The Microsoft Surface lineup has long been a staple in versatile computing, and the recent releases of the Surface Pro 10, Surface Pro (11th Gen), and Surface Go 4 continue to uphold this legacy. Each model caters to different user needs, from professionals seeking high performance to students needing portability.
In this review, we’ll explore these three devices’ key features, strengths, and weaknesses to help you decide which one might be the best fit for you.
Surface Pro 10, Surface Pro (11th Gen), and Surface Go 4 comparison table:
| Feature | Surface Pro 10 | Surface Pro (11th Gen) | Surface Go 4 |
| Release Date | May 14, 2024 | June 18, 2024 | October 3, 2023 |
| Display | 13-inch PixelSense Flow, 2880 x 1920 | 13-inch PixelSense Flow, OLED option | 10.5-inch PixelSense, 1920 x 1280 |
| Processor | Intel Ultra (Ultra 5/7) | Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite | Intel N200 quad-core |
| RAM Options | Up to 32 GB | Up to 32 GB | 8 GB LPDDR5 |
| Storage Options | Up to 1 TB SSD | Up to 1 TB SSD | Up to 256 GB UFS |
| Battery Life | Up to 14 hours | Up to 10 hours | Up to 12.5 hours |
| Weight | Approx. 1.97 lbs (895 g) | Approx. 1.97 lbs (895 g) | Approx. 1.2 lbs (544 g) |
| Ports | USB-C, Surface Connect | USB-C, Surface Connect | USB-C, Surface Connect |
| Camera | Front: 1440p HD; Rear: 10 MP | Front: Quad HD; Rear: 10 MP | Front: HD; Rear: 8 MP |
| Price Starting At | $1,199 | $1,499 | $579 |
Surface Pro 10
Design and Display
Released on May 14, 2024, the Surface Pro 10 showcases a sleek design with a premium magnesium chassis that feels robust yet lightweight at about 1.97 lbs (895 g). The 13-inch PixelSense display is a highlight, boasting a resolution of 2880 x 1920 pixels and an impressive brightness of 600 nits, making it ideal for outdoor use. The anti-reflective coating helps reduce glare, although some reflections are still noticeable in direct sunlight.
Performance
Powered by Intel’s latest Ultra processors (Ultra 5 135U or Ultra 7 165U), the Surface Pro 10 offers solid performance for demanding applications like Adobe Photoshop. However, real-world tests indicate that its battery life can be disappointing—users report significant drops in battery percentage during high-brightness usage, with one reviewer noting a drop from 100% to 67% in just one hour of typical office work.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Premium build quality, extremely bright display, excellent Slim Pen functionality.
- Cons: High price starting at around $1,199, disappointing battery life under heavy use.
Surface Pro (11th Gen)
Design and Display
Launched on June 18, 2024, the Surface Pro (11th Gen) retains the sleek aesthetics of its predecessor while introducing notable enhancements. It also weighs approximately 1.97 lbs (895 g) but features an advanced OLED display option that delivers vibrant colors and deep blacks. The dynamic refresh rate of up to 120Hz ensures smooth scrolling and responsiveness.
Performance
This model is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite processor, marking a significant shift towards ARM architecture. While it excels in native applications and offers excellent performance when plugged in, users have reported challenges with app compatibility and battery life during intensive tasks.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Excellent performance on native apps, stunning OLED display option, innovative AI features.
- Cons: High price point starting around $1,499, potential compatibility issues with certain applications.
Surface Go 4
Design and Display
The Surface Go 4 is designed for maximum portability, weighing just 1.2 lbs (544 g) with a compact size of 9.65 x 6.9 x 0.33 inches. It features a smaller 10.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels, which is vibrant enough for everyday tasks but lacks the advanced brightness levels found in the Pro models.
Performance
Equipped with an Intel N200 quad-core processor, the Surface Go 4 offers up to 80% faster performance compared to its predecessor. This makes it suitable for everyday tasks like web browsing and office applications; however, it may struggle with more demanding software.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Lightweight and portable design, budget-friendly starting price around $579, satisfactory battery life.
- Cons: Limited performance for high-demand applications, smaller display size.
Where to Buy Microsoft Surface-
You have several options if you want to purchase the latest Microsoft Surface devices, including the Surface Pro 10, Surface Pro (11th Gen), and Surface Go 4. Here are some of the best places to buy:
Online Retailers
- Microsoft Store: Purchase directly from Microsoft for exclusive offers, free shipping, and a 60-day return policy. They often have bundles that include accessories.
- Amazon: A reliable option for quick delivery and competitive pricing.
- Best Buy: Offers in-store pickup and a wide selection of Surface devices.
- Newegg: Known for tech products, Newegg frequently has deals on electronics.
- Walmart: Offers online and in-store purchasing options.
Business Solutions
The Microsoft Store offers tailored solutions with dedicated support for businesses looking to buy in bulk or require specialized configurations. They also provide financing options to spread out costs.
How does the Surface Pro 11 improve upon the Surface Pro 10?
The Surface Pro 11 improves upon the Surface Pro 10 with several key advancements. It introduces Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite chip, which enhances performance and efficiency, particularly for AI features supported by its Neural Processing Unit (NPU). The OLED display option offers a stunning contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1, significantly surpassing the LCD’s 1,200:1, providing richer colors and deeper blacks. Additionally, the Surface Pro 11 is designed as a Copilot+ PC, enabling it to leverage advanced AI capabilities in Windows 11, making it a more future-proof device for users seeking cutting-edge technology.
What are the standout features of the Surface Go 4?
The Surface Go 4 stands out with several impressive features:
- Performance: It is powered by the Intel N200 quad-core processor, offering up to 80% faster performance than its predecessor, making it suitable for everyday tasks and multitasking.
- Display: The device features a 10.5-inch PixelSense display with a 1920 x 1280 pixels resolution, providing sharp visuals and vibrant colors.
- Battery Life: Users can expect up to 12.5 hours of battery life, making it reliable for all-day use.
- Versatile Design: The built-in kickstand allows for flexible positioning, enhancing usability as both a tablet and a laptop.
- Enhanced Connectivity: It includes USB-C 3.1, Surface Connect, and a microSD card slot for expanded storage options.
These features make the Surface Go 4 an excellent choice for students and professionals seeking a lightweight, portable device.
Conclusion
In summary, each model in Microsoft’s latest lineup serves distinct user needs:
- The Surface Pro 10 is ideal for professionals who require a bright display and robust performance but may need to manage their expectations regarding battery life.
- The Surface Pro (11th Gen) offers cutting-edge technology with its Snapdragon processor and OLED display but comes at a higher price point with potential app compatibility issues.
- The Surface Go 4 is affordable for students or casual users seeking portability without sacrificing essential functionality.
Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific requirements—whether you prioritize high performance for professional tasks or need a lightweight device for everyday use. Each model reflects Microsoft’s commitment to versatility and innovation in the tablet market, ensuring something for everyone in this impressive lineup.
