What you need to know

• Microsoft's new Surface Duo 2 is on the way.
• After you've spent a minimum of $1,499 on that device, consider ponying up $89 more for a case.
• OtterBox's Duo 2 case is a slim hard-shell model with port cover functionality for dirt buildup prevention.

Update 2/1/2022: The case is now shipping from Otterbox. If you're waiting on the Microsoft store listing to make your purchase... keep waiting.

Update 11/17/2021: The Microsoft Store is now listing the Otterbox case for Surface Duo 2 along with new photos of it with the phone (seen here). There is still no release date, although it is expected to arrive sometime in November.

In the event you're not behind on any car payments after putting down $1,499 (at minimum) for your Surface Duo 2, consider plopping down $89 more for a case to go with the two-screen successor to the original Surface Duo, a device Microsoft put on sub-$400 firesales throughout most of 2021.

Here's what OtterBox's Microsoft Surface Duo 2 Riveter Series Case is packing:

• Full-coverage hard shell case for Microsoft Duo
• Sleek case guards screens and back of device
• Corners and hinges protected against damage from drops and fumbles
• Precision design keeps case attached securely
• DROP+ | Drop tested to meet military standard (MIL-STD-810G 516.6)
• Port cover blocks dirt, dust and lint from getting into charging port
• All device features function as expected
• Case is easy to install and remove
• Limited lifetime warranty supported by hassle-free customer service

Alternatively, if you're not in the market for the Surface Duo 2, check out everything else that was announced at Microsoft's 2021 Surface event. Maybe you'd be more interested in a Surface Laptop Studio or an eco-friendly(-ish) mouse.

For those abroad who want Surface devices but can't get them due to regional release dates, check out the workaround for getting Surface devices on time outside the U.S.

Update: The case is now shipping from Otterbox, and remains unavailable via its very own Microsoft Store listing.

Microsoft's Surface hardware events are always eagerly anticipated thanks to the promise of shiny new devices. This year was no exception, as we waited to see whether expectations of a Pro 8, Laptop Studio, Pro X, Go 3, and Duo 2 would be realized.

While Microsoft seems to always be on the ball with its design choices — save maybe port selection — the performance hardware side of things isn't always as easy to appreciate. The AMD-powered Surface Laptop 3 15 comes to mind, as do the Intel-powered Surface Studio 2 and Surface Go 2. These devices launched with aging processors, much to the chagrin of power users who wanted the absolute best performance in their brand-new device.

A whole new crop of Surface PCs is here, launching Oct. 5 to coincide with the worldwide rollout of Windows 11. While the Pro X hasn't seen a performance upgrade, the Surface Pro 8 and Surface Go 3 do have some new CPUs. And with the launch of the new Surface Laptop Studio, there are also some Intel H-series chips to take a look at. Let's see what we can expect from these CPUs, as well as how they might compare to a bunch of other popular laptops that we've already had in for testing.

Surface Pro 8 and 11th Gen Intel Tiger Lake

The Surface Pro 8 can be equipped with four different processors, all from Intel's 11th Gen Tiger Lake series. PCIe 4, Thunderbolt 4, and Wi-Fi 6 support comes with these CPUs. Looking at the consumer side first — the Pro 8 also has commercial options for business — there are Core i5-1135G7 and Core i7-1185G7 quad-core chips available. These are both 10nm with a maximum 28W TDP, capable of hyper-threading for a total of eight threads.

The i5 tops out at around 4.2GHz with Turbo, while the i7 hits about 4.8GHz with Turbo. As for the cache, the i5 is looking at 8MB while the i7 has 12MB. Intel Iris Xe graphics are integrated into both chips, with the i7 version being a bit more powerful thanks to a slightly higher frequency and more execution units (96 compared to 80). You can expect better graphics performance compared to previous Iris Plus and UHD integrated chips, but I still wouldn't consider the Pro 8 a gaming PC. You can find a lot more power in our collection of the best gaming laptops.

We've already seen the i5-1135G7 in the Surface Pro 7 Plus where it achieved impressive numbers in both Geekbench 5 and Cinebench R23 benchmarking. And now that we've tested the Core i7-1185G7 in the Surface Pro 8, we can see where performance rests.

On the commercial side of the Pro 8 release, a Core i3-1115G4 and Core i5-1145G7 join the aforementioned Core i7-1185G7. Why the different i5 on the commercial side? It has Intel vPro capabilities, just like the i7-1185G7, to help with remote management. These appeal to IT departments, so it makes sense for Microsoft to offer them for enterprise buys. The i5-1145G7 has a slightly higher Turbo clock compared to its 1135G7 counterpart, but its cache, TDP, and graphics frequency remain the same.

The Core i3 is there to help keep costs down, or for anyone who doesn't need a whole lot of power. It's a dual-core chip with Intel UHD integrated graphics, so don't expect it to measure up too closely to the i5 and i7 siblings. We've tested the i3-1115G4 in the Acer Aspire 5, but haven't so far tested the i5-1145G7; I pulled average single-core and multi-core numbers from official Geekbench listings to give an idea of what to expect. As for Cinebench, i3 and i7 numbers are listed.

Take these numbers with a grain of salt. The Pro 8 is its own device, and averages pulled from a huge database are certainly skewed.

Surface Laptop Studio and 11th Gen Intel H-series CPUs

The Surface Laptop Studio is the latest device to join the lineup, bringing a snazzy 2-in-1 design with display hinge on top of a standard laptop body. It's packing 11th Gen Intel Core H-series CPUs for a bit more power owing to its "Studio" designation. Entry-level configs have a Core i5-11300H, with the Core i7-11370H available as a step up. PCIe 4, Thunderbolt 4, and Wi-Fi 6 support come with these chips.

These two Tiger Lake CPUs have four cores, eight threads, a 10nm process, and a maximum 35W TDP. The i5's base clock speed hits up to 3.1GHz at that 35W TDP, while the i7 hits 3.3GHz when drawing the same power. As for Turbo, the i5 hits 4.4GHz while the i7 hits 4.8GHz.

Both chips feature integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics, though the Laptop Studio provides dedicated graphics options as well for more power. Compared to the 11th Gen G7 CPUs in the Surface Pro 8, and compared to 10th Gen H-series counterparts, you should expect better performance here.

We tested the Surface Laptop Studio's Core i7-11370H CPU, putting it through multiple benchmarks to see exactly how it performs.

As for the Core i5-11300H option, we still haven't had a chance to test it in-house. Notebookcheck has average Geekbench 5 scores of 1,313 (single-core) and 4,403 (multi-core). Similarly, CPU-Monkey has Cinebench R23 average scores of 1,394 (single-core) and 5,349 (multi-core).

Surface Go 3 and Surface Pro X

The Surface Go 3 saw mostly a performance upgrade. It's now available with either an Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y or a 10th Gen Intel Core i3-10100Y. This isn't a huge bump in power, and it's looking like the same issue of "barely enough" that we saw in the Surface Go 2 will be true once again.

While benchmarks and performance numbers are not plentiful for either of these chips — we will have our own set of numbers once we have a Go 3 in for testing — we can compare them to the older Go 2 CPUs.

The Pentium Gold 6500Y in the Go 3 is a dual-core chip with four threads, 5W TDP (up to 7W), and 1.1GHz base frequency. The Gold 4425Y in the Go 2 is also a dual-core chip with four threads, with a 6W TDP and 1.7GHz base frequency. The 6500Y does have a larger cache (4MB compared to 2MB) and a slightly higher max frequency for its integrated graphics. Performance is likely not going to be wildly different if you're coming from a Go 2 with the Pentium chip.

The 10th Gen i3-10100Y in the Go 3 has two cores, four threads, 5W TDP (up to 7W), 4MB cache, and a 1.3GHz base frequency. The 8th Gen m3-8100Y has two cores, four threads, 5W TDP (up to 8W), 4MB cache, and a 1.1GHz base frequency. Again, these chips are quite close on paper, and we will have to see how they perform in a real-world setting.

As for the Surface Pro X announced at the 2021 Surface Event, nothing is changing when it comes to performance hardware. There's now a version available without built-in LTE, which also lowers the starting cost of the device.

Both the Microsoft SQ1 and SQ1 ARM CPUs remain as available options for the Pro. If you're interested in how these chips compare, Executive Editor Daniel Rubino's in-depth Surface Pro X SQ2 review has all the information. And if you're looking for details about a bunch of other great laptops, our collection of the best Windows laptops likely has what you need.

For years, fans of Microsoft's Surface line — including us — have been frustrated by the fact that Microsoft continuously chose not to outfit its devices with Thunderbolt ports. While manufacturers like Dell, Lenovo, and HP were putting Thunderbolt on several of their laptops, Microsoft stubbornly stuck with standard USB-C. However, that has finally changed, as both the Surface Pro 8 and the Surface Laptop Studio feature not one, but two Thunderbolt ports.

But is the addition of Thunderbolt really that big of a deal? Ultimately, while it's true that Thunderbolt isn't the flashiest feature out there, we do think it's a very valuable and important one. Here's why the addition of Thunderbolt 4 on Surface devices is a significant step forward.

Support for dual-monitor setups

One of the biggest reasons the addition of Thunderbolt 4 on the Surface Pro 8 and Laptop Studio is significant is because Thunderbolt 4 is capable of supporting the use of not one, but two external 4K external monitors. This is a big deal, as it means that you'll now be able to use dual-monitor setups by using a single Thunderbolt 4 port.

Since the Surface Pro 8 and Laptop Studio have two Thunderbolt 4 ports, this gives you the freedom to utilize the other one for other accessories like hard drives or USB hubs. This will save you a lot of money that you may have otherwise needed to spend on a docking station (though getting one of the best laptop docking stations is still a good idea if you can afford one).

Using a pair of the best computer monitors is one of the best ways to enhance your ability to multitask while working in the office or at your home workstation. Therefore, the fact that the Surface Pro 8 and Laptop Studio are equipped with Thunderbolt 4 ports makes them very flexible, as putting together a dual-monitor setup is easier than ever before with them.

Top-notch transfer speeds

Another reason the inclusion of Thunderbolt 4 ports on new Surface devices is valuable is because they utilize 40Gbps bandwidth. This allows users to transfer files to and from the best external hard drives, such as the CalDigit Tuff nano, much faster than they could with traditional USB-A or USB-C ports that only support lower speeds.

While you probably won't take advantage of this much if you don't often work with large files, it's a big deal for people who do a lot of photo or video editing. Since high-quality images and videos tend to take up a lot of space, many editors will load them onto external drives when they're finished and then retrieve them later when they're needed. Being able to do this quickly will save them a ton of time.

Since Surface devices haven't had Thunderbolt until now, they've generally been considered a sub-par option for media editing. However, now that Microsoft has embraced Thunderbolt, something like the Surface Laptop Studio is perfect for editing photos and video. Not only does the Surface Laptop Studio have beefy specs and a relatively compact design, but it also comes with the high-speed Thunderbolt connectivity that most editors look for in a laptop.

Compatibility with eGPUs

The addition of Thunderbolt 4 ports also means that you can use the best eGPUs for gaming with the Surface Pro 8 and the Surface Laptop Studio, which is something that will benefit the Surface Pro 8 especially. The Surface Pro 8's powerful 11th Gen Intel CPUs, all-day battery life, and thin and light chassis make it perfect for workday productivity. But when it's time to unwind, the fact that you can hook it up to an eGPU means that it can also be transformed into a great gaming machine, too — especially since the device's display looks fantastic and has a refresh rate of 120Hz.

In his Surface Pro 8 review, my colleague Daniel Rubino was able to easily achieve 120 FPS in Dying Light 2 while playing at resolutions at and above 2K by using a Razer eGPU equipped with an NVIDIA RTX 2080. This performance easily rivals many of the best gaming laptops out there, and it's all thanks to the flexibility of Thunderbolt.

Final thoughts

While Thunderbolt may not seem like a big deal on the surface (har har), it's one of the most valuable features that modern laptops have. Between its compatibility with multiple displays, its high-speed data transfers, and its support for eGPUs, Thunderbolt 4 is a big deal — and the fact that Microsoft has finally embraced it with the Surface Pro 8 and Surface Laptop Studio means that these devices will be significantly more competitive than their predecessors.

When thinking about existing devices that should have an ARM processor configuration available, the Surface Go immediately comes to mind. With its extremely compact dimensions and light weight, the Surface Go is a perfect fit for ARM chips that significantly cut down on power consumption and substantially boost battery life while still offering competent performance for general web browsing and productivity work.

Why, then, has Microsoft chosen to not make a version of the Surface Go with an ARM processor? It's a baffling decision, especially since Microsoft has already shown it believes in the potential of ARM by creating the Surface Pro X. Its custom Microsoft SQ1 and Microsoft SQ2 ARM CPUs allowed Microsoft to slim down the chassis and boost battery life by a full three hours compared to the Surface Pro 7, essentially resulting in a specialized Surface Pro intended for light and long-lasting computing on the go. In the two years since its release, the Surface Pro X has become one of the best Microsoft Surface PCs and is one of the most popular, too.

You would think that bringing ARM to the thinnest, lightest, and smallest devices in the Surface lineup would be a no-brainer for Microsoft following the success of the Surface Pro X. Yet here we are in the aftermath of the Microsoft Surface 2021 event, and we've still heard nothing about a potential "Surface Go X" on the horizon.

Something that was announced at the recent Surface event was the Surface Go 3, which updates the machine with 10th Gen Intel processing and some other minor improvements. But while the addition of a 10th Gen Intel CPU will make the Surface Go more reliable and consistent, it likely won't solve an issue that the device has suffered from since its 2018 launch: poor battery life. The Surface Go and Surface Go 2 both fall considerably short compared to competing devices in this respect, and while 10th Gen Intel will certainly help, it isn't likely that it's going to fully rectify the problem.

You know what would solve the Surface Go's longevity conundrum while still offering solid and reliable performance for general computing? The inclusion of an ARM processor. Machines like the Surface Pro X and the Samsung Galaxy Book S prove that opting for ARM architecture over traditional x86 CPUs leads to significant battery life gains.

It's true that ARM chips can't compete with powerful x86 ones when it comes to more demanding tasks, but the Surface Go isn't a device meant for people who need something with muscle. You get a Surface Go if you need something lightweight and affordable for basic computing. Additionally, the Surface Go 3's budget-tier Intel Core i3-10100Y is far from being considered high-end. At that point, why not just use a Microsoft SQ1 or Microsoft SQ2 ARM CPU instead? The Intel Core i3-10100Y isn't offering any tangible advantages over ARM, and ARM would significantly improve the Surface Go's longevity power efficiency.

At the end of the day, it's frustrating to watch Microsoft squander this opportunity to create one of the most useful and reliable portable PCs ever. The Surface Go form factor is genius, and now that global lockdowns have begun to lift, there will once again be a huge push for efficient mobile computing. But until Microsoft is able to effectively address the Surface Go's mediocre battery life, a lot of people will opt for traditional convertible devices that have better longevity — even though they're less compact and heavier to carry.

There's ultimately no reason why a "Surface Go X" shouldn't exist, especially since the Windows user experience on ARM has significantly improved thanks to plenty of updates and the addition of 64-bit app emulation. With ARM, the Surface Go would go from being a solid device with big battery life compromises to a superb one that provides everything you could ever want from a mobile work machine. And as Microsoft continues to leverage the benefits of ARM on the Surface Pro X, we can only hope that it doesn't leave the Surface Go behind.

What you need to know

• Microsoft has announced many new Surface devices.
• These devices are being subjected to differing regional release dates.
• Shopping concierge Big Apple Buddy is committed to helping those in regions with later release dates get the products earlier.

If you want a Surface Duo 2, here's the scoop: It's arriving on October 21, 2021, so long as you live in the U.S., UK, France, Germany, Australia, or Canada. If you're not on that particular list of countries, you'll receive the Duo 2... later. How much later is up in the air.

However, Big Apple Buddy has a solution. With its help, those customers outside of Microsoft's favored regions can get a hold of the company's upcoming Surface devices not long after the U.S. receives them.

Big Apple Buddy works with FedEx and DHL to ensure people anywhere can get the devices they want a few days after their initial release, meaning if you're in a region that's not set to get the Surface Laptop Studio or Surface Pro 8 for a while, you know where to turn to.

Take note that there will be a minimum fee of $50 USD per order, dubbed a "service fee" due to the company handling all of the international logistics on your behalf. You can check out more details over on Big Apple Buddy's site.

And on the flip side, if you live in the U.S., you don't have to worry about any of this. Just enjoy instant access to everything Microsoft announced at its 2021 Surface event.

We're back with another exciting episode of the Windows Central Podcast, and this week, Microsoft appears to have delivered the goods in a big way at their recent Surface event. Zac and Daniel check out everything that was announced, including Surface Duo 2, Surface Pro 8, Surface Laptop Studio, and more!

This episode of the Windows Central Podcast was recorded on September 22nd 2021.

Links:

• Microsoft Surface 2021 event: Release dates, prices, and everything announced | Windows Central

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Hosts

• Daniel Rubino
• Zac Bowden

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Microsoft expanded its Surface family with five new devices and three new accessories this week. Now that you've had a couple of days to digest all of the announcements, we want to know which device (or devices) you actually want to buy. There are plenty of innovative pieces of hardware that may impress you technically, but this poll focuses on the Surface devices you want to spend your hard-earned money on. Actions speak louder than words, after all.

We covered all of the Surface devices announced in a roundup and had a special edition of the Windows Central Podcast this week, but we'll also run through the new hardware here as well to get you up to speed.

The Surface Laptop Studio is the most powerful Surface ever, according to Microsoft. It also introduces a unique form factor with its screen. It could make our list of the best laptops, though we'll have to do a full review first to assess its merits. With a starting price of $1,600, it's also the most expensive of the new Surface devices.

The Surface Duo 2 drew the most interest leading up to the event. Buzz around the web and activity from commenters on our site suggest the excitement has increased since the device was officially announced. The Duo 2 has a faster chip, bigger screens, and better cameras than the original Surface Duo. It also supports 5G and NFC. Like the Surface Laptop Studio, it also has a high price tag ($1,500).

Microsoft revamped its Surface Pro line with the Surface Pro 8. It has a larger display and thinner bezels than its predecessor. It's also significantly faster than the Surface Pro 7. Microsoft rounded out the Surface Pro 8 with a 120Hz display, Dolby Vision, and Adaptive Color Technology.

The Surface Slim Pen 2 looks like it will make our list of the best Surface accessories. It has a haptic motor inside that provides feedback as you interact with supported PCs. It can replicate the feel of writing on paper and provide queues when navigating around Windows 11.

The Surface Go 3 was a more modest upgrade for its respective line than some of its Surface event siblings, but it's still much faster than the Surface Go 2. It also maintains its relative affordability with a starting price of $400.

Microsoft didn't refresh the Surface Pro X with a new design or new internals. The company did announce a lower starting price for the device thanks to a new model without support for LTE.

Lastly: You'll notice we mentioned eight total items were announced at the event, but only seven are in the poll. That's because one of them (the Ocean Plastic Mouse) doesn't have Surface in its name. Cue the sad trombone.

Which new Surface devices would you like to buy, if any? Let us know in the poll above and the comments below. While you do that, you can also check out which Surface devices the Windows Central team members want.

Overall, while both of these Surface devices are superb, we think that the Surface Pro 8 will be the better option for most users because of the fact it's more portable and costs less while still offering excellent performance. If you're in need of something that can do it all with innovative hardware and some of the best specs on the market, though, the Surface Laptop Studio will be right up your alley.

Surface Pro 8 vs. Laptop Studio: Portability or power?

Both the Surface Pro 8 and the Surface Laptop Studio are premium devices outfitted with premium hardware and features, but the Surface Laptop Studio generally edges out its sister device in many respects. Its H-series 11th Gen CPUs are a cut above the G-series ones in the Surface Pro 8, and its NVIDIA RTX GPUs crush the Surface Pro 8's Intel Iris and Intel Xe integrated graphics. Both devices can be configured with up to 32GB of RAM, though the Surface Laptop Studio has an additional option for a 2TB SSD that the Surface Pro 8 does not. It's also got four speakers as opposed to the Surface Pro 8's two, and it even has a 2-3 hour advantage on battery life. Finally, the hinged design of the Laptop Studio is incredibly beneficial and allows you to use it as a laptop, as a "staging" device for gaming and movies, or as a full-blown studio workstation.

So why, then, are we recommending the Surface Pro 8 over the Surface Laptop Studio? Ultimately, it's because the Laptop Studio having the hardware edge doesn't necessarily mean that it's a device most people will use to its fullest potential. It may be the most powerful Surface ever made, but does the average laptop user really need that power? Generally speaking, most people use their laptop for general productivity, web browsing, movies, and (maybe) light gaming. The Surface Laptop Studio is overkill for these activities — most people will be better off with the thinner, lighter, and more affordable Surface Pro 8 (which still offers excellent performance). The Surface Laptop Studio is ideal for specific types of users, such as those that do more serious gaming, use 3D rendering programs, edit visual media, or develop software.

Notably, the Surface Pro 8 also has a few advantages of its own. Its display is a bit sharper than the Surface Laptop Studio's thanks to its higher PPI (pixels per inch) count, and it can also be configured with LTE if you want to stay connected on the go. It's also more compact and is easier to carry around thanks to its smaller dimensions and weight.

Surface Pro 8 vs. Laptop Studio: Which is a better buy?

Both the Surface Pro 8 and the Surface Laptop Studio are among the best Microsoft Surface PCs ever made, but if we had to recommend one over the other, it would be the Surface Pro 8. Its thin and light design, lower cost, and excellent performance make it a phenomenal option for the average user. It strikes the perfect balance between portability, power, and price.

If you're in need of a device with top-of-the-line CPU and GPU power or something that can transform into a workstation-friendly form factor, however, don't overlook the Surface Laptop Studio. It may be more expensive and a little more cumbersome compared to the Surface Pro 8, but its absolutely worth it if you're planning to put the extra horsepower and flexibility to good use.

For other excellent options, don't miss our coverage on the best Windows laptops available.

Surface Pro 8 vs. Surface Pro X: Tech specs

While the Surface Pro 8 has seen a significant hardware bump over its predecessor, the Surface Pro X has remained mostly identical, with the only really noticeable change being the availability of a Wi-Fi-only version.

Surface Pro 8 gets its biggest upgrade in years

As much of a game-changing device the Surface Pro has proved to be for the Windows ecosystem, every year there has always been something missing. With the Surface Pro 8 that finally goes away, as the device has seen its biggest upgrade in some years.

On the outside, it now looks basically identical to the Surface Pro X. It's a little thicker and a little heavier, but the display has been bumped to the same 13 inches as you find on the Pro X with the same super skinny bezels. The Surface Pro 8 also supports the newest signature keyboard cover and the Surface Slim Pen. And like the Pro X, it also comes in both Wi-Fi-only and cellular versions.

But one of the biggest omissions has always been Thunderbolt, which for a device with "Pro" in its name, felt like a mistake. That's now finally been rectified, and Thunderbolt 4 is on the Surface Pro 8 for superfast data transfer. If you always wanted to use an eGPU, a Thunderbolt dock, or a Thunderbolt-enabled external display with your Surface Pro, now you can.

Thunderbolt doesn't come at the expense of anything else, either. It retains the Surface Connect port so legacy docks and chargers can still be used.

Surface Pro X is now the cheaper option

With the addition of a Wi-Fi-only version of the Surface Pro X, it now becomes the cheapest option for a 2021 model Surface Pro. Starting at $900, removing the cellular connectivity drops $100 off the entry-level model and $200 off more expensive specifications.

By comparison, a Wi-Fi-only Surface Pro 8 starts at $1,100. Naturally, even the base model benefits from features the Surface Pro X doesn't have, like Wi-Fi 6 and Thunderbolt 4, but at $200 more expensive. If these features don't interest you, then you stand to save a good chunk of change going with the Surface Pro X.

If price is important and you're looking to get a new Surface Pro for the lowest possible price, then the Surface Pro X certainly has the edge.

Windows 11 out of the box (mostly)

Naturally, the newest Surface Pro devices will ship with Windows 11. Mostly. The new Wi-Fi-only model of the Surface Pro X will ship with Windows 11 pre-installed, though Microsoft is currently saying that the LTE model will still ship with Windows 10 and that you'll have to do the upgrade yourself.

It's also worth remembering that the Surface Pro X will be running Windows 11 on ARM. Windows for ARM processors has come a long way, but it should still be remembered that you may encounter issues with compatibility. That said, if you mostly use Microsoft Store applications, you should be OK.

The enterprise versions of the Surface Pro 8 are also available with Windows 10, but the upgrade to Windows 11 isn't a difficult process if you do need to do it yourself.

Difficult but not impossible choice

With two devices that are extremely close to each other, choosing can be difficult, but not impossible. Ultimately you should consider a couple of things.

If you want to spend the least, the Surface Pro X is a perfect choice. It's close enough to the Surface Pro 8 for the average user that you shouldn't notice much difference in overall use. It supports the same keyboard and pen, looks the same, has similar battery life and is actually slimmer and lighter.

If performance is more important, as are features like Wi-Fi 6 and Thunderbolt 4, then you're better off with the Surface Pro 8.

Overall, the Dell XPS 13 will be the better choice for most people due to the fact that it's more affordable across the board and doesn't require purchasing the keyboard separately. With that said, the Surface Pro 8 is a phenomenal device that goes toe-to-toe with the Dell XPS 13's specs, and also offers additional flexibility thanks to its convertible nature and slightly better battery life.

Dell XPS 13 vs. Surface Pro 8: Clamshell or convertible?

In several ways, the Dell XPS 13 and the Surface Pro 8 are very similar. Both devices feature near-identical CPU and GPU specs, and both also have tons of options for lots of RAM and storage (the Dell XPS 13 has an additional option for a 2TB SSD as well as a microSD slot). Both also have fantastic displays; the Dell XPS 13 even has a 4K variant available, though the Surface Pro 8 has the edge in terms of refresh rate as its display is 120Hz. The devices both also support Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, though the Surface Pro 8 can also be configured with LTE connectivity if you want internet connectivity on the go and don't mind the increased cost or the impact on battery life.

The primary things that separate the Dell XPS 13 and the Surface Pro 8 are pricing and form factor. Every single configuration of the Dell XPS 13 is more affordable than their Surface Pro 8 equivalent, which makes the XPS 13 more affordable and accessible overall — especially since the Surface Pro 8's Type Cover keyboard is sold separately. That being said, the convertible design of the Pro 8 does make it more flexible, and its Type Cover even comes with a handy slot for charging and storing a Surface Slim Pen 2.

Dell XPS 13 vs. Surface Pro 8: Which should you buy?

While both the Dell XPS 13 and Surface Pro 8 are fantastic, we ultimately feel that the Dell XPS 13 will be better for most people since it delivers the same top-notch performance as the Surface Pro 8 for a lower cost. There's also an option for a 4K display, a 2TB SSD, and a slot for additional microSD storage that you can take advantage of.

If you want the versatility of a convertible, slightly better battery life, LTE connectivity, or a 120Hz display, the Surface Pro 8 is a superb alternative. It may be more expensive than the Dell XPS 13, but it's one of the best Microsoft Surface PCs yet, and we definitely recommend getting it if its advantages appeal to you.

For more high-quality options to consider, don't miss our roundup of the best Windows laptops available.

What you need to know

• The Surface Duo 2 Pen Cover has a landing spot at the Microsoft Store.
• It has a "Coming soon" placeholder for now.
• It comes in Glacier White or Obsidian black colorways and is in three parts.
• It goes on sale on October 21 November 15 for $64.99.

Update: Windows Central has now heard that the release date for this cover is November 15 and not October 21 as originally reported to us by Microsoft due to a PR mix-up.

One of the most intriguing accessories for Surface Duo 2 is the new Surface Duo 2 Pen Cover, but details, so far, have been thin. Luckily, we can see the cover listed on Microsoft's website, and the company has gotten back to us with pricing and availability.

The Surface Duo 2 Pen Cover clips to the front of Surface Duo 2 and lets you stick Surface Slim Pen 2 to the cover and wirelessly recharge the pen as well. Additionally, two "soft-touch" bumpers fit on the rear panel similar to existing Surface Bumpers.

Windows Central understands the Surface Bumper materials are stiffer and don't pick lint up as easily this time.

Microsoft has a store listing for the Surface Duo 2 Pen Cover, but it is just a placeholder until the company is ready to sell it. Microsoft confirms with Windows Central that the cover will cost $64.99 and be available the same day as Surface Duo 2 on October 21 November 15.

We can learn a few other things from the landing page. For one, the cover works with either the new Surface Slim Pen 2 or the older Surface Slim Pen. That should include charging as it is presumed both pens recharge similarly, but we're not 100 percent certain.

Surface Slim Pen 2 is not included with the cover either, so that users can buy it for extra protection. Microsoft could also release other colors later to help give a more custom feel to Surface Duo 2.

Surface Slim Pen 2 also brings haptic feedback to simulate writing on paper. That has been confirmed to work with Surface Pro 8 and the new Surface Laptop Studio so far. However, we have heard Surface Duo 2 may get an update to enable the haptics, although Microsoft has not publicly confirmed that information.

In our brief time with the Surface Duo 2 Pen Cover, we were impressed with it. It has a textured feel and seems more resistant to fingerprints (making it ideal for the Obsidian Surface Duo 2). When installed, it made Surface Duo 2 feel more substantial and easier to handle while also blending in nicely with the device's curves. The pen sticks very firmly to the cover, making it likely to survive being put into your pockets, which is ideal.

It should be noted you won't need the cover for the pen to stick to the Surface Duo 2, only to stick and recharge while offering more protection.

We'll have more on Surface Duo 2, Slim Pen 2, and this new Pen Cover closer to release in our forthcoming review. Stay tuned.

What you need to know

• Surface Duo 2 does have some very modest water protection.
• The Microsoft Surface Twitter account confirms the IPX1 rating for Surface Duo 2.
• It should be protected in some light rain, so long as it is not too windy.

One of the challenges with new form factors is catching up to existing standards for current devices like IPX ratings for dust and water protection. It took Samsung three versions to get any Ingress Protection (IPX) rating with its Galaxy Z Fold 3 (it finally got IPX8), which then makes you wonder about Microsoft's new Surface Duo 2.

While we all thought it simply didn't have any IPX rating, as it turns out, it actually does — it's just not very impressive.

According to the official Microsoft Surface Twitter account, Surface Duo 2 gets a massive IPX1 rating. That translates to "dripping water with vertically falling drops ... when mounted in an upright position onto a turntable and rotated at 1 RPM" for 10 minutes. The amount of water equals 1mm of rainfall per minute.

That's not amazing, but it is something. It's basically rain coming down vertically at a rate of 2.3-inches per hour (which is a lot). But IPX2 is the same, but with a 15-degree angle (so, windy rain), IPX3 is a water spray, and the scale goes up from there.

While you may want to avoid using Surface Duo 2 while it is storming, at least for long durations, you should be OK for some basic rain situations.

I have used my Surface Duo briefly in the rain (I had to relaunch the Tesla app to open my car!), and I never had an issue with water or damage. At least now, Surface Duo 2 gets a bit more protection than before, which is nice to know.

Thanks, Javid M., for the tip!

What you need to know

• Microsoft announced five new Surface devices yesterday and three new accessories.
• The majority of our polled readers are excited about the lineup.
• Almost one in eight polled participants said they were underwhelmed by the announced devices.

Microsoft announced the Surface Laptop Studio, Surface Duo 2, Surface Pro 8, and several other devices yesterday. The buzz around the web seems generally positive for the devices, but we wanted to know what our readers thought, so we ran a poll.

During its event, Microsoft introduced a new form factor with the Surface Laptop Studio. The Surface Duo 2 saw a major upgrade both in terms of specs and design. Other devices, like the Surface Go 3, saw more modest upgrades. With different approaches to its separate Surface lines, Microsoft drew a range of reactions from our readers.

Almost 66% of polled participants said that they were excited about the new Surface hardware. Just over 18% said they didn't feel strongly about the new devices either way. Over 15% said that they were underwhelmed by the new lineup.

"The Surface Duo 2 and Surface Pro 8 definitely got my attention the most," said Fat8893. "The Duo 2 finally has much-needed upgrades from the first-gen model and the Pro 8 is now a worthy adversary to Dell Latitude 7320 Detachable and Lenovo ThinkPad X12 Tablet."

While only 15.51% of voters said they were underwhelmed, those disappointed in the Surface lineup seemed especially frustrated.

Not everyone was thrilled with Microsoft's new hardware. "The Laptop Studio is a letdown across the board," said Keith Wallace. "The design feels like it's trying to match Apple. The color palette of the chassis and keyboard looks like they're trying to cop a Macbook. It feels less flexible and capable than the Surface Book."

Microsoft's Surface Pro X is now available without LTE. Opting for a version of the thin-and-light device with only Wi-Fi connectivity can save you a few dollars, but it may be worth waiting a bit to pick one up.

The starting price of the Surface Pro X (with LTE) is $1,000, but it's normal to see it for less. In fact, you could purchase the Surface Pro X (with LTE) for as little as $800 just a couple of months ago. That isn't the only time that we've seen the device for that starting price. The Surface Pro X even fell to $750 on Amazon in May 2020, though that price hasn't been seen since.

The Surface Pro X already tops our list as the best tablet. Adding a more affordable version without LTE support provides people with more options. But if you want the most value for your money, it's probably worth waiting until the more affordable version of the Surface Pro X is cheaper than what the LTE model cost in August.

Here are the starting prices for all versions of the Surface Pro X:

Surface Pro X

The good news for Surface shoppers is that if the base price of the Surface Pro X without LTE is lower than the LTE version, we could see prices drop below $800 at some point.

What you need to know

• The Surface Pro 8 gets a breakdown in the latest Microsoft Mechanics video.
• Faster Windows Hello, new ambient color sensor, 23-watt TDP, and more were revealed.
• Surface Pro 8 also switches from magnesium to anodized recycled aluminum for the chassis.
• There's also a new carbon composite thermal dissipation system.

The all-new Surface Pro 8 is the first major overhaul to the Surface Pro line since 2014's Surface Pro 3. Besides thinner bezels, Thunderbolt 4, a larger display, and 11th Gen CPU, there are many other more minor changes that weren't mentioned in the press release or product specs announcement.

The latest Microsoft Mechanics video spends a good seven minutes breaking down what's new, and as it turns out, there is quite a lot that you may not have known about.

We've summarized the main points below, but it's worth watching the video yourself to have it all explained:

• Modern, rounded chassis "compliments the fluid UI design of Windows 11"
• The thinner bezels expand the display real estate by 11%
• The chassis is made from recycled aluminum instead of magnesium
• Both "classic" Platinum and Graphite Pro colorways are anodized
• First Surface display with ambient color sensor to dynamically adjust display colors based on room lighting
• Display brightness peaks at 450 nits and goes down to just two nits
• 120Hz display makes pen latency "seemingly undetectable"
• The IR camera has been improved "substantially" in terms of speed and accuracy
• Microsoft's AI platform lets Windows Hello dynamically adapts to changes in your appearance with glasses or changes in facial hair
• The 5MP full HD RGB camera has larger 1.4-micron pixels for better low-light performance
• The camera also has tuning optimizations to keep your face in focus and lighting exposure more consistent
• Dolby Vision (HDR) and Dolby Atmos (surround sound) enhance the multimedia experience
• Surface Pro 8 supports up to 23-watt TDP for the 11th Gen Intel processor, a "first for the Pro line"
• You can get LTE in Core i3 and Core i7 models for the first time (Commercial markets)
• Battery has increased to 50.4 WHr up from 43.2 WHr (Surface Pro 7+ is also 50.4WHr, but Surface Pro 7 is 43.2)
• Uses new carbon composite thermal dissipation system: Vapor chamber, three heat pipes, and three graphite spreaders
• Improved perimeter venting
• 46% faster compute and 75% boost to graphics processing compared to Surface Pro 7

That's a lot of stuff for Surface Pro 8, which goes to show you that what makes a PC "great" is more than just the name on the processor.

We'll keep all these changes in mind when we do our Surface Pro 8 review sometime in October to see how much of a difference it really makes. You can get more of an idea of how Surface Pro 8 compares to Surface Pro 7 to hold you over for now or go deeper on those new 11th Gen processors.

Surface Pro 8 is expected to begin shipping on October 5 in the following markets:

• United States
• United Kingdom
• Canada
• Austria
• Germany
• Ireland
• Switzerland
• France
• Japan

We've reached something of a turning point for the MCU, otherwise known as the Microsoft Computational Universe. It's when the Windows 11 experience overlaps so heavily with Microsoft's Surface device ambitions that the two separate endeavors join forces for one glorious team-up launch on October 5, 2021 and are thereby inextricably linked from one another in the minds of consumers forevermore.

But there's more to it than that. Microsoft and its Chief Product Officer Panos Panay seem intent on bringing the differing facets of the company together to produce a more cohesive package. What are the implications of such actions?

Is Microsoft building a tight, all-encompassing ecosystem? Is it just trying to take a page from Apple's book without going to those extremes? We asked experts to weigh in.

Surface 2021, Windows 11, and the MCU

Microsoft didn't skimp with its 2021 Surface lineup. Not only did we get the rumored, leaked, and highly coveted Surface Duo 2 reveal, but also a whole host of other devices and hardware. And one thing was constant throughout all of these devices (barring the Duo 2): A love of Windows 11. Was this a sign that Microsoft has finally embraced a unified, ecosystem-minded approach for its products?

"I think Microsoft realizes it's fundamentally different from Apple," said Forrester Vice President and Principal Analyst J.P. Gownder. "It's an ecosystem of partners."

As to what that ecosystem meant on a practical level, Gownder explained the different parts.

"So I think it's a bit of a return by Surface to its origins as a demonstration product to galvanize the OEM partner ecosystem by showing off Windows 11, while also honoring that Surface will continue to be its own robust, independent product line," he said. "But it's not an Apple-style closed ecosystem."

He noted that Enterprise customers still have practical needs that Dell, HP, and Lenovo are better equipped to satisfy than Surface devices are, highlighting one more piece of evidence behind the claim that Microsoft's approach to ecosystems truly is focused on casting a broader net than Apple by emphasizing the partner element.

Not an Apple

Whether it's deliberately not trying to be or just can't manage the task, one thing's for certain: Microsoft is not Apple.

"Yes, Microsoft has been trying to build an OS + hardware ecosystem," said Gartner Research Director Mikako Kitagawa. "The lack of a phone OS is their weakness compared to Apple's ecosystem, so Duo is their effort to fill the gap. Still, there are many users with iPhone and Windows devices, meaning that having a phone OS does not necessarily increase the number of Mac users."

Gownder made similar comments with regards to the Duo not quite being the one-size-fits-all solution Microsoft may be hoping for. "I think Microsoft would love to become a player in high-end Android phones but they have a long way to go based on the 1.0 Duo device," he said. "It's more of an aspiration than an empire at this point!"

Caveats aside, there was an acknowledgment of a carefully crafted ecosystem, even if not all branches of it were viewed as winning the world over just yet. The one thing that experts across the board agreed on was that Microsoft's efforts were resulting in a unique interpretation of the interconnected technology concept.

"I do agree that Microsoft appears to be trying to create a more tightly integrated ecosystem that could be considered to be more like what Apple has created with iOS and MacOS," said Moor Insights & Strategy Senior Analyst Anshel Sag. "However, I think the thing to consider here is that Microsoft's goals across the board are to enable rapid creativity and productivity. I think Microsoft's vision is to remove barriers to productivity and creativity with this Surface experience and to give it the premium feel that Surface has always had."

Sag stated that he thought Microsoft's approach for Surface was ambitious, given the wide variety of users it was trying to win over.

Microsoft Surface strategy, in summary

At the end of the day, only Microsoft knows what its long-term plans are for Surface and Windows. But the evidence exists to suggest that the MCU is a real goal for the company and that it's intent on people loving its hardware as much as its world-dominating software.

While the company cares very much about Azure and its cloud efforts, it appears Windows and Surface are both getting a renewed sense of focus and attention from Redmond. This is resulting in a more cohesive picture of how all of Microsoft's endeavors relate to each other. Time will tell whether said relations grow tighter or if the net is truly being cast as wide as possible.

What you need to know

• Microsoft unveiled a lot of Surface devices and hardware today.
• Three of said devices, the Surface Laptop Studio and Surface Duo 2, are now available at Best Buy.
• Both the Laptop Studio and Duo 2 can carry a $1,599 price tag, depending on the config you opt for. Meanwhile, the Surface Go 3 starts at $399.

If you haven't been keeping up on the news, here's the scoop: Microsoft recently unveiled a lot of new Surface devices. And two of the hottest announcements from the lineup, the Surface Laptop Studio and Surface Duo 2, are now available to preorder at Best Buy. The Surface Go 3 is also available if you're interested in the budget tablet offering.

Pricing for the Duo 2 starts at $1,499 if you want the 128GB version, with the cost jumping up to $1,599 for the 256GB iteration. Meanwhile, the Surface Laptop Studio comes at a variety of costs depending on what kind of specs you want. One comfy default Best Buy offers is the $1,599 config, which features an Intel 11th Gen Core i5 processor, 16GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage. But if you feel the need to spend more money in exchange for a better PC, rest assured, Microsoft has left that option open. You can spend over $3,000 on the thing with ease if you opt for a 2TB SSD, 32GB of RAM, and an Intel 11th Gen Core i7.

If you want to spend far less, the Surface Go 3 starts at $399 and scales up from there if you want a faster processor, more storage, or LTE, though the price ceiling doesn't ever hit astronomical heights relative to the Go 3's Surface peers.

You can still get the devices directly from Microsoft, but perhaps you have a few Best Buy gift cards lying around or just prefer BB's online retail setup. Whatever the reason, know that you have options.

We'll update our coverage as more Surface items become available at Best Buy.

Surface Pro 8 vs. Pro 7 tech specs

Microsoft is calling the Surface Pro 8 the "most significant leap forward since Pro 3" thanks to a big boost to performance, a new display, new ports, new camera, and an attachable keyboard with Surface Slim Pen 2 holder. Considering the Pro lineup has been a staple in our best Windows laptop roundup, the Pro 8's sizable step forward should secure its place on the list.

The Surface Pro 7 is still available, now down to a very attractive price for many models. And the Surface Pro 7 Plus, a mid-gen refresh, is also available to anyone who wants a Pro 7 with LTE connectivity. There are a bunch more differences between the two older 2-in-1s, which we've laid out in our Surface Pro 7 Plus vs. Surface Pro 7 comparison.

Take a look at how the Surface Pro 8's specifications compare to the Pro 7 and Pro 7 Plus.

Surface Pro 8 vs. Pro 7 design and features

The new Pro 8's dimensions have changed ever so slightly compared to the last few generations of Pro PCs. It's just a bit narrower, but it's also taller, thicker, and heavier. The kickstand on the back returns, allowing you to prop up the tablet portion with or without the keyboard attached. On that note, the Pro 8 is now compatible with the same Pro Signature keyboard that the Surface Pro X uses, complete with charging bay for an active Pen.

The Surface Slim Pen 2, announced alongside the Pro 8 and its siblings, is going to step up the Pro's inking game. It has 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, zero force inking, tactile feedback from a built-in haptic motor, and about 15 hours of battery life. The Slim Pen 2 will work with nearly all previous Surface models, including the Pro 7 and Pro 7 Plus.

Ports have always been a bit of a rough spot for Surface devices. The Surface Pro 7 Plus, despite being released earlier this year, had just one USB-C and one USB-A port alongside the Surface Connect, 3.5mm audio jack, and microSD card reader. The Pro 8 has been upgraded to have dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, as well as Surface Connect and 3.5mm audio. The microSD card reader will be missed, but you will be able to connect to the best Thunderbolt 4 docking stations for added connectivity.

If you go in for the Surface Pro 8 LTE model — which apparently isn't going to be available until 2022 — it should come with removable Nano SIM support. This will be alongside the usual eSIM support. This is the same as the Pro 7 Plus; the standard Pro 7 does not have LTE support at all. All three devices do have Wi-Fi 6 for standard internet connectivity.

Cameras are another area where the Pro 8 has seen some improvements. Like the Pro 7 and Pro 7 Plus, there's a front-facing IR camera for Windows Hello facial recognition. There's also a front-facing 5MP camera with 1080p video support on all three models. Only the Pro 8 has new face tracking technology that will keep you in focus while moving around during a video call.

The Pro 8 also goes beyond with the rear-facing camera, which is now 10MP compared to 8MP on the older models. The Pro 8 also gets 4K video support on the rear-facing camera, something the Pro 7 and Pro 7 Plus do not have. That should be a bonus for anyone who likes to often record with their Pro.

The Pro 8 is available in the usual Platinum color, but there's also now a Graphite option. It looks to be about the same as the Pro 7's black color, but we'll have to wait for a closer comparison.

Surface Pro 8 vs. Pro 7 display

Like the Surface Pro X, the Pro 8 has a larger display than we're accustomed to from the Pro line. It's been blown up to 13 inches from 12.3 inches, with a slightly boosted 2880x1920 resolution. Compared to the 12.3-inch display with a 2736x1824 resolution in the Pro 7, that's still 267 pixels per inch (PPI). It still has a boxy 3:2 aspect ratio that's perfect for tablet, and it still has full touch functionality.

However, the refresh rate can now climb to 120Hz, up from 60Hz in the Pro 7 and Pro 7 Plus. This will play very nicely with the new dynamic refresh rate feature coming with Windows 11, improving battery life, inking, and general scrolling.

As for the overall look, the Pro 8 definitely looks more modern than the previous Pro models thanks to a slimmer bezel. Microsoft is also saying the screen is about 12.5% brighter than Pro 7 models, which should help deal with glare in well-lit areas.

Surface Pro 8 vs. Pro 7 performance

The final piece of the Pro 8 puzzle is all about performance. In previous refreshes it has been easy to knock Microsoft for CPU choice, but the Pro 7 Plus and now the Pro 8 have been much more progressive. Microsoft is claiming more than two times the performance from the Pro 8 compared to the Pro 7, which we will have to verify once we have a Pro 8 in for testing. In any case, the 11th Gen chips are a huge upgrade over the 10th Gen chips in the Pro 7.

We've already seen what they can do in the Pro 7 Plus in terms of synthetic numbers from Geekbench 5 and Cinebench R23. Hopefully the Pro 8 will be able to surpass those numbers with its own performance.

The Pro 8 has a number of CPUs available to regular consumers, including a Core i5-1135G7 and Core i7-1185G7. On the business (or commercial) side, there are Core i3-1115G4, Core i5-1145G7, and Core i7-1185G7 options available. You can add up to 32GB of RAM in the Pro 8, the same as the Pro 7 Plus and twice as much as the Pro 7. As for storage, get up to a 1TB SSD in any of the Pro models. It can be removed and upgraded in the Pro 8 and Pro 7 Plus, but not in the standard Pro 7.

One final thing to note is that the Pro 8 can be configured with LTE with up to a Core i7 CPU. In the Pro 7 Plus, it was only available with the Core i5 chip.

Go with the Surface Pro 8 for a significant upgrade

The Surface Pro 8 is now available to preorder in select markets, including U.S., Canada, U.K., Austria, Germany, Ireland, Switzerland, France, and Japan. Prices start at about $1,100. This will be for non-LTE versions, as those with LTE connectivity aren't expected to launch until 2022.

The Pro 8 represents a significant update to the Pro line, with a larger display, better ports, better cameras, improved inking, and improved performance. It might not be worth it if you recently picked up a Surface Pro 7 Plus, but even compared to the standard Pro 7 it should be quite tempting.

Be sure to have a look at our roundup of the best Microsoft Surface PCs if neither of these is really what you're looking for.

The Pro 7 and Pro 7 Plus are still viable contenders

The standard Pro 7 is starting to show its age, especially with the new upgrades in the Pro 8. You aren't going to get as much performance or screen space, and the port selection isn't as good as the new Thunderbolt 4. The rear-facing camera also isn't as good, and there's no LTE support.

On the other hand, the Pro 7 Plus is a much closer rival to the Pro 8. It doesn't have the same display or inking capabilities, nor does it have Thunderbolt 4. However, performance will be much closer, and you can still get LTE.

What you need to know

• The Surface Laptop Studio gets a breakdown in the latest Microsoft Mechanics video.
• The Intel H35 CPU can reportedly boost to 64 watts of power when needed.
• The SSD is replaceable, though Microsoft says technically you need a tech to do it.
• Display brightness peaks at 500 nits.

The Surface Laptop Studio is making the news today for a good reason. The creative design merges the best of Surface Pro with Surface Laptop into one innovative and powerful Surface. Its announcement was undoubtedly one of the most interesting of for the event.

The latest six-minute Microsoft Mechanics video sheds some details on Surface Laptop Studio, which we'll summarize here, as some of it has not been answered before until now:

• Laptop Studio uses dual fans with heat pipes that go across the CPU and GPU to maximize and share cooling.
• The Intel H35 CPU can boost up to 64 watts of power when needed.
• You can remove the bottom panel of the Laptop Studio to access the SSD, although Microsoft says only authorized technicians should do so.
• Display brightness peaks at 500 nits and go all the way down to 2 nits, which is very good (most laptops hover around 400 nits).
• The full HD camera uses AI face detection and has a larger sensor resulting in more consistent lighting and focusing than regular webcams.
• Quad audio speakers, hidden, of course, use adaptive equalization for "fuller and richer" sound adjusting automatically as you increase volume.

The Intel Core i5-11300H and Core i7-11370H processors are unique as they can have TDP configured for 28 or 35 average watts (from 3.0 to 3.3 GHz in the i7 model), but can draw more power when needed, which is why it can Turbo to 4.8GHz for short durations.

We grabbed some early benchmarks from those processors and compared them to current Surface devices and PCs. Our bet is Microsoft's thermals and TDP tuning will likely beat the recent averages, but we'll have to wait until our review to find out.

Although not surprising, the removable SSD is also a friendly nod as Microsoft has been doing that for all its recent Surface releases, including Surface Pro X, Surface Pro 7+, and Surface Laptop 4. While Microsoft only wants authorized technicians to do so, anyone with the right tools could upgrade the CPU with not much work.

There are many other tidbits in the video that make it worth watching, including a discussion around how the hinge works.

Related to all of this, Microsoft's Scott Hanselman posted a picture of Surface Laptop Studio compared to his Surface Book 15-inch. You can see just how compact the Laptop Studio is with its design compared to the older Surface Book.

Likewise, you can read more about Surface Laptop Studio and everything else in my hands-on roundup.

Earlier today, Microsoft announced a version of the Surface Pro X without support for LTE. Models with LTE will still be available, of course, but the version with only Wi-Fi connectivity for the web may raise a few eyebrows. The Surface Pro X is advertised as an Always Connected device, so it might seem odd to make it an only sometimes connected device.

While I'm sure the LTE version of the Surface Pro will continue to be popular, I believe there's a niche for a device without LTE support, and I'm squarely in it.

I mostly use my gadgets at home

I'm a homebody. I consider myself active, but I'm based at home. I work from home, walk my dogs, and coach American football within a short drive or tram ride from my house. If I do travel, it's to see my parents in America, who have an office at home. I almost never have to work while using cellular data.

I think that Always Connected devices are great for many people but being able to connect to the web from anywhere without having to tether to my phone doesn't move the needle for me.

I can't imagine that I'm the only person who primarily uses their tablet in their own home. If I am, it's nice that Microsoft built a tablet just for me.

I don't want to waste money

I suppose if money wasn't an object, I'd pick up an LTE version of the Surface Pro X. There's certainly no harm in having an option to connect through LTE, but I don't need to pay $100 for it. I also don't want to have to pay for a separate SIM plan since I'd use LTE connectivity so infrequently.

On the rare occasion in which I do have to use a device through LTE, I just use my phone to tether my connection. I know it's not as elegant as having built-in LTE support. I know it drains my phone's battery. But the reality is that I do it so little that those are minor inconveniences.

For some strange reason, I was given the chance to upgrade to 165GB of cellular data per month for less money than I was paying to get 25GB. I share mobile data with my wife, and we've never used all 165GB. Maybe that's not normal, but in my specific case, I have more data than I can use, so paying for a separate SIM card to avoid having to tether isn't worth it. Paying $100 extra so my device can use that SIM card doesn't make sense either.

I can put the money I save towards a Brydge SPX+ keyboard that converts the Surface Pro X into a traditional laptop.

I love the Surface Pro X's design

Windows 10 on ARM and Windows 11 on ARM aren't just about devices always being connected to the web. That's one major selling point, but it's not the only draw. Devices like the Surface Pro X are sleek, thin, and light. They also get excellent battery life. There's a reason that it tops our list as the best Windows 10 tablet.

Two major factors have held me back from considering the Surface Pro X as a personal device. First, it is a bit pricey. If I bought a Surface Pro X, it would be a nice-to-have, not a must-have. Saving $100 makes it easier to treat myself. Occasionally the LTE model of the Surface Pro X goes on sale for $800. I'm hoping that the Wi-Fi version falls below that at some point.

Second, there are some apps that I use that don't work with Windows 10 on ARM. Luckily, Windows 11 on ARM supports x86 and x64 app emulation. With support for both, all of the apps I use work on the Surface Pro X in some capacity. Of course, apps compiled to run natively on ARM devices will run better, but I'll at least be able to use my favorite apps.

With Windows 11 and a more affordable Surface Pro X that doesn't have LTE, Microsoft overcame two of my final hurdles.

Microsoft has a new flagship laptop on the block, and it's called Surface Laptop Studio. It features a brand-new 2-in-1 design that Microsoft hasn't used on the Surface line before, with a 14-inch display that can now be pulled forward or laid flat over the keyboard deck for drawing or inking.

Surface Laptop Studio is a replacement for the Surface Book, according to Microsoft. It has powerful dedicated graphics in the form of the NVIDIA RTX 3050 Ti, more powerful 11th Gen Intel processors, and can be had with up to 32GB RAM and 2TB storage. Here's everything you need to know.

Surface Laptop Studio: Price and release date

The Surface Laptop Studio is launching first in the United States and Canada and is expected to ship on Oct. 5. Pre-orders are open now, with pricing beginning at an eye-watering $1,600. Upgrading to higher-specification models can push the price beyond $3,000.

Surface Laptop Studio pricing starts identically to Surface Book 3, fulfilling a similar space as a mobile powerhouse for professionals. While the new design axes the previously detachable display, it's a promising new successor to the Surface Book lineup, with a comparatively expected RRP.

We also expect Microsoft to bring Surface Laptop Studio to 47 additional markets in 2022, we just don't exactly where, and when.

Surface Laptop Studio: Specs

The Surface Laptop Studio features an 11th-Gen Intel Core i5-11300H or i7-11380H, which are a little more powerful than the Intel 11th-Gen chips found in the Surface Laptop 4 and Surface Pro 8. The device can be configured with either 16GB or 32GB of RAM, up to 1TB storage, and can even wirelessly charge the new Surface Slim Pen 2, which is sold separately.

The new 14.4-inch display also has a high refresh rate of 120Hz, which will make using Windows 11 feel super smooth with all its new animations. Curiously, the new 14.4-inch display isn't as high of a resolution as that found on the Surface Book line. The device has two USB-C ports, both of which are Thunderbolt 4 enabled, a headphone jack, and the Surface Connect port for those who prefer Microsoft's magnetic charging port.

Surface Laptop Studio features: New Studio display, high performance

The Surface Laptop Studio features a brand-new design that enables the display to be pulled forward and laid flat over the keyboard when wanting to write or draw, Microsoft calls this "Studio mode," and is great for creators or those who want to use the touchscreen flat. There's also a "tent mode" that props the display up between the trackpad and keyboard, great for watching movies.

The design makes for a more elegant solution over the Surface Book series, which features a detachable display, breaking away from the keyboard into a standalone tablet. With the Studio Laptop occupying a similar space to the Surface Book 3 refreshed in early 2020, that detachable display is the main reason to still opt for the older device.

The Surface Laptop Studio is all about performance, designed with creatives and power users in mind, as reflected by the hardware under the hood. The range is expected to significantly outperform newly updated devices like the Surface Pro 8 and Surface Go 3, ideal for intensive software like Photoshop or 4K video editing.

Various long-requested hardware upgrades also help fortify the Surface Laptop Studio as its most powerful device to date, aiding productivity while on the move. New Thunderbolt 4 support sees a significant leap in connectivity, allowing for faster transfer rates and support for more external devices like multiple 4K displays. The onboard 120Hz refresh rate also improves on-device fluidity, providing smoother interactivity for productivity and gaming.

Other new features include support for the Surface Slim Pen, with a hidden charging cradle underneath the front of the laptop. Magnets will hold the pen in place while charging, allowing you to store the pen and carry it with the device.

Also new to the Surface Laptop Studio is a new "Precision Haptic" touchpad, which means the touchpad itself is static and no longer moves when clicked. Instead, special haptic engines underneath the touchpad vibrate to make it feel as if you're clicking down, similar to Apple's MacBook touchpads.

Microsoft also claims buyers can expect improvements in battery life, with up to 19 hours available, slightly surpassing the 17.5 hours seen with the latest Surface Book 3. The overall device dimensions and weight, while larger than many existing Surface products, also undercut the Surface Book 3 lineup.

The Surface Laptop Studio presents a new form factor in Microsoft's premium PC lineup, suited to high-end productivity. While we'll need to wait until our full review for final impressions, it's a promising option for creatives and power users with a need for speed.

We ultimately feel that due to its impressive specs, battery life, and port selection, the Surface Pro 8 will be the better choice overall for most people in this matchup. Don't overlook the Surface Go 3 if you need something less expensive, though, as the third iteration of Microsoft's 10-inch mini PC is the mightiest one yet.

Surface Pro 8 vs. Go 3: Power or affordability?

The primary difference between the Surface Pro 8 and the Surface Go 3 is the power of their specs. The Surface Pro 8 is the winner in this regard by far, as its 11th Gen Intel processors and integrated graphics are much better than the Surface Go 3's budget-friendly hardware. The Surface Pro 8 also comes with significantly more options for RAM and SSD storage capacity. Additionally, the Surface Pro 8 also comes with cutting edge Thunderbolt 4 ports and a battery that lasts five hours longer, making it the more flexible device overall.

The Surface Go 3 has a few advantages of its own, however. It's much less expensive than the Surface Pro 8 is, which makes it an excellent alternative for people on a budget. The Surface Go 3 is also significantly more capable than previous Surface Go devices, which means that its performance is expected to be quite good even though the Surface Pro 8's will be much better. The Surface Go 3 also comes with a microSDXC card reader that you can use to add additional storage.

Surface Pro 8 vs. Go 3: Which should you buy?

Both the Surface Pro 8 and the Surface Go 3 look fantastic, and we expect both of them to end up being some of the best Microsoft Surface PCs available. With that said, we feel that the Surface Pro 8 will be better for most people since it has significantly better performance, battery life, and ports for peripherals or accessories. It may be more expensive, but it's also more versatile — especially since the new Surface Pro Type Cover includes a slot for the Surface Slim Pen 2 for charging and storage.

The Surface Go 3 isn't a device to scoff at, however, especially since it features snazzy new Intel CPU options that significantly outperform previous Surface Go processors. They may be weaker than the Surface Pro 8's 11th Gen offerings, but they're still pretty good for general computing. And when you consider that the Surface Go 3 only costs about a third of what the Surface Pro 8 does, it's clear to see why it's an excellent budget alternative.

For other great options, check out our roundup of the best 2-in-1 laptops and best Windows laptops.

Microsoft held its now annual hardware event this week. It unveiled one of its most extensive updates to the Surface line since 2015 — Surface Duo 2, Surface Pro 8, Surface Go 3, updates to Surface Pro X, and the star of the show, Surface Laptop Studio.

Media got a bit of a hands-on with the new devices this week, and I was able to talk to the people who worked on the products about what's new, how they did things, and lots of other little interesting tidbits. While we'll all undoubtedly learn more in the coming weeks — especially with full reviews likely around release time — here's a good primer of things that were not in the press release.

Surface Duo 2: A whole new device

Microsoft's original Surface Duo is intriguing and frustrating, as our Senior Windows Editor Zac Bowden recently opined.

Surface Duo 2 is a whole new beast, a fact that the announcement revealed. It has been redesigned from the ground up with 2021-era smartphone features in mind instead of the original concept behind Surface Duo, which was a pocketable Surface with Windows.

The hardware feels much more substantial now and not nearly as delicate as the first version, which I think required the bumper case to feel secure in your hand. I didn't feel that way with Surface Duo 2, likely because it's slightly thicker now (5.5mm opened instead of 4.8mm). But the hinge is also redesigned. It's a bit stiffer and feels … better. It's hard to describe.

Check out the 20-image gallery below:

Microsoft wasn't shy about showing off the new cameras. From what we have heard, the company outsourced some of the computational algorithms for the camera to a Japanese company which is why it can do well in low-light situations. We'll have to test it, of course, but so far, it easily looks to be upper mid-tier in 2021.

Fun things I learned:

• The snap-on case is like a hard shell with some texture (not a rubber TPU like the bumper). It felt fantastic.
• You don't need that case to stick the Surface Slim Pen to the front cover; you just need it to charge the pen wirelessly.
• The Slim pen really sticks to Surface Duo 2 hard, which is what I was hoping for. It's like a rubber fridge magnet strong, so you'll have to really pull it to get it off. That means, yeah, it should be fine in your pocket.
• Top bezels are still a bit thick but razor-thin on the sides, and the curved inner display is a beautiful effect.
• Microsoft Start (its new News app) now spans, thank God.
• Gameloft optimized three games for on-screen controls, including Asphalt 9. Microsoft is pushing gaming on this thing with Game Pass (they demoed Sea of Thieves on it).
• On the right is your live image, on the left is your camera roll.
• The new camera app spans and is really lovely. Editing is also dual-screen with tons of features, sliders, inking abilities, and more. It's well thought out and purposeful.
• Yes, Microsoft reinforced the entire chassis, so the Type-C port should not crack. And with Gorilla Glass Invictus and that hardcover, Surface Duo 2 feels very sturdy.
• Using Surface Duo 2 one-handed is fiiiiiiine. Yes, it's not entirely flat (it wasn't either on Surface Duo 1 with the bumper), but it felt perfectly OK. Microsoft insists it's very strong, durable. The cover never hits the camera lenses, either. Even with the Surface Slim Pen, cover case, and reverse folded, it's thick, but it was easy to handle.
• Microsoft Launcher is updated. The news/widget feed resembles Windows 11 now. The notification panel has sliders for volume and brightness, so you can adjust them in any posture where the buttons may be blocked. It's also wider now and looks much better.
• The new black colorway looks excellent.
• Screen rotation is very fast, as is the device's overall performance thanks to that Snapdragon 888.
• It has a new digitizer, so touch input/response should be better this time.
• Android 12 should come much quicker than Android 11 for Surface Duo 1.
• The Glance Bar is very cool to see in action.

Look, we need to properly test Surface Duo 2 to know how good it is. Still, between NFC, the new cameras, the processor, new screen materials, 90Hz refresh, curved inner display, and support for Surface Slim Pen, I (along with other present media) was impressed.

Cons: It's still crazy expensive and has an uphill battle to win converts. But this is a massive step in the right direction.

Surface Laptop Studio: "The most powerful Surface ever"

As we told you, Microsoft did make a bring-it-forward design for an all-new device: Surface Laptop Studio, which was just announced.

In my review of the HP Elite Folio, I said that design is the way 2-in-1 laptops should go — not the 360-hinge stuff. Microsoft thought the same as this is a very similar design, but it is executed entirely differently from HP.

At first glance? It's like you merged Surface Pro 8 with Surface Laptop 4 and then added a weird bottom to it. It's both familiar and different, redefining what a laptop could be, which I love.

Some takeaways:

• The hinge design is not the same as the patent from this summer, but maybe they'll do that in a few years.
• Microsoft uses cloth on the inside to hide the wires. It doesn't stretch, is super strong, and goes into the display when you switch postures. Even the cables behind the display move as you switch postures. It's so overly mind-blowingly complicated on the inside but clean and simple on the outside: Pure Microsoft "hinge-engineering!"
• Why not … 6- or 8-core CPU, or AMD, or higher resolution display, or …? No good answers besides balancing price, device and audience intention, thermals, and attaining good battery life.
• The display is default 60Hz. Users can manually put it to 120Hz. A later update will enable Dynamic Refresh Rate in Windows 11.
• Haptic trackpad! I've been pushing this tech hard in 2021, and Microsoft delivered. Microsoft made this one itself, although there may be more to this story: Stay tuned. It felt great, and it even has an adjustable slider for intensity. Loved it.
• RIP Surface Book as Surface Laptop Studio replaces it.

Surface Laptop Studio looks like a killer laptop. The display is excellent, and the camera, GPU, and that design make it unique right now.

Cons? Microsoft is still not using anti-reflective displays. 🤦‍♂️ I'd also lament no LTE, but that's a very niche complaint.

Surface Pro 8: The sleeper hit

Surface Pro 8 is exactly what we anticipated, and frankly, wanted, from Microsoft: Take the design cues from Surface Pro X and put them into Surface Pro 8. Now add Thunderbolt 4.

And that's what Microsoft did with today's announcement.

Surface Pro 8 gets a 120Hz refresh (defaults at 60Hz), thinner bezels, support for Surface Slim Pen 2, two Thunderbolt 4 ports (no more Type-A), and LTE options for all models.

Some quick impressions:

• It looks exactly like Surface Pro X. You can only tell the difference with the vents on the rear.
• Going from 12.3-inch to 13.0 may not sound like a lot, but it makes a huge usability difference.
• New 10MP camera on the rear with 4K video! Interesting.
• Front-facing camera can now "face-lock" onto you, so if you move or take a drink of coffee, your face is always in focus. Subtle, but a nice feature.
• Dolby Vision (HDR for video) and Dolby Atoms audio support! Very happy about that.
• The chassis has a more aggressive tapper now; it looks and feels great.
• Uses the same Surface Type Cover as Surface Pro X.

The Surface Pro line was basically perfect, but Microsoft sorely needed to update critical aspects. They did that with Surface Pro 8. It can connect to an eGPU now, the display looks much better, you get better performance, and many more minor tweaks make this Pro so good. I think this will be a massive winner in reviews.

Cons: No anti-reflective display, again. All models now have fans in them, which is interesting.

Surface Slim Pen 2: Blew my mind

It's kind of hard to get excited about a pen — or is it? The haptics in Surface Slim Pen 2 changes everything, in my opinion.

The pen now has virtually no lag and requires almost no pressure to activate. But the haptics! You can make the pen feel like a pencil on paper. It truly tricks your brain into thinking you are using an analog device.

• Only for Surface Pro 8 and Surface Laptop Studio.
• Besides drawing, there is haptics for all sorts of things like resizing. Where there are touchpoints, the Surface Slim Pen 2 gives feedback, letting you know you can drag and resize a box. It makes things so much faster and more natural for photo editing work.

I'm very excited about Surface Slim Pen 2. It takes the concept of digital inking to a whole new level. It's so seamless to use but makes a huge difference in usage, whether for taking notes, drawing, or photo editing.

Cons: You'll need new Surface hardware to make use of that haptic ability.

Wrapping up

This was a great Microsoft Surface event. It delivered both what the market demands and what Surface fans have been clamoring for (Thunderboooooolt).

I didn't mention Surface Go 3 or Surface Pro X as those are pretty minor upgrades. Granted, those new processors for Surface Go 3 are welcomed, as there is no such thing as being too fast. We'll have to see how much of a difference it makes.

Surface Pro X just gets a Wi-Fi-only option (see announcement), which drops the entry price to $899. That's welcomed but disappointing for those who wanted a version 3. That said, we hear that Qualcomm is set to announce its Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3 in December on a new Cortex base. That means we should get a "major" upgrade for Surface Pro X later in 2022.

I'm not sure which was my favorite of today's news. Surface Duo 2 is the most interesting because it has so much to prove this time. Can it do it? It's evident Microsoft is aware of that pressure. This version really seems like the one to get if you can afford it.

Surface Pro 8 is a slam dunk. I can't see how it doesn't sell exceptionally well and get excellent reviews. Surface Laptop Studio, I think, is also a hit along with that new Slim Pen 2 for both devices.

I'm glad Microsoft is going with this pull-it-forward design for Surface Laptop Studio. Same goes for taking the lead on haptic trackpads. That's the future of convertibles.

We will, of course, have much more coverage of all these devices in the coming weeks.

Let me know what you liked the most and what you found the most disappointing!

The Windows Central Podcast with our Executive Editor, Daniel Rubino and Senior Editor, Zac Bowden will be LIVE on today, Wednesday September 22 at 1PM ET for a special episode focused entirely on the announcements coming out of Microsoft's hardware event, which takes place a couple hours before at 11AM ET.

We'll be talking all about the new hardware, from the Surface Duo 2 to the new Surface Book 4 (likely called Surface Laptop Studio.) We're expecting up to five new Surface devices to be announced, and that's not even including the accessories! So, there will be lots to talk about, and we'll have all the info you need.

The show will be LIVE on YouTube at 1PM ET on Wednesday. You can tune in via the embedded video above, or head to the Windows Central YouTube channel to catch us when the show goes live. If you miss the show, don't worry, as we'll be making available a video on demand version and an audio-only version that will be published on podcasting platforms.

Microsoft announced the Surface Pro 8, Surface Duo 2, and several other devices today. At its hardware event, the company refreshed old devices, bumped up specs, and revamped designs. It also introduced a new form factor with the Surface Laptop Studio. Now that the event's over, we want to know if you're excited about Microsoft's new lineup of Surface hardware.

We have a full recap of everything Microsoft announced at its Surface hardware event, but we'll run through a few of the highlights as a refresher.

The Surface Laptop Studio is the most powerful Surface device ever built. It introduces a unique form factor as a non-detachable 2-in-1. Its screen is on a hinge, allowing it to be pulled into different modes. It can be used as a traditional laptop, pulled forward into "Stage mode," or laid flat into "Studio mode."

After over a year of reports and rumors, Microsoft officially announced the Surface Duo 2. It marks a significant bump in performance over its predecessor. The Surface Duo 2 runs on a Snapdragon 888 processor, supports 5G, and has NFC. It also has significantly better cameras than the original Surface Duo. Leading up to the event, the Surface Duo 2 drew the most attention from our readers.

Microsoft says that the Surface Pro 8 is the "most significant leap forward since Pro 3." It's more than twice as fast as the Surface Pro 7. It also has thinner bezels, which allow it to have a larger screen without having to be a larger device. Additionally, for the first time ever, a Surface Pro supports Thunderbolt.

While Microsoft refreshed several of its devices, there are few pieces of Surface hardware that didn't see an update. Notably, the Surface Studio 2 continues to age without a successor. The Surface Laptop Go came out last year and didn't see a follow-up today. The Surface Laptop line also wasn't refreshed today, though Microsoft only announced the Surface Laptop 4 in April 2021.

Some people may not be happy with the updates and upgrades that Microsoft announced today. For example, commenters on our site expressed frustration over the low entry specs of the Surface Go 3.

What are your thoughts on Microsoft's new Surface devices? Are you excited about the hardware or underwhelmed? Let us know in the poll above and in the comments below.

What you need to know

• Microsoft announced five new Surface devices today.
• The Surface Laptop Studio, Surface Duo 2, Surface Pro 8, Surface Go 3, and Surface Pro X are all available for preorder.
• Most of the devices will ship on October 5, 2021, though the Duo 2 won't ship until October 21, 2021.

Microsoft expanded its Surface lineup with five new devices. The Surface Laptop Studio, Surface Duo 2, Surface Pro 8, Surface Go 3, and Surface Pro X are all available for preorder. All but one of the devices will ship on October 5, 2021. Those ordering the Surface Duo 2 will have to wait until October 21, 2021 to receive it.

The new Surface devices were only announced today, but preorders are already live.

The Surface Laptop Studio introduces a new form factor for the Surface family. It's a non-detachable 2-in-1, meaning you can pull the screen of the Surface Laptop Studio into different modes. The Surface Laptop Studio is also the most powerful Surface that Microsoft has built.

The original Surface Duo was a unique device that fell short as a smartphone in some areas. Microsoft aims to overcome those shortcomings with the Surface Duo 2. It has a Snapdragon 888 processor, 5G support, and NFC. It also has a triple-camera setup.

The Surface Pro lineup has maintained the same form factor and general design since the Surface Pro 3. That changes with the Surface Pro 8, which has thinner bezels and a larger display than its predecessors. The Surface Pro 8 is also more than twice as fast as the Surface Pro 7.

Microsoft didn't announce a spec bump or redesign for the Surface Pro X. Instead, the company will now sell a version without LTE support. The non-LTE version of the Surface Pro X has a lower starting price.

The Surface Go 3 maintains the shape and design of its predecessors but now has better hardware under the hood. The Intel Core i3 model of the Surface Go 3 is 60% faster than the Surface Go 2.

What you need to know

• Microsoft announced the Surface Laptop Studio, Surface Pro 8, and Surface Duo 2 today.
• The company also announced a refreshed Surface Pro X and the Surface Go 3.
• To go along with the Surface devices, Microsoft announced the Surface Slim Pen 2, the Surface Adaptive Kit, and the Microsoft Ocean Plastic Mouse.

Microsoft announced a slew of Surface devices at its hardware event today, including the Surface Laptop Studio, the Surface Pro 8, and the Surface Duo 2. We saw old favorites get refreshed, the introduction of a new form factor, and the announcement of several accessories. To help you catch up on all of today's news, we've gathered all of the highlights into one piece. If you want to hear our experts dive into the new hardware, make sure to check out our special edition of the Windows Central Podcast.

Most of the Surface devices are available for preorder today and will start shipping on October 5, 2021, but there are exceptions. The Surface Duo 2 will be up for preorder today but won't be available until October 21, 2021.

Surface Laptop Studio

The Surface Laptop Studio is the most powerful Surface that Microsoft has ever built. It runs on an 11th Gen Intel Core H35 processor and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX GPU. It's a non-detachable 2-in-1, which is a first for the Surface family of devices. The Dynamic Woven Hinge of the Surface Laptop Studio allows its display to shift between modes. As its name suggests, the Surface Laptop Studio looks like a marriage of the Surface Studio and the Surface Laptop.

The display of the Surface Laptop Studio is a 14.4-inch PixelSense touchscreen. You can pull the screen of the device to any angle between the look of a traditional laptop and completely flat over the keyboard. Microsoft calls the angled view "Stage mode" and the flat view "Studio mode."

The Surface Slim Pen 2 can be stored underneath the keyboard of the Surface Laptop Studio. People can then take it out to draw on the display of the laptop or take notes.

The Surface Laptop Studio starts at $1,600 and is available for preorder now in select markets.

Surface Duo 2

The Surface Duo 2 is likely the device that received the biggest jump compared to its predecessor. The original Surface Duo introduced a new form factor but lagged behind in many smartphone categories. The Surface Duo 2 closes many of those gaps. It runs on a Snapdragon 888 processor, supports 5G, and has NFC. It has a dynamic triple-lens camera, which looks to be significantly better than that of the original Surface Duo.

Each of the displays on the Surface Duo 2 are slightly larger than those of the Surface Duo (5.8 inches vs. 5.6 inches). That increase comes largely from the thinner bezels of the Surface Duo 2, though the device still has noticeable top and bottom bezels.

The Surface Duo 2 starts at $1,500 and is available for preorder starting today.

Surface Pro 8

Microsoft calls the Surface Pro 8 the "most significant leap forward since Pro 3." The Surface Pro 8 is more than twice as fast as the Surface Pro 7. The newest Surface Pro has an 11th Gen Intel Core processor, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, and is built on the Intel Evo platform. Thunderbolt support is significant as Microsoft has held off until this generation of Surface devices.

The Surface Pro 8 has a 13-inch PixelSense touchscreen display. That display expands close to the edges of the device, much like the Surface Pro X. In a first for the Surface Pro lineup, the Surface Pro 8's display is 120Hz. This should work well with the Dynamic Refresh Rate of Windows 11. The Surface Pro 8 supports Dolby Vision and Adaptive Color Technology as well.

The 2-in-1 has a 5-megapixel camera on the front and a 10-megapixel camera on the back, the latter of which supports 4K. The Surface Pro 8 also has Dolby Atmos sound and dual far-field Studio Mics, which should help people studying or working from home.

The Surface Pro 8 also works with the Surface Slim Pen 2.

Surface Slim Pen 2

Speaking of the Surface Slim Pen 2, Microsoft's new stylus has a sharper tip, ultra-low latency, and supports haptic feedback. The Surface Slim Pen 2 can be magnetically attached to the Surface Laptop Studio or stored within the Surface Pro Signature Keyboard.

The Surface Slim Pen 2 works with new features in Windows 11 and Microsoft's G6 processor that's in the Surface Laptop Studio and the Surface Pro 8 to provide tactile signals. For example, a person will receive tactile feedback when circling to select content in Microsoft 365 apps or using tools in Adobe Fresco.

Surface Pro X

The Surface Pro X didn't receive a design overhaul or a chip update like many of its Surface siblings. Microsoft did, however, lower the entry price of the Surface Pro X by offering a model without support for LTE. The Wi-Fi model of the Surface Pro X starts at $900, which is $100 less than the starting price of LTE models.

Microsoft's improvements to Windows on ARM will also be showcased on the Surface Pro X. Windows 11 supports both x86 and x64 emulation, allowing devices to run far more applications. Several big-name apps have also been optimized for Windows on ARM, including Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Lightroom, Microsoft Office, and Microsoft Teams. These improvements will also help other Windows on ARM devices like the Samsung Galaxy Book Go, but they will also boost the capabilities of the Surface Pro X.

Surface Go 3

The Surface Go 3 improved the Go line's speed thanks to a spec bump. The Intel Core i3 version is 60% faster than its predecessor. The Surface Go 3 has models with LTE support on the way to help people stay connected.

The Surface Go 3 keeps the compact form factor that's earned the love of many fans. It has a 10.5-inch touch display and only weighs 1.2 lbs (0.54 kg). It also keeps its low starting price of just $400, which is in the same range as the best budget tablets.

Surface Adaptive Kit

Microsoft's Inclusive Tech Lab created the Surface Adaptive Kit. It's designed to make devices more accessible. It does this with a combination of keycap labels, bump labels, port indicators, and device openers.

The Surface Adaptive Kit will be available later this year.

Microsoft Ocean Plastic Mouse

Last but not least (at least for the environment), Microsoft announced the Ocean Plastic Mouse. The Bluetooth mouse is made of 20% recycled plastic recovered from oceans and waterways. It is shipped in a box that's 100% recyclable. The shape of the mouse strongly resembles the Microsoft Bluetooth Mouse.

What you need to know

• The Surface Go 3 has been announced and is available for pre-order ahead of its October 5 release.
• The Wi-Fi version of the device will start at $399, with LTE models coming in December for the U.S. and Canada and early 2022 for other markets.
• The leaked Surface Go 3 processor specs have turned out to be accurate.

Microsoft's latest line of Surface products has been officially revealed, following a short burst of leaks prematurely revealing items such as the Surface Duo 2's existence and the Surface Go 3's processor details. As it turns out, the latter have been confirmed by Microsoft's formal announcement of the third installment in its Surface tablet line.

The Surface Go 3 features the Intel Pentium GOLD 6500Y and Intel Core i3-10100Y processors that were namedropped in association with the device over on Geekbench not too long ago, with 4GB or 8GB of RAM attached respectively. Storage-wise, you can go as low as 64GB of eMMC memory, while Commerical Channels will get up to 256GB SSDs. Here's the complete spec list:

As can be seen on the table, consumers will receive Windows 11 Home S. It's fitting given that Windows 11 is having its own launch on October 5, the same day the Surface Go 3 releases to the public. Again, the device will start at $399 but can get more expensive depending on what internals you opt for.

Surface Go 3

LTE models will come in December 2021 for the U.S. and Canada, with other markets having to wait until early 2022.

What you need to know

• Brydge announced the Brydge SP+ wireless keyboard with a built-in touchpad.
• The device converts the Surface Pro 8 into a traditional laptop.
• Brydge also announced its Stone Pro TP4 docking station today.
• Pricing for the Brydge SP+ is not available at this time.

Microsoft unveiled its Surface Pro 8 earlier today. The company calls it the "most significant leap forward since Pro 3." It has thinner bezels than its predecessor and is more than twice as fast as the Surface Pro 7. We expect the Surface Pro 8 to make our list of the best tablets, but there's one thing that it's not, a traditional laptop. In comes Brydge with its new SP+, a wireless keyboard with a touchpad that's built for the Surface Pro 8. Brydge hasn't shared pricing for the SP+ at this time.

Brydge's new keyboard allows people to keep the versatility of the Surface Pro 8 while also having the option to use the device like a clamshell laptop. The Surface Pro 8 slots into clasps on each side of the Brydge SP+ keyboard. The keyboard also has a touchpad that supports multi-touch gestures. The Surface Pro 8 can easily be removed from the Brydge SP+ to act as a 2-in-1.

Brydge has been in this market for quite some time. Last year our executive editor Daniel Rubino reviewed the Brydge SPX+. People should expect a similar experience with the Brydge SP+ for the Surface Pro 8. Brydge also makes similar keyboards for iPads.

Alongside its new keyboard, Brydge announced the Brydge Stone Pro TP4 docking station. It features 12 ports, supports Thunderbolt 4, and can deliver 90 watts of power. It also has transfer speeds of up to 40 GB/s.

This keyboard converts the Surface Pro 8 into a traditional laptop. It has a built-in multi-touch trackpad to help the Surface Pro 8 provide a full laptop experience.

What you need to know

• The new Surface Slim Pen 2 features new haptic and zero-force inking features.
• Tactile signals will immitate the feeling of writing on real paper.
• The Surface Slim Pen ships later this year for $129.99.

In addition to all the new Surface PCs unveiled today, Microsoft is also announcing an updated Surface Slim Pen with a new revolutionary feature that it calls "tactile signals" which provide real-time haptics when using the pen on a Surface Pro 8 or Surface Laptop Studio running Windows 11.

Microsoft says the new Surface Slim Pen 2 also features a new "Zero-Force Inking" experience that makes digital ink "flow fluidly out of the pen the instant it hits the screen." In addition, Microsoft has also added haptic feedback that will send taptic signals to immitate the feeling of drawing of writing on real paper.

Tactile signals can also make it easier to identify when you've correctly used natural gestures such as circling to select a group of words or crossing out items. The haptic feedback will be one of those things you have to use to really understand.

So far, these are the Windows 11 apps that support haptic feedback with the Surface Slim Pen 2:

• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft Journal
• Microsoft Whiteboard
• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Adobe Fresco
• Sketchable
• LiquidText
• Shapr3D

The Surface Slim Pen 2 can be wirelessly charged via its own Surface Slim Pen charging cradle, or if you have a Surface Laptop Studio, via the included charging area located underneath the front of the device. Surface Pro X and Surface Pro 8 users can charge the Surface Slim Pen 2 via the Type Cover, which is sold separately.

The Surface Slim Pen 2 is available for pre-order today for $129.99 in the United States. What are your thoughts on the Surface Slim Pen 2 so far? Let us know in the comments.

What you need to know

• Surface Duo 2 is official with upgraded specs, bigger displays, and more!
• Featuring a new "glance bar" down the spine, 5G connectivity and NFC.
• Pre-orders are now open with an expected ship date of October 21.

It's finally official! Microsoft's has taken the wraps off its second-generation Surface Duo handset, aptly dubbed the "Surface Duo 2" and features upgrades across the board, including the latest Snapdragon 888 processor, 5G connectivity, NFC, and much more. The device is available for pre-order today for $1,499 and is expected to start shipping on October 21 in select markets.

Top billing for the Surface Duo 2 includes a new triple camera system on the backside of the device. This new camera system consists of a wide, ultrawide, and telephoto lens at 12MP, 16MP, and 12MP respectively. Microsoft says these cameras will provide a flagship camera experience, including support for features such as night light photography, portrait mode with adjustable depth control, and low-light and Auto HDR photography improvements.

Microsoft has also increased the displays of Surface Duo 2 to 5.8-inches each, which now equates to around 8.3-inches of total screen space. The displays have a refresh rate of 90hz and are slighly curved down the middle as well, which allows a small section of the display to be exposed down the spine when closed. Microsoft calls this the "glance bar" and it will show notifications as they come in.

Interestingly, Microsoft is also releasing a new "case" that snaps onto the front and supports magnets to store the Surface Slim Pen 2, and can also wirelessly charge it. The Surface Duo 2 is available in Glacier White, just like the first Surface Duo, but it can now also be had in a new Obsidian Black color.

Other improvements to the Surface Duo 2 include improvements to the overall fit and finish. The exterior glass now curves into the device around the edges, and the device is more robust thanks to a slight increase in thickness to 5.5mm on each side. Microsoft says this should address the USB-C cracking issue that the first-generation Surface Duo suffered from.

It's clear that Microsoft has worked hard to make the Surface Duo 2 a better phone, so it should come as no surprise to hear that the Duo 2 finally supports NFC technology for wireless payments; a must-have on any modern smartphone in 2021.

Surface Duo 2 is available for pre-order right now and is expected to ship on October 21 in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, France, Germany, and Japan. U.S. pricing is as follows:

What you need to know

• The Surface Pro 8 is official with a design just like the Surface Pro X.
• It has a new 13-inch 120Hz display and two USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports.
• Pricing starts at $1,099 and is expected to ship October 5.

Microsoft has announced the next generation of its mainline Surface Pro device, dubbed the Surface Pro 8, which finally closer aligns its design with the now two-year old Surface Pro X. Featuring 11th-Gen Intel chips, the Surface Pro 8 has a 13-inch 120hz display and support for the Surface Pro X Type Cover's with Surface Slim Pen charging built-in.

The overall form factor of the Surface Pro 8 can be described as a slightly thicker Surface Pro X with an added vent around the top to help with cooling those hotter Intel chips, and a headphone jack. Microsoft says this is the biggest update to the main Surface Pro line since the Surface Pro 3, as it now finally adopts the much more modern design language that the Surface Pro X is already rocking.

Just like the Surface Pro X, Microsoft has updated the ports from one USB-A and one USB-C to two USB-C ports. And for the first time, the USB-C ports are now Thunderbolt 4 enabled. Surface Connect remains for those who prefer charging with Microsoft's magnetic charging solution. It can be had with 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB of RAM, and up to 1TB of SSD storage.

The big upgrade on Surface Pro 8 that the Surface Pro X sadly misses out on is with the display, which is now 13-inches in size with a high refresh rate of 120Hz. This upgraded display will make using the Surface Pro 8 feel very fast and fluid thanks to Windows 11's new smooth animations.

Microsoft is also introducing a new Surface Slim Pen 2 with haptics, which works with the new Surface Pro 8. The Slim Pen can be stored and charged via the new Surface Pro Type Covers, which are just the Surface Pro X Type Covers which are now cross compatible with the Surface Pro 8. The Type Covers have also been updated with the new Windows 11 logo on the Start button to keep things consistent.

Microsoft is adding LTE to the Surface Pro 8 too, which is now also available with an i7 configuration, a first for the Surface line. Pre-orders for the Surface Pro 8 are open now, with prices starting at $1,099. Pricing and availability is as follows:

Surface Pro 8 is expected to begin shipping on October 5 in the following markets:

• United States
• United Kingdom
• Canada
• Austria
• Germany
• Ireland
• Switzerland
• France
• Japan

What you need to know

• Microsoft has announced a new form factor laptop dubbed "Surface Laptop Studio".
• It's a replacement for the Surface Book and features a new 2-in-1 design.
• It also has 120Hz display and a new Precision Haptic touchpad.
• Pricing starts at $1,599 and begins shipping next month.

Microsoft has unveiled its next-generation Surface laptop today, featuring a brand-new 2-in-1 design not yet seen on a Surface device before. Dubbed the "Surface Laptop Studio," this new laptop features a 14.4-inch display attached to a unique hinge that allows the display to be pulled forward and laid flat over the keyboard deck for drawing and inking.

The company says that the Surface Laptop Studio is being positioned as a replacement and successor to the Surface Book line, which likely means we won't be seeing another Surface Book with a detachable display again.

The Surface Laptop Studio features an 11th-Gen Intel Core i5-11300H or i7-11380H, which are a little more powerful than the Intel 11th-Gen chips found in the Surface Laptop 4 and Surface Pro 8. The device can be configured with either 16GB or 32GB of RAM, up to 1TB storage, and can even wirelessly charge the new Surface Slim Pen 2, which is sold separately.

The new 14.4-inch display also has a high-refresh rate of 120hz, which will make using Windows 11 feel super smooth with all its new animations. Curiously, the new 14.4-inch display isn't as high of a resolution as that found on the Surface Book line. The device has two USB-C ports, both of which are Thunderbolt 4 enabled, a headphone jack, and the Surface Connect port for those who prefer Microsoft's magnetic charging port.

Also new to the Surface Laptop Studio is a new "Precision Haptic" touchpad, which means the touchpad itself is static and no longer moves when clicked. Instead, special haptic engines underneath the touchpad vibrate to make it feel as if you're clicking down, similar to Apple's MacBook touchpads.

In the GPU department, Surface Laptop Studio is rocking Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics in the i5 model, and a more powerful NVIDIA RTX 3050 Ti in the i7 variants. Commercial customers can also configure the Surface Laptop Studio with an RTX A2000 if necessary.

Microsoft touts up to 19 hours of battery life, a huge jump from its other Surface products, though real-world testing will likely see that number come down a bit. Pricing for the Surface Laptop Studio begins at $1,599 and is expected to start shipping on October 5 in the United States and Canada, with pre-orders open now.

Surface Laptop Studio will ship in 47 additional markets in early 2022, though Microsoft is yet to specify which markets specifically. For now, what are your thoughts on Surface Laptop Studio? Let us know in the comments.

What you need to know

• Microsoft announced its Ocean Plastic Mouse today.
• The shell of the mouse is made of 20% recycled ocean plastic.
• The Microsoft Ocean Plastic Mouse is available for preorder now for $25.

The Surface Laptop Studio, Surface Duo 2, and Surface Go 3 may have stolen the show, but Microsoft announced plenty of other devices today. At risk of being lost in the flurry of major product announcements, Microsoft unveiled its Ocean Plastic Mouse. The accessory is made of 20% recycled ocean plastics and is available for preorder for $25.

The shape of the Microsoft Ocean Plastic Mouse appears identical to that of the Microsoft Bluetooth Mouse. It's an ambidextrous design with a scroll wheel in the middle. Unlike the Microsoft Bluetooth Mouse, the Microsoft Ocean Mouse has a speckled shell that appears to show off the microplastics used to make it.

The shell of the Microsoft Ocean Plastic Mouse is made of plastics recovered from oceans and waterways. Plastic is collected and processed into recyclable pellets that are blended to create the mouse's shell.

The Microsoft Ocean Plastic Mouse ships in a 100% recyclable box made of wood and sugarcane fibers. Microsoft also has a mouse recycling program in some areas that allows people to mail in their old mouse to be recycled for free.

What you need to know

• Microsoft introduced a version of the Surface Pro X without LTE support.
• The Wi-Fi version of the Surface Pro X starts at $900, which is $100 less than the LTE version.
• The Surface Pro X will benefit from Microsoft's work to improve Windows on ARM.
• You can preorder the Surface Pro X without LTE starting today.

Microsoft's Surface Pro X didn't receive a design refresh or an updated processor like many of its Surface siblings. It did, however, gain an option without LTE connectivity. The non-LTE Surface Pro X has a lower starting price of $900, which is $100 less than its Always Connected counterpart. The Surface Pro X will also get a boost with the launch of Windows 11 on October 5, 2021.

While not exclusive to the Surface Pro X, Microsoft's improvements to Windows on ARM should result in a better experience on the 2-in-1. Windows 11 supports both x86 and x64 emulation, allowing ARM devices to run a larger library of apps. Notably, Microsoft designed a 64-bit version of Office specifically for Windows on ARM. Microsoft's ARM64EC technology allows Office to use x64 plugins even though most of the app is compiled to run natively on Windows 11 on ARM.

Microsoft has also worked with developers to get more apps optimized for Windows 11 on ARM. Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Lightroom, Shapr 3D, Zoom, Microsoft Office, and Microsoft Teams have all been optimized for Windows on ARM devices like the Surface Pro X.

These improvements to Windows on ARM will also benefit devices like the Samsung Galaxy Book Go.

The specs of the Surface Pro X haven't changed. You can still choose between SQ1 and SQ2 models depending on how much processing power you need. Note that the Surface Pro X with LTE will be able to upgrade to Windows 11. The Wi-Fi Surface Pro X will ship with Windows 11.

Some people hoped for the Surface Pro X to bump up to Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1, but it still comes with Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.

Here are all the SKUs avaialble for the Surface Pro X:

Surface Pro X

With an option for a model with only Wi-Fi connectivity, the Surface Pro X becomes a bit more affordable. Some people want the thin form factor and better battery life that comes with a Windows on ARM device but don't require LTE connectivity. We've seen the LTE version of the Surface Pro X go on sale for as low as $800. With a lower starting price, its discounted price could potentially drop even further.

What you need to know

• Microsoft will hold a Surface hardware event on September 22, 2021 at 11 a.m. EST (8 a.m. PST).
• The company is expected to announce the Surface Pro 8, Surface Duo 2, Surface Book 4, and several other Surface devices.
• The event will be streamed through Microsoft's website.

Microsoft's Surface hardware event kicks off at 11 a.m. EST (convert to your local time) today, September 22, 2021. The Surface Pro 8, Surface Duo 2, and Surface Book 4 (which may go by a different name) are all expected to be announced at the event.

Microsoft will stream the event on its website. We've embedded the video below.

A refreshed Surface Pro X, a Surface Go 3, and a few Surface accessories are also expected at Microsoft's event.

Our senior editor Zac Bowden has broken down what we should expect from the 2021 Surface hardware event. Between leaks and information from sources, quite a bit is known about Microsoft's new hardware, but it's still worth watching the event live. Panos Panay and the Surface team are known for adding "one more thing" to their events.

It's also worth checking out the stream to see the first images of the Surface devices. While fan renders and leaks have given us glimpses of Microsoft's upcoming devices, we haven't seen any official photos or sizzler reels of the hardware.

Of the suspected devices, our readers are most excited about the Surface Duo 2. It looks to be a significant upgrade over the original Surface Duo in both design and specs. The Surface Book 4 also appeals to our readers thanks to its unique form factor. The device is said to be a non-detachable 2-in-1 with powerful internals.

What you need to know

• Microsoft is holding a hardware event on September 22.
• We're expecting up to five new Surface devices, and accessories.
• Surface Pro 8, Surface Pro X, Surface Book, Surface Go, and Surface Duo are on the agenda for updates.

Microsoft has announced that its annual fall Surface hardware event will be taking place on September 22. This year, rumors suggest we're getting five new Surface devices, four of which are among the first PCs with Windows 11 out of the box.

Our sources say to expect updates to the Surface Duo, Surface Pro and Pro X, Surface Go, as well as an all-new flagship 2-in-1 Surface laptop design. Here's an overview of the new Surface devices being announced next week, with some obvious spoilers ahead.

Surface Duo 2 brings much-requested upgrades

The next Surface Duo is under some serious pressure to deliver. After a rough launch with the Surface Duo 1, which shipped with outdated hardware and buggy software, Microsoft has focused on making Surface Duo 2 a better phone right out of the gate. According to my sources, Surface Duo 2 will feature a Snapdragon 888 processor with 5G capabilities, 8GB RAM, a new camera system, better displays, and NFC.

Surface Duo 2 has two 5.8-inch displays on the inside, up from 5.6-inches on the first Surface Duo. This allows Microsoft to thin out the bezels, though not by much. Microsoft has also very slightly curved the displays towards the hinge, allowing for glanceable information to appear down the spine when the device is closed.

The displays will also have a higher refresh rate, although we're unsure if that means 90Hz or 120Hz. Surface Duo 2 has a total of four cameras too; a selfie shooter on the inside above the right display, and a wide, ultrawide, and telephoto lens housed in the rear camera bump.

We're told the battery size has increased by roughly 800-900mAh to accommodate 5G and the higher-refresh rate displays. Bluetooth 5.1 and NFC are also present on the device, finally opening the Duo up to mobile payments. Unfortunately, I'm told that wireless charging is not present. We're expecting Microsoft to ship white and black models, with 128GB and 256GB storage configurations.

The Surface Duo is the only Surface device being announced at the event that doesn't ship with Windows 11. Instead, it will ship with Android 11 out of the box.

Changes headed to Surface Pro 8 and Surface Pro X

Microsoft is also planning to unveil a new mainline Surface Pro device, likely dubbed the Surface Pro 8. I'm not expecting huge changes to this hardware, though we will see some external upgrades to the chassis. The display is said to be bigger compared to that on the Surface Pro 7, likely closer to the 13-inch display size found on the Surface Pro X, with thinner bezels.

I'm also expecting Microsoft to upgrade the Surface Pro 8 with support for the Surface Pro X Type Covers, finally dropping the classic Type Cover connection that Microsoft has been using since the first generation Surface Pro. Of course, this also means the Surface Pro 8 will finally have "official" support for the Surface Slim Pen.

A report from The Verge also claims that at least one Surface Pro 8 model will ship with Thunderbolt support, which would be a first for Microsoft. The device is also said to ship with Intel 11th-generation chips, just like the Surface Pro 7+ released earlier this year.

Other features that will likely be new to the Surface Pro 8 include "wake on touch" and "wake on approach," two new Windows 11 functionalities that Microsoft will want to highlight with its new hardware. Overall, sources have said to expect "modest" changes to the Surface Pro 8.

Surface Pro X is also set for a refresh this fall, though don't expect any significant changes to its external design or SoC. This fall will likely consist of a support for the aforementioned Windows 11 hardware functionalities, and I've also heard that Microsoft is planning to sell a Wi-Fi-only model of the Surface Pro X for the first time.

Finally, Microsoft is reportedly testing a dynamic refresh rate up to 120Hz on the display for both the Surface Pro 8 and Surface Pro X. Whether or not this feature ships will depend on if Microsoft was able to maintain acceptable battery life in testing.

Surface Book 4 is the star of the show

I've been hearing for a while now that Microsoft is planning to unveil a new flagship Surface "laptop" at this event. I'm told it'll feature a non-detachable 2-in-1 design, essentially combining the Surface Laptop with the Surface Pro form factor. The display can be pulled forward and laid flat over the keyboard deck for drawing or taking notes, similar to the HP Elite Folio.

I'm unsure whether Microsoft plans to call this device the "Surface Book 4" or if it'll ship under another name. Sources familiar with Microsoft's hardware plans have referred to this device as several different names, including Book 4, Laptop Pro, and Laptop Studio. For now, the name remains a mystery. This device will likely be the star of the show, as it's the only product with a new form factor and design within the Surface line that's being announced.

Other details include a larger trackpad compared to the Surface Book 3, a display size of around 14-inches with a dynamic refresh rate, and slim uniform bezels with rounded corners. The device has two USB-C ports, a Surface Connect port, and a headphone jack. I'm also told the device will ship with NVIDIA RTX graphics, though I am yet to hear of which series, specifically.

No word on what chips it will ship with, but given the new design, I'm hoping that that Microsoft will strive for more powerful 6 or 8-core chips to rival high-end devices like MacBook Pro and Dell XPS 15. I'm also unsure if any of the USB-C ports are Thunderbolt enabled.

Minor revisions to Surface Go 3

Microsoft's budget Surface Go is likely to remain very similar to the Surface Go 2, with only chip updates expected. Geekbench results have revealed that the Surface Go 3 will likely ship with an Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y in the low-end model and an Intel Core i3-10100Y in the higher-end LTE-enabled model.

I was told last year that Microsoft was playing with the idea of shipping a black Surface Go 2, though that never materialized. Perhaps we'll see a black Surface Go 3 ship instead.

More accessories to come...

We also expect Microsoft to announce a handful of new accessories, as with past events. A new Surface Pen with haptics tops the list, which Microsoft has announced will be required to leverage some Windows 11 pen features. I suspect the new pen takes on the same Slim Pen form factor that was introduced with the Surface Pro X.

We also expect Type Covers to be updated with the new Windows 11 logo on the Start key, and possibly new colors too. I'm unsure if we'll see a new pair of Surface Headphones or Surface Earbuds, though both products are severely overdue at this point.

What not to expect

As is the case every year, there's a couple of Surface PCs that won't be getting an update this fall. These include the Surface Studio, Surface Laptop, and Surface Laptop Go. We also likely won't be seeing the Surface Neo given the fact that the Intel Lakefield chip inside has since been discontinued by Intel.

What are your thoughts?

That's everything I'm told we will and won't be announced on September 22nd. Of course, Microsoft is sometimes able to keep a few things a surprise, so maybe we'll see some addition things that we haven't heard about yet. Either way, the event is slated to commence at 11 a.m. ET / 8 a.m. PT, with coverage to follow on Windows Central. Let us know what you're most excited about in the comments below.

What you need to know

• A retail listing for the Surface Pro 8 has appeared.
• While the render is of the Surface Pro X, we believe the leaked specs are likely accurate.
• Microsoft has a Surface reveal event coming up on Wednesday, September 22, 2021.

This Wednesday, Microsoft will kick off a new Surface hardware event, and we expect to see the Surface Duo 2, a new Surface Book with a refreshed hinge, and much more. Although, one new Surface may have leaked ahead of its September 22 announce date.

Twitter account Shadow_Leaker posted (via The Verge) the above retail image of a purported Surface Pro 8 although we believe the render is actually of the Surface Pro X which appeared when the Microsoft SQ2 chip was announced. However, the specs the leakster posted may in fact be accurate.

The supposed specs include 11th-gen Intel Core processors, a 13-inch 120Hz display, dual Thunderbolt interfaces, and replaceable SSDs which we've seen on the Surface Pro X and Surface Laptop line previously. Of course, the Surface Pro 8 will also launch with Windows 11 as standard.

Adding Thunderbolt support would be a major boost for the Surface Pro line, which has up until now used only the proprietary Surface port and USB-C interfaces for data. Opening it up to Thunderbolt adds in the potential for external GPUs for gaming and other devices that require more speed and bandwidth. On top of that, this will also mark the first time a Surface device has had a 120Hz display, giving it much smoother motion than previous Surface screens.

Not only will these upgrades benefit gaming scenarios across the board, but they will also benefit inking and drawing, which is bottlenecked somewhat by the choppy refresh rate of previous 60Hz Surface devices. Microsoft is also working on Dynamic Refresh Rates for Windows 11 to rival Apple's ProMotion technology to that end, and 120Hz is an obvious progression of that commitment.

Our senior editor Zac Bodwen weighed in on the leaks on Twitter. "Think of it as a combination of the Surface Pro 7 and Surface Pro X design," says Bowden in a follow-uptweet. "Display is larger with thinner bezels, chassis is slightly tweaked, supports the new Pro X Type Covers, but the device is still thicker/more like the classic Pro chassis than the Pro X chassis."

While the render in the listing is not what the Surface Pro 8 will look like, the specs seem likely to be accurate. Either way, we won't have to wait long to find out, as the Surface event kicks off this Wednesday on September 22, 2021.

What you need to know

• New FCC documents cleared on September 17 filed by Microsoft are likely for Surface Duo 2.
• The documents confirm 5G, NFC, UWB, Wi-Fi 6, and a "Wireless Power Transfer."
• While it could be Qi wireless, it is more likely inductive charging for a Surface Pen.

On September 22, Microsoft is expected to reveal Surface Duo 2 — the follow up device to its unique dual-screen theory of pocketable computing.

New FCC documents released on September 17 reveal some more details about the upcoming device, although photos, schematics, and in-depth descriptions are withheld until January 2022.

While most of the data, filed under C3K1995 (C3K is the grantee code for Microsoft, 1995 is the FCC product code), are drab test results, there are a few details that confirm this is Surface Duo 2.

For one, it's referred to as a "portable handset" throughout the documents. There are multiple references to various "postures" for testing the device, including "flip and flat." The device has 4G and 5G capabilities. Testing was performed for hearing aid use — a requirement for "digital wireless phones." Even the build number of the firmware — 2021.728.20 — matches the format used by Surface Duo.

Besides confirmation of Wi-Fi 8021.11b/g/n/ax (aka Wi-Fi 6), Multi-band 5G, NFC, and Ultra-wideband (UWB, likely for accessories and rapid file transfers like Nearby Share), there is also mention of "Wireless Power Transfer," aka fancy FCC speak for wireless charging.

While it's easy to jump to Qi-wireless as the reference, our sources, so far, have yet to confirm any native Qi wireless charging for Surface Duo 2. Indeed, the device is so thin that putting the Qi coil in and mitigating the heat generated could be too difficult to implement.

An alternative theory to Qi wireless charging is that Surface Duo 2 may support inductive charging for a Surface Pen akin to how Apple's iPads can recharge the Apple Pencil with it magnetically sticking to the device. Admittedly, the support for Surface Pen and Surface Duo 2 is not something widely reported on yet in terms of actual abilities like haptic feedback, storage, and support in Android leaving it all a bit of a mystery.

Besides the above information, much about Surface Duo 2 is already known. The device should feature the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processor, 8GB of RAM, larger 5.8-inch high-refresh displays that curve inward, three rear cameras, Bluetooth 5.1, a larger 4,400 mAh battery, white or black colorways, and Android 11 (with Android 12 expected first half of 2022).

More details about Surface Duo 2 should be revealed on Wednesday, September 22 at 11 AM ET in a #MicrosoftEvent live stream. In addition to the Surface Duo 2, other devices like Surface Pro 8, Surface Pro X, Surface Go 3, and a "Surface Book 4" are also expected to be unveiled.

Thanks, Javid M., for the tip!