Microsoft recently launched the Surface Pro 9, which has piqued the interest of many users. That also means that many people will begin to explore the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 vs 8 as an option, given that they are less expensive but have comparable specifications. Both of these 2-in-1 systems have been favorably received, but one stands out in several critical aspects.
Microsoft Surface Pro 7 vs 8: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Surface Pro 7 | Surface Pro 8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Launched | October 2, 2019 | September 22, 2021 |
| Display | 12.3-inch PixelSense Display | 13-inch PixelSense Display |
| Resolution | 2,736 x 1,824 | 2,880 x 1,920 |
| Processor | Intel Core i3, i5, i7 | Intel Core i3, i5, i7 |
| GPU | Intel UHD, Intel Iris Plus, Iris XE | Intel UHD, Intel Iris XE |
| RAM | 4GB, 8GB, 16GB | 8GB, 16GB, 32GB |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| Front Camera | 5MP 1080p | 5MP 1080p |
| Rear Camera | 8MP 1080p | 10MP 4K |
| Operating System | Windows 10 (upgradable) | Windows 11 |
Microsoft Surface Pro 7 vs 8: What’s the Difference?
Microsoft may no longer release smartphones, but they still upgrade their popular Surface line every year. The Surface Pro 7 and Surface Pro 8 may appear identical, but when you look at the technical specifications, you’ll notice some significant variations.
Display
Microsoft’s PixelSense displays on the Surface range have won many fans. While both the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 and Surface Pro 8 use that technology, the newest device boasts a larger, higher-resolution panel.
The Surface Pro 7 has a 12.3-inch display with a 2,736 x 1,824 resolution. It has the same resolution as the Surface Pro 6, but it isn’t as sharp as the current model’s panel. The Surface Pro 8 retains the PixelSense display, but the resolution has been upped to 2,880 x 1,920.
That may not seem like much, but it is an increase on a larger 13-inch display. As a result, the Pro 8 is more akin to a tiny laptop than a slate. The bezels on the Surface Pro 8 are slimmer, and the new display just slightly increases the weight of the 2-in-1.
In addition, the new display features a faster refresh rate than the Surface Pro 7. The display may be tuned to 60Hz or 120Hz, and the panel is brighter. The Surface Pro 8 certainly has a better display due to the increase in size, brightness, and refresh rate.
Features
Microsoft did not introduce any new features to the Surface Pro 8, but they did tweak a few. Both devices include similar connectivity options, such as dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. However, the Surface Pro 7’s USB-A and microSD card slots have been changed.
The earlier model’s integrated slot has been replaced by two Thunderbolt ports on the Surface Pro 8. Both have 5MP front-facing cameras that support Windows Hello, allowing you to log in with your face. The Surface Pro 7’s rear camera is 8MP, whilst the new model includes an enhanced 10MP camera. When compared to video, 2MP may appear little.
The front-facing cameras on these 2-in-1s can capture 1080p video, and the rear camera on the Surface Pro 7 can capture the same resolution. The Surface Pro 8’s enhanced back camera can capture 4K video, which is a huge improvement. Another advantage of the new slate is improved face-tracking technology.
See also; Microsoft Surface Event 2022: Everything Announced
Hardware
Comparing the hardware of the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 vs. 8 is difficult due to the fact that it is available in a range of configurations. That is, you can select an Intel i3, i5, or i7 processor, as well as how much memory or hard drive space you require.
The Surface Pro 7 comes with the Core i3-1005G1, Core i5-1035G4, and Core i7-106G57 processors. Because each of these processors is newer in the Surface Pro 8, the 11th generation Core i7-11885G7 replaces the prior CPU. As these benchmark results show, there is a significant difference in performance. The i3 and i5 processors will also receive a performance boost.
Memory and storage are also different between the Surface Pro 7 and Surface Pro 8. Microsoft’s newest model comes with 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB of RAM, which doubles with each option. Storage options remain the same for both models at 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB, while the Pro 8 now offers a Core i5 variant with a bigger hard drive.
Graphics are still incorporated on these 2-in-1 computers, but the Surface Pro 8’s graphics are slightly improved due to the faster processor. When it comes to performance, the Microsoft Surface Pro 8 comes out on top.
Read more; Lenovo Tab P12 Pro Review: 5G Tablet Laptop Alternative
Battery Life
In recent years, manufacturers have been able to increase the battery life of smartphones and smartwatches. When dealing with power-hungry laptops and 2-in-1 devices like the Microsoft Surface Pro, this gets increasingly difficult.
The Surface Pro 7’s battery life was listed as roughly 10 hours, although it was closer to 6-8 hours under regular use. That was a disadvantage of the previous generation, which Microsoft claimed was rectified in the Surface Pro 8. According to the firm, this hybrid will last up to 16 hours for each charge.
According to real-world usage and reviews, the Surface Pro 8 battery life is approximately 8-10 hours. That’s a far cry from 16 hours, but you’ll be able to use the new model for longer periods of time without needing to plug it in.
Microsoft Surface Pro 7 vs 8: Which One is Better?
Customers debating the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 vs. 8 should have an easy decision. The Surface Pro 8 is speedier, has a larger display, and the rear camera can shoot 4K video. The battery life is also somewhat improved, and while you lose the SD card slot, you gain a thunderbolt connector.
Microsoft Surface Pro 7 vs 8: What’s the Same?
If you’re familiar with Microsoft’s Surface 2-in-1 lineup, you’ll recognize the Surface Pro 7 and Pro 8. The firm has done an excellent job of maintaining the same design language over the years, albeit there are some minor alterations with the Surface Pro 8.
While these laptops appear to be identical from afar, the Surface Pro 8 is somewhat heavier than the previous version. This is owing, in part, to the larger display, albeit all models retain built-in kickstands and rounded corners.
Both variants include the same sensors, including an ambient light sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope, and magnetometer. Other commonalities include the use of LPDDR4x RAM, the operating system, and pricing that is comparable despite the increase in specifications.
FAQs
How long is the warranty on the Surface Pro?
Microsoft provides a 1-year warranty on the Surface Pro 7 and 8.
Is the Surface Pro waterproof?
No, unlike a regular tablet or smartphone, these devices have vents and are not dust or waterproof.
Can you use the Surface Pro for gaming?
While some light-duty games and older titles can be played with ease, the integrated graphics will struggle with AAA titles.
How long will Microsoft support the Surface 8 Pro?
Driver and firmware updates for the Surface Pro 8 will be available until October 5, 2025.
