Microsoft’s 12-inch Surface Pro revives Compact Computing
Microsoft has officially launched the 12-inch Surface Pro, reintroducing compact computing to a market that has long favoured larger screens. With a starting price of $799, the new 2-in-1 device aims to fill a long-vacant niche: a small yet capable PC. Unlike the earlier Surface Go, which was underpowered and mostly aimed at students, this model delivers a more complete experience.
Although the design mirrors the larger 13-inch Surface Pro, Microsoft has made notable adjustments. For instance, while it still supports the Slim Pen, the keyboard has been redesigned and now lacks a built-in pen slot. Instead, a magnet on the back of the device holds the pen securely. Unfortunately, due to changes in size and layout, the new device isn’t compatible with earlier Surface keyboards. Microsoft is offering a dedicated keyboard for $149, continuing a design language that hasn’t evolved much in a decade.
Features That Balance Size and Function
Thanks to its 680-gram weight, the 12-inch Surface Pro is ultra-portable yet doesn’t sacrifice much in terms of specs. It includes two USB-C ports with 10 Gbps USB 3.2 support, although full USB 4 isn’t available. The traditional Surface Connect port is gone, making the device more streamlined.
Powering this fanless hybrid is Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Plus chip, featuring eight cores, 16GB RAM, and 256GB storage. While it doesn’t match the more powerful X Elite, it still promises about 12 hours of battery life. As a result, the device meets most needs for web browsing, productivity, and light multitasking.
That said, some trade-offs remain. Microsoft opted for an LCD panel instead of OLED, likely to manage cost and battery efficiency. Even so, users still benefit from a smooth 90Hz refresh rate, keeping visuals responsive and fluid.
A Timely Shift Toward Small, Smart Devices
While not the most powerful PC on the market, the new Surface Pro 12 is far from a downgrade. Rather, it reopens a path for compact computing, a trend that faded after the rise of larger laptops. Previously, brands like Sony and Toshiba pioneered ultra-small notebooks, but interest waned after devices like the 11-inch MacBook Air set a new standard.
Now, with the rise of efficient ARM processors and an increased focus on portability, the timing appears perfect. Whether Microsoft will inspire a broader shift remains unclear, but the Surface Pro 12 offers a capable and well-rounded alternative for those craving a smaller, modern machine.
