What To Know
- The Surface Pro 3 of 2014 made significant strides with a 12-inch display, a faster Intel Core i7 processor, and 8GB of RAM.
- In 2021, Microsoft released the Surface Pro 7+, a refreshed version of the Surface Pro 7.
- The Surface Pro 8 of 2021 marked a significant design change with a larger 13-inch display, a slimmer profile, and rounded edges.
The Surface Pro tablet-laptop hybrid series from Microsoft has captivated the tech world with its innovative design and versatile functionality. Since its inception in 2012, the Surface Pro has undergone several generations, each offering advancements in hardware, software, and features.
A Journey Through the Surface Pro Generations
Surface Pro (1st Generation)
Released in 2012, the inaugural Surface Pro featured a 10.6-inch display, an Intel Core i5 processor, and 4GB of RAM. It introduced the iconic Surface Pen and Kickstand, establishing the foundation for the Surface Pro legacy.
Surface Pro 2
In 2013, the Surface Pro 2 arrived with a larger 10.8-inch display, a more powerful Intel Core i5 processor, and an improved pen experience. It also debuted the Surface Type Cover, enhancing the device’s productivity capabilities.
Surface Pro 3
The Surface Pro 3 of 2014 made significant strides with a 12-inch display, a faster Intel Core i7 processor, and 8GB of RAM. Its slimmer design and improved battery life made it a formidable productivity tool.
Surface Pro 4
Released in 2015, the Surface Pro 4 retained the 12-inch display but upgraded to Intel’s 6th-generation Core i5/i7 processors. It introduced the Surface Pen‘s tilt and eraser functionality, enhancing the artistic and note-taking experience.
Surface Pro (5th Generation)
In 2017, Microsoft released the Surface Pro (5th Generation), also known as the Surface Pro 2017. It featured a 12.3-inch display, a 7th-generation Intel Core i5/i7 processor, and an improved Surface Pen with 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity.
Surface Pro 6
The Surface Pro 6 of 2018 retained the 12.3-inch display and upgraded to Intel’s 8th-generation Core i5/i7 processors. It introduced a new design with rounded corners and a more powerful Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640.
Surface Pro 7
Released in 2019, the Surface Pro 7 brought a larger 12.3-inch PixelSense display, a 10th-generation Intel Core i3/i5/i7 processor, and an improved Surface Pen with haptics. It also introduced USB-C connectivity for faster data transfer and charging.
Surface Pro 7+
In 2021, Microsoft released the Surface Pro 7+, a refreshed version of the Surface Pro 7. It featured an 11th-generation Intel Core i3/i5/i7 processor, Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, and a new color option, Matte Black.
Surface Pro 8
The Surface Pro 8 of 2021 marked a significant design change with a larger 13-inch display, a slimmer profile, and rounded edges. It introduced Intel’s 11th-generation Core i5/i7 processors, Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, and a new Surface Slim Pen 2 with haptics.
Surface Pro 9
Released in 2022, the Surface Pro 9 offers two processor options: Intel’s 12th-generation Core i5/i7 processors or Microsoft’s SQ3 ARM processor. It features a 13-inch display, Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, and an improved Surface Pen with tactile signals.
Surface Pro 9 5G
In addition to the standard Surface Pro 9, Microsoft also released the Surface Pro 9 5G, which supports 5G cellular connectivity. It offers the same specifications as the Surface Pro 9 but provides the convenience of always-on internet access.
Final Note: A Legacy of Innovation
From its humble beginnings to its current status as a productivity powerhouse, the Surface Pro has evolved significantly over the years. Each generation has brought advancements in design, performance, and features, solidifying its place as a versatile and innovative device.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many Surface Pro generations are there in total?
A: As of October 2023, there are 11 generations of the Surface Pro.
Q: Which Surface Pro generation is the best?
A: The best Surface Pro generation depends on your individual needs and preferences. The latest Surface Pro 9 offers the most advanced features, but older generations may still be suitable for some users.
Q: How often does Microsoft release a new Surface Pro generation?
A: Microsoft typically releases a new Surface Pro generation every 1-2 years.
