The Surface Pro 9 stands as Microsoft’s latest attempt to perfect the 2-in-1 formula, offering robust performance and versatility in a sleek package. While it excels in design and processing power, the device’s premium pricing and battery limitations may give some potential buyers pause, especially in the Indian market.

Design and Display

The aluminum-built Surface Pro 9 weighs 879 grams, striking an impressive balance between durability and portability. Available in Platinum, Graphite, Sapphire, and Forest colors, it sports a 13-inch PixelSense Flow display with 2880 x 1920 pixels resolution. The 120Hz refresh rate and Gorilla Glass 5 protection enhance the viewing experience while ensuring durability.

Processor

Buyers can choose between Intel 12th Gen Core i5/i7 processors or the ARM-based Microsoft SQ3 chip. The Intel variants excel in raw performance, while the SQ3 model offers better battery efficiency and integrated 5G connectivity.

RAM and Storage

Configuration options include 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB LPDDR5 RAM, paired with SSD storage ranging from 128GB to 1TB, allowing users to tailor the device to their specific needs.

Software

The device runs Windows 11 Home and features Android 12L-based camera enhancements like Automatic Framing and Voice Focus. Microsoft promises updates and security patches for 24 months post-release.

Performance

The Surface Pro 9 demonstrates impressive capabilities in real-world usage, particularly with the Intel variants. It handles demanding tasks like video editing and complex spreadsheets with ease, outperforming competitors like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra in traditional computing tasks. While the iPad Pro may edge ahead in tablet-specific applications, the Surface Pro 9’s ability to run full desktop software gives it a significant advantage for productivity users. Multitasking between resource-heavy applications like Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft Office is smooth, though the device can warm up under sustained loads. The SQ3 variant, while less powerful, offers better battery efficiency and seamless 5G connectivity, making it an attractive option for users prioritizing mobility over raw performance.

Camera

The Surface Pro 9’s camera system combines a 1080p front-facing camera with a 10MP rear autofocus camera capable of 4K recording. In comparison to the iPad Pro’s camera setup, the Surface holds its own, particularly in video conferencing scenarios. The dual far-field Studio Mics provide superior audio capture, while AI-enhanced features like automatic framing and background blur work seamlessly. Low-light performance shows noticeable improvement over previous generations.

Sound

Dual speakers with Dolby Atmos support deliver rich, room-filling audio that complements the display’s quality for both media consumption and video calls.

Battery

Despite claiming 15.5 hours of use, real-world battery life averages 5-6 hours under typical use. Fast charging capability helps offset this limitation.

Accessories

Essential add-ons include the Signature Keyboard (₹17,999) and Slim Pen (₹8,999), which enhance functionality but significantly increase the total cost.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Premium aluminum construction
• Vibrant 120Hz display
• Versatile processor options
• Robust kickstand design
• Multiple RAM and storage configurations

Cons

• Disappointing battery performance
• Expensive accessories
• Limited port selection
• Screen glare issues

Market Buzz

Online reviews highlight strong satisfaction with performance and design quality, though concerns about battery life and overall cost are recurring themes.

Pricing

• Intel Core i5 (8GB/128GB): ₹1,05,999
• Intel Core i5 (8GB/256GB): ₹1,10,999
• Intel Core i7 (16GB/512GB): ₹1,57,999
• SQ3 (8GB/128GB): ₹1,15,999
• SQ3 (16GB/512GB): ₹1,75,999

Final Verdict

The Surface Pro 9 excels as a premium 2-in-1 device, offering outstanding performance and versatility. Despite battery limitations and high accessory costs, it remains a compelling choice for professionals seeking a powerful, portable workstation.