Microsoft Surface Pro 8: A Fresh Start for the Lineup?

Four years ago, the Surface Pro was a relatively new device, and subsequent updates like the Surface Pro 6 and 7 were essentially spec bumps of the original Surface Pro 2017. This stagnation in the lineup has led some to question whether Microsoft has lost its edge in the market. However, with the introduction of the Surface Pro 8, it seems that Microsoft is attempting a fresh start.

One area where the Surface Pro 8 excels is in design. The device boasts a sleek and modern aesthetic that sets it apart from its predecessors. But when it comes to performance, the story takes a different turn. In testing, the Apple M1 processor in both the iPad Pro and certain Macs has left the 11th-generation Intel U-series processors used in the Surface Pro 8 in the dust. This raises questions about whether Microsoft's decision to stick with Intel processors is the right one.

In terms of specifications, the Surface Pro 8 offers a range of options, including an Intel Core i7 processor, up to 32GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD. The top-end spec will set you back £2,059 / AU$3,299 in the UK and Australia, respectively. However, this is not necessarily a bad thing, as it means that users who want more power can upgrade their device accordingly.

In comparison to its predecessor, the Surface Pro 7, the Surface Pro 8 represents a significant jump forward. The top-end configuration of the Surface Pro 7 launched at $899/£899/AU$1,499 with a Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 128GB SSD, which is still a relatively affordable option compared to the Surface Pro 8's top-end spec.

Overall, the Microsoft Surface Pro 8 offers a fresh start for the lineup, with improved design and specifications. However, whether it can regain its edge in the market remains to be seen. With the Surface Pro 8 priced similarly to the iPad Pro and Apple M1 processor outperforming Intel processors in testing, it will be interesting to see how users respond to this new iteration of the device.

Surface pro 8 specifications