News: Microsoft Surface Pro 6

4

At the start of October, Microsoft held a press event in NYC to launch its new round of hardware for 2018.  Along with some upgrades to their legacy products we were treated to a new device, the Surface Headphones.

2018 Microsoft Surface Pro 6 in Black.
2018 Microsoft Surface Pro 6 in Black Image Microsoft

Microsoft Surface Pro 6

For 2018, Microsoft has provided a modest performance boost and a new shell colour to their ever popular 2-in-1 Hybrid.  Those looking for an all new Pro might be disappointed, but anyone who knows how good previous Surface Pros have been will be eager to get their hands on the new offering!

12.3" PixelSense™️ Display.
123 PixelSense™️ Display Image Microsoft

Features

I should start with what Microsoft have added, but sadly it’s what they’ve removed that stands out the most.  The Surface Pen!  On the Pro 4, this came as standard and, I think, is a vital part of the hybrid experience.  Now it’s a £99 option!

From the outside, with the exception of the new black colour, you would have trouble telling the new Pro 6 from an older Pro 4!

With the negativity out of the way, the Surface Pro range is, and will continue to be, one of the best 2-in-1 Hybrid offerings on the market!  The Pro 6 has the new 8th Gen Intel i5/i7 processor, and Microsoft have dropped the entry-level 4GB base model and replaced it with an 8GB.  So even those on a lower budget would still be getting a quick and powerful machine.

2018 Microsoft Surface Pro 6
Desktop performance in a hybrid tabletlaptop Image Microsoft

Sadly, there is no notable increase to the 13.5 hour battery when some of the Pros competitors are boasting 20+ hours, but with the new, more power efficient, Intel processors inside performance will not be an issue.

The display is a 12.3″ PixelSense™️ screen with 10 point multi-touch interaction.  There are two cameras; a front facing 5MP and a rear 8MP both 1080p full HD.

What sets the Surface Pro apart from others, is the operating system.  Instead of a mobile or lite version, the Pro 6 comes with Windows 10 home!

Surface pen in use.
The Surface Pen is now a £99 optinal extra Image Microsoft

Specifications

The Surface Pro range, which is now headed up by the Pro 6, is quickly becoming the tool of choice for business travellers looking for the tablet/laptop hybrid model.

But is the lack of USB-C ports an oversight, or, is remaining with the usual connections a way to save consumers from purchasing more dongles?

  • Dimensions – 292 mm x 201 mm x 8.5 mm
  • Weight – Up to 784g (i7 model)
  • Storage – 128/256/512GB & 1 TB options
  • Memory – 8GB/16GB
  • Tablet Colour Options – Platinum/Black
  • Processor – 8th Generation Intel Core i5/i7
  • Windows 10 Home
  • 12.3″ PixelSense Display (2736 x 1824)

How Much does the Surface Pro 6 Cost?

The Surface Pro 6 comes in a variety of specifications, and annoyingly, has to be built as a bundle before you can make a purchase!  The base model begins at £879, but once you have added the keyboard, a protective sleeve and an Office package, all of which are compulsory, the entry-level model starts at £1,103.93.

Microsoft Bundle requirements.
Its not as simple as just buying the Pro 6 Image Microsoft

At the top-end, a Surface Pro 6 bundle can cost £2,413.97.   Remember, neither of these include the Surface pen which is an additional £99.99.

You can create your own bundle on the Microsoft Store.

If you want to avoid the bundle prices and simply buy just the Surface Pro 6 you can find tablet only options on Amazon with prices starting at £819.

Connect with Microsoft
2018 NYC Media Event Highlights

https://youtu.be/SWjg8ck_Qf4

Tom Payne
Tom, Editor. An online publication providing news & reviews on apps, gadgets and luggage for the connected traveller.

4 COMMENTS

  1. When ever I’m looking for a laptop, first I look for performance, then secondly i look to build quality and can the kit live up to the harsh enviroment that is part and parcel of being a chef and food writer? At the moment I’d still settle for a fast Dell that’s built like a tank.

Leave a Reply