The 12-inch Surface Pro is Microsoft's most iPad-like hybrid tablet yet, but comes with compromises like a slower processor and inferior screen.
Weighing 1.5 pounds and 7.8mm thick, the Surface Pro is comparable to the 12.9-inch iPad Pro, but lacks some features like an angled keyboard for ergonomic typing.
Powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Plus chip, it offers compactness but sacrifices some performance, lacking a magnetic charging port and preferring USB-C charging.
The screen has been downgraded with no OLED option, lower resolution, and absence of a 120Hz refresh rate like its predecessor, offering a vibrant display but not ideal for editing.
The optional $150 keyboard, not bundled with the tablet, is criticized as an anti-consumer practice and adds to the overall cost of ownership.
Performance-wise, the 12-inch Surface Pro excels in basic tasks but lacks speed for intensive workloads; it's commended for being lightweight, portable, and decent for daily use.
Benchmark tests show the Surface Pro's mediocre performance compared to other systems, with low scores in CPU, GPU, and 3D tests, suggesting it's not suited for gaming.
Battery life tests reveal mixed results, with real-world usage indicating around 8 hours of usage, falling short of the claimed 16-hour battery life.
Pricing strategy confusion surrounds the 12-inch Surface Pro, seen as a heart-driven purchase for those seeking a cute, portable Windows PC despite its limitations.
The Surface Pro offers lightness and portability but compromises on performance and display quality, appealing to users looking for an iPad-like experience in a Windows device.