Meet the new Microsoft Surface Pro and Surface Laptop: Two PCs built for the AI revolution
Microsoft’s latest Surface devices are perfect for getting the most out of AI on the go
In the last couple of years, artificial intelligence has really come of age – and that means that older devices can suddenly feel left behind.
Microsoft’s new Surface devices, however, are built for the AI revolution. Powered by the Snapdragon X series with its powerful NPU (neural processing unit), the Copilot+ PCs feel snappy in day-to-day use and, equally importantly, are ready for all the clever AI enhancements that still feel like magic.
What kind of enhancements? The most obvious is the big, inviting Copilot key found on both computers’ keyboards. Simply give it a press, and you have instant access to Microsoft’s “everyday AI companion”. Whether you want your computer to compose a sonnet about inkjet printers, to give you the pros and cons of electric cars or to create original artwork to your prompt, Copilot can help in the blink of an eye.
But that’s just scratching the surface of what Copilot+ PCs like the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop can do. Windows Studio Effects, for example, uses AI to create flattering filters, supply portrait lights, boost voice focus and offer eye contact autocues to ensure you’re looking your best for those all-important video calls.
Live Captions, meanwhile, translates audio and video content into English from 44 languages on the fly. For gamers, automatic super resolution boosts frame rates on an ever-growing list of titles, letting you play more smoothly than you’d imagine possible on such slim mobile computers.
Arguably, most magical of all is Cocreator, which allows even those without an artistic bone in their body to create images out of nothing in Microsoft Paint. Simply sketch a basic bare-bones version of what (easier with Surface computers’ touchscreens) and AI will tidy it up to make it the picture you wish you could draw in real time. It’s the perfect way to guide AI into drawing exactly what you want, rather than using text prompts and hoping it gets the right idea of what you see in your mind’s eye.
Both of Microsoft’s new Surface computers are primed to take advantage of these AI features and more. But which one is right for you? Here’s a quick guide to both.
Microsoft Surface Pro
For over a decade, the Surface Pro has combined the productivity of a powerful laptop with the flexibility of a tablet. Just detach the Surface Keyboard and you’ve got yourself a lightweight, high-spec tablet, ready to be doodled on with the optional Surface Pen.
While the ergonomic design and iconic look may not have changed all that much, on the inside, the sub-900g Surface Pro is all change: it’s one of the most powerful 2-in-1 computers out there.
Embracing the Qualcomm Snapdragon X processor, the computer hums along comfortably dealing with anything you can throw at it – including those all-important AI tasks. The efficiency of the processor means you can eke out up to 14 hours’ of use off a single charge.
Starting with the 10-core Snapdragon X Plus, 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage and with a quality 1,920 x 2,880 LCD screen, power users can choose to upgrade to something even more powerful. A 12-core Snapdragon X Elite version can not only be configured with up to 32GB of RAM and 1TB of onboard storage but is the first Surface Pro to embrace OLED screen technology for brilliant visuals and infinite contrast, making the latest Netflix box sets really pop.
Microsoft Surface Laptop
For those who prefer the rigid design of a laptop with a fixed keyboard, the Surface Laptop is an easy recommendation.
Featuring the same Snapdragon X Plus or Elite processor, 16GB or 32GB RAM and 256GB to 1TB of storage as the Surface Pro, the Surface Laptop promises smooth performance no matter what you throw at it.
What it loses in flexibility, it makes up for with a keyboard that’s been refined over six previous generations to offer the ultimate in typing comfort. Each key has been crafted with optimal travel in mind, for a natural and accurate typing experience.
The touchpad, built-in below the keyboard, is not only expansive and comfortable, but features haptic feedback and is packed with customisation options to make it feel tailored to you. But if you prefer a mouse, then the optional Surface Arc’s ingenious snap-flat design makes it the perfect portable companion.
Speaking of portability, the Surface Laptop’s dazzling 120Hz HDR touchscreen comes in two sizes: a 13.8in model (1,536 x 2,304), or a larger 15in version (1,664 x 2,496). Both are surprisingly light in weight, tipping the scales at 1.34kg and 1.66kg respectively, and both can cope with long spells away from the charger – up to 20 or 22 hours, depending on the size.
Whichever design works for you, the latest Surface computers offer the ultimate in portable performance. With Snapdragon X and up to 32GB of RAM, these machines offer both power and stamina – an unbeatable way to enjoy Windows 11’s mind blowing AI features on the go.
Browse the Microsoft Surface range at Currys
