Surface Laptop 5
(Picture: Microsoft)Microsoft has refreshed its line of first-party Surface hardware with new 2-in-1s, laptops and an enormously expensive all-in-one PC.
While Windows computers and tablets aren’t exactly hard to come by, the Surface line is the closest thing that the PC world has to Apple’s MacBook, given Microsoft makes both the hardware and software for a theoretically smoother experience. Past devices have certainly been received positively by reviewers, even if they do cost a pretty penny.
First out of the blocks will be the Surface Laptop 5, pictured above, which arrives on October 25. At first glance, it appears pretty similar to last year’s Surface Laptop 4, and if you put the two side by side, you’d struggle to tell the difference.
But the upgrade to 12th-generation Intel Core processors should make a massive difference in terms of performance, especially for those who like to juggle applications. There is no AMD-powered version this year, so it’s Intel or nothing.
It’s Dolby Vision IQ and Dolby Atmos certified for top-notch sound and visuals, and Microsoft says the webcam has been substantially improved for those still-necessary Zoom calls. It’ll start from £1,079 for the 13-inch model or £1,379 for a 15-inch version.
The new Surface Pro 9 — a 2-in-1 tablet/laptop with an attachable keyboard cover and stylus support — also benefits from the upgrade to 12th-generation Intel Core processors in an otherwise modest update.
There’s an unexpected twist here, however. You can also buy a version powered by a more energy-efficient Qualcomm chip, something that was previously limited to a whole different product line called the Surface Pro X.
This model is the only one that comes with 5G support for internet connectivity on the go, but historically this chipset has come with some compatibility issues for Windows apps, so do your research before taking that route.
Both devices come with 13-inch, 120Hz displays and have the same webcam enhancements as the laptops. They’re coming on November 8, with a starting price of £1,079 for an Intel-powered model, or £1,379 for a Qualcomm-powered version with built-in 5G.
Finally, there’s an update to the four-year-old Surface Studio — a beast of an all-in-one computer aimed at designers who want a flexible, high-resolution 28-inch touchscreen that can be pulled down to draw on. Like the two other Surfaces, the Surface Studio 2+’s main improvements are on the inside, with an 11th-generation Intel Core i7 processor and graphics powered by Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 3060. It’ll set you back a massive £4,499 when it launches on November 1.
As this year marks the tenth anniversary of the first Surface, Microsoft also announced a special edition case for the Surface Pro 9 made by London’s own Liberty design house. The “vibrant blue floral” pattern is said to be inspired by the Windows 11 Bloom, and will set you back an extra £299 if you want your new 2-in-1 to really shine.
