Microsoft has unveiled the new Surface Pro 9, featuring the same 2-in-1 design as its predecessor but with all-new processor options.
The standard version of the Surface Pro 9 will be available with a 12th Generation Intel Core processor. There will also be a 5G model, which uses a Qualcomm Snapdragon chip instead. This looks to be a continuation of the Surface Pro X range, but with new branding.
There are seemingly no other major upgrades for the laptop, aside from the new Forest and Sapphire colour options. The Surface Pro 9 will see the same 13-inch screen as its predecessor, with a 2880 X 1920 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate.
Keep reading on for everything you need to know about the Microsoft Surface Pro 9.
Release date
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 will be available to buy from 25th October 2022
The hybrid laptop was officially unveiled alongside the Surface Laptop 5 and the Surface Studio 3.
Price
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 has a starting price of $999.99 for the Intel model, and $1,299.99 for the 5G version with Qualcomm Snapdragon chip.
Microsoft plans to start shipping the Surface Pro 9 on October 25th, with prices starting at $999.99 for the Intel model and $1,299.99 for the SQ3 version.
Specs
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is being treated to a processor upgrade compared to its predecessor, with both Intel Core i5-1245U and i7-1265U chip options made available.
Alternatively, Microsoft is also offering a 5G model of the laptop that is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon chip instead. It looks like Microsoft is merging the Surface Pro X and regular Surface Pro ranges together rather than having two seperate families.
As noted in our Surface Pro X review, we’ve encountered compatibility issues with the Snapdragon’s ARM architecture and Windows operating system, causing some apps to run slowly and not at all. Hopefully these issues will be resolved for the Surface Pro 9 5G, as having 5G support will likely be appealing to many.
The Intel-flavoured Surface Pro 9 has RAM options ranging up to 32GB, while the 5G variation will be limited to 16GB of RAM. The 5G Surface Pro will also have the storage capacity capped to 512GB while the Intel version can be configured with up to a 1TB SSD.
Microsoft claims the Intel model will have a battery life of up to 15.5 hours, while those craving more stamina will be pleased to know the 5G version will supposedly be able to last up to 19 hours on a single charge.
Both the Intel and Qualcomm laptops will share the same 13-inch touchscreen, with a 2880 X 1920 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate.
Thunderbolt 4 support has also been confirmed, although Microsoft is persisting with the Surface Connect port as the main method of charging.
Design
Microsoft is persisting with the same design as the Surface Pro 8 this year. In fact, both the Intel and Qualcomm configurations will share the exact same dimensions.
The Surface Pro 9 has a 878g weight, making it an incredible portable device. Once again, you’ll be required to purchase the keyboard separately to turn the Surface tablet into a makeshift laptop.
Microsoft has introduced two new colours for the Surface Pro 9: Sapphire and Forest. However, they won’t be available on the 5G model, which is limited to just Platinum.
It’s disappointing that Microsoft hasn’t made further improvements to the design, especially with such a chunky screen bezel, but it still looks like one of the better 2-in-1 laptops.
We’re hoping to review the new Surface Pro 9 in the near future, so keep an eye on Trusted Reviews for our upcoming impressions.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
