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.
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.
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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