Whichever model you choose, this is still an excellently built detachable with a premium design, mostly capable of replacing an everyday ultraportable, but try to be absolutely sure whether the Arm-based SQ3 can deliver the Windows experience you need. This will be especially easy to miss for less technically savvy shoppers, who are also likely missing context for Arm and Windows emulation. Choosing a configuration on Microsoft's online store shunts the SQ3 off as one of several configuration options, burying the key differences. Both are Surface Pro 9 by name, but the experiences between the two vary drastically, creating confusion where the discontinued Surface Pro X made things clear. The fact that just mentioning the models requires an explanation of multiple caveats illustrates an issue.

Since 1982, PCMag has tested and rated thousands of products to help you make better buying decisions. Unfortunately, both models ditch the 3.5mm audio jack. Alongside a 21-hour battery life, these position the SQ3 Pro 9 as the ideal choice for mobile users who prioritize longevity and internet connectivity. Differences go beyond the CPU, too: The Pro 9 has 5G support and some video call tricks, but only with the SQ3 model. Like the (now defunct) Arm-based Surface Pro X before it, running Windows on an Arm device means performance limits and compatibility issues with plenty of apps-drawbacks reflected in our less-than-stellar score. The Intel model starts at $999, the SQ3 at $1,299, and our SQ3 review unit is priced at $1,599 for a bump up to 16GB of memory and a 256GB solid-state drive. One is the usual Intel model-now updated with speedy 12th Gen 'Alder Lake' CPUs-but our review unit is the one with the Microsoft-designed, Arm-based processor made using a custom Qualcomm SQ3 processor.

Unlike the more straightforward Surface Pro 8, Microsoft's Surface Pro 9 comes in two variants. How to Set Up Two-Factor Authentication.How to Record the Screen on Your Windows PC or Mac.How to Convert YouTube Videos to MP3 Files.How to Save Money on Your Cell Phone Bill.How to Free Up Space on Your iPhone or iPad.How to Block Robotexts and Spam Messages.

Surface pro 256gb