Surface Pro 9 - A Game Changer for Productivity

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Design and Build Quality
3. Port Selection
4. Display and Touch
5. Performance and Speed
6. Battery Life
7. Audio Quality
8. Accessories and Upgrades
9. Alternative Options
10. Conclusion

Introduction

In this article, we will be reviewing the Surface Pro 9, the latest addition to the Surface Pro lineup by Microsoft. We will Delve into various aspects such as design, display, performance, battery life, and more. Whether You are considering upgrading from the Surface Pro 8 or looking for a new powerful tablet, this review aims to provide you with all the necessary information to make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

The Surface Pro 9 continues the tradition of the Surface Pro lineup with its sleek and elegant design. Made from a solid all-metal build, the tablet exudes a premium feel and exhibits excellent build quality. The Surface Pro 9 features the iconic kickstand that allows for multiple viewing angles, making it an ideal choice for productivity tasks and media consumption. With the elimination of the Surface Pro X, both the Intel and ARM versions of the Surface Pro 9 share the same form factor.

One notable addition is the inclusion of a trapdoor that allows easy access to the SSD for upgradability. However, it is important to note that the model with 5G requires a SIM ejection tool to access the SSD. The Intel version, on the other HAND, can be easily opened by pressing the indentation. The Surface Pro 9 also comes with a SIM card slot for the 5G variant, providing users with the option of utilizing eSIM technology.

Port Selection

The Surface Pro 9 offers a decent selection of ports to cater to your connectivity needs. It features two USB Type-C ports that support data transfer, charging, and display output. The 5G version of the tablet comes with a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 port, while the Intel version offers a USB-C Thunderbolt 4 port, enabling users to connect to external monitors, docking stations, and even external GPUs. It is worth noting that the Surface Pro 9 does not include an SD card reader or a headphone jack.

Display and Touch

The Surface Pro 9 boasts a stunning 13-inch PixelSense Flow display with a dynamic refresh rate of up to 120Hz. Whether you opt for the Intel or ARM variant, you can expect a display that delivers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and good color accuracy. The displays on both models provide excellent brightness, averaging around 450 nits, ensuring a visually pleasing experience even in bright environments. The multi-touch display is highly responsive, making touch interactions smooth and effortless. For note-taking and sketching, the Surface Pro 9 is compatible with the Surface Slim Pen 2, providing a pen-to-paper feel with its haptic engine.

Performance and Speed

When it comes to performance, the Surface Pro 9 offers two options: the Intel variant and the ARM variant with SQ3 and 5G capabilities. The Intel version utilizes the 12th Gen Intel processor, while the ARM variant features the SQ3 chip. In terms of single-Core and multicore performance, the Intel variant outperforms the ARM variant. However, it is important to note that certain applications may not be compatible with the ARM variant. The Surface Pro 9, regardless of the chosen variant, is suitable for everyday tasks such as web browsing, email, and Microsoft Office.

Battery Life

Battery life is a crucial aspect to consider when choosing a tablet, and the Surface Pro 9 delivers decent performance in this regard. The tablet with 5G and the SQ3 chip offers better battery life compared to the Intel variant. With 60Hz enabled, the 5G version lasted approximately 14 hours and 4 minutes, while the Intel version lasted around 10 hours and 55 minutes. It is important to note that enabling a higher refresh rate of 120Hz will slightly decrease battery life. Overall, the Surface Pro 9 offers satisfactory battery life for everyday use.

Audio Quality

The Surface Pro 9 is equipped with two 2-watt stereo speakers that support Dolby Atmos, resulting in enhanced Spatial audio. The speakers deliver good volume, decent mid-range, and some bass, providing an enjoyable audio experience. The device also includes an array of microphones that offer good audio quality during video conferencing and other voice-related tasks.

Accessories and Upgrades

To maximize the usability of the Surface Pro 9, Microsoft offers essential accessories such as the Signature Keyboard Cover and the Slim Pen 2. These accessories are sold separately, adding to the overall cost of the device. The Signature Keyboard Cover features comfortable key travel and excellent tactility, providing a pleasant typing experience. The Precision touchpad on the keyboard cover is highly responsive and supports multitouch gestures. Upgrading the storage capacity of the Surface Pro 9 is possible, as both models include an upgradable SSD.

Alternative Options

While the Surface Pro 9 offers an impressive set of features and capabilities, considering alternative options is always wise. One such alternative is the Dell XPS 13 2-in-1, which provides similar premium features at a potentially lower cost. The Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 boasts a comparable display, powerful performance, and a sturdy build quality. However, it lacks the iconic kickstand found in the Surface Pro lineup. Ultimately, the choice between the Surface Pro 9 and alternative options depends on individual preferences and specific needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Surface Pro 9 is a capable and versatile tablet that continues to uphold the Surface Pro legacy. With its sleek design, impressive display, and satisfactory performance, the Surface Pro 9 offers a compelling option for users seeking productivity, multimedia consumption, and note-taking capabilities. However, for Current Surface Pro 8 owners, the Surface Pro 9 may not provide significant enough improvements to justify an upgrade. It is crucial to carefully consider individual requirements and preferences when making a decision about investing in a tablet of this caliber.