What To Know
- The Surface Pro 8 and 9 share a remarkably similar design, featuring a sleek magnesium chassis and a detachable kickstand.
- If you demand the best possible performance and graphics capabilities, the Surface Pro 8 with a 12th-generation Intel Core i7 processor is the way to go.
- The Surface Pro 9 offers slightly better graphics performance than the Pro 8, making it a more suitable choice for light gaming.
The Microsoft Surface Pro line has consistently raised the bar for 2-in-1 devices. As the latest iterations, the Surface Pro 8 and 9 offer a compelling blend of performance, versatility, and portability. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between these two devices, helping you make an informed decision about your next computing companion.
Design and Display
The Surface Pro 8 and 9 share a remarkably similar design, featuring a sleek magnesium chassis and a detachable kickstand. However, the Pro 9 is slightly thinner and lighter, weighing only 1.94 pounds compared to the Pro 8’s 2.06 pounds.
Both devices boast stunning 13-inch PixelSense displays with a resolution of 2880 x 1920. However, the Pro 9 introduces a 120Hz refresh rate, providing a noticeably smoother experience for scrolling, gaming, and video playback.
Performance
Under the hood, the Surface Pro 8 and 9 differ significantly. The Pro 8 offers 11th-generation Intel Core processors, while the Pro 9 boasts the latest 12th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 CPUs. The Pro 9’s newer processor provides a noticeable performance boost, particularly in multitasking and demanding applications.
Both devices come with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of SSD storage as standard, but the Pro 9 offers up to 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage for more demanding users.
Graphics
For graphics performance, the Surface Pro 8 and 9 both rely on integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics. However, the Pro 9’s newer processor offers slightly better graphics capabilities, making it a more suitable choice for light gaming or video editing.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial consideration for any portable device. The Surface Pro 8 offers up to 16 hours of battery life, while the Pro 9 promises up to 15.5 hours. In real-world usage, both devices should provide a full day of productivity on a single charge.
Connectivity
The Surface Pro 8 and 9 offer a comprehensive suite of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, and Thunderbolt 4. However, the Pro 9 introduces a new feature called “Intelligent Input,” which allows users to seamlessly switch between the Type Cover, Surface Slim Pen 2, and touch input.
Other Features
Both the Surface Pro 8 and 9 come with Windows 11 Home pre-installed. They also support the Surface Slim Pen 2 and Surface Dial for enhanced productivity and creativity.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Surface Pro 8 and 9 ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget.
- If you prioritize portability and a sleek design, the Surface Pro 9 is an excellent choice.
- If you demand the best possible performance and graphics capabilities, the Surface Pro 8 with a 12th-generation Intel Core i7 processor is the way to go.
- If you’re on a tighter budget, the Surface Pro 8 with an 11th-generation Intel Core i5 processor still offers a great value.
The Verdict
Both the Microsoft Surface Pro 8 and 9 are exceptional 2-in-1 devices that offer a unique blend of power, versatility, and portability. Whether you’re a student, professional, or creative, one of these devices is sure to meet your needs.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific requirements and preferences. By carefully considering the differences highlighted in this comparison, you can make an informed decision and choose the perfect Surface Pro for your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which device has a better battery life?
A: The Surface Pro 8 offers slightly longer battery life than the Pro 9, with up to 16 hours compared to 15.5 hours.
Q: Does the Surface Pro 9 support 5G connectivity?
A: No, neither the Surface Pro 8 nor the Pro 9 support 5G connectivity.
Q: Can I use the Surface Pro 8 with an external GPU?
A: No, neither the Surface Pro 8 nor the Pro 9 supports connecting to an external GPU.
Q: Which device is better for gaming?
A: The Surface Pro 9 offers slightly better graphics performance than the Pro 8, making it a more suitable choice for light gaming.
Q: Is the Surface Pro 9 worth the extra cost over the Pro 8?
A: Whether the Surface Pro 9 is worth the extra cost depends on your individual needs. If you prioritize the latest processor, 120Hz display, and “Intelligent Input” feature, then the Pro 9 may be a worthwhile upgrade.
