Microsoft Launches Surface Pro 12 and Laptop 8 With Snapdragon X2 Chips
Microsoft has introduced updated consumer versions of the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, both powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X2 processors. As a result, the company continues to expand its Windows on Arm strategy. Both devices became available for purchase on June 16.
The 13-inch Surface Pro 12th Edition starts at $1,499. Meanwhile, the Surface Laptop 8th Edition starts at $1,599 and comes in 13.8-inch and 15-inch variants. Customers can choose between a 10-core Snapdragon X2 Plus processor and a 12-core Snapdragon X2 Elite processor. In addition, both product lines support up to 32GB of RAM and user-replaceable SSD storage of up to 2TB.
Starting prices have increased by $100 compared with the previous generation. Earlier this year, prices had already risen because of higher memory costs.
Faster Performance and Improved Displays
The new Snapdragon X2 chips use a 3-nanometer manufacturing process. Furthermore, they include an 80 TOPS neural processing unit for on-device AI tasks. That figure is nearly double the 45 TOPS offered by the first-generation Snapdragon X platform.
According to Microsoft’s internal benchmarks, the Surface Pro delivers up to 53% faster graphics performance than its predecessor. Similarly, the Surface Laptop achieves up to 58% faster graphics performance.
Battery life also sees improvements. Microsoft rates the Surface Pro for up to 15.5 hours of local video playback. Meanwhile, the 13.8-inch Surface Laptop offers up to 20 hours. The Surface Pro now includes an optional OLED display for the first time. Additionally, the 15-inch Surface Laptop increases display density from 201 PPI to 262 PPI.
New Features and Business Model Separation
The 13.8-inch Surface Laptop introduces a new Jade color option alongside Platinum, Black, and Dune. Moreover, both product families feature haptic feedback technology in the touchpad and Slim Pen. These enhancements provide tactile responses for actions such as window snapping and video scrubbing.
However, Microsoft has not included Qualcomm’s flagship X2 Elite Extreme chip in the consumer models. Instead, the company is positioning Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors within its business-focused Surface for Business lineup.
Those business models are scheduled to launch on July 14. Pricing begins at $1,649.99, while higher-end Intel-based configurations start at $1,949.99.
For a limited time through June 30, U.S. customers receive a free keyboard with the Surface Pro or a free Surface Arc Mouse with the Surface Laptop.
