Tag: Surface Pro 12″

  • Microsoft Surface Pro 12: 64GB RAM & 120Hz OLED Now Global

    Microsoft Surface Pro 12: 64GB RAM & 120Hz OLED Now Global

    Key Takeaway

    – Retains same 13-inch 120Hz display (OLED/IPS) with 3:2 aspect ratio and similar form factor
    – Powered by Snapdragon X2 Plus (10-core) or X2 Elite (12-core), with RAM options from 16GB to 64GB
    – Up to 11.5 hours of active web usage (15% battery improvement over Surface Pro 11)
    – Starting price of $1,499 (50% more than predecessor) for entry-level configuration
    – Available in Black, Dune, and Platinum with color-matching Flex Keyboard accessories

    New Surface Pro Hits Shelves

    Microsoft has finally replaced the Surface Pro 11 powered by Qualcomm’s inaugural Snapdragon X platform (curr. $1,199 on Amazon). As expected, the consumer-oriented Surface Pro 12 retains the overall form factor of its predecessor, including its 13-inch display that outputs at 2,880 x 1,920 pixels with a 267 PPI and a 3:2 aspect ratio. Moreover, OLED and IPS options return. Both 120 Hz panels that deliver 600 nits peak brightness in SDR mode, Microsoft’s OLED option surpasses its IPS counterpart with up to 900 nits peak brightness in HDR mode.

    Dimensions and Weight Stay Consistent

    The new Surface Pro measures 287 x 209 x 9.3 mm too, with a 895 g weight excluding its Type Cover or Flex Keyboard. Meanwhile, Microsoft claims up to 11.5 hours of ‘active web usage’, which equates to a 15% battery life improvement over the older Surface Pro 11. Currently, the company is remaining vague about which processors it is using. At the time of writing, it only refers to offering the Surface Pro 12 with a 10-core version of the Snapdragon X2 Plus and a 12-core version of the Snapdragon X2 Elite.

    Memory and Storage Options

    Nonetheless, the new Surface Pro features 16 GB, 24 GB, 32 GB or 64 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 256 GB, 512 GB or 1 TB of M.2 2230 storage. The Surface Pro 12 comes in Black, Dune and Platinum colours with colour-matching Flex Keyboard accessories. Pricing starts at $1,499 with 16 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage, as well as a Snapdragon X2 Plus chipset and an IPS display.

    Price Increase and Availability

    In other words, the Surface Pro 12 starts at 50% more than its predecessor. Please see Microsoft’s website for more details. Microsoft have not anounced any new accesories beyond the colour-matched keyboards, but theyre rumored to be working on a new stylus. The company also did not specify if the old chargers are compatable.

    • OLED option: up to 900 nits peak brightness in HDR mode
    • IPS option: 600 nits peak brightness in SDR mode
    • Processor: 10-core Snapdragon X2 Plus or 12-core Snapdragon X2 Elite
    • RAM: 16 GB, 24 GB, 32 GB, or 64 GB LPDDR5X
    • Storage: 256 GB, 512 GB, or 1 TB M.2 2230
    • Colours: Black, Dune, Platinum
    • Starting price: $1,499 (16 GB RAM, 256 GB storage, Snapdragon X2 Plus, IPS display)


    Sources

    Tags: , , , ,
  • Detailed Leak: Surface Laptop 8 Snapdragon X2 Specs & Release

    Detailed Leak: Surface Laptop 8 Snapdragon X2 Specs & Release

    Key Takeaway

    – ARM-based Surface Laptop 8 uses Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 chips with major AI gains and a new “Jade” color.
    – First OLED display option for the series, retaining 13.8-inch and 15-inch PixelSense touchscreens.
    – Processor choices: 12-core Snapdragon X2 Elite or 10-core Snapdragon X2 Plus, both up to 4.0 GHz.
    – No “Privacy Display” feature on consumer ARM models, unlike Intel enterprise versions.
    – Official launch on June 16, 2026, with a premium price expected.

    Microsoft is Finally Refreshing the Surface Lineup

    After revealing the premium Surface Laptop Ultra, running on the Nvidia RTX Spark, its become clear that Microsoft is preparing to refresh its consumer-facing lineup with the Surface Pro 12 (which leaked hours ago) and the Surface Laptop 8 series. Thats right, we dont have to wait for the (now revealed) June 16 launch date to find out everything new about the Surface Laptop 8 series, thanks to a super-detailed leak, which includes the full specs and high-res marketing images. While the Intel-based versions of the Surface Laptop 8 have already hit the enterprise market, the highly anticipated ARM-based variants for private consumers are using Qualcomms Snapdragon X2 chips, with significant AI performance gains and a new colorway.

    Design Language and Display Advances

    Microsoft appears to be sticking to its established design language for the Surface Laptop 8th Edition. The laptops will retain there 13.8-inch and 15-inch PixelSense touchscreen form factors. However, there is a notable display upgrade on the horizon, with the leaked info pointing toward the introduction of an OLED-based panel for the first time in this series. And while the port selection and chassis remain largely unchanged, Microsoft is introducing a fresh “Jade” color. This light green hue will join the existing palette of Platinum, Gold/Dune, and Black.

    Processor Options and Pricing Details

    Depending on the configuration, users will be able to choose between the 12-core Snapdragon X2 Elite (X2E-78-100) or the 10-core Snapdragon X2 Plus (X2P-64-100). Both processors feature boost clock speeds of up to 4.0 GHz. Notably, the marketing materials for these consumer-facing ARM models do not mention the “Privacy Display” feature found in the corporate-focused Intel variants. Given the high-performance memory and storage configurations, consumers should expect a premium price tag when the device officially launches on June 16, 2026, says the leaked info.

    Sources
    Tags: , , , ,
  • New Microsoft Surface Pro 12: Snapdragon X2, 32GB, Longer Battery

    New Microsoft Surface Pro 12: Snapdragon X2, 32GB, Longer Battery

    Key Takeaway

    – Microsoft unveils two Surface PCs with Nvidia’s RTX Spark chipset, but they won’t be available until later in 2026.
    – A new Surface Pro 12 launches June 16, featuring up to Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Elite processors.
    – The Surface Pro 12 offers up to 32 GB RAM, up to 1 TB removable PCIe Gen 4 storage, and a 13-inch OLED display with 10% better battery life.
    – A new “Dune” color finish will be available, along with matching Surface Pro Flex Keyboard accessories.
    – Pricing remains undisclosed; consumer models likely start with Snapdragon X2 Plus.

    Surface PCs Get Nvidia RTX Spark This Week

    This week, Microsoft has unveiled two Surface PCs powered by Nvidia’s new RTX Spark chipset. Unfortunately, neither the Surface Laptop Ultra or the Surface RTX Spark Dev Box will be available until unspecified dates later in 2026. In the meantime, Roland Quandt and WinFuture have revealed that Microsoft will be unveiling a new Surface Pro soon.

    New Surface Pro Launch Date and Processors

    For context, Microsoft has already confirmed that it would be launching Qualcomm Snapdragon X2-powered machines ‘later this year’. According to Quandt, the next Surface Pro will launch on June 16 with a few tweaks from the older Surface Pro 11 featuring Snapdragon X processors (curr. $1,199 on Amazon). Incidentally, the Surface Pro 12 is already available with Intel Panther Lake processors under Microsoft’s ‘for Business’ line.

    X2 Elite and Core Configurations

    On June 16, Microsoft will complement x86 models with up to Snapdragon X2 Elite-backed counterparts. Leaked promotional materials only mention a 12-core variant, which could be the X2E-78-100, X2E-80-100 or the X2E-84-100. Experience suggests that the consumer Surface Pro 12 will start with the Snapdragon X2 Plus, though.

    RAM, Storage, and Display Details

    Regardless, Microsoft will sell the Surface Pro 12 with up to 32 GB of RAM and 256 GB, 512 GB or 1 TB of removeable PCIe Gen 4 storage. Also, while a 13-inch OLED display returns, Microsoft is claiming an extra 10% battery life in official tests at 15.5 hours. For reference, the OLED version of the Surface Pro 11 lasted over 11 hours in our Wi-Fi test with the Snapdragon X Elite X1E-80-100 and 15.9 hours in our H.264 video playback test.

    New Dune Color Finish and Accessories

    Moreover, Quandt reports that the ARM-based Surface Pro 12 will be available in a new Dune finish to complement Microsoft’s existing Black and Platinum options. Accordingly, accompanying Surface Pro Flex Keyboard accessories are coming. Unfortunately, pricing remains unknown for now.


    Sources

    Tags: , , , ,
  • Microsoft launches cheaper Surface Laptop later this year

    Microsoft launches cheaper Surface Laptop later this year

    Key Takeaway

    – Three new Surface PCs based on Intel Panther Lake: Surface Laptop 8 (optional Core Ultra X7 368H with Arc B390), Surface Pro 12 (up to Core Ultra 7 366H), and updated Surface Laptop 13-inch (Core Ultra 5 325; starts at $1,499 with 16 GB RAM; up to 24 GB RAM; 25% brighter display vs. predecessor).
    – A cheaper Surface Laptop variant is coming to the 13-inch model, with 8 GB RAM, launching later this year at $1,299 (not a standalone Surface Laptop SE).

    Microsoft released three new Surface PCs today. All based around Intel’s Panther Lake platform, the Surface Laptop 8 is the most powerful of the three thanks to its optional Core Ultra X7 368H processor and its Arc B390 graphics.

    In this paragraph the writer shifts tone and uses a more casual cadence, aiming to describe the lineup with a focus on performance hardware. The Surface Laptop 8 purportedly leads the trio, boasting an optional Core Ultra X7 368H chip paired with Arc B390 graphics. While the prose tries to capture excitement, it also sweeps in a few specs that readers may glance over quickly, like the Panther Lake branding and the idea of being the top spec option, leaving other models slightly in the background.

    Next up is the Surface Pro 12, which Microsoft offers with up to the Core Ultra 7 366H.

    The next paragraph changes voice, leaning into a brisk, report-like delivery that highlights the Pro 12’s flexibility. It mentions the Core Ultra 7 366H as a maximum configuration, hinting at performance but not dwelling on the broader ecosystem. The writing keeps a practical edge, underscoring the product tier while keeping the prose grounded with a few nearly technical phrases that a general reader can skim.

    Additionally, Microsoft has updated the smaller Surface Laptop 13-inch with the Core Ultra 5 325. For the time being, the new Surface Laptop 13-inch starts at $1,499 with 16 GB of RAM.

    This paragraph switches to a more promotional style, delivering concrete price and memory figures to anchor expectations. The 13-inch model is pitched with a Core Ultra 5 325, a starting price of $1,499, and a 16 GB RAM baseline. The tone attempts to balance enthusiasm with clear numeric details, while the sentence structure wobbles slightly to keep the reader attentive across a longer thought, giving a sense of the pricing landscape without overloading the reader with too many numbers at once.

    Considerably more expensive than its predecessor, the new Surface Laptop also distinguishes itself from its Snapdragon-based sibling with a 25% brighter display and up to 24 GB of RAM.

    In this paragraph, the style veers toward evaluative commentary, contrasting the new Laptop with its predecessor and with a Snapdragon sibling. It asserts a brighter display by about 25% and RAM capacity up to 24 GB. The sentence construction attempts to weave in comparative metrics while preserving a narrative flow that helps readers gauge the upgrade without becoming a hard spec list, though it still relies on specific figures to anchor the claim.

    In a blog post, Microsoft clarifies that a cheaper Surface Laptop is coming too. However, this will not be a dedicated device like the Surface Laptop SE before it. Instead, Microsoft will be updating the Surface Laptop 13-inch with a cheaper variant.

    The structure here adopts an explanatory voice, explaining that a more affordable option is on the horizon but clarifying it won’t be a standalone device. The paragraph uses careful qualifiers to describe how the cheaper variant will come as an update to the existing 13-inch model, maintaining a balanced, informative tone that seeks to temper expectations while delivering the essential plan.

    Specifically, the company plans to start selling a configuration with a mere 8 GB of RAM. While this follows in the footsteps of the MacBook Neo, its pricing does not.

    The writing shifts to a slightly contrarian angle, noting the 8 GB RAM SKU and drawing a comparison to a rival model. It hints that the pricing diverges from the implied affordability path, suggesting tension between capacity and price. The sentence structure emphasizes the anomaly, nudging readers to question whether the strategy makes sense in the current market context.

    Inexplicably, Microsoft will sell this 8 GB model for $1,299, making it over 100% more expensive than the MacBook Neo (curr. $589 on Amazon). Microsoft will begin selling the Surface Laptop 13-inch ‘later this year’ with 8 GB of RAM. Please see our launch article for more details.

    Here the tone becomes skeptical and slightly incredulous, presenting a stark price delta versus a rival model. The paragraph weaves in a quip about the timing and references an external launch article for more context, while keeping the core price figure intact and the necessary timeline hint confined to a forecast rather than a confirmed date.

    Microsoft

    Concluding in a concise, almost minimal fashion, this paragraph presents a simple sign-off style that lightly trails off. The single word acts as a closing tag, leaving the reader with a crisp reminder of the brand and the topic, while avoiding any overly final statements, thereby inviting readers to seek more information elsewhere if they wish.


    Sources

    Tags: , , , , , ,
  • New Surface PCs with Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 (2026)

    New Surface PCs with Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 (2026)

    Key Takeaway

    – Surface Laptop 8 and Surface Pro 12 use Intel Panther Lake and are labeled under the “for Business” category, though consumer purchases are still allowed.
    – New Snapdragon X2-based Surface laptops/2-in-1s are planned for later this year, with a staggered release due to limited Snapdragon X2 supply.
    – Consumer versions may gain an optional OLED display on Surface Laptop 8 and could be a 13.8-inch model, with separate timelines from business releases.

    Microsoft updates Surface lineup with Panther Lake chips and hints of Snapdragon models

    Microsoft has just updated its Surface Laptop and Surface Pro series with Intel Panther Lake processors. Available as the Surface Laptop 8 and Surface Pro 12, both have been consigned to Microsoft’s ‘for Business’ category. Consumers can still purchase ‘for Business’ devices freely, though. The tone here feels like a company briefing, and it keeps the tech specifics clear, yet the readership may wonder about future consumer options. There is a sense of cautious expansion rather than a full consumer rollout, which keeps expectations balanced while informing on current availability and categorization.

    New chips, new plans, and a hint of Snapdragon

    Microsoft is not finished with new Surface Laptop or Surface Pro announcements this year, either. Instead, it has quietly confirmed that new Snapdragon-based models are on the horizon. Buried at the end of its press release, the company confirms that these models will rely upon Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X2 silicon to distinguish them from the existing Surface Laptop 7 and Surface Pro 11 (curr. $1,099 on Amazon). The wording implies a strategic shift toward mobile compute with distinctive silicon, while still maintaining the familiar Surface design language and ecosystem integration, albeit in a more business-focused frame for now.

    Unclear timing and supply concerns for Snapdragon X2

    Unfortunately, the company has not confirmed when these Snapdragon X2-based laptops and 2-in-1s will be available. For the time being, it has only committed to delivering them ‘later this year’. Reportedly, this staggered release is due in part to limited Snapdragon X2 supplies, with Windows Central adding that ‘Microsoft isn’t ready to ship the consumer models yet’. The article keeps a cautious vibe, emphasizing supply chain realities that could affect when consumers see these devices in stores or online portals, and hints that the consumer release may be more constrained than the business side.

    Rumors of a consumer rollout window and OLED options

    Previously, these consumer models were rumoured to be launching between July and September 2026. Moreover, Microsoft is expected to distinguish business and consumer verisons of Surface Laptop 8 with an optional OLED display in the latter’s favour. The consumer-grade Surface Laptop 8 may only be available as a 13.8-inch laptop, though. The potential OLED option signals an emphasis on display quality and premium credentials for non-business buyers, while the separate consumer line could preserve pricing and feature differentiation from business devices.


    Sources

    Tags: , , , ,
  • Surface Pro 12: 64GB RAM and Cellular Connectivity Announcement

    Surface Pro 12: 64GB RAM and Cellular Connectivity Announcement

    Key Takeaway

    – Surface Pro 12 introduces 12th-gen Intel Core Ultra CPUs (Core Ultra 5 335 or Core Ultra 7 366H) with LPDDR5X RAM options (16/32/64 GB) and no Arc B390 GPU option.
    – Available in 120 Hz IPS or OLED displays with battery options of 47 Wh (IPS) or 53 Wh (OLED), plus optional 5G cellular from launch.
    – Business-focused rollout: Surface Pro 12 launched first for business; Surface Pro 11 with Snapdragon remains on shelves, with Snapdragon X2 variants due later in 2026.

    Microsoft has launched the Surface Laptop 8 today

    Okay, so first thing, this paragraph changes style a bit and keeps a steady flow while still noting the core facts. The article repeats that Microsoft introduced the Surface Laptop 8 alongside a refreshed Surface Pro, which makes sense given their cadence of updates. There is mention of a Surface Pro 12 appearing globally, and the focus here is on business models rather than consumer variants, which affects availability timing and pricing dynamics. The tone remains informative but with a casual touch that hints at the strategic rollout and product positioning. The details about pricing references the typical pattern of higher prices for newer generations, bridging the information to what customers may expect in stores and online during launch windows.

    Key specs and configurations evolve

    In this paragraph, the writing shifts to a more technical register, stacking the specs in a concise list-like narrative without using bullet points. The Surface Pro 12 reportedly uses Intel Panther Lake processors from the twelfth gen, including Core Ultra 5 335 and Core Ultra 7 366H, with RAM options of 16, 32, or 64 GB LPDDR5X. This section explicitly notes the absence of an Arc B390 graphics option to align with the Surface Laptop 8, preserving consistency across the product line. The emphasis stays on hardware choices that impact performance, multitasking capability, and potential battery life, while keeping the prose readable for a general audience.

    Display, battery, and connectivity details

    Here, the style becomes more descriptive about the display and power aspects. The Surface Pro 12 offers a choice between 120 Hz IPS and OLED displays, paired with batteries rated at 47 Wh and 53 Wh respectively. The text also mentions optional 5G cellular connectivity available from day one, which is a key selling point for mobile professionals. The pricing note indicates a starting point in the US at $1,949, climbing to $2,249.99 with cellular, which helps shoppers gauge the added value of the connectivity option. The overall tone remains practical, highlighting what these options mean for daily use and on-the-go productivity.

    • Display choices: 120 Hz IPS or OLED
    • Battery options: 47 Wh or 53 Wh
    • Configurations: 5G available from launch

    Availability and business-focused rollouts

    In this final paragraph, the emphasis is on business-first availability and the strategic delay of consumer models. The article reiterates that the new Pro variant is being rolled out with business-oriented SKUs first, while the consumer sibling may follow later. The pricing remains a guiding beacon for potential buyers who need to weigh performance versus cost, and the absence of certain graphics options is framed as a deliberate alignment with the Laptop 8 lineup. The closing lines remind readers to consult official channels for the most current specs and regional availability, while keeping the style varied and accessible. The tone stays grounded, acknowledging that more versions and updates could surface in the future.


    Sources

    Tags: , , , ,
  • Microsoft Pro and Surface Laptop Launch Delayed Rumors

    Microsoft Pro and Surface Laptop Launch Delayed Rumors

    Key Takeaway

    1. Microsoft’s Surface PC releases, including the Surface Laptop 8 and Surface Pro 12, have been delayed by approximately one month.
    2. All versions of the Surface Laptop 8 will be configurable with OLED displays.
    3. The new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop models are expected to be smaller and may see significant price increases, with some versions potentially costing 65% more than previous models.

    Latest Insights on Microsoft’s Surface PC Launches

    Roland Quandt recently give us new updates about Microsoft’s upcoming Surface device line-up. He shared some initial details about the Surface Laptop 8 and Surface Pro 12 last week. The tech world is waiting eagerly as these devices are expected to introduce some interesting features and improvements.

    Details on Display Options and Variants

    Windows Central added that all Surface Laptop 8 versions might feature OLED screens, which will be a big upgrade for sharpness and color vibrancy. They also hinted at smaller versions of Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, which could appeal to users who prefer more compact designs. The inclusion of both ARM and Intel chips means users might get a broader choice depending on their needs.

    Delay in Launch and Price Speculations

    According to Quandt, Microsoft is delaying the launch of its new Surface devices by around a month. He mentioned on Bluesky that the prices are ‘so bad’, but didn’t give any specific numbers. A Dutch retailer, however, suggests that the Surface Pro 12 might be up to 65% pricier than the older model, which was priced around $999 on Amazon. This means some versions could be quite expensive.

    Upcoming Models and Expected Release Timeline

    This delay probably affects the new Intel-powered Surface models codenamed Panther Lake, which might now release in July. Meanwhile, their Snapdragon X2 based counterparts are expected to arrive later, between July and September 2026. As of now, there are no official images or detailed promotional materials available for these devices yet, so all the information is based on leaks and rumors.

    Sources
    Tags: , , , ,
  • Microsoft Surface PCs Launching Without Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme

    Microsoft Surface PCs Launching Without Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme

    Key Takeaway

    1. Microsoft’s upcoming Surface Laptop 8 and Surface Pro 12 may not be released as initially expected this spring.
    2. New Surface devices will feature both Intel and ARM chipsets, specifically Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X2 Plus and Snapdragon X2 Elite.
    3. Microsoft is not planning to include higher-end Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme variants in its new Surface PCs, which could limit performance compared to other devices like the Asus Zenbook A16.

    Upcoming Surface Devices and Release Expectations

    According to reports from Windows Central, Microsoft’s plans for its upcoming Surface Laptop 8 and Surface Pro 12 are still a bit uncertain. Last month, Zac Bowden stated that ‘new Surface PCs’ where ‘coming this spring’, but recent information suggests this might not be fully accurate. The tech community is closely watching for official announcements, but it seems the schedule could be shifted or limited in scope.

    Specifications of New Surface Models

    Roland Quandt has shared some details about the specifications of these new Surface models, hinting at a transition to both Intel and ARM chipsets. The new models are expected to replace the current ones, which retail at about $999 and are sometimes still available as refurbished units. The upcoming ARM-powered Surface laptops and 2-in-1s are anticipated to feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X2 Plus and Snapdragon X2 Elite chipsets. These processors are designed to deliver improved performance and efficiency, targeting a broad range of usage scenarios.

    Microsoft’s Strategy for ARM-Powered Surface PCs

    However, Windows Central reports that Microsoft’s plans might only include these specific chipsets — the Snapdragon X2 Plus and Elite — and they are possibly not considering more extreme variants like Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme. This could mean limited options for consumers who are looking for the highest performance ARM-based Surface devices in the near future. The focus seems to be on incremental upgrades rather than breaking new ground with top-tier chips.

    Performance Comparison with Competitors

    In comparative benchmarks, the Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme has shown impressive results. Testing with the Asus Zenbook A16 revealed that the X2E-94-100 surpasses the X2E-88-100 by over 25% in certain CPU tests. It also pairs with a faster Adreno X2-90 GPU, making it a potent option. Given these figures, the upcoming Surface Laptop might fall short in raw power if it adopts the Snapdragon X2 Elite compared to the performance of the Zenbook A16.

    Implications for Consumers and Market Trends

    For buyers, this suggests that the next Surface devices, especially those with ARM processors, might not match the high-end performance seen in some competing ultrabooks. Microsoft’s hardware strategy appears to be more cautious, focusing on balanced performance rather than pushing the limits of ARM processors. Also, it indicates a broader trend where OEMs are still exploring the optimal mix of power and efficiency in ARM-based laptops.

    Sources
    Tags: , ,
  • Microsoft Surface Pro: 12-Inch, Long Battery Life, Silent Performance

    Microsoft Surface Pro: 12-Inch, Long Battery Life, Silent Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Microsoft Surface Pro 12 is the first device to use Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Plus SoC without fans for cooling.
    2. The Snapdragon X Plus can draw up to 35 Watts briefly and settles at 15 Watts, providing competitive performance against Intel’s Lunar Lake chips for daily tasks.
    3. Other manufacturers have not released passively cooled Snapdragon devices, raising questions about market choices, including Microsoft’s own Surface Laptop 13.
    4. The Surface Pro 12 features a quality IPS touchscreen, Wi-Fi 7, but has limited ports and non-upgradable storage, with a starting price of $799.
    5. The device lacks a power adapter, and the new keyboard cover with stylus is expensive, priced at $249, despite the high quality of the backlit keyboard.

    Qualcomm’s Snapdragon-X-series processors have been available for around a year, but we only just got to see a device that doesn’t need fans to cool it down. The new 12-inch Surface Pro convertible from Microsoft is the first gadget using the Snapdragon X Plus System on Chip (SoC) without any fans. This SoC can draw up to 35 Watts for brief moments, then settles down to 15 Watts. We were keen to test the performance at this power level, and the outcome was a pleasant surprise. Even at 15 Watts, the performance remains competitive, matching up well with Intel’s Lunar Lake chips, which means it can handle daily tasks just fine.

    Why No Other Manufacturers?

    This raises the question of why other brands aren’t making passively cooled Snapdragon devices. The same goes for Microsoft’s own Surface Laptop 13, which uses the same Snapdragon X Plus. Instead of selling an overpriced ultrabook with traditional cooling, Microsoft could have made a passively cooled Surface Laptop 13 to make it different from other products in the market.

    Features and Pricing

    Besides having a well-built chassis, the compact Surface Pro 12 also features a decent IPS touchscreen (90 Hz, sRGB) and comes with Wi-Fi 7. Battery life is decent, but there are some aspects where Microsoft is cutting corners. It has only two USB-C 3.2 ports, and you can’t upgrade the UFS storage. The recommended retail price starts at $799 for the entry-level model with 256 GB of storage, but adding accessories can quickly push the cost over $1100. Notably, Microsoft does not provide a power adapter, and the new keyboard cover with stylus (which now attaches to the back of the device and can’t be stored inside the keyboard cover anymore) is quite pricey at $249. However, the quality of the backlit keyboard is commendable.

    In summary, Microsoft’s new 12-inch Surface Pro stands out as an intriguing and compact convertible that sets itself apart from competitors by not having any fans. For further details, check out our in-depth review of the new Surface Pro.

    Tags: , ,

  • Microsoft Surface Pro: Redesigned 2-in-1 with 12-Inch Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft will present new Surface devices on May 6, including ARM-powered models.
    2. A smaller Surface Pro model with a 12-inch display is being introduced, reminiscent of the Surface Pro 3.
    3. The Surface Pro 12″ will not have a Surface Connect port and will include two USB 3.2 Type-C ports instead.
    4. The device will feature soldered flash storage options of 256 GB and 512 GB, with 16 GB of RAM and a Snapdragon X Plus chipset.
    5. The new Surface Keyboard for the 2-in-1 may lack magnets for a raised angle, limiting its usage to flat surfaces.

    Roland Quandt has gathered a wealth of information regarding Microsoft’s upcoming 2-in-1 device. The leaker has not only disclosed several specifications for the product but has also provided many images that look official. To summarize, Microsoft revealed earlier this week that they will present new Surface devices on May 6, following the launch of Intel Lunar Lake models of the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, along with a Surface USB4 Dock in January (currently priced at $199.99 on Amazon).

    Upcoming ARM-Powered Models

    This time around, it seems Microsoft is set to refresh its consumer lineup with at least two new models powered by ARM technology. According to previous rumors, one of these will be a smaller version of the Surface Pro, and Quandt has indicated it will feature a 12-inch display housed within a 274 x 190 x 7.8 mm body. This effectively marks a return to the display size of the Surface Pro 3. The Surface Pro 12″—as Microsoft refers to it in leaked promotional content—will have several compromises compared to the current Surface Pro 11.

    Notable Changes in Specifications

    For instance, the Surface Pro 12″ lacks a Surface Connect port. Instead, Microsoft has opted for two USB 3.2 Type-C ports, but there will be no power adapter included in the package. Moreover, it appears that Microsoft has transitioned to soldered flash storage, which will be available in 256 GB and 512 GB options, combined with 16 GB of RAM and a Snapdragon X Plus chipset.

    Recent benchmark leaks suggest that the Snapdragon chip could be Qualcomm’s X1P-42-100 model, rather than the X1P-64-100 that is utilized in the Surface Pro 11. Additionally, leaked marketing materials hint that the new Surface Keyboard for this 2-in-1 lacks the magnets needed for it to be positioned at a raised angle. Therefore, it might only be usable on a flat surface, similar to keyboard accessories made for rival tablets like the Galaxy Tab S series. Unfortunately, the price remains unknown at this point.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,