The Microsoft Surface Pro 12 is a flagship productivity product that packs the same performance into a smaller, lighter package without losing performance. The Microsoft Surface Pro 12 features Microsoft’s brightest 12 inch display, a fully silent fanless design, and the versatility of USB-C charging. It is designed for use on the go by those who want powerful performance in a small and light device. The redesigned keyboard features a new matte finish and magnetic connector to enhance the typing experience. Under the surface, the Microsoft Surface Pro 12 features Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Plus and the bevy of AI features in Copilot+, designed to keep you productive all day.
Features at a Glance
- Price: from $799 for 16 GB RAM/256 GB SSD version
- Display: 12″ LCD, pixel 2196 × 1464 resolution, up to 90 Hz refresh
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus with 8 core CPU
- Memory and Storage: 16 GB RAM; 256 GB or 512 GB NVMe SSD
- Weight: 1.5 lbs for tablet, additional 0.27 lbs optional keyboard
- Battery Life: Up to 16 hours for video playback; 12 hours web usage
- Keyboard: $149.99, matte finish, magnetic connector
- Ports: Two USB-C 3.2 (charge/data/dual 4K)
Compact 12-Inch Display
Finding the sweet spot between the ultra-portable Surface Go and larger 13″ Surface Pro 11 is made easier with the nimble 12-inch form factor. Combined with a stunning 3:2 aspect ratio, work productivity applications are more productive and viewing media is more immersive. The 2196 × 1464 pixel count with 90 Hz smooth scrolling and inking, make everything from work to play feel smooth and fluid.
Fanless Design for Silent Operation
We should also mention that Microsoft has eliminated internal fans from the Surface Pro 12. Thanks to the efficiency and capabilities of Qualcomm’s ARM-based Snapdragon X Plus chip, your device will run silently during video calls, typing or creative work. The absence of fans also helps the Surface Pro achieve its 0.30 in (7.8 mm) slim profile, and lightweight existence; your lap is thankful.
USB-C Charging: The End of Surface Connect
Microsoft has also eliminated the Surface Connect as the primary power connection, settling for two USB-C 3.2 ports that will charge the Surface Pro, allow data transfer, or work with dual-4K external displays. This is not only a step toward being aligned with other products in the marketplace, but it also minimizes cable clutter and allows you to charge your Surface Pro with any compatible USB-C charger or dock when you need to recharge.
Redesigned Keyboard Accessory
Microsoft’s new optional Flex Keyboard ($149.99) now has a flat magnetic connector with a matte finish and is positioned flush on a desk, making it more stable when typing, and easily folded flat against the tablet when drawing. Key travel on the keyboard has comfortable throw distance, with backlighting that brighten during low light situations.
Performance and Battery Life
On the inside, expect the Snapdragon X Plus to give you great multi-tasking with all-day battery life. Expect 16 hours of video playback time, or around 12 hours of active web usage, from a single charge, and fast charging via USB-C (45 W minimum) does recharge up to 80% in about an hour, meaning you can continue to be productive as you are moving.
Features Available with AI-Powered Copilot+
As a Copilot+ PC, the Surface Pro 12 opens opportunities for you to take advantage of AI-driven Windows tools like Recall, Click to Do and the enhanced Snipping Tool, all of which aim to make your productivity less frustrating with contextually relevant shortcuts and real-time suggestions. These AI features will help you easily streamline workflows as diverse as condensing meetings into emails, or drafting emails as you scan through a pile of physical letters – and many more tasks – making the device fundamentally easier to use.
Colors and Looks
There are three colors to pick from, Slate, Violet, and Ocean Green, each of which allow you to show a little character in your setup. The matte finish of the keyboard works nicely with the soft-touch backing of the tablet, while the adjustable kickstand supports angles of up to 165° (though the screen can angle even further back if you’re trying to lay totally flat).
Connectivity and Ports
The Surface Pro 12 will connect via Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 for better and faster networking and better peripheral pairing beyond USB-C. While there is no Surface Connect, you get two USB-C ports with the option of Surface Dock, so you will have plenty of options for expansion for displays, storage, and all the legacy USB-A devices you inevitably always seem to have.
Camera and Audio
Because the Surface Pro 12 includes a 1080p front-facing Studio Camera, you can enjoy a reliable video call with Windows Hello face unlock properties and AI-enhanced Studio Effects. The 10 MP rear camera offers quick instant camera capabilities for quick scans and whiteboard snaps. The dual far-field Studio Mics provide clear audio during video calls and media for your videos, and the Omnisonic speakers provide clear audio for your media.
Comparisons to Surface Pro 11
The Pro 12 is a smaller, lighter device than the Surface Pro 11 (13″). It has a fan-free design, yet it has the same level of performance for common tasks. The drop to USB-C and the new keyboard are upgrades from the last generation, but some users may miss the proprietary Surface Connect and potentially a slightly larger screen.
Who Should Buy the Surface Pro 12?
The Surface Pro 12 is for professionals, students, and content creators who want a lightweight and portable 2-in-1 tablet that can last an entire work day, is quiet and uses AI to enhance the experience. If you are willing to sacrifice the proprietary port and larger display for almost 1.6 lbs of portability and everyday screen brightness – this tablet meets a laptop and is just right.
Conclusion
Overall, the Microsoft Surface Pro 12 is a new approach to Microsoft’s flagship tablet product line and features a device that mixes portability, performance, and premium design into a 12-inch fanless form factor. The USB-C charging feature, improved keyboard, and AI-enhanced Windows operating system make it a fitting option for users who require flexibility and reliability in their working lives.
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