The Microsoft Surface Pro has been a game-changer in the world of tablets and laptops, offering a unique blend of portability, power, and versatility. However, like any other device, it’s not perfect, and there are several disadvantages that users should be aware of before making a purchase. In this article, we’ll delve into the drawbacks of the Surface Pro, exploring its limitations and potential deal-breakers.
Design and Build Quality
While the Surface Pro’s design is sleek and modern, it’s not without its flaws. One of the most significant disadvantages is its fragility. The device’s magnesium alloy body is prone to scratches and dents, and the screen can be easily damaged if dropped. This makes it essential to invest in a protective case or sleeve to prevent damage.
Another design-related issue is the kickstand’s limited adjustability. While the kickstand is a great feature, it can be frustrating to use, especially when trying to find the perfect angle. The kickstand’s limited adjustability can lead to a less-than-ideal viewing experience, particularly when using the device on a lap or in a cramped space.
Weight and Portability
The Surface Pro is marketed as a portable device, but its weight can be a significant drawback. The device tips the scales at around 1.7 pounds, which can make it uncomfortable to hold for extended periods. This can be a problem for users who plan to use the device as a tablet, as it can lead to fatigue and discomfort.
Additionally, the Surface Pro’s size can be a limitation. While the device is compact, it’s not as small as some other tablets on the market. This can make it difficult to carry around, especially for users who prefer smaller devices.
Performance and Hardware
While the Surface Pro is a powerful device, it’s not without its performance-related drawbacks. One of the most significant disadvantages is its limited upgradability. The device’s hardware is soldered to the motherboard, making it difficult to upgrade or repair. This can be a problem for users who want to extend the life of their device or upgrade to newer hardware.
Another performance-related issue is the thermal throttling. The Surface Pro’s processor can throttle its performance to prevent overheating, which can lead to slower speeds and reduced productivity. This can be a problem for users who need to run demanding applications or multitask extensively.
Battery Life
The Surface Pro’s battery life is another area of concern. While the device’s battery life is decent, it’s not as long-lasting as some other devices on the market. The average battery life is around 8-10 hours, which can be a problem for users who need to use the device on the go.
Software and Compatibility
The Surface Pro runs on Windows 10, which is a powerful and feature-rich operating system. However, it’s not without its drawbacks. One of the most significant disadvantages is the limited app selection. While the Windows Store has improved significantly in recent years, it still lags behind the app selection on iOS and Android.
Another software-related issue is the compatibility problems with certain apps. Some apps may not be optimized for the Surface Pro’s touchscreen interface, which can lead to a less-than-ideal user experience.
Windows 10 Issues
Windows 10 is a powerful operating system, but it’s not without its issues. One of the most significant disadvantages is the forced updates. Windows 10 updates can be large and time-consuming, and they can sometimes cause problems with the device’s performance.
Another Windows 10 issue is the data collection concerns. Windows 10 collects user data, which can be a concern for users who value their privacy.
Price and Value
The Surface Pro is a premium device, and its price reflects that. The starting price is around $900, which can be a significant investment for many users. While the device is certainly worth the price, it may not be the best value for users who are on a budget.
Another price-related issue is the cost of accessories. The Surface Pro’s accessories, such as the Surface Pen and Surface Keyboard, can be expensive. This can add to the overall cost of the device, making it even more expensive.
Comparison to Other Devices
The Surface Pro is a unique device, but it’s not the only option on the market. Other devices, such as the iPad Pro and the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Tablet, offer similar features and functionality at a lower price point. This can make the Surface Pro seem less competitive in terms of value.
| Device | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Pro | $900+ | Touchscreen, detachable keyboard, Surface Pen support |
| iPad Pro | $600+ | Touchscreen, Apple Pencil support, Smart Keyboard support |
| Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Tablet | $500+ | Touchscreen, detachable keyboard, stylus support |
Conclusion
The Surface Pro is a powerful and versatile device, but it’s not without its disadvantages. From its fragile design to its limited upgradability, there are several drawbacks that users should be aware of before making a purchase. While the device is certainly worth the price, it may not be the best value for users who are on a budget.
Ultimately, the decision to purchase a Surface Pro depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a device that offers a unique blend of portability, power, and versatility, the Surface Pro may be the perfect choice. However, if you’re on a budget or have specific requirements that the Surface Pro can’t meet, you may want to consider other options.
By understanding the disadvantages of the Surface Pro, you can make a more informed decision and find the device that’s right for you.
What are some of the main disadvantages of the Surface Pro?
The Surface Pro has several disadvantages, including its high price point, limited battery life, and lack of ports. Additionally, the device can be prone to overheating, and the keyboard can be uncomfortable to type on for extended periods. The Surface Pro also has a limited storage capacity, which can be a problem for users who need to store large files.
Furthermore, the Surface Pro’s operating system can be slow and buggy at times, which can be frustrating for users. The device also lacks a traditional laptop hinge, which can make it difficult to use on a lap or in tight spaces. Overall, while the Surface Pro has many advantages, it also has several significant disadvantages that users should be aware of.
Is the Surface Pro’s battery life really that bad?
Yes, the Surface Pro’s battery life is a significant disadvantage. According to Microsoft’s own estimates, the device can last for up to 13.5 hours on a single charge. However, in real-world use, the battery life is often much shorter, typically ranging from 6-8 hours. This can be a problem for users who need to use their device on the go, as they may need to recharge it multiple times throughout the day.
There are several reasons why the Surface Pro’s battery life is so short. One reason is that the device has a high-resolution display, which can be power-hungry. Additionally, the Surface Pro’s processor can be power-intensive, especially when running demanding applications. Users can take steps to extend the battery life, such as turning down the screen brightness and closing unnecessary apps, but overall, the Surface Pro’s battery life is a significant disadvantage.
Can I use the Surface Pro as a traditional laptop?
While the Surface Pro can be used as a traditional laptop, it is not ideal for this purpose. The device lacks a traditional laptop hinge, which can make it difficult to use on a lap or in tight spaces. Additionally, the keyboard can be uncomfortable to type on for extended periods, and the device can be prone to overheating.
However, the Surface Pro can be used as a laptop with the addition of a few accessories. For example, users can purchase a keyboard and mouse to use with the device, which can make it easier to type and navigate. Additionally, users can purchase a laptop stand or dock to use with the Surface Pro, which can make it easier to use the device on a desk or table.
Is the Surface Pro’s storage capacity really that limited?
Yes, the Surface Pro’s storage capacity is limited. The device comes with a range of storage options, from 128GB to 1TB. However, even the largest storage option may not be enough for users who need to store large files, such as videos or photos. Additionally, the Surface Pro’s storage can be slow, which can make it difficult to access and transfer files.
Users can take steps to expand the Surface Pro’s storage capacity, such as purchasing an external hard drive or using cloud storage services. However, these solutions can be inconvenient and may not be ideal for users who need to access their files quickly and easily. Overall, the Surface Pro’s limited storage capacity is a significant disadvantage.
Can I use the Surface Pro for gaming?
While the Surface Pro can be used for gaming, it is not ideal for this purpose. The device’s processor and graphics card are not powerful enough to handle demanding games, and the device can be prone to overheating during extended gaming sessions. Additionally, the Surface Pro’s display is not optimized for gaming, and the device lacks a traditional gaming controller.
However, users can still use the Surface Pro for casual gaming, such as playing solitaire or streaming games from the cloud. The device is also compatible with Microsoft’s xCloud game streaming service, which allows users to play high-quality games on their device without the need for a powerful processor or graphics card.
Is the Surface Pro’s operating system reliable?
The Surface Pro’s operating system can be slow and buggy at times, which can be frustrating for users. The device runs on Windows 10, which is a powerful and feature-rich operating system. However, the operating system can be prone to crashes and freezes, especially when running demanding applications.
Microsoft regularly releases updates and patches for the Surface Pro’s operating system, which can help to improve its reliability and performance. However, users may still experience problems with the operating system, especially if they are running older software or hardware. Overall, the Surface Pro’s operating system is a significant disadvantage, but it can be mitigated with regular updates and maintenance.
Is the Surface Pro worth the cost?
Whether or not the Surface Pro is worth the cost depends on the user’s specific needs and preferences. The device is certainly expensive, with a starting price of over $1,000. However, it is also a powerful and versatile device that can be used for a wide range of tasks, from productivity and creativity to gaming and entertainment.
Users who need a device that can handle demanding applications and provide a high-quality display and keyboard may find the Surface Pro to be worth the cost. However, users who are on a budget or who only need a device for basic tasks may find the Surface Pro to be too expensive. Overall, the Surface Pro is a significant investment, but it can be worth it for users who need a powerful and versatile device.