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Best business laptops in 2022

lowryb3865@gmail.com (Brendan Lowry) — Wed, 13 Apr 2022 18:00:01 +0000

Buying the best business laptop is very different than buying one for education or casual consumer use. Priorities change, but the need for a great laptop remains. Whether it's from Dell, Microsoft, Huawei, or HP, some truly great business laptops are out there.

Best overall: Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon

Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (9th Gen)

Simply put, a legend

Superb display

Built-in privacy and security features

Thin, light, and durable

Great battery life

Red pointer for Lenovo fans

Gets expensive

Lacks inking support

You can't look for a business laptop and not at least consider the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon. The 9th Gen model has finally launched, and as cliche as it is, it's definitely the best one yet. It keeps the same traditional design as its predecessors, including its trademark ruggedness and lightweight nature.

It still looks great on the outside, and the features that business customers care about are still present and correct. New for 2021 are some great improvements like a 16:10 display and, for the first time, 5G connectivity. The bump to 11th Gen Intel CPUs also provides a boost to performance and battery life.

Staples such as Windows Hello biometrics and a webcam privacy shutter return for another year, as does the all-important port selection. You'll find Thunderbolt 4 USB-C, USB-A, and HDMI on the latest X1 Carbon, along with an expansion dongle in the box for even more.

Fans of the red pointer will also be happy to see it continues to live on in the X1 Carbon. The more things change, the more they stay the same!

Best tablet: Microsoft Surface Pro 8

Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

Microsoft Surface Pro 8 2-in-1 Laptop

It is faster with LTE

Intel 11th Gen and Xe graphics are fast

Improved optional 4G LTE is quick and reliable

Thunderbolt 4

120Hz display

Longest battery life yet

Can get pricey

The Surface Pro is a tablet. It's also a laptop. You have the flexibility to use it like a convertible but also completely free of a keyboard. And this "tablet" packs a full laptop's worth of hardware inside. Throw in a pen, kickstand, and a terrific-looking display, and you have an incredibly versatile business machine.

The latest version, the Surface Pro 8, is incredibly flexible and shows off the very best of what Windows 11 has to offer. This one comes with 11th Gen Intel processors, a stellar 120Hz display, Thunderbolt 4, optional LTE connectivity, and more. The design of the Surface Pro 8 is very similar to the thin-and-light Surface Pro X, too, making it very easy to carry around.

If you add a Surface Dock, this can be your desktop machine in the office. Attach the Type Cover and Surface Pen, and it's your laptop for hitting the road. It's truly a laptop for all situations.

Best rugged: Panasonic TOUGHBOOK G2

Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

Panasonic TOUGHBOOK G2 (2021)

Go anywhere, do anything

3 modular bays including removable SSD

Excellent display

Optional 4G LTE (dual SIM)

Good performance, excellent battery life

Trackpad is dreadful

Not all business is conducted in the comfort of an office. Many situations demand something that can take a serious beating. Industries such as health care and construction, for example, would be better suited to the practically indestructible Panasonic TOUGHBOOK G2.

This chunky 2-in-1 can operate as a tablet or a laptop, and whatever the conditions, it'll keep on working. The list of features this laptop has is truly mind-blowing, but each has been added to meet the TOUGHBOOK buyer's needs.

Panasonic's G2 is the perfect rugged tablet PC with an optional keyboard that is also completely adaptable to whatever job it is tasked with, thanks to its tri-modular design. It has weaknesses, like a poor trackpad, but as a go-anywhere, do-anything type of laptop, it's the top of the class.

Best ultraportable: Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano

Source: Lenovo (Image credit: Source: Lenovo)

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano

5G, super light, but powerful

Excellent display

Cellular connectivity

Security-focused with multiple forms of biometric login

Compact and light

Human presence detection

Higher spec models are pricey

Small touchpad

Limited port selection

Buying a laptop for business use likely also means buying a laptop that will be carried around a lot. In this case, you'll do well to get something that's compact and lightweight and won't take up much space in your bag. All while ensuring the features you care about aren't compromised.

It shouldn't come as a shock that the Lenovo ThinkPad lineup has something to offer. The X1 Nano is small and absurdly light, coming in at a hair over 2 pounds. But despite its diminutive body, it packs everything the discerning business customer would want when buying a ThinkPad.

Obvious specs to highlight include the 11th Gen Intel processor, 16GB of RAM, 1TB of PCIe storage, and optional 2K display. Perhaps more importantly, the traditional ThinkPad focuses on business-friendly features like a dTPM 2.0 chip, both fingerprint and IR biometrics, a webcam cover, and cellular connectivity. Oh, and even though it's small, it retains the trademark red pointer. It wouldn't be a ThinkPad without it!

Best convertible: HP EliteBook x360 1040 G8

(Image credit: HP)

HP EliteBook x360 1040 G8 Business Laptop

Beautiful, sturdy all-metal chassis

Outstanding keyboard and trackpad

Impressive audio for enterprise

New presence-aware tech is neat

Options for 4G LTE and pen

Still 16:9

Weak pen magnets

Weird AC behavior

Fans can be noisy

HP's top-of-the-line EliteBook x360 1040 might have a mouthful of a name, but the laptop is all business. The latest version is thinner, lighter, has smaller bezels and optional 4G LTE connectivity while maintaining its convertible form factor.

On the one hand, you're still getting a 16:9 display ratio. But on the more important hand, for business customers, you get a ton of features. There are options for Tile integration (device tracking), cellular, an NFC module, up to 2TB of storage, Wacom AES 2.0 Pen, and displays from matte Full HD to Sure View Reflect with 1,000 nits of brightness up to 4K UHD with touch.

All of this while looking like the kind of convertible Ultrabook anyone would desire to own. It's sleek, and slim, and packed with tech. Thoughtful software and hardware permeate the EliteBook x360 1040, such as a single press of a button to cover the webcam. Toss in solid battery life, durable build quality, and surprisingly good audio, and you have yourself a winner.

Best battery life: Dell Latitude 9410

Source: Dell (Image credit: Source: Dell)

Dell Latitude 9410

A laptop that will keep going when you stop

Best battery life

ExpressCharge option for fast recharging

Good performance overall

Great ports

Not as powerful as other options

Everyone likes to have good battery life on a laptop, but it's even higher up the priority list when buying for business use. That's where the Dell Latitude 9410 comes into its own because despite not having the biggest physical battery you'll see, it has remarkable longevity.

The battery inside the Latitude 9410 is 52Wh, whichever configuration you buy, but it has different bonus features throughout the range. Some come with ExpressCharge, which can charge to 80% within an hour. Others are "long-life" batteries that come with a three-year warranty for peace of mind.

With Dell's super-low-power display panels, the Latitude 9410 can deliver up to 27 hours of battery life, which is truly outstanding and, in most cases, could stretch two days away from a charger. It's also FirstNet ready for first responders and comes with a suite of software and support from Dell.

The Latitude 9410 is also a convertible laptop with 10th Gen Intel processors, fast storage and RAM, lots of port selection, and a great-looking display. Not only will it last all day and then some, but it's also just a great laptop to use.

Bottom line

Gone are the days of business laptops being some boring black boxes that weighed a lot and were as thick as an encyclopedia. We've been there, and we're glad those days are long gone with fantastic notebooks like the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon.

The lines between consumer, prosumer, and business user are moving closer and closer together, and this laptop is a perfect example of that. It's packed with business-friendly features, insanely good build quality, and as an added bonus, it looks great around the meeting room table.

Remarkably, some of the very best Windows laptops in recent times are the ones targeted at business customers. It's great to see for the corporate world, but it can throw a real loop for normal customers.

Surface Pro 7+ and Type Cover bundle deal will save you up to $229 right now

Robert Carnevale — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 18:34:35 +0000

Been hungry for a Surface Pro 7+ and Type Cover but don't have the funds for such an expense? Well, good news: Microsoft is slashing the bundled price of the pair by a not-insubstantial sum of $229, bringing the bundle's starting price down to $699 if you forget all about whatever pesky sales tax may apply to you.

Now, the key is to remember this bundle starts at $699, meaning you're not going to get the best config possible at that price. You'll score a Pro 7+ with an Intel Core i3 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 128GB SSD. Should you want to dole out $100 more, you can upgrade to an Intel Core i5 while maintaining the same SSD and RAM values.

When buying the bundle, you'll also be offered a plethora of add-ons. Should you want something like a Surface Pen or Arc Mouse injected into your order, you can snag them at a discounted rate as well.

Surface Pro 7+ and Type Cover

Save up to $229

You can save big money on a Surface Pro 7+ if you want to get it bundled with its Type Cover. Plus, you can score accessories at a discounted price as the cherry on top.View Deal

When we reviewed the Pro 7+, we cited its raw speed (relative to other Surface devices), respectable battery life, and general design as gains for the machine. So if these aspects are compelling enough to make you want to hop aboard the Surface train, now's as good a time as any, especially since you'll potentially have an extra $229 remaining to do with whatever you'd like. You could pocket that money away for a rainy day, or even go out and spend it on something like a couple Xbox Series X controllers if you need a set for gaming with friends.

Microsoft Surface Pro 8 vs. 7: Which is a better buy?

c.cale.hunt@gmail.com (Cale Hunt) — Wed, 22 Sep 2021 21:00:02 +0000

Surface Pro 8

Big changes to the Pro line

The Surface Pro 8 is here with significantly improved performance, Thunderbolt 4 ports, larger display with a higher resolution and refresh rate, improved cameras, and a better inking experience with the new Surface Slim Pen 2. LTE connectivity is available, and the attachable Type Cover keyboard and touchpad has a holder for the active pen. You will pay more for the latest model, but the changes might just be worth it.

Pros

Larger display with higher resolution, refresh rate
Better performance from 11th Gen Intel CPUs
Dual Thunderbolt 4 ports
Improved cameras
Improved inking experience with Surface Slim Pen 2

Cons

Will cost more
No LTE until 2022

Surface Pro 7

Still a great 2-in-1

The Surface Pro 7 and its Surface Pro 7 Plus business counterpart are older versions of the Pro line, but that doesn't mean they're not still viable options that will cost you less than the newest Pro 8. Performance is still good, the 2-in-1 design is hard to beat, and the high-res screen supports inking and touch. The Pro 7 Plus is available with LTE connectivity, while the standard Pro 7 caps out at Wi-Fi 6.

Pros

More affordable than the Pro 8
Pro 7 Plus available with LTE
2-in-1 design is still great
Beautiful touch display
Still a powerful device

Cons

Older performance hardware
No Thunderbolt
Cameras not as good
Display not as large

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.

Category	Surface Pro 8	Surface Pro 7	Surface Pro 7+
OS	Windows 11 Home Windows 11 Pro (commercial) Windows 10 Pro (commercial)	Windows 10 Home	Windows 10 Pro
Processor	Consumer: 11th Gen Intel Core i5-1135G7 Core i7-1185G7 Commercial: 11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4 Core i5-1145G7 Core i7-1185G7	10th Gen Intel Core i3-1005G1 Core i5-1035G4 Core i7-1065G7	11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4 Core i5-1135G7 Core i7-1165G7
RAM	8GB, 16GB, 32GB LPDDR4x	4GB, 8GB, 16GB LPDDR4x	8GB, 16GB LPDDR4x (Wi-Fi, LTE) 32GB LPDDR4x (Wi-Fi)
Graphics	Intel UHD (i3) Intel Iris Xe (i5, i7)	Intel UHD (i3) Intel Iris Plus (i5, i7)	Intel UHD (i3) Intel Iris Xe (i5, i7)
Storage	128GB, 256GB SSD (Wi-Fi, LTE) 512GB, 1TB SSD (Wi-Fi)	128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB SSD	128GB, 256GB SSD (Wi-Fi, LTE) 512GB, 1TB (Wi-Fi)
Display	13 inches 2880x1920 267 PPI 3:2 aspect ratio Up to 120Hz (60Hz default) Touch	12.3 inches 2736x1824 267 PPI 3:2 aspect ratio Touch	12.3 inches 2736x1824 267 PPI 3:2 aspect ratio Touch
Ports	Two Thunderbolt 4 Surface Connect 3.5mm audio	USB-C 3.1 USB-A 3.5mm audio Surface Connect microSD card reader	USB-C 3.1 USB-A 3.5mm audio Surface Connect microSD card reader
Audio	Dual 2W stereo speakers Dolby Atmos Dual far-field studio mics	Dual 1.6W stereo speakers Dolby Audio Dual far-field studio mics	Dual 1.6W stereo speakers Dolby Atmos Dual far-field studio mics
Connectivity	Wi-Fi 6 Bluetooth 5.1 Snapdragon X20 LTE eSIM support	Wi-Fi 6 Bluetooth 5	Wi-Fi 6 Bluetooth 5 Snapdragon X20 LTE eSIM support
Camera	IR camera Front-facing 5MP (1080p) Rear-facing 10MP (1080p, 4K)	IR camera Front-facing 5MP (1080p) Rear-facing 8MP (1080p)	Front-facing 5MP (1080p) Rear-facing 8MP (1080p)
Security	TPM 2.0 IR camera	Firmware TPM IR camera	TPM 2.0 IR camera
Battery	Up to 16 hours	Up to 10.5 hours	Up to 15 hours (Wi-Fi 5) Up to 13.5 hours (LTE)
Dimensions	11.3 x 8.2 x 0.37 inches (287mm x 208.3mm x 9.4mm)	11.5 x 7.9 x 0.33 inches (292mm x 201mm x 8.5mm)	11.5 x 7.9 x 0.33 inches (292mm x 201mm x 8.5mm)
Weight	1.96 pounds (891g)	From 1.70 pounds (770g)	From 1.70 pounds (770g)
Color	Platinum Graphite	Platinum Black	Platinum Black

Surface Pro 8 vs. Pro 7 design and features

Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

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.

Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

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

Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

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

Source: Daniel Rubino/Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Daniel Rubino/Windows Central)

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.

Big changes to the Pro line

Surface Pro 8

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.

Still a great 2-in-1

Surface Pro 7

Surface Pro 7 & 7 Plus receive firmware updates with critical security fixes

sendicott47@outlook.com (Sean Endicott) — Mon, 28 Jun 2021 11:12:54 +0000

What you need to know

The Surface Pro 7 and Surface Pro 7+ recently received firmware updates.
The updates include critical security fixes and other improvements.
As is usually the case, the updates do not include any new features.

Microsoft rolled out firmware updates for its Surface Pro 7 and Surface Pro 7+ last week. Amidst the announcement of Windows 11, the updates rolled out without much fanfare. As is normally the case, the firmware updates don't include any new features. Instead, they include several fixes and improvements, including critical security fixes.

Here's the complete changelog from Microsoft for the Surface Pro 7.

Device Manager Name	Version and Update
Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201 160MHz - Network adapters	22.40.0.7 - Improves Wi-Fi connection reliability.
Intel Wireless Bluetooth - Bluetooth	22.40.0.2 - Improves BT connection reliability.
Surface Touch Pen Processor	3.329.137.0 - Improves Pen and Touch stability.
Surface UEFI - Firmware	9.107.140.0 - Addresses critical security vulnerability and improves system stability.
Surface ME - Firmware	13.0.1763.5 - Addresses critical security vulnerability and improves system stability.
Intel Management Engine Interface – System devices	2102.100.0.1044 - Addresses critical security vulnerability and improves system stability.
Intel ICLS Client - Software devices	1.62.321.1 - Addresses critical security vulnerability and improves system stability.

Here are the changes listed in Microsoft's Surface Pro 7+ changelog:

Device Manager Name	Version and Update
Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201 160MHz - Network adapters	22.40.0.7 - Improves Wi-Fi connection reliability.
Intel Wireless Bluetooth - Bluetooth	22.40.0.2 - Improves BT connection reliability.
Surface UEFI - Firmware	12.101.141.0 - Addresses critical security vulnerability and improves system stability.
Surface ME - Firmware	15.0.1680.1 - Addresses critical security vulnerability and improves system stability.
Intel Management Engine Interface – System devices	2108.100.0.1053 - Addresses critical security vulnerability and improves system stability.
Intel ICLS Client - Software devices	1.62.321.1 - Addresses critical security vulnerability and improves system stability.

You can grab the updates now through Windows Update or manually install them through Microsoft's Surface devices download page.

Surface Pro 7 Plus vs. ThinkPad X12 Detachable: Which is a better buy?

c.cale.hunt@gmail.com (Cale Hunt) — Tue, 30 Mar 2021 12:00:02 +0000

Microsoft Surface Pro 7 Plus

Mid-Gen Refresh

The Surface Pro 7 Plus for Business is a mid-gen Pro 7 refresh that adds 4G LTE connectivity, better battery life, upgradeable SSD, and updated CPUs. If you don't need the extra ThinkPad security and management features, it's likely the better (though pricier) buy.

Pros

Removable/Upgradeable SSD
Excellent battery life
microSD card reader, 4G LTE
Vivid, clear touch display
Strong 11th Gen performance

Cons

No vPro
No Thunderbolt 4
Pen and keyboard cost extra
Costs more

Lenovo ThinkPad X12 Detachable

First-Gen ThinkPad 2-in-1

The ThinkPad X12 Detachable is Lenovo's take on the 2-in-1, with 11th Gen Intel Core vPro CPU options and plenty of security features. It's durable (with MIL-STD 810G certification), it has a great keyboard included in the price, optional 4G LTE connectivity, and Thunderbolt 4.

Pros

Thunderbolt 4, 4G LTE
11th Gen Intel vPro CPUs available
Keyboard and active pen included
Excellent typing experience
Extra security features

Cons

Lesser raw performance
Battery life not as long
No microSD card reader
Display not as high-res

The ThinkPad X12 Detachable and Surface Pro 7+ are both high-end 2-in-1 Windows PCs stacked with features. Buying either one will land you a quality laptop, but there are certainly some major differences that will likely sway you one way or the other. We've put together this comparison to help you decide which is best for your needs.

Surface Pro 7+ vs. ThinkPad X12 Detachable: Tech specs

	Surface Pro 7+	ThinkPad X12 Detachable
OS	Windows 10 Pro	Windows 10 Home Windows 10 Pro
Processor	11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4 Core i5-1135G7 Core i7-1165G7	11th Gen Intel Core i3-1110G4 Core i5-1130G7 Core i5-1140G7 vPro Core i7-1160G7 Core i7-1180G7 vPro
RAM	8GB, 16GB, 32GB LPDDR4x-4266	8GB, 16GB LPDDR4x-4266
Storage	128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB SSD Upgradeable	256GB, 512GB, 1TB SSD
Display	12.3 inches 2736x1824 3:2 aspect ratio Touch Glossy Gorilla Glass 3	12.3 inches 1920x1280 3:2 aspect ratio Touch Anti-reflective Gorilla Glass 5
Graphics	Integrated Intel UHD (i3) Intel Iris Xe	Integrated Intel UHD (i3) Intel iris Xe
Ports	USB-C 3.2 (Gen 2) USB-A 3.2 (Gen 2) 3.5mm audio Surface Connect microSD card reader Nano-SIM (optional)	Thunderbolt 4 USB-C 3.2 (Gen 2) 3.5mm audio Nano-SIM (optional)
LTE	Snapdragon X20 4G LTE (i5 only) eSIM support	Fibocom L850-GL 4G LTE eSIM support
Security	TPM 2.0 IR camera	dTPM 2.0 Fingerprint reader IR camera Webcam shutter Kensington lock slot
Cameras	Front-facing 5MP Rear-facing 8MP	Front-facing 5MP Rear-facing 8MP
Audio	Dual 1.6W speakers Dolby Atmos	Dual 1W speakers
Connectivity	Wi-Fi 6 Bluetooth 5.0	Wi-Fi 6 Bluetooth 5.1
Battery	50.4Wh	42Wh
Dimensions	11.5x7.9x0.33 inches (292mmx201mmx8.5mm)	11.15x8.01x0.34 inches (283.3mmx203.5mmx8.8mm)
Weight	From 1.70 pounds (770g)	From 1.67 pounds (760g)
Color	Platinum Matte Black	Black

Design and features

Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

The X12 Detachable borrows heavily from the Surface Pro's design, so it's no surprise that these two devices are physically quite similar. They're both 2-in-1 PCs with a detachable keyboard, held in place with a series of magnets. These aren't wireless keyboard and must be attached by pins to communicate with the tablet. Each device has a fold-out stand on the back to prop up the display portion.

The Pro 7+ and X12 Detachable are both built into a sleek magnesium chassis. They weigh about the same without a keyboard attached, and the dimensions are likewise nearly identical. You can get the Pro 7+ with Platinum or Matte Black color finish, whereas the X12 Detachable comes only in ThinkPad Black. The Pro 7+ has a smooth finish. The X12 Detachable goes with something called "Peachskin" that feels great underhand. If you're adding a Type Cover to the Pro 7+, you can branch out a bit with the available colors.

In terms of typing, both keyboards do well to simulate the feel of a full board. However, Lenovo's ThinkPad keyboard has better overall rigidity for a more stable feel. It also adds the TrackPoint system with physical mouse buttons and a red pointing nub. The Surface Type Cover still feels great, but if you're already coming from a ThinkPad, the X12 Detachable will definitely be more familiar. Keep in mind that the Type Covers are sold separately, whereas the X12 Detachable has one included in the price. You can use older Surface Pro Type Covers with the Pro 7 if you'd like to save money.

Source: Microsoft (Image credit: Source: Microsoft)

Ports differ between these two devices. The X12 Detachable includes Thunderbolt 4, USB-C 3.2, 3.5mm audio, and optional Nano-SIM. These ports set you up nicely for the future, but some might find the selection lacking compared to the Pro 7+. The Surface device includes USB-C 3.2, USB-A 3.2, a microSD card reader, 3.5mm audio, proprietary Surface Connect, and optional Nano-SIM. If you often work with removable storage, you will likely have to add one of the best laptop docking stations to the X12 to keep up. The Pro 7+ does include a proprietary Surface Connect port, which can attach to a Surface Dock without tying up any other ports.

All ThinkPads usually come with a ton of security features, and the X12 is no exception. Along with a dTPM 2.0 chip and Intel vPro CPU options, it has an IR camera, webcam shutter, fingerprint reader, and Kensington lock slot. The Pro 7+ also has an IR camera for Windows Hello and a TPM 2.0 chip, but it lacks a fingerprint reader, lock slot, and vPro CPU options.

Source: Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Windows Central)

Audio from the dual front-facing X12 Detachable 1W speakers is understandably underwhelming. This is a thin device without a whole lot of space for an impressive soundscape. The Pro 7+ is similar, though its dual speakers hit 1.6W each and have Dolby Atmos tuning. If audio quality is of utmost importance, you're betting off with the Pro 7+. As for cameras, both devices have a front-facing 5MP camera and a rear-facing 8MP camera.

For easy connectivity, both laptops come with optional 4G LTE connectivity, Nano-SIM slot, eSIM capabilities, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5. Note that the Pro 7+ comes only with a Core i5 when opting for LTE, whereas it seems LTE can be added to any X12 configuration.

Display and inking

Source: Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Windows Central)

These devices come with one 12.3-inch touch display option at a 3:2 aspect ratio, though the Pro 7+ boasts more impressive specs. The Pro 7+ goes with a 2736x1824 resolution, whereas the X12 sticks with 1920x1280. You'll still get a great picture from the X12 Detachable, especially with an anti-reflective finish, but it doesn't have nearly as much pixel density as the Pro 7+. The Surface device goes with a glossy finish that will have you dealing with more glare.

The Pro 7+ tops out at about 410 nits brightness, whereas the X12 hits 427 nits. As for color reproduction, expect 98% sRGB, 73% AdobeRGB, and 72% DCI-P3 from the Pro 7+, and expect 100% sRGB, 75% AdobeRGB, and 78% DCI-P3 from the X12. Either one is going to look great handling productivity work and even some photo editing.

Source: Daniel Rubino/Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Daniel Rubino/Windows Central)

These devices are as comfortable acting as tablets as notebooks, so inking capabilities are a given. The X12 Detachable includes a Lenovo Digital Pen with 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, plus you can upgrade to the Lenovo Precision Pen for about $60 if you need tilt support for shading. Both use Wacom AES tech.

The Pro 7+'s Surface Pen comes separate and generally costs more, though it does provide a stellar inking experience. It has 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, uses N-Trig tech, and tilt support. If you're artistic and want to use one of these devices for drawing and sketching, the Pro line is still a better option, especially when you add a Surface Dial for easier control over drawing apps.

Performance and price

Source: Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Windows Central)

Two major differences in performance hardware are the Pro 7+'s removable and upgradeable SSD and the ability to get up to 32GB of RAM. The X12 Detachable tops out at 16GB, and there's no slot for easy access to the SSD. You'd technically have to take the tablet apart, which really doesn't seem like an enviable task.

Both devices have impressive LPDDR4x RAM, and both have M.2 SSDs that hit about the same speeds (Pro 7+ beats out the X12 in read speeds). Other than in the PCMark 10 synthetic benchmark, the Pro 7+ wins out against the X12 when using a Core i5 CPU. Why? The Pro 7+ uses slightly different 11th Gen Intel chips, with higher TDP. They don't offer vPro, but they do operate at a higher frequency. If raw performance matters to you, the Pro 7+ is the better choice. But that doesn't mean the X12 is far behind.

Here are a bunch of benchmarks that show where the X12 sits compared to the Pro 7+.

The Pro 7+'s battery is larger at 50.4Wh compared to 42Wh, which contributes to longer battery life despite the higher-TDP processors.

As for pricing, the ThinkPad X12 Detachable starts at a higher price but includes more accessories. For about $1,098, you can get an X12 with Core i3 CPU, 8GB of RAM, 256GB SSD, active pen, and keyboard. The Pro 7+ starts at $900 for a model with Core i3 CPU, 8GB of RAM, smaller 128GB SSD, no pen, and no Type Cover. You're looking at adding somewhere between $175 and $250 for the extra accessories, which puts the prices nearly on par.

Moving up to a Core i5 model with 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD, the Pro 7+ costs about $1,300 without accessories. The X12 Detachable costs about $1,188, with all accessories included. As you spec up hardware, the price difference between the two devices continues to grow; if you're on a budget, the X12 Detachable is going to deliver more for less.

If neither of these laptops suit your needs, be sure to check out our overall collection of the best Windows laptops available now. Our collections of the best Microsoft Surface PCs and best Lenovo laptops also include many more buying options.

The Surface Pro 7+ is the better choice for most people

With optional 4G LTE, high-res touch display, upgradeable SSD, better raw performance, and better battery life, the Pro 7+ is the right choice for more people. It costs more to get the full package, it lacks Intel vPro options, and it doesn't have Thunderbolt 4, but for most people, these shortcomings are outweighed by the positives.

If you're wondering how the Pro 7+ differs from the standard Pro 7, have a look at our Surface Pro 7 Plus vs. Surface Pro 7 comparison.

Mid-Gen Refresh

Microsoft Surface Pro 7 Plus

Addressing the needs of enterprise and education markets, Microsoft's Surface Pro 7+ brings a few new features to its classic laptop.

The ThinkPad X12 Detachable is better for business

The Pro 7+ is better suited to the office than the standard Pro 7, but the X12 Detachable outweighs both in terms of business features. Extra security, Intel vPro CPU options, certified durability, and included accessories give a more rounded package. Just don't expect battery life, display resolution, or raw performance to quite match up.

First-Gen ThinkPad 2-in-1

Lenovo ThinkPad X12 Detachable

The X12 Detachable is Lenovo's Surface Pro competitor. If you love ThinkPad but want to split your time between tablet and notebook, this is the way to go.

Surface Pro 7 Plus gets firmware update with lengthy list of changes

sendicott47@outlook.com (Sean Endicott) — Mon, 15 Mar 2021 13:30:04 +0000

What you need to know

The Surface Pro 7 Plus has a new firmware update available.
The update doesn't include any new features but does have a long list of changes.

Microsoft's Surface Pro 7 Plus is a business-centered version of Microsoft's popular 2-in-1. It has bumped up internals and optional LTE that make it an ideal choice for business users. If you have a Surface Pro 7 Plus, you can grab a firmware update for it now.

As is normally the case, the firmware update doesn't have any new features. It does, however, have a long list of improvements and bug fixes. Here's everything that's new from the changelog:

Device Manager Name	Version and Update
Intel Iris Xe Graphics	27.20.100.9030 - Improves system graphics performance and stability; resolves system bugcheck.
Intel Iris Xe Graphics Extn	27.20.100.9030 - Improves integration between system services.
Intel Smart Sound Technology (Intel(R) SST) Audio Controller - System devices	10.29.0.4842 - Improves device audio performance.
Intel Smart Sound Technology (Intel(R) SST) OED - System devices	10.29.0.4842 - Improves device audio performance.
Intel Smart Sound Technology for Bluetooth Audio - Sound, video, and game controllers	10.29.0.4842 - Improves device audio performance.
Intel Smart Sound Technology for USB Audio - Sound, video, and game controllers	10.29.0.4842 - Improves device audio performance.
Intel Precise Touch Device - Human Interface Devices	3.0.100.241 - Improves device touch response.
Intel Wireless Bluetooth - Bluetooth	22.20.1.1 - Improves Bluetooth stability.
Surface Integration - System devices	30.39.139 - Improves integration between system and pen inking.
Surface ME – Firmware	15.0.1447.1 - Addresses security updates and improves system stability.
Surface System Aggregator – Firmware	10.101.139 - Improves battery performance, system stability, and system telemetry reporting.
Surface UEFI – Firmware	12.41.141 - Improves system stability and system USB port identification.

The Surface Pro 7 Plus didn't launch that long ago, so you may still need to catch up on Microsoft's latest 2-in-1. Our executive editor took a thorough look at the device in his Surface Pro 7 Plus review. While the Surface Pro 7 Plus has a dated design, it is one of the best Windows laptops for business users.

Surface Pro 7+ gets SSD replacement kit, Microsoft hints at more to come

sendicott47@outlook.com (Sean Endicott) — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 17:54:07 +0000

What you need to know

Starting today, you can purchase an SSD Commercial Spare Kit for the Surface Pro 7+.
The kits allow IT professionals to replace an SSD "in a matter of minutes."
The kits will only be available in the United States to start.

When Microsoft announced the Surface Pro 7+, many were happy to see that it has a replaceable SSD. Much like the Surface Pro X and Surface Laptop 3, you can swap out its SSD in case your original has an issue, or you need to swap SSDs for security reasons. Now, you can order SSD Commercial Spare kits for the Surface Pro 7+ in the U.S. To order a kit, you need to reach out to an authorized Microsoft Surface reseller or Surface specialist.

"If an employee encounters issues that are related back to the SSD, the IT admin can replace the machine's SSD in a matter of minutes saving time and money," says a Microsoft Tech Community post on the kits.

You can get the kits with an SSD that's 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB. Interestingly, Microsoft discourages people from using the kits to increase the storage size of a Surface Pro 7+. The Tech Community Post states a question and response (emphasis added):

Can I upgrade Surface Pro 7+ devices by installing larger SSDs, or do I have to replace with the same size SSD that is removed?

While technically possible, Microsoft strongly discourages users from installing an SSD that has not been tested for your device configuration. Microsoft takes measures to ensure product quality and tests the hardware configurations offered for sale. Installing a non-Microsoft or a Microsoft SSD of different volume than the one provided originally may lead to reduced performance and unsupported configurations.

Notably, you cannot use these kits to replace the SSD on other Surface devices, such as the Surface Pro X, at this time. Microsoft's wording implies that the kit could work with other Surface devices in the future. The Tech Community post states (emphasis added), "At this time, the kits cover Surface Pro 7+ only and will not work for Surface Pro X or Surface Laptop Go."

While you cannot use these Surface Pro 7+ kits on a Surface Pro X or other Surface devices, the process of swapping an SSD should be similar across Surface devices. We have a complete guide on how to upgrade the SSD of the Surface Pro X. That guide includes a breakdown of how to get an operating system onto your SSD, which is a key part of the swapping process.

While the initial rollout of the kits will be only in the U.S., the kits will gradually become available in all Surface regions.

Surface Pro 7 Plus for Business review: LTE and Intel 11th Gen make a huge difference, even if the rest is boring

daniel@windowscentral.com (Daniel Rubino) — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 18:00:02 +0000

In January, Microsoft announced not Surface Pro 8, but Surface Pro 7+ with the unique "for Business" added on to the name. It is a move we have not seen from the company before, but it makes sense if a modernized and revamped Surface Pro 8 for consumers is due later this year.

There is not a long list of changes between Surface Pro 7 and Surface Pro 7+ for Business, but that does not mean they are insignificant either. Indeed, bumping to Intel's latest hardware and adding in Iris Xe graphics is a game-changer for this PC category.

So, who should get Surface Pro 7+, and what does better internal hardware get you? Let's find out.

Microsoft Surface Pro 7+ with LTE

Bottom line: Surface Pro 7+ for Business doesn't deviate far from 2020's Surface Pro 7 for consumers, but the small changes add up to an excellent experience. Intel's 11th Gen performance gains are massive, optional 4G LTE is blazing fast, and you can now swap out the SSD with a pin. It's not an exciting device for consumers, but businesses will love it.

Pros

Intel 11th Gen and Xe graphics are fast
Improved optional 4G LTE is quick and reliable
Up to 32GB of RAM
Removable SSD
Longest battery life yet

Cons

Dated design, thick bezels
Still no Thunderbolt 4

The TL;DR

Surface Pro 7+ for Business What's new

Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

This review will be slightly different from previous Surface Pro ones simply because I already did an exhaustive review of last year's Surface Pro 7, which is still relevant. Instead, I will focus on what is new with Surface Pro 7+ compared to previous versions, summarized this way:

New configuration options: Up to 32GB of RAM
Design: New removable SSD enclosure
Connectivity: New optional 4G LTE
Performance: Intel 11th Gen + Iris Xe graphics
Longevity: Larger battery, longer battery life

Some of these are self-explanatory.

For the first time, you can now order a Surface Pro with up to 32GB of RAM instead of being limited to just 16GB. That model, which features a Core i7 and 1TB SSD, will set you back a jaw-dropping $2,800, but for developers and those who really like Surface Pro, it is an excellent option to have available finally. You can't get that model, though, with LTE.

The new removable SSD enclosure follows Surface Pro X, which has had a similar design since late 2019. Consumers may value this option, but it is driven by enterprise and government customers who want an easier way to upgrade hardware and ensure security (since IT can remove the drive before servicing).

Category	Surface Pro 7+
Operating system	Windows 10 Pro
Display	12.3-inch PixelSense, 3:2 aspect ratio, 2736x1824 (267 PPI)
Processor	11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4 (Wi-Fi) 11th Gen Intel Core i5-1135G7 (Wi-Fi or LTE) 11th Gen Intel Core i7-1165G7 (Wi-Fi)
Graphics	Intel UHD Graphics (i3) Intel Iris Xe Graphics (i5, i7)
Memory	8GB or 16GB LPDDR4x (Wi-Fi or LTE) 32GB LPDDR4x (Wi-Fi)
Storage	128GB SSD or 256GB SSD (Wi-Fi or LTE) 512GB SSD or 1TB SSD (Wi-Fi)
Rear camera	8MP autofocus (1080p)
Front camera	5MP (1080p)
Security	TPM 2.0 Windows Hello face authentication camera
Connectivity	Bluetooth 5.0 Wi-Fi 6 802.11ax 4G Snapdragon X20 LTE Modem (optional)
Ports	One USB-C One USB-A One microSDXC One Surface Connect+ Surface Keyboard connector 3.5mm headphone jack
Battery	Up to 15 hours (Wi-Fi) Up to 13.5 hours (LTE Advanced)
Size	11.5" x 7.9" x 0.33" (292 mm x 201 mm x 8.5 mm)
Weight	i3, i5: 1.70 lb (775 g) i7: 1.74 lb (790 g)
Colors	Platinum Black

Swapping the SSD is a simple task. Use a SIM tool for popping the door, removing the single T3 Torx screw to slide out the drive. The form factor is M.2 2230, so it is smaller and more stubby than regular laptop SSDs, but the performance and concept are the same. I wrote a detailed guide on swapping the SSD for Surface Pro X, and everything applies here to Surface Pro 7+ for Business.

Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

Everything else is the same with Surface Pro 7+ compared to Surface Pro 7, including the excellent dual-front facing speakers, color-accurate display that supports touch and inking, and the entire design. Even ports, which are still limited to a single Type-A and Type-C (power, data, display out; no Thunderbolt) with a Surface Connect for power, remain unchanged. There's also a headphone jack on the upper left side, as expected.

LTE, processor, and battery life get a little more complicated, so they get detailed sections in this review.

For more in-depth discussions on Surface Pro 7+'s design, pen functionality, keyboard, audio, and more, please refer to my full Surface Pro 7 review.

Always connected

Surface Pro 7+ now with 4G LTE

Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

LTE is crucial for business devices due to the inherent security flaws found when using open Wi-Fi networks, especially when traveling at airports or coffee shops. Moreover, it is much more convenient to have an always-connected PC versus tethering with your phone.

Microsoft last offered a Surface Pro with 4G LTE back in 2018 with Surface Pro 5. A lot has changed in those three years, with Intel going from dual-core to quad-core processing, resulting in a colossal leap in multi-core performance. So, it makes sense to see that option here in 2021 for business users.

Microsoft uses the Snapdragon X20 LTE Modem supporting CAT 18 and up to 1.2 Gbps downloads and CAT 13 and 150 Mbps uploads. It is not as fancy as Qualcomm's newer X24 modem with up to 2 Gbps downloads, but it is more than adequate for most users. This modem is also a significant jump from the 2018 model, which only supported LTE Advanced CAT 9 up to 450 Mbps downloads.

Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

For 2021, it is odd for Microsoft to pass over an option for 5G, which many companies like HP and Lenovo are offering in their 2-in-1 devices. Microsoft says its customers did not list 5G as a priority feature, which may be accurate, but it seems unlikely to hold water in two years from now. Nonetheless, 4G LTE is still quite capable and, when paired with the latest Intel hardware, is quite performative.

There's not a lot new with Surface Pro 7+, but Intel's latest CPU makes a massive difference in performance.

Surface Pro 7+ supports both a physical nano-SIM and eSIM profiles. Users can dynamically switch between the two profiles through network properties, making it easy for IT departments to manage. Users can also buy data on the go with the Mobile Plans app, which activates instantly.

The laptop is SIM-unlocked and supports global LTE bands, including 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 38, 39, 40, 41, 66. Compared to the previous LTE Surface Pro, Surface Pro 7+ supports more bands, including 13, 25, and 66.

Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

LTE performance is excellent with Surface Pro 7+, primarily due to the ideal antenna placement. Microsoft gets credit for putting the antenna at the top and rear of the device, ensuring maximum reception exposure.

Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

Interestingly, Microsoft hides the 4G LTE antenna through a very creative process they had to invent. A laptop must have "windows" built-in that are non-metal based for adequate reception. Microsoft accomplishes this with a "gapless and stepless" process, fusing the antenna seamlessly to the chassis. It is a subtle thing, but it demonstrates Microsoft's focus on detail and design worth calling out.

During my testing, the modem never crashed or had problems reconnecting. With a decent T-Mobile connection, I was able to pull down nearly 40 Mbps, and an impressive 47 Mbps upload in my office.

With no LTE, Surface Pro 7+ falls back to Wi-Fi 6 powered by Intel. There's also Bluetooth 5.0 for peripherals and headphones.

Damn that's good

Surface Pro 7+ Benchmarks and battery

Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

The crux of Surface Pro 7+ comes down to its upgraded Intel 11th Gen processor and Iris Xe graphics (available in Core i5 and i7 models). Like previous Surface Pro generations, the Core i3 and i5 options are still fanless, whereas the Core i7 model uses active cooling when necessary. (Microsoft uses the empty fan slot in the i5 model for the 4G LTE modem).

Surface Pro 7+ is the fastest Surface for all intents and purposes (Surface Studio 2 being the exception). While multi-core scores are dramatically improved over 10th Gen models, Iris Xe graphics help the most.

On Cinebench 23, Surface Pro 7+ with a Core i5 not only beats Surface Pro 7, but it blows away a Surface Pro 6 with a Core i7-8650U.

Battery life of Surface Pro 7+ can edge out even Surface Pro X.

On Geekbench 5, Surface Pro 7+ is the fastest Surface, even beating a Surface Book 3 15" with a 2020-era Core i7-1065G7.

In 3Dmark Time Spy, which uses CPU and GPU, Surface Pro 7+ nearly doubles Surface Pro 7 and triples that of Surface Pro 6. Surface Book 3 15" redeems itself thanks to its much beefier NVIDIA GeForce GTX-1660 Ti, but it's not by a lot.

These results suggest that the Core i7 Surface Pro 7+ would even be more impressive for raw performance, albeit at the expense of having a fan.

Another nice bump is the noticeable increase in storage performance. Surface Pro 7+ gains some faster sequential read speeds (2,200 MB/s) and gets an even more significant jump in sequential write (1,076 MB/s) over Surface Pro 7 thanks to the 256GB Samsung 830 SSD. The contrast is even starker between Surface Pro 7+ and Surface Pro 6. It's nowhere near PCIe 4, but it's better.

Broadening results to other modern laptops and Surface Pro 7+ is comparable to other devices in its class with similar hardware configurations. The results are nothing special, but Microsoft is the only vendor using a fanless Core i5, whereas all the others are actively cooled. That is notable.

Turning to battery life and there are some interesting conclusions. Leaving 4G LTE on (but not being actively used) has no impact on battery life. Running PCMark 10's Modern Office Battery rundown benchmark (with LTE off, brightness fixed at 40 percent, and on recommend power), Surface Pro 7+ earned 11 hours and 13 minutes of run time. Leaving LTE on and re-running the benchmark resulted in 11 hours and 12 minutes of runtime, which is remarkably consistent.

By comparison, Surface Pro 7 scored only 9 hours and 52 minutes with the same settings. While an extra 1 hour and 20 minutes is not a massive gain, that additional 90 minutes could be 'make or break' for many users in daily usage. Toss in the apparent performance gains of Surface Pro 7+ and 4G LTE availability, and it is even more noteworthy.

Turning to Windows Battery Report, which is based on my real-world usage and Surface Pro 7+ ranges between 7 hours and 30 minutes up to 11 hours with lighter use. Your experience will depend on how bright you set the display and how hard you push the GPU.

Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

Even with the lack of a fan, Thermals are excellent with Surface Pro 7+ never getting too hot to touch thanks to its vertical orientation and heat dissipation through the top vents.

Configuration options

Surface Pro 7+ pricing, models, and availability

Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

With the inclusion of LTE, up to 32GB of RAM, and both black and platinum colorways, there are quite a few configuration options for Surface Pro 7+. Here are all of them broken by category.

Surface Pro 7+ Wi-Fi Commercial

Model	Price
11th Gen Intel Core i3, 8 GB RAM, 128 GB, Platinum	$899
11th Gen Intel Core i5, 8 GB RAM, 128 GB, Platinum	$999
11th Gen Intel Core i5, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB, Platinum/Black	$1,299
11th Gen Intel Core i7, 16 GB RAM, 256 GB, Platinum/Black	$1,599
11th Gen Intel Core i7, 16GB RAM, 512 GB, Platinum	$1,999
11th Gen Intel Core i7, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB, Platinum	$2,399
11th Gen Intel Core i7, 32 GB RAM, 1 TB, Platinum	$2,799

Surface Pro 7+ LTE Commercial

Model	Price
11th Gen Intel Core i5, 8 GB RAM, 128 GB, LTE, Platinum	$1,149
11th Gen Intel Core i5, 16 GB RAM, 256 GB, LTE, Platinum	$1,649

Surface Pro 7+ Wi-Fi Education

Model	Price
11th Gen Intel Core i5, 8 GB RAM, 128 GB, Platinum	$899
11th Gen Intel Core i5, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB, Platinum	$1,199

Pricing starts at $899 for the Core i3 with 8GB and 128GB of storage (platinum) and peaks at $2,800 for Core i7, 32GB, and 1TB of storage (platinum). Education models are $100 cheaper, only come in platinum, and do not have an LTE option.

The Surface Pro 7+ is now available but you can't just go pick one up from your local store. The Surface Pro 7+ is for business users, and to order one you'll need to go through a Surface Commercial Authorized Device Reseller or the Microsoft Store Business Desk.

Should you buy?

Surface Pro 7+ is dull but also incredibly powerful

Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

If Microsoft were marketing Surface Pro 7+ as a consumer device, it would be easy to critique the thick bezels, lack of 5G, and lack of Thunderbolt 4. Those are still cons for many, but Surface Pro 7+ is aimed squarely at enterprise and education markets where such things are less important.

It's evident Surface Pro 7+ delivers substantial improvements, especially over the last LTE model from 2018. Businesses will appreciate improved 4G LTE, a removable SSD, and up to 32GB of RAM. Intel 11th Gen is a colossal upgrade with markedly increased CPU and GPU performance. Those benchmarks are only made sweeter by the considerable jump in battery life.

Surface Pro 7+ has some stiff competition from Lenovo and HP, which offer Thunderbolt 4 and even 5G.

Some will see Microsoft as being stubborn (or lazy) with Surface Pro by not revamping the design. That's fair. But, IT departments will rejoice that this new version does not break compatibility with Surface Dock 2, Kensington Dock, or need new cables. Companies buying these en masse for the next two to four years will likely be OK with any perceived limitations.

Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

Surface Pro 7+ for Business does have stiff competition, though. Lenovo's similar ThinkPad X12 offers Thunderbolt 4 and even 5G with its famed Lenovo keyboard and TrackPoint. HP has the refreshed Elite x2 G8 (due in April) with 4G LTE, Thunderbolt 4, more display options, and up to 2TB of storage. Both are exceptional options that fill in Surface Pro 7+'s obvious gaps should they bother you. Microsoft's own Surface Pro X SQ2 has a larger display, pen storage, and overall more modern look. For something fancier and more of a traditional laptop, Lenovo's ThinkPad X1 Titanium Yoga with 5G is fascinating.

For more ideas, see our best 2-in-1 laptops. And if you need an always-connected PC, see our best LTE laptops and best 5G latops for additional alternatives.

But if you are hooked on the Surface Pro's design and Microsoft's vision, it is hard not to like the new 7+, even if it is for business. It's a bit boring, but it's also a workhorse. The good news for consumers is it seems likely we will get a more substantially revised Surface Pro 8 later this year. If Surface Pro 7+ is a preview for performance and battery life, it will be worth the wait.

Better and faster than ever

Microsoft Surface Pro 7+ for Business

It is faster with LTE

Addressing the needs of enterprise and education markets, Microsoft's Surface Pro 7+ brings a few new features to its classic laptop. With an option for LTE, removable SSD, and the latest Intel processors, Surface Pro 7+ should be an excellent choice out in the field.

Where is the best place to buy the Surface Pro 7 Plus?

cale.hunt@futurenet.com (Cale Hunt) — Tue, 09 Feb 2021 13:00:03 +0000

Where is the best place to buy the Surface Pro 7 Plus?

Best answer: The best place to buy the Surface Pro 7 Plus is directly from the Business side of the Microsoft Store. It can also be purchased from resellers, but you'll find the best configuration options and support from the official retailer.Getting down to business: Surface Pro 7 Plus ($900 at Microsoft Business)

Buy the Surface Pro 7 Plus from the Microsoft Store for Business

Source: Microsoft (Image credit: Source: Microsoft)

Microsoft announced the Surface Pro 7 Plus on January 11, 2021. It's targeted toward Enterprise and Education markets and is thus only available to buy on the Microsoft Store's Business side. Why? Executive Editor Daniel Rubino has this to say in his analysis:

Interestingly, Microsoft didn't see the need to bring Surface Pro 7+ to the consumer market, even though that seems like it would have been a logical strategy. But in doing so, some customers who buy Surface Pro 7+ may feel burned if Surface Pro 8 comes out late in the fall and with it an expected updated design. The positioning of Surface Pro 7+ for Business gets around that issue.

Fret not, retail customers. Anyone can buy from the Microsoft Store for Business, and the store page looks the same as the regular side. You can configure a Surface Pro 7 Plus as you'd like, you'll receive points for your purchase, there are alternate payment options and flexible payments, and there is support standing by to help with any questions you might have.

What's new with the Surface Pro 7 Plus?

Source: Microsoft (Image credit: Source: Microsoft)

We put together a Surface Pro 7 vs. Surface Pro 7 Plus comparison article that goes deep on the two devices' differences. There are some quick points to make note of here to help you make an informed buying decision. This is a mid-generation refresh, so the Pro 7 Plus's physical look really hasn't changed much. However, there is now a small door on the back of the tablet that allows for access to the solid-state drive (SSD). This handy addition is ideal for anyone concerned with security or future upgrades.

Inside is where most of the changes take place. The Pro 7 Plus now uses 11th Gen Intel Core processors (CPU), bringing up to a 30% increase in processing power and about an 80% bump to graphics performance thanks to Intel Iris Xe integrated GPU. You can also outfit a model with up to 32GB of RAM, up from 16GB in the standard Pro 7. Thanks to the new chips, battery life has improved significantly. Microsoft claims up to 10.5 hours for the Pro 7, while the Pro 7 Plus is pegged at closer to 15 hours on the Wi-Fi model.

LTE is now available in Core i5 models. The Snapdragon X20 LTE modem keeps you connected everywhere, whether you're near Wi-Fi or not, perfect for anyone always on the move.

Have a look at our best Windows laptop collection to see how it compares to other top options on the market.

Available To Everyone

Microsoft Surface Pro 7 Plus

Mid-gen refresh to the Pro 7

A refresh to the Pro 7 brings more powerful CPUs, better battery life, removable SSD, and 4G LTE connectivity. It's classified as a "Business" laptop, but anyone can get their hands on one.

Windows Central Podcast 211: Windows 10X on Surface Go, Pro 7+, Duo

zac.bowden@futurenet.com (Zac Bowden) — Mon, 08 Feb 2021 07:57:02 +0000

This is the Windows Central Podcast, and this week we're back with more follow up on Surface Pro 7+, and Zac spells out what Microsoft could be doing to improve Surface Duo. He and Daniel also take on Windows 10X, haptic touchpad, HP's Omen 15 gaming laptop, and more.

This episode of the Windows Central Podcast was recorded on February 5th 2021.

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The first firmware update for the Surface Pro 7+ resolves issues with its screen

sendicott47@outlook.com (Sean Endicott) — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 13:41:05 +0000

What you need to know

Microsoft's Surface Pro 7+ has its first firmware update.
The update addresses issues with screen brightness and refreshing.
The Surface Pro 7+ was announced around two weeks ago.

Microsoft's Surface Pro 7+ was only announced about two weeks ago, but it has its first firmware update. The update includes several resolutions to screen-related issues, including screen refresh issues and adaptive brightness issues. As is the case with most firmware updates, this update does not include any new features.

Here's everything that's new for the Surface Pro 7+, as found on a Microsoft support page:

Device Manager Name	Version and Update
Surface TCON device -Human Interface Devices	160.146.4.0 - Resolves screen refresh issues.
Surface Panel – Monitor	6.12.139.0 Resolves the adaptive brightness issue.
Surface System Aggregator – Firmware	10.24.139.0 Improves the power and graphics performance; resolves the USB-C issue. Surface - HIDClass - 160.146.3.0
Surface TCON device -Human Interface Devices (For LTE Advanced)	160.146.3.0 Resolves screen refresh issues.

The Surface Pro 7+ features a removable SSD and runs on Intel 11th Gen processors. It also has Iris Xe graphics. Microsoft claims that between the CPU and GPU and improvements, the Surface Pro 7+ is "2.1 times faster" than before.

The Surface Pro 7+ is aimed at business users, though anyone can buy one.

The latest firmware update for the Surface Pro 7+ started rolling out on January 20, 2021, but we now have a full changelog.

Better and faster than ever

Microsoft Surface Pro 7+ for Business

Seems faster with LTE

Windows Central Podcast 210: Windows 10X leaks, Surface Pro 7+, and more

zac.bowden@futurenet.com (Zac Bowden) — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 14:05:36 +0000

We're back with another exciting episode of the Windows Central Podcast, and this week, Zac and Dan catch up on Microsoft's Surface Pro 7+ for Business and tour an as-yet-unreleased version of Windows 10X for single-screen PCs. Microsoft Edge 88 is here as well, plus confusion and consternation regarding Xbox Live Gold. The guys also check out some of the best announcements from CES 2021.

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

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Send in your comments, questions, and feedback to:

Email: wcpodcast@windowscentral.com
Twitter: @WindowsCentral with hashtag #wcpodcast

Dive deeper in Surface Pro 7+ for Business in this new Microsoft video

daniel@windowscentral.com (Daniel Rubino) — Mon, 11 Jan 2021 22:13:38 +0000

What you need to know

Surface Pro 7+ for Business was announced earlier today.
Microsoft Mechanics has posted a deep dive video detailing what's new.
Surface Pro 7+ has a thinner display now, which allows a larger battery.

Earlier this morning, Microsoft announced Surface Pro 7+ for Business aimed at enterprise and education markets. The announcement leaves room for a consumer-focused Surface Pro 8 later this year while giving businesses consistent and modern hardware today.

Featuring Intel 11th Gen processors, 4G LTE, new security features, up to 32GB of RAM, and a removable SSD, there is a lot to like with Surface Pro 7+ for Business, even if they will be a tad harder to buy (for non-businesses).

Microsoft has now published a deep dive video covering Surface Pro 7+ for Business, which goes into more depth about the refreshed laptop.

Category	Surface Pro 7+
Operating system	Windows 10 Pro
Display	12.3-inch PixelSense, 3:2 aspect ratio, 2736x1824 (267 PPI)
Processor	11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4 (Wi-Fi) 11th Gen Intel Core i5-1135G7 (Wi-Fi or LTE) 11th Gen Intel Core i7-1165G7 (Wi-Fi)
Graphics	Intel UHD Graphics (i3) Intel Iris Xe Graphics (i5, i7)
Memory	8GB or 16GB LPDDR4x (Wi-Fi or LTE) 32GB LPDDR4x (Wi-Fi)
Storage	128GB SSD or 256GB SSD (Wi-Fi or LTE) 512GB SSD or 1TB SSD (Wi-Fi)
Rear camera	8MP autofocus (1080p)
Front camera	5MP (1080p)
Security	TPM 2.0 Windows Hello face authentication camera
Connectivity	Bluetooth 5.0 Wi-Fi 6 802.11ax 4G Snapdragon X20 LTE Modem (optional)
Ports	One USB-C One USB-A One microSDXC One Surface Connect+ Surface Keyboard connector 3.5mm headphone jack
Battery	Up to 15 hours (Wi-Fi) Up to 13.5 hours (LTE Advanced)
Size	11.5" x 7.9" x 0.33" (292 mm x 201 mm x 8.5 mm)
Weight	i3, i5: 1.70 lb (775 g) i7: 1.74 lb (790 g)
Colors	Platinum Black
Pricing	Starts at $899
Availability	Mid-January 2021

Most of the engineering here is familiar, but there are some interesting tidbits too.

For instance, the display in Surface Pro 7+ for Business is now thinner (not the bezels, we're talking depth). Microsoft uses the same display technology pioneered in Surface Pro X in Surface Pro 7+ for Business. The result? Microsoft could squeeze in a larger 50.4 watt-hour battery. The previous Surface Pro 7 only had a 43.2 watt-hour one.

When combined with 11th Gen Intel processors, which deliver 2.1x the performance over Surface Pro 7's 10th Gen, it's no wonder Surface Pro 7+ for Business gets a rated 4.5 hours of improvement. Even the LTE version is rated for 13.5 hours, three hours more than Surface Pro 7.

Microsoft also shows off some of the new packaging ideas they are using for Surface Pro 7+ for Business, which reduces costs, shipping weight, is better for the environment, and makes the distribution of larger quantities of devices to firms much easier.

Source: Microsoft (Image credit: Source: Microsoft)

You can also see where the removable SSD door is and how it all works in the video.

Finally, like in the previous Surface Pro with LTE, Microsoft is only offering 4G LTE Advanced in the Core i5 model. The reason is whereas the Core i7 has a fan, the Core i5 model does not. Microsoft places the 4G LTE modem in place of the fan, which saves space and means Microsoft did not need to redesign the 4G model.

Business and education customers in select markets across Asia, Europe, and North America can order Surface Pro 7+ through their local resellers today, with shipping beginning at the end of this week. Pricing starts at $899 and goes up to $2,800 for the new 32GB/1TB option.

Better and faster than ever

Microsoft Surface Pro 7+ for Business

Seems faster with LTE

Latest from Windows Central in Microsoft-surface-pro-7-0

Best business laptops in 2022

Best overall: Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (9th Gen)

Best tablet: Microsoft Surface Pro 8

Microsoft Surface Pro 8 2-in-1 Laptop

Best rugged: Panasonic TOUGHBOOK G2

Panasonic TOUGHBOOK G2 (2021)

Best ultraportable: Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano

Best convertible: HP EliteBook x360 1040 G8

HP EliteBook x360 1040 G8 Business Laptop

Best battery life: Dell Latitude 9410

Dell Latitude 9410

Bottom line

Surface Pro 7+ and Type Cover bundle deal will save you up to $229 right now

Microsoft Surface Pro 8 vs. 7: Which is a better buy?

Pros

Cons

Pros

Cons

Surface Pro 8 vs. Pro 7 tech specs

Surface Pro 8 vs. Pro 7 design and features

Surface Pro 8 vs. Pro 7 display

Surface Pro 8 vs. Pro 7 performance

Go with the Surface Pro 8 for a significant upgrade

The Pro 7 and Pro 7 Plus are still viable contenders

Surface Pro 7 & 7 Plus receive firmware updates with critical security fixes

What you need to know

Surface Pro 7 Plus vs. ThinkPad X12 Detachable: Which is a better buy?

Pros

Cons

Pros

Cons

Surface Pro 7+ vs. ThinkPad X12 Detachable: Tech specs

Design and features

Display and inking

Performance and price

The Surface Pro 7+ is the better choice for most people

The ThinkPad X12 Detachable is better for business

Surface Pro 7 Plus gets firmware update with lengthy list of changes

What you need to know

Surface Pro 7+ gets SSD replacement kit, Microsoft hints at more to come

What you need to know

Surface Pro 7 Plus for Business review: LTE and Intel 11th Gen make a huge difference, even if the rest is boring

Pros

Cons

Surface Pro 7+ for Business What's new

Surface Pro 7+ now with 4G LTE

Surface Pro 7+ Benchmarks and battery

Surface Pro 7+ pricing, models, and availability

Surface Pro 7+ Wi-Fi Commercial

Surface Pro 7+ LTE Commercial

Surface Pro 7+ Wi-Fi Education

Surface Pro 7+ is dull but also incredibly powerful

Where is the best place to buy the Surface Pro 7 Plus?

Where is the best place to buy the Surface Pro 7 Plus?

Buy the Surface Pro 7 Plus from the Microsoft Store for Business

What's new with the Surface Pro 7 Plus?

Windows Central Podcast 211: Windows 10X on Surface Go, Pro 7+, Duo

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Hosts

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The first firmware update for the Surface Pro 7+ resolves issues with its screen

What you need to know

Windows Central Podcast 210: Windows 10X leaks, Surface Pro 7+, and more

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Dive deeper in Surface Pro 7+ for Business in this new Microsoft video

What you need to know