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During its recent Surface event, Microsoft launched the largest upgrade of its flagship Intel-powered Surface Pro lineup in years: the Surface Pro 8. The new 2-in-1 machine boasts a 120Hz display, Thunderbolt 4 support, and new processors, but all of those improvements come at a cost — literally. Whereas the Surface Pro 7 starts at $549.99, the Surface Pro 8 starts at $1,099.99, meaning it’s nearly double the price. And that’s also before you factor in the cost of Microsoft’s new stylus and detachable keyboard, two add-ons that are more like necessities if you intend to use the 2-in-1 as advertised.
With all that said, is it worth upgrading or picking up the Pro 8 over the last-gen model when it launches on October 5th? To help make your decision a little easier, we’ve put together the comparison below based on specs and our initial impressions of the Surface Pro 8.
What’s improved on the Surface Pro 8?
- Two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports
- You can double the refresh rate from 60Hz to 120Hz
- 11th-gen Intel quad-core Core CPUs, starting with i5 instead of i3
- 10MP rear-facing camera, with 1080p and 4K video
- Larger, 13-inch display with higher 2880 x 1920 resolution (up from 12.3-inch)
- Double the RAM on the base model (8GB)
- Microsoft says the battery should last up to 16 hours
- New sensor that adjusts the display temperature based on ambient lighting
- LTE support for enterprise users
- Preloaded with Windows 11
- $1,100
The new Surface Pro 8 is Microsoft’s biggest upgrade in years. The forthcoming 2-in-1 touts Thunderbolt 4 support, a 120Hz display, a better camera, and a more modern appearance.
