MICROSOFT SURFACE PRO AND LAPTOP PRICES RISE BY $500-$600

Microsoft has released new versions of its Surface Pro and Surface Laptop devices, featuring Qualcomm's Snapdragon X2 chips and price increases of $500 to $600 compared with previous generations. The 13-inch Surface Pro now starts at $1,499, whilst the 13.8-inch Surface Laptop begins at $1,599. The devices maintain the same external design as their predecessors but incorporate upgraded internal components and features.

Qualcomm's Snapdragon X2 processor delivers 53 per cent faster graphics performance than the previous generation, according to Microsoft. Battery life improvements include up to 15.5 hours on the Surface Pro and up to 20 hours on the 13.8-inch Surface Laptop, with the 15-inch model offering up to 19 hours. The 15-inch Surface Laptop features a sharper display at 262 pixels per inch, compared to 201 ppi previously, and OLED remains available as an option on the Surface Pro. Both devices now include haptic feedback functionality on the touchpad and Slim Pen, providing subtle vibrations during interactions with Windows 11.

Microsoft is offering a limited-time promotion through Microsoft.com, providing a free Surface Pro Keyboard to early adopters who purchase before 30 June. After this date, the standard keyboard will cost an additional £170, with the wireless Flex Keyboard priced at £400. Brett Ostrum, Corporate Vice President of Surface, highlighted the confidence users gain from haptic feedback when positioning cursors and performing other tasks within Windows 11.