Unleashing the Power of the Surface Pro 12-Inch: A Heartfelt Review of Performance and Portability

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I’ve always liked the Surface Pro X. It was the sleek tablet I wanted, but when it launched years ago, the technology just wasn’t ready. It struggled with slow performance and app issues, and I was disappointed.

Now, Microsoft has a new chance with the Surface Pro 12-inch at $799. This version features a fanless design and uses Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon X Plus chip. This redesign has made a big difference, offering improved performance and battery life.

The new tablet blends the best design features from other tablets like iPads and Samsung, while keeping the versatility of Windows. It’s clear Microsoft has taken inspiration from its competitors to create a better product.

The Surface Pro features a smaller display without the previous ventilation slots. The design is softer, reminiscent of an iPad, making it comfortable to hold. This new look is a welcome change, and I hope they continue this direction in future models.

The kickstand remains functional, but some adjustments to the stylus and keyboard have been made. The stylus is now magnetically stored on the back, similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Tab, making it easier to access. However, while using the tablet in pure tablet mode, the stylus can sometimes get in the way.

The keyboard has improved as well; it’s more stable without the flex that distracted me in older models. However, it no longer uses the soft material I liked previously and misses out on haptic feedback for the touchpad, which I found quite disappointing.

In terms of display, the Surface Pro 12 uses a LCD screen instead of OLED, which I prefer due to readability. The bezels are uniform but could be slimmer. The rear camera has been repositioned to a corner, making it easier to take photos.

Inside, the Snapdragon X Plus chip helps run most apps smoothly, especially since many apps are now optimized for ARM. However, a few, like Discord and Adobe Premiere Pro, still lag behind. Adobe’s software, for instance, still relies on the Intel version, making it less efficient on ARM devices.

Despite a marked improvement in apps, there are still areas for growth. The battery life is impressive, often lasting around nine hours with everyday use. If I don’t use it for a weekend, I can still resume work quickly, but occasionally, the camera struggles to recognize me, requiring a reboot.

I’ve tested the Surface Pro on the go – in cafes, on trains, and at home. The versatile use as a laptop or tablet is appealing, yet the kickstand requires a bit of adjustment in my posture while using it in my lap.

The pricing is a bit steep, especially when considering the cost of the keyboard and stylus as extras. Ultimately, this new tablet is close to what I’ve wanted in a portable PC. It’s not perfect, but it’s a significant step from the initial heartbreak of the Surface Pro X.