Microsoft Surface Pro announced: price and release date
Is the New $999 Surface Pro Worth the Hype?
Microsoft has unveiled the new Surface Pro, marking a significant update in its hybrid device series with the introduction of Copilot Plus PCs. The device features Qualcomm's Snapdragon X processors, optional 5G, and claims up to 14 hours of video playback. It introduces enhancements like an optional OLED screen, Wi-Fi 7, and improved cameras.
Pricing starts at $999 for the basic model, with higher-end configurations reaching up to $2,100. The device also offers a new Surface Pro Flex Keyboard for $450, which includes a Slim Pen. Microsoft aims to blend high performance with advanced AI capabilities in this latest iteration, positioning the Surface Pro as a leader in modern, AI-ready computing.
How does the performance of the new Surface Pro compare to its predecessor?
The new Surface Pro, powered by Qualcomm's new Snapdragon X processors, is claimed to be up to 90% faster than its predecessor. This performance boost is accompanied by other improvements such as optional 5G connectivity, better battery life, and upgraded cameras. The new Pro is said to achieve up to 14 hours of video playback, which is not as high as the 20 hours claimed for the new Surface Laptop but still represents a significant improvement. With the Snapdragon X processor lineup, Qualcomm has been promising that its chip is finally fast enough to rival Apple, AMD, and Intel, addressing the performance trade-offs that were present in the previous generation's Qualcomm-based models.
What processor options are available for the new Surface Pro, and how do they differ?
The new Surface Pro offers two processor options: the Snapdragon X Elite and the Snapdragon X Plus. These processors are part of Qualcomm's latest lineup and represent a significant upgrade from previous models, claiming to be up to 90 percent faster than their predecessors. The Snapdragon X Elite is the more advanced option, likely offering higher performance metrics due to its designation. It is available with an OLED screen for those opting for a higher-spec configuration. This setup, including the OLED screen and the X Elite processor, starts at a higher price point of $1,500.
In contrast, the Snapdragon X Plus processor is paired with an LCD display as the standard offering, starting at a lower price of $999. This version includes 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. Both processors support new features like optional 5G connectivity and are designed to enhance AI capabilities, aligning with Microsoft's focus on making devices that are more responsive and AI-ready4. The choice between these processors allows users to select based on their performance needs and budget.