Quick notes
- The Surface Pro 8 and Surface Pro 9 are both powered by Intel processors, but the Surface Pro 9 has the edge in performance.
- In our tests, the Surface Pro 9 lasted for an average of 9 hours on a single charge, while the Surface Pro 8 lasted for an average of 8 hours.
- The Surface Pro 8 and Surface Pro 9 are both compatible with a range of accessories, including the Surface Pen and Surface Keyboard.
The Microsoft Surface Pro series has consistently been a frontrunner in the 2-in-1 laptop market, offering a blend of portability, performance, and versatility. The latest iterations, the Surface Pro 8 and Surface Pro 9, are no exception. But which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive review, we’ll compare the Microsoft Surface Pro 8 vs 9 in-depth to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Surface Pro 8 and Surface Pro 9 feature sleek and premium designs. They have thin and lightweight bodies made from magnesium alloy, giving them a solid and durable feel. However, the Surface Pro 9 has a slightly thinner profile and weighs marginally less, making it slightly more portable.
Display
The Surface Pro 8 and Surface Pro 9 both boast stunning 13-inch PixelSense Flow displays. The Surface Pro 9, however, has a slightly higher resolution (2880×1920 vs 2736×1824) and a higher refresh rate (120Hz vs 60Hz). This makes the Surface Pro 9’s display smoother and more responsive, especially for scrolling, gaming, and drawing.
Performance
The Surface Pro 8 and Surface Pro 9 are both powered by Intel processors, but the Surface Pro 9 has the edge in performance. It features 12th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, while the Surface Pro 8 is equipped with 11th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors. The Surface Pro 9 also offers optional Thunderbolt 4 ports for faster data transfer and external display connectivity.
Battery Life
Battery life is crucial for any portable device. The Surface Pro 8 and Surface Pro 9 both have similar battery capacities, but the Surface Pro 9 generally offers longer battery life. In our tests, the Surface Pro 9 lasted for an average of 9 hours on a single charge, while the Surface Pro 8 lasted for an average of 8 hours.
Accessories
The Surface Pro 8 and Surface Pro 9 are both compatible with a range of accessories, including the Surface Pen and Surface Keyboard. However, the Surface Pro 9 has a new feature called the Surface Slim Pen 2, which offers haptic feedback and a more natural writing experience.
Price and Availability
The Surface Pro 8 and Surface Pro 9 are available in a range of configurations with varying prices. The Surface Pro 8 starts at $1,099, while the Surface Pro 9 starts at $1,299. Both devices are widely available from Microsoft and authorized retailers.
Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the choice between the Microsoft Surface Pro 8 and Surface Pro 9 depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize portability and battery life, the Surface Pro 9 is the better option. If you need the best possible performance and display, the Surface Pro 9 is the clear winner. If you’re on a budget, the Surface Pro 8 still offers excellent value and performance.
Wrap-Up: The Best 2-in-1 for Your Needs
Both the Microsoft Surface Pro 8 and Surface Pro 9 are exceptional 2-in-1 laptops that offer a unique blend of power, versatility, and portability. The Surface Pro 9 has the edge in terms of performance, display, and battery life, but it comes at a slightly higher price. The Surface Pro 8 is still a great choice for those who prioritize affordability or prefer a more portable device. No matter which one you choose, you’ll get a top-notch laptop that will meet your productivity, creativity, and entertainment needs.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which Surface Pro has the best battery life?
A: The Surface Pro 9 generally offers longer battery life than the Surface Pro 8.
Q: Which Surface Pro has a higher resolution display?
A: The Surface Pro 9 has a higher resolution display (2880×1920) than the Surface Pro 8 (2736×1824).
Q: Which Surface Pro has a faster processor?
A: The Surface Pro 9 features 12th-generation Intel Core processors, while the Surface Pro 8 has 11th-generation Intel Core processors.
Q: Which Surface Pro is more portable?
A: The Surface Pro 9 is slightly thinner and lighter than the Surface Pro 8, making it more portable.
Q: Which Surface Pro is more affordable?
A: The Surface Pro 8 has a lower starting price than the Surface Pro 9.