Microsoft Surface Pro X review: A costly Windows 10 device from the future

The Microsoft Surface Pro X is a one-of-its-kind device that blends Windows 10 with ARM chip. Does it work? Let's find out

Microsoft Surface Pro X is a strong device powered by an ARM chip, a major milestone in the Windows future — these processors have come a long way to deliver the full Windows experience. A one-of-its kind device, the Microsoft Surface Pro X blends Windows 10 with ARM chip. But does that work? Let’s find out:

Why ARM processor?

Usually seen in mobile devices like smartphones and tablets, ARM processors offer several advantages that current-generation x86 chip-based Windows devices lack. These include the always-on utility which allows Windows to wake up in a jiffy, always remaining connected with the built-in LTE modem for mobile data network connectivity, an ultra-portable device form factor with fan-less design, and an enhanced on-battery time to keep you going for longer.

So, does it work?

The short answer would be ‘yes’, especially talking from the point of view of the Microsoft Surface Pro X.

The Windows 10 on the Microsoft Surface Pro X works flawlessly to get most things done. Remember, it is primarily a tablet that doubles up as a notebook when attached to a keyboard with touchpad (sold separately). Therefore, you get an ultra-portable tablet, which is swift in operations and seems optimised to get all the basic work done without any problem.

You can work on the Microsoft productivity suite — Word, Powerpoint, Excel, etc — and connect with others over a video meeting using Zoom, Skype, or Microsoft Teams. The always-connected feature with LTE support (nano SIM and eSIM) lets you stay connected to the internet and work from locations that often are difficult to make use of, such as cars or metro during long travel. The device also scores big on entertainment utility, thanks to a 13-inch touchscreen of a 2880 x 1920 resolution and 2W stereo speaker set-up.

Microsoft Surface Pro X	Specifications
Display	13-inch, 3:2 aspect ratio, 10-point multitouch
Processor	Microsoft SQ1
Graphics	Adreno 685 iGPU
RAM	8GB LPDDR4x
Storage	128GB, removeable
Camera	Front - 5MP: Windows Hello face authentication camera
	Rear - 10MP autofocus camera with 1080p full HD video/4K video
Ports	2 x USB-C
	Surface Connect
	Surface Keyboard connector port
	1 x nano SIM
Power supply	65W

What does it tell about the Windows future?

The Windows 10 on the Microsoft Surface Pro X has an emulation layer added to the operating system. It lets you run all 32-bit applications. However, it does not support 64-bit applications, so a fair number of applications would not work on the Surface Pro X. That said, the Windows on ARM looks promising, but only alongside x86 processor-based devices. It seems ready to play its part in the Windows future, but it cannot be the Windows future, not until it comes on a par with performance gains and gets application support for x86 architecture-based processors.

Verdict

The Microsoft Surface Pro X is an expensive tablet which seems to do what Apple did with its iPad Pro 2020 – add keyboard with touchpad support. It works flawlessly and delivers on most basic tasks you expect your Windows-based machine to do. But its expensive price tag (around Rs 1 lakh) makes it best suitable for enthusiasts wanting to experience the Windows future on the ARM processor, not the masses.

Microsoft Surface Pro X price in India

• Surface Pro X – Rs 98,999
• Type Cover (Black) – Rs 13,699
• Slim Pen (Black) -- Rs 14,299
• Type Cover + Pen combo (Black) -- Rs 26,299