Specs Comparison: Surface Pro 12-inch vs Surface Pro 11 Features

Specs Comparison: Surface Pro 12-inch vs Surface Pro 11 Features

Introducing Microsoft’s Surface Pro 12-Inch: A Deep Dive

Microsoft has broadened its range of Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs with the recent launch of two new models: the Surface Laptop 13-inch and the Surface Pro 12-inch. Specifically designed for users seeking an affordable and portable alternative to the Surface Laptop 7 and Surface Pro 11, these devices emphasize convenience and performance. In this article, we will focus on the Surface Pro 12-inch, evaluating how it stacks up against its predecessor, the Surface Pro 11.

Key Features of the Surface Pro 12-Inch

The Surface Pro 12-inch targets those desiring a lightweight and easily portable tablet. With a weight of only 1.5 lbs and a thickness of 0.3 inches, it markedly contrasts with the 1.97 lbs weight and 0.37 inches thickness of the Surface Pro 11. The 12-inch screen is smaller than the previous 13-inch model, featuring a lower resolution and refresh rate; however, it stands out with a refresh rate of 90Hz, a significant improvement over the Surface Laptop 13-inch’s 60Hz display.

The Surface Pro 12-inch

Specifications and Performance

To make the device more cost-effective, Microsoft opted for an 8-core Snapdragon X Plus processor, a downgrade from the 10-core variant found in the Surface Pro 11. The new device comes with a memory limitation of 16GB and utilizes UFS storage instead of the user-replaceable SSD of its predecessor. This model is available in two storage configurations: 256GB and 512GB.

While the Surface Pro 12-inch features a front-facing camera that still supports Windows Hello, it is limited to a resolution of 1080p compared to the 1440p of the Surface Pro 11. Nonetheless, it retains advanced AI-driven functionalities like auto-framing and other Windows Studio effects.

Highlights of Design Innovations

One of the standout features of the Surface Pro 12-inch is its impressive battery life. Microsoft guarantees up to 16 hours of local video playback, which is an improvement over the Surface Pro 11, rated for 14 hours. Additionally, the new device includes a built-in wireless charger for the Surface Slim Pen, allowing users to conveniently charge the pen by attaching it to the back of the tablet.

The Surface Pro 12-inch Keyboard

Keyboard and Port Configuration

The redesigned keyboard for the Surface Pro 12-inch attaches magnetically and lays flat on the table due to the tablet’s smaller form factor. Unlike the angled keyboard of the Surface Pro 11, this design is more compact, and the Surface Pro 12 Keyboard is priced at $149.99. However, the latest model lacks a bundled charger and has reduced its USB-C ports to just USB 3.2, eliminating the Surface Connect port.

Summary of Key Features

  • Compact and lightweight design
  • 12-inch display with lower resolution, max brightness, and a 90Hz refresh rate
  • Fanless 8-core Snapdragon X Plus processor
  • UFS storage options available (256GB and 512GB)
  • Built-in wireless charging for the Surface Slim Pen
  • Flat keyboard design
  • Improved battery life with up to 16 hours of playback
  • No charger included in the box
  • Only two USB 3.2 Type-C ports, no Surface Connect port
  • More budget-friendly pricing

Comparative Breakdown of Specifications

Surface Pro (12-inch) Surface Pro (11th Edition)
Chassis

10.8″x 7.47″x 0.3″, 1.5lbs

274 x 190 x 7.8 mm, 686 g

11.3″x 8.2″x 0.37″, 1.97lbs

287 x 209 x 9.3 mm, 895 g

Colors Platinum, Ocean, Violet Sapphire, Dune, Platinum, Black
Display 12″IPS PixelSense 2196 x 1464 (220 ppi) 90Hz (default at 60Hz) 400 nits brightness 13″IPS PixelSense Flow 2880 x 1920 (267 ppi) Up to 120Hz refresh rate 600 nits brightness 13″OLED PixelSense Flow 2880 x 1920 (267 ppi) Up to 120Hz refresh rate 900 nits brightness
Processor 8-core Snapdragon X Plus 10-core Snapdragon X Plus 12-core Snapdragon X Elite
Memory 16GB LPDDR5X 16GB LPDDR5X 16GB or 32GB LPDDR5X
Storage 256GB, 512GB UFS User-removable PCIe Gen4 SSD (256GB, 512GB) User-removable PCIe Gen4 SSD (512GB, 1TB)
Security Microsoft Pluton TPM 2.0Windows Hello face sign-inWindows 11 Secured-core PC
Network Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 (optional 5G)
Battery Up to 16 hours of video playback Up to 14 hours of video playback Up to 14 hours of video playback
Cameras Front-facing 1080p camera with Windows Hello10 MP rear-facing camera with 4K support Front-facing 1440p camera with Windows Hello10MP rear-facing camera with 4K support
Ports 2x USB-C/USB 3.2 2x USB-C/USB41x Surface Connect
Accessories Surface Slim Pen 2 with charging on the tablet backSurface Pro 12-inch Keyboard Surface Slim Pen 2Surface Pro Flex Keyboard, Surface Pro Keyboard, Surface Pro Signature Keyboard
Price $799+ $999+ $1, 499+

Final Thoughts

The Surface Pro 12-inch presents itself as an appealing choice in the crowded market of compact Windows tablets. With its lightweight form factor, extended battery life, and modern features, it can be an excellent option for individuals who prioritize portability. Nonetheless, at a starting price of $799, potential buyers should weigh the significant compromises in performance and specifications against the benefits of a lighter device. For many, the Surface Pro 11 continues to represent a superior value, especially considering its more robust processor, enhanced display, and included charger—all of which are currently available for exactly $799 on Amazon.

The Surface Pro 12-inch is currently available for preorder on the Microsoft Store and will officially launch on May 20, 2025. Is this device on your wishlist?

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