Microsoft Surface Pro 11 review exploring its AI features and stunning 120Hz touchscreen display

Description

Design and Build Quality

I was immediately struck by how sleek and lightweight the device is. The Microsoft Surface Pro 11 is remarkably slim at just 0.37 inches thick and weighs only 1.97 pounds. This makes it incredibly portable, whether I’m tossing it in my backpack or carrying it around the house. The 13-inch PixelSense LCD display is practically edge-to-edge, giving it a modern and premium look. With a resolution of 2880 x 1920 pixels, the screen offers sharp visuals, vibrant colors, and a 1200:1 contrast ratio that really pops whether you’re watching videos or editing photos.

The build feels sturdy despite its slim profile. The black finish adds an elegant touch, and it doesn’t pick up fingerprints as much as I feared. However, I did notice the lack of an included kickstand or keyboard accessory, which could be a downside for those planning to use this as a full-fledged laptop replacement. The USB-C ports are another key design element, simplifying connectivity, but I wished there were more port options for a bit more versatility.

Performance and AI Integration

This thing runs on the Snapdragon X Plus processor, and let me tell you, it’s a beast. I tested it with multiple tabs open, a graphic design program running, and a bunch of AI tools like image editing and real-time translation. It handled everything flawlessly, thanks to its 10 cores and 4.5 trillion operations per second of NPU performance. Tasks that typically take longer on traditional laptops were noticeably snappier here.

The Microsoft Copilot AI integration is a standout feature. It’s like having a personal assistant that can do everything from auto-correcting eye gaze on video calls to providing real-time transcriptions during meetings. It’s surprisingly intuitive, and while I didn’t think I’d use it much, I found myself relying on it for work presentations and creative projects. However, heavy AI usage does seem to drain the battery faster than I expected.

Immersive Display and Touchscreen

The 120Hz refresh rate on the display is a game-changer. Scrolling feels buttery smooth, and whether I’m sketching with a stylus or swiping through web pages, the response time is instant. The dynamic refresh rate adjusts based on what you’re doing, which is a neat trick to save power while still delivering that high-end feel.

Watching content on this screen is an absolute joy. The contrast ratio ensures deep blacks and vibrant colors, making it perfect for streaming shows or editing photos. I even tried gaming on it, and while it’s not marketed as a gaming device, casual games ran surprisingly well. The touchscreen is highly accurate, and I didn’t experience any lag or misreads, even when drawing fine details.

Security and Connectivity

Security-wise, this device doesn’t mess around. The facial recognition technology is fast and reliable, unlocking the device in a heartbeat. I also appreciated the added layer of password protection, which made me feel secure while using it for sensitive work tasks. For a professional setting, the Secured-core PC designation is a huge plus, especially when paired with Windows 11 Pro’s security features.

On the connectivity front, the dual USB-C 4 ports are versatile and future-proof. I connected two external monitors simultaneously without any hiccups, and the Wi-Fi 6 ensured a stable and fast internet connection. However, I couldn’t overlook the lack of a standard USB-A port, which meant I had to use a dongle for older devices.

Key Benefits

• Lightweight and portable design, making it easy to carry around.
• Premium display with vibrant colors, crisp resolution, and a smooth refresh rate.
• Powerful Snapdragon X Plus processor for seamless multitasking and AI capabilities.
• Advanced security features like facial recognition and robust password protection.
• Versatile USB-C connectivity, perfect for modern setups.

Caveats

• Doesn’t include a kickstand or keyboard, which adds extra cost if needed.
• Heavy AI usage can cause faster battery drain.
• Limited to USB-C ports, so older peripherals may require adapters.
• The price might feel steep for those who don’t fully utilize its AI and productivity features.

Product Competitors

Comparing this model to similar devices like the Apple iPad Pro and Samsung Galaxy Tab S9, the Microsoft Surface Pro 11 holds its own in several areas. The Snapdragon X Plus processor offers comparable, if not superior, performance for AI-heavy tasks, making it ideal for professionals. The PixelSense Flow display also rivals Apple’s Retina display in terms of clarity and refresh rate, though the iPad Pro edges out slightly in color accuracy for creative professionals.

Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S9 is a strong competitor with its S Pen integration and AMOLED display, but its software feels less intuitive than Windows 11 Pro. In terms of productivity, the Surface Pro 11’s Windows ecosystem provides a more desktop-like experience, giving it an advantage over both Apple’s iPadOS and Samsung’s One UI.

However, both competitors include accessories like keyboards and styluses in the box, which adds value. If you’re planning on buying the Surface’s keyboard and stylus separately, the overall cost starts to climb, making it less appealing for budget-conscious buyers.

Smart Spending

For the price, the Microsoft Surface Pro 11 offers impressive capabilities that justify the investment. The combination of AI features, a stunning display, and robust security makes it a standout choice for professionals and creatives. While it’s not the most budget-friendly option, the premium experience and future-proof technology make it a reliable long-term purchase. If you’re someone who values portability, performance, and cutting-edge features, this device is worth considering—just be prepared to spend a little extra on accessories.

Additional information