After several years of iterative updates, wholesale changes arrived with 2021’s Surface Pro 8. The upgrades are more modest this time around, but the brand-new ARM-based model has made plenty of headlines. It delivers improved battery life, new video calling features and 5G support for the first time, replacing the Surface Pro X in the process. But unfortunately, a other key areas have been compromised to get there, making it hard to recommend. For most people, the less exciting but reliable Intel version is the one to go for.
Design & Build
Same premium design as Surface Pro 8 Impressive video calling features, but not all work Lack of ports
If you’ve ever used the Surface Pro 8 before, the Pro 9’s design will be extremely familiar. The device has an identical look to its predecessor, although that’s hardly surprising given the big changes that were introduced in 2021. It’s also not a bad thing. The Pro 9 is a seamless blend of glass and aluminium that feels very premium, helping to justify its high price tag. However, this choice of materials is reflected in the weight – at 878g for the tablet alone, it’s uncomfortable to hold for more than a few minutes. But that probably wasn’t in your plans for a 13in device, anyway. Microsoft helpfully continues to build a kickstand into the device, which extends across the back of the device and makes it feel very sturdy. Some budget devices make compromises in this area, but it’s one of the key strengths of Surface tablets. Aside from that, there’s not much else to report on the back. Microsoft keeps things very simple here, with just a minimalist Windows logo and single 10Mp camera. The latter offers a decent level of detail, making it a useful option for document scanning or the occasional snap at home. But please, don’t try and use this for serious photography. Frustratingly, the ARM-based model I tested is only available in Platinum. Intel versions have options for Sapphire, Forest and Graphite too, but all are minimalist and understated. If you’re looking for something which instantly stands out from the crowd, this isn’t the device for you. It’s a similar story when you flip the device over, but that 1080p front-facing camera is worth exploring in detail. The sensor itself hasn’t changed, but there was no need: it remains one of the best built-in webcams you’ll find on any Windows device. However, Microsoft has delivered key upgrades to the video calling experience via a separate NPU (Neural Processing Unit) chip that’s only included in the ARM version. It gives the Pro 9 new video effects that have the potential to make a big difference when in a virtual meeting or calls with friends and family. I say potential, because I couldn’t get all of these to work. In theory, automatic framing (where you’re automatically kept in frame and focus at all times) and eye contact (where your eyes appear to be looking at the camera, rather than screen) can significantly improve video calls, but I have no personal experience to back that up. Microsoft indicated these issues were rare, but it’s worth bearing in mind if the features here are important to you. However, some of the other features are undoubtedly impressive. Background blur is something most video calling apps offer, but the Surface Pro 9 does it better. Edge detection is dramatically improved, and it’s nice to have the option for either a heavy ‘standard blur’ or lighter ‘portrait blur’. The device has the same dual microphones as the Pro 8, but the NPU means there’s another extra feature: Voice Focus. It’s enabled by default, and does an excellent job of isolating your voice in noisy environments. Even if not all these features work all the time, the Surface Pro 9 is almost unmatched when it comes to video calling. It’s one of the few Windows devices where it’s not necessary to connect separate accessories for a great experience. Next to the webcam is the usual IR sensor, meaning you can unlock the Pro 9 with your face via Windows Hello. But Microsoft still doesn’t include the option for a fingerprint sensor – I don’t understand why we can’t have both. It’s also worth talking about ports, which have actually been downgraded compared to last year. The proprietary Surface Connect still feels clunky, although you can use either of the USB-C ports for charging instead. But not being powered by Intel means there’s no Thunderbolt 4 certification for fast data transfer, while Microsoft has decided now is the time to ditch the 3.5mm headphone jack. You can connect wired headphones via USB-C, but it feels like an unnecessary move.
Accessories
Excellent keyboard, trackpad not the best Impressive stylus experience All accessories sold separately
Before exploring the accessories that transform the Pro 9 into a genuine productivity device, it’s worth remembering that they’re all sold separately. The prices you see quoted by most retailers are only for the tablet itself, which significantly limits the device’s potential. I tested the Signature Keyboard, which includes the Slim Pen 2 stylus and a dedicated storage location for the pen. However, Microsoft does sell more affordable options, and all existing Surface Pro 8 accessories are compatible with the Pro 9. But if you are willing to stump up the extra cash, you’re unlikely to be disappointed. The Signature Keyboard delivers one of the best typing experiences with any tablet, despite offering relatively limited key travel. A 13in screen means there’s plenty of room for full-size keys without it feeling cramped. There are also three backlighting settings for low light situations, something many keyboard covers sacrifice. You’ll still notice a difference compared to most laptops, but I found long typing sessions a breeze. It helps that this version is coated with soft-touch Alcantara fabric, making it very comfortable to rest your hands either side of the trackpad. The latter is the one area without Alcantara, although the glass coating makes more sense here. It supports the full range of Windows 11 gestures, but being so narrow makes navigation difficult at times. I occasionally found myself having to select something twice or accidentally clicking, so I’d recommend connecting a mouse for longer sessions. But Microsoft has clearly put a lot of thought into the cover’s design, with a dedicated slot for Slim Pen 2 stylus above the keyboard. This pen is same version we saw introduced alongside the Surface Pro 8, but there were no need for any upgrades. A flatter design than many digital styluses makes it more comfortable to hold, while the advertised 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity mean it’s impressively close to a pen-on-paper like experience. The pre-installed Microsoft Whiteboard app makes full use of it, with a customisable physical button and end which doubles as a rubber. Most third-party apps don’t offer the same level of support, but it remains a good option for note-taking or digital art. However, I can’t verify Microsoft’s claim of 15 hours of battery life for the pen, as it charges seamlessly when docked into the keyboard cover.
Screen & Speakers
High-quality 120Hz LCD touchscreen Excellent in a variety of situationsImpressive speakers
Despite being a tablet, the Surface Pro 9 has a screen that’s as big as some laptops. The good news is that the quality of this 13in panel is higher than many rivals. That’s despite Microsoft persisting with an LCD (PixelSense) display rather than OLED. A 2880×1920 resolution ensures great detail and gives it a boxy 3:2 aspect ratio – that’s something we see on most Surface devices these days. You can also expect a vivid colour scheme, which helps content to really come alive. Testing via the SpyderX Pro calibration tool suggests colours are accurate, with the Pro 9 supposedly covering the full sRGB colour gamut, plus 86% of DCI-P3 and 83% of AdobeRGB. It also gets impressively bright, hitting a maximum of 465 nits in testing. That makes outdoor use a realistic prospect, although visibility will still be an issue on sunny days. We also shouldn’t forget about 120Hz refresh rate, which makes moving across Windows 11 feel more fluid and responsive. You can manually drop to the regular 60Hz or automatically switch between the two, but it doesn’t offer the same benefit to everyday use as on gaming machines or even smartphones. Dual stereo speakers are another area Microsoft decided against upgrading, but I continue to be impressed by the sound they produce. The Pro 9 offers clear, crisp audio, with minimal distortion – even at high volumes. There’s even a decent hit of bass, making them some of the best speakers you’ll find on any tablet. Audio enthusiasts may still want to connect headphones, but they’re excellent for casual listening.
Specs & Performance
Uses ARM-based Microsoft SQ3 chip Underwhelming performance 5G support for the first time
The Intel versions of the Surface Pro 9 have the expected updates to 12th-gen CPUs, but the device I tested is very different. It uses what Microsoft is calling the ‘SQ3’, an ARM-based chip that’s based on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3. The name hints at two previous generations, both of which were used in the Surface Pro X. This yields a big boost to battery life (which I’ll talk about in more detail later), but unfortunately performance suffers as a result. Disappointingly, this doesn’t just affect demanding tasks such as video editing or gaming: there’s a noticeable drop-off during everyday use. The most noticeable effect is on multitasking, where the Pro 9 often hesitates and stutters when moving between two or more apps. It makes using them side-by-side – one of Windows 11’s key strengths – something I’m reluctant to do. Despite the high refresh rate and 16GB of RAM on the model I used, basic tasks such as opening apps or scrolling menus also feel sluggish. It’s definitely still usable, but I was expecting much better from such a premium device. The benchmarks below certainly don’t tell the full story. It’s also worth noting that our usual PCMark 10 test wouldn’t run, with the app stating it’s not designed to work with ARM devices. However, it’s also worth recognising some of the other benefits that the ARM model brings. Alongside the video calling features mentioned above, it’s the first ever Surface tablet with 5G support. The device supports both regular NanoSIM and eSIM cards, and it’s a welcome addition if you’re somewhere with coverage. Internal storage is another slight concern. While customers in the US have the option for up to a 512GB SSD on SQ3 models, you’re limited to 256GB in the UK. Intel versions go up to 1TB, so you’ll need to rely on cloud storage services if you opt for ARM.
Battery Life & Charging
47.7Wh batteryDelivers excellent battery life 65W charging not particularly fast
If there’s one main reason to buy the ARM version of the Surface Pro 9, it’s battery life. It supposedly only has a 47.7Wh capacity, but Microsoft claims you can get up to 19 hours of ‘typical device usage’ on a single charge. It wasn’t far off in our 720p video loop battery test, with a time of 17 hours and 40 minutes. That’s one of the best scores we’ve ever recorded, beaten only by other ARM-based devices. However, don’t expect it to last as long in everyday usage. The test was performed at a relatively low 120 nits, while other tasks will deplete the battery much more quickly. Allowing battery saver mode to turn on automatically (it was off for this test) will help, though. But in general, you can still expect the Pro 9 to last a full day and have battery to spare. This could even be extended to two with lighter usage, something you can’t say for many tablets or laptops. Despite having the same battery size, it’s worth noting that the estimates for the Intel version drop to a maximum of 15.5 hours – that’s slightly less than 2021’s Surface Pro 8. However, that device would still get you a full day of battery life. When you do run out of charge, Microsoft includes a 65W adapter in the box. It still connects via the company’s Surface Connect port (you can use a USB-C charger if you prefer), but speeds are underwhelming. From off, I recorded 16% in 15 minutes and 33% by the half-hour mark. Even after two hours, it was still only at 98%.
Software
Runs Windows 11 Home Few apps can run natively Performance issues with others
The Surface Pro 9 runs Windows 11 Home out of the box. Manufacturers rarely make big changes to Windows, but this is as close to the ‘stock’ experience as it gets. I noticed only two pre-installed apps you won’t find on many other devices: Microsoft Whiteboard for handwritten notes and sketches, and the Surface app for tips and customisation. Both are genuinely useful for most people. However, despite plenty of improvements in recent years, ARM-based devices still only run a handful of apps natively. Microsoft software such as Edge, Word and File Explorer work fine, but many third-party apps still rely on emulation, which lets the Pro 9 behave as if it was powered by Intel or AMD. None of these run as smoothly, which helps to explain some of the performance issues. You’ll have to deal with emulated apps in order to get the most out of the Surface Pro 9, which makes it much less appealing.
Price & Availability
My issues with the Surface Pro 9 are brought into sharp focus when you consider its price. ARM-based models will set you back at least $1,299/£1,299 when paying full price, but this can be configured up to $1,899/£1,599. Intel versions range from $999.99/£1,099 to $2,599.99/£2,599. There are often discounts available, but remember this will only get you the tablet itself. The Signature Keyboard costs an additional $179.99/£159.99, or $279.99/£259.99 if you’d like the Slim Pen 2 too. I’d also recommend a mouse – if you haven’t got one already, Microsoft’s Surface Arc Mouse is $79.99/£79.99. As you can see, the costs can quickly mount up for a device that’s already on the expensive side. Plenty of alternatives in our best 2-in-1 chart offer better value for money, including Huawei’s MateBook E and even the 2021 Surface Pro 8.
Verdict
The introduction of ARM is a significant moment for the Surface Pro, but it’s not ready for the mainstream yet. Undoubtedly the main issue is the effect on performance, with some noticeable slowdown and less than seamless running of some apps. Alongside a port selection that’s worse than the Pro 8 and that high price tag, it’s hard to recommend. However, the move to ARM isn’t without its benefits. Battery life is truly excellent, and it’s great to see 5G support. The video calling experience is also among the best you’ll find on any Windows device – even without all the new effects. But ultimately, most people will be better off with the Intel version. It’s far less exciting, but a much safer bet.
Specs
Display: 3:2 PixelSense LCD touchscreen, 13in (2880×1920) Processor: Microsoft SQ3 Graphics: Microsoft SQ 3 Adreno 8cx Gen 3 Memory: 8/16GB LPDDR4 RAM Storage: 256/512GB SSD Ports: 2 USB-C 3.2, Surface Connect, nano SIM tray Camera: 1080p front-facing with Windows Hello support, 10Mp rear-facing Wireless: WiFi 6E (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.1, 5G Operating system: Windows 11 Home Colours: Platinum Weight: 878g (tablet only)
As the resident expert on Windows, Senior Staff Writer Anyron’s main focus is PCs and laptops. Much of the rest of his time is split between smartphones, tablets and audio, with a particular focus on Android devices.
