Microsoft has announced the 12th-generation Surface Pro. The 2-in-1 laptop comes with Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon X2 processors, improved AI capabilities, and expanded memory options.
The launch comes two years after Microsoft introduced its first Copilot+ PCs powered by Snapdragon X processors. While the new Surface Pro looks largely similar to its predecessor, the company has upgraded the internal hardware and significantly increased the starting price.
The new Surface Pro is available with either the 10-core Snapdragon X2 Plus or the 12-core Snapdragon X2 Elite processor. Microsoft claims the new chips deliver up to 53% faster graphics performance compared to the previous generation.
The device also features a more powerful neural processing unit (NPU) capable of delivering up to 80 TOPS of AI performance, enabling faster on-device AI processing.
Microsoft is continuing to offer the Surface Pro with a 13-inch display. Buyers can choose between an IPS LCD panel or a more expensive OLED variant.
One of the biggest upgrades is memory capacity. The new Surface Pro can now be configured with up to 64GB of RAM, up from 32GB on the previous model. Storage options remain unchanged and include 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSDs, all of which are user-replaceable.
Other specifications include a 1440p Windows Hello camera, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, dual speakers, and two USB4 ports that support charging, data transfer, and external displays.
Microsoft says the Surface Pro can deliver up to 15.5 hours of battery life on a single charge.
The most noticeable change, however, is the price. The previous-generation Surface Pro started at $999. The new model starts at $1,499 for the configuration with a Snapdragon X2 processor, 16GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage.
To offset the higher price, Microsoft is offering a free Surface Pro 13-inch Keyboard with eligible purchases made through its online store in the United States between June 16 and June 30. The keyboard normally costs $170 when purchased separately.
The included accessory is the standard Surface Pro Keyboard and not the premium Surface Pro Flex Keyboard. Microsoft’s high-end Flex Keyboard offers additional features such as a haptic trackpad, wireless connectivity, and built-in charging for the Surface Slim Pen 2, but it continues to be sold separately.
The decision to bundle a keyboard, even for a limited period, addresses a long-standing criticism of the Surface Pro lineup. Since the first Surface launched in 2012, customers and reviewers have frequently argued that the keyboard should be included in the box because it is an essential part of the overall Surface Pro experience.
The 12th-generation Surface Pro is available now through Microsoft’s online store.
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