The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 continues the legacy of the Surface line by offering a powerful 2-in-1 device that combines a tablet’s portability with a laptop’s functionality. With a sleek design, powerful hardware, and advanced features, the Surface Pro 9 is designed to meet the needs of professionals, creatives, and everyday users alike. In this review, we’ll explore the design, performance, features, and overall value of the Surface Pro 9 to help you determine if it’s the right device for you.
In this Microsoft Surface Pro 9 Review, we’ll take a look at:
Design and Build Quality
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 maintains the premium design and build quality that the Surface line is known for, offering a stylish and durable device that’s both portable and functional.
Sleek and Modern Design
The Surface Pro 9 features a sleek, minimalist design that’s both modern and elegant. With a magnesium alloy body and several attractive colors, including Platinum, Graphite, Sapphire, and Forest, the Surface Pro 9 is a stylish device perfect for professional and personal use. The device is incredibly thin and lightweight, weighing just 1.94 pounds (without the Type Cover), making it easy to carry and use.
Durable and Versatile Build
The Surface Pro 9 is built to last, with a durable construction that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The adjustable kickstand on the back allows you to position the device at almost any angle, making it versatile for different tasks such as typing, drawing, or watching videos. The kickstand’s smooth hinge mechanism ensures that it stays securely in place, providing a stable and comfortable experience whether using it on a desk or on your lap.
Signature Type Cover and Surface Pen
The Surface Pro 9 is designed to work seamlessly with the optional Signature Type Cover and Surface Pen, turning the device into a full-fledged laptop or digital canvas. The Type Cover features a comfortable keyboard with well-spaced keys and a responsive trackpad, making it easy to type and navigate. The Surface Pen, with its low latency and pressure sensitivity, is perfect for drawing, taking notes, and annotating documents. These accessories enhance the versatility of the Surface Pro 9, making it an excellent choice for both productivity and creativity.
Display Quality
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 offers an impressive display that enhances the visual experience, making it ideal for various tasks.
13-Inch PixelSense Flow Display
The Surface Pro 9 features a 13-inch PixelSense Flow display with a 2880 x 1920 pixels resolution, delivering sharp and vibrant visuals. The display supports a 120Hz refresh rate, providing smooth scrolling and responsive touch interactions. Whether editing photos, watching movies, or browsing the web, the PixelSense display offers stunning clarity and detail. The high resolution and color accuracy make the Surface Pro 9 a great choice for creatives needing a reliable design and media work screen.
Touch and Pen Input
The Surface Pro 9’s display is fully touch-enabled, allowing intuitive navigation and app interaction. The screen also supports the Surface Pen, providing a natural and responsive drawing experience with tilt and pressure sensitivity. The combination of touch and pen input makes the Surface Pro 9 a versatile tool for creative professionals, students, and anyone who prefers a more interactive way to work.
Adaptive Color and Dolby Vision
The Surface Pro 9 features Adaptive Color technology, which adjusts the display’s color temperature based on the surrounding environment, ensuring the screen looks natural in any lighting condition. Additionally, the display supports Dolby Vision, which enhances HDR content with greater brightness, contrast, and color accuracy. These features make the Surface Pro 9 an excellent device for watching movies, editing photos, or working on detailed projects.
Performance and Hardware
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 has powerful hardware that delivers exceptional performance for various tasks.
Intel and ARM Processor Options
The Surface Pro 9 offers two processor options: the 12th Gen Intel Core i5/i7 processors and the Microsoft SQ3, an ARM-based processor co-developed with Qualcomm. The Intel models are ideal for users who need traditional x86 performance for software compatibility and demanding applications. In contrast, the ARM-based model offers enhanced battery life and 5G connectivity, making it perfect for mobile users who need to stay connected.
Memory and Storage Options
The Surface Pro 9 offers flexible memory and storage configurations, with up to 32GB of LPDDR5 RAM and up to 1TB of SSD storage. The high RAM capacity ensures smooth multitasking, allowing you to run multiple applications simultaneously without slowdowns. The fast SSD storage provides quick access to files, apps, and media, reducing load times and improving system responsiveness. Whether working on complex projects or managing large files, the Surface Pro 9 delivers the performance you need.
Long Battery Life
The Surface Pro 9 offers impressive battery life, with the Intel models providing up to 15.5 hours of typical device usage and the ARM-based model offering up to 19 hours. This all-day battery life ensures you can work, study, or play without constantly searching for a power outlet. The ARM-based model’s extended battery life, combined with 5G connectivity, makes it an excellent choice for users needing a device to keep up with their busy schedules.
Connectivity and Features
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 offers a range of connectivity options and features that enhance its versatility and ease of use.
Versatile Port Selection
The Surface Pro 9 has two USB-C ports supporting Thunderbolt 4 on the Intel models. These ports allow for high-speed data transfer, external display connections, and charging, making connecting a wide range of peripherals easy. While lacking Thunderbolt 4, the ARM-based model still offers versatile USB-C connectivity and includes a nanoSIM slot for 5G connectivity. The device also includes the Surface Connect port for charging and docking and a Surface Keyboard port for the Type Cover.
5G Connectivity (ARM Model)
One of the standout features of the ARM-based Surface Pro 9 is its support for 5G connectivity. This feature lets you stay connected to high-speed internet even when Wi-Fi isn’t available, making it ideal for remote work, travel, or on-the-go productivity. The inclusion of 5G makes the Surface Pro 9 a future-proof device that can take advantage of the latest network technologies.
Windows 11 and Enhanced Features
The Surface Pro 9 runs Windows 11, Microsoft’s latest operating system, which offers a modern interface and new features designed to improve productivity and user experience. Windows 11 includes features like Snap Layouts for better multitasking, Microsoft Teams integration, and enhanced touch, pen, and voice inputs. The Surface Pro 9 is fully optimized for Windows 11, ensuring you can take full advantage of the OS’s capabilities, whether working, creating, or relaxing.
Value for Money
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 offers a compelling combination of performance, versatility, and design, making it a strong value proposition for many users.
Competitive Pricing
The Surface Pro 9 is priced competitively within the premium 2-in-1 market, offering a range of configurations to suit different budgets and needs. Whether you’re looking for a powerful laptop replacement, a portable tablet, or a device that can do it all, the Surface Pro 9 provides excellent value for money. The ability to choose between Intel and ARM models also ensures you can select the device that best matches your workflow and connectivity requirements.
Long-Term Durability and Support
With its durable build quality, advanced features, and long-term software support from Microsoft, the Surface Pro 9 is designed to provide lasting value. The device’s versatility and performance make it a smart investment for users who need a reliable and adaptable tool for work, study, or creative projects. Additionally, the Surface Pro 9’s compatibility with various accessories, including the Type Cover, Surface Pen, and Surface Dock, further extends its usability and lifespan.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Sleek and lightweight design with a versatile kickstand.
- Powerful Intel and ARM processor options for performance and battery life.
- High-resolution 13-inch PixelSense display with touch and pen support.
- 5G connectivity is available on ARM models for on-the-go productivity.
- Long battery life suitable for all-day use.
Cons
- Type Cover and Surface Pen are sold separately.
- Limited port selection compared to traditional laptops.
- ARM model may have software compatibility limitations.
Conclusion
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is a versatile, powerful 2-in-1 device that excels in form and function. Whether you’re a professional, a student, or a creative, the Surface Pro 9 offers the flexibility to adapt to your needs with powerful hardware, a stunning display, and the convenience of touch and pen input. With options for both Intel and ARM processors, as well as 5G connectivity on the ARM model, the Surface Pro 9 is designed to meet the demands of modern users. If you’re looking for a device that can seamlessly transition between tablet and laptop while delivering top-tier performance and portability, the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is an excellent choice.
Summary of Microsoft Surface Pro 9 Features
Feature | Description |
Display | 13-inch PixelSense Flow, 2880 x 1920 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate |
Processor Options | 12th Gen Intel Core i5/i7 or Microsoft SQ3 ARM-based |
Memory | Up to 32GB LPDDR5 RAM |
Storage | Up to 1TB SSD |
Connectivity | USB-C, Thunderbolt 4 (Intel), 5G (ARM) |
Best For | Professionals, students, creatives, and on-the-go users |
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 FAQ
What processor options are available in the Surface Pro 9 for Business?
The Surface Pro 9 for Business offers 12th Gen Intel Core i5 and i7 processors and an ARM-based Microsoft SQ3 processor option.
Does the Surface Pro 9 for Business support 5G connectivity?
Yes, but only in the model equipped with the Microsoft SQ3 processor.
Can I upgrade the storage on the Surface Pro 9 for Business?
It features a user-upgradable SSD, accessible via a small magnetic panel beneath the kickstand.