial model, and you get a removable UFS drive of 128GB plus 256GB or 512GB SSD.

We'll know more about how the Surface Laptop Go 3 actually performs in real life as soon as we get our hands on it for a proper review.

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