Microsoft just launched two sleek, affordable Surface devices: the 12-inch Surface Pro and the 13-inch Surface Laptop. These devices are designed for users seeking portability without breaking the bank.
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This release follows Microsoft’s decision to discontinue the $999.99 base models of the Surface Laptop 7 and Surface Pro 11. However, you can still find them on third-party platforms like Amazon and Best Buy.
“Microsoft didn’t raise prices for the Surface Pro or Surface Laptop,” explains Nancie Gaskill, Microsoft’s General Manager of Surface Business. “We’ve simply removed the $999 base models from our website, though customers can still find these models from other retailers.”
Surface Laptop: Lighter, thinner, and longer-lasting
Microsoft’s 13-inch Surface Laptop is now its lightest and thinnest yet, weighing just 2.7 pounds. It’s a compact choice compared to the Surface Laptop 7, measuring 11.25 x 8.43 x 0.61 inches.
Despite featuring a slightly downgraded 60Hz display, it offers impressive battery life—up to 23 hours of local video playback.
Equipped with an 8-core Snapdragon X Plus processor, 16GB of RAM, and storage options of 256GB or 512GB, the Surface Laptop performs well in day-to-day tasks. Microsoft claims that it even surpasses the MacBook Air M3 in some areas.
Starting at $899.99, this model is $100 cheaper than the Surface Laptop 7 and more affordable than the entry-level M4 MacBook Air.
Surface Pro: A compact hybrid for productivity
The 12-inch Surface Pro is an ultra-portable 2-in-1 device, weighing just 1.5 pounds. It’s ideal for those who need versatility, whether for drawing, note-taking, or light computing on the go.
This model is thinner and lighter than previous Surface Pros, making it easy to carry and use anywhere. While the display quality is slightly less advanced than the Surface Pro 11, the device boasts up to 16 hours of battery life.
For those seeking a full laptop experience, Microsoft offers the Surface Pro Keyboard and the Surface Slim Pen (sold separately), turning the tablet into a versatile device for work and creativity.
Surface Laptop Go may be on the way out
As Microsoft shifts focus to a new generation of devices, the Surface Pro 2024 is making waves — here’s why it’s being called a true tablet revolution: Why the new Surface Pro 2024 feels like a true tablet revolution.
Though Microsoft hasn’t officially confirmed the discontinuation of the Surface Laptop Go, this new launch suggests it may be phased out.
“The Surface Pro 12-inch and Surface Laptop 13-inch expand our Copilot+ PC family,” a Microsoft spokesperson commented, indicating a shift away from the smaller models.
AI gets a bigger role with new Copilot+ features
Alongside the hardware upgrades, Microsoft is rolling out new AI-driven features for Windows Copilot+. These features will enhance Microsoft Photos, Paint, and Narrator, with smarter automation available in the Settings menu.
Users can now describe tasks in plain language—such as “my mouse pointer is too small”—and let the AI handle the adjustments. These AI features will begin rolling out to Windows Insiders in the coming weeks.
This shift reflects Microsoft’s growing commitment to ARM-based PCs and an AI-driven computing experience.
How does it compare to a MacBook or iPad Pro?
You may be wondering: should you switch to a GPT-4o-powered PC, or stick with your MacBook or iPad Pro? Here’s a breakdown:
- Raw intelligence vs. raw hardware: While MacBooks and iPads are known for their processing power, they excel in precision—not intuition. GPT-4o offers something different: a live thinking partner. It can brainstorm, debug, create art, and assist with various tasks in real-time.
- Interactivity and interface: iPads excel in touch input, while MacBooks offer trackpad precision. GPT-4o brings voice-first, multimodal interactions. You can talk to it, draw, share your screen—whatever you need, it’s ready.
- Workflow compatibility: GPT-4o doesn’t replace your MacBook or iPad—it enhances them. Writers, designers, marketers, and developers already use GPT-4o to boost productivity, and it works seamlessly with your current setup.
- Cost and value: While MacBooks and iPads can be expensive, GPT-4o-powered PCs may cost less while offering greater value in terms of productivity and creativity. It’s especially useful for students, content creators, and entrepreneurs.
Verdict: For video editing, design, and high-end tasks, a MacBook or iPad Pro still leads. But for writing, learning, coding, and productivity, GPT-4o takes your device to the next level.
These tools serve different purposes, but when combined, they create an unstoppable powerhouse.
“An iPad is your canvas. GPT-4o is your creative partner.”
Where can you buy the new Surface devices?
Looking to get your hands on Microsoft’s latest Surface lineup? Here are the top places to pre-order, along with pricing and models available:
🛍️ Microsoft
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Surface Laptop 13-inch (Snapdragon X Plus, 16GB RAM, 256GB/512GB UFS)
Starting at $899.99 – Pre-order here -
Surface Pro 12-inch (Snapdragon X Plus, 16GB RAM, 256GB/512GB UFS)
Starting at $799.99 – Pre-order here -
Surface Pro 12-inch Keyboard
$149.99 – Pre-order here
🛒 Amazon
Amazon offers additional color variants and the same powerful configurations:
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Surface Laptop 13-inch – Ocean color
Starting at $899.99 – Pre-order here -
Surface Pro 12-inch – Ocean color
Starting at $799.99 – Pre-order here
🧾 Best Buy
Best Buy carries exclusive platinum finishes:
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Surface Laptop 13-inch – Platinum
Starting at $899.99 – Pre-order here -
Surface Pro 12-inch – Platinum
Starting at $799.99 – Pre-order here -
Surface Pro 12-inch Keyboard – Ocean
$149.99 – Pre-order here
