Microsoft's Compact Surface Pro Offers 12-Inch Display, Priced from $799

Introducing Microsoft's New Surface Pro 12-Inch Tablet

Microsoft is rolling out a brand-new Surface Pro tablet today, featuring a sleek 12-inch display and a host of design updates compared to the larger 13-inch Surface Pro 11. Dubbed the Surface Pro 12-inch by Microsoft, this device is powered by an Arm processor and serves as a spiritual successor to the compact Surface Go tablets the company previously launched. Unlike its predecessors, this Surface Pro is fan-less, eschews the Surface Connect charging port, and introduces significant keyboard innovations, making it feel less constrained than earlier models like the 10.5-inch Surface Go 4.

During my visit to Microsoft’s headquarters last month, I had the opportunity to get hands-on with the new Surface Pro 12-inch. I was particularly impressed by the array of changes Microsoft has introduced to this smaller model.

Note that the keyboard must be purchased separately, priced at $149.99.

Display and Design Enhancements

Microsoft has opted for a 12-inch LCD display on the Surface Pro 12-inch, boasting a resolution of 2196 x 1464 (220 ppi) and maintaining the familiar 3:2 aspect ratio seen across Surface devices. However, this iteration uses a 90Hz panel rather than the 120Hz refresh rate of the 13-inch Surface Pro 11. Unfortunately, there’s no OLED option available for this model.

One of the standout changes lies in the redesigned chassis. Gone are the cooling vents present on the larger Surface Pro models. Thanks to the fan-less architecture paired with the Snapdragon X Plus chip, Microsoft achieved a more polished, rounded design that feels far superior to the 13-inch version.

A New Keyboard and Pen Experience

Since older Type Covers wouldn’t fit the new 12-inch form factor, Microsoft completely revamped the Surface keyboard. It still magnetically attaches but employs a different connector, resulting in a flat design rather than an angled one. This new keyboard lacks an insert for the Surface Pen, which can now be bought separately and attached to the rear of the device. It also charges when attached. Microsoft claims extensive testing ensured the pen remains secure, and during my tests, I couldn’t easily detach it—it felt solidly fixed.

Testing the Surface Pro 12-inch on my lap, I personally preferred the angled keyboard of the larger Surface Pro 11 over the flat one here. Both designs effectively reduce bounce and flex compared to older Surface Pros.

Microsoft swapped out alcantara fabric for the palm rest areas in this model. Instead, they feature a smooth matte finish, while the rear retains alcantara with options for slate, violet, or ocean green hues.

USB-C Only, No More Surface Connect

Another notable shift is the elimination of the Surface Connect port. The Surface Pro 12-inch exclusively uses USB-C, offering two USB-C 3.2 ports for charging, data transfer, and DisplayPort 1.4a to connect up to two 4K monitors at 60Hz. While this might seem bold, it aligns with Microsoft's confidence in USB-C technology. I believe similar changes will eventually roll out to larger Surface Pro models as well.

Camera Upgrades and AI Features

The Surface Pro 12-inch sports a 1080p front-facing camera, replacing the 1440p option on the 13-inch model. Additionally, a 10-megapixel rear-facing camera has been repositioned for easier portrait photography or videography.

Equipped with the Snapdragon X Plus chip, the Surface Pro 12-inch qualifies as a Copilot Plus PC, granting access to advanced AI features such as Recall, AI-enhanced Windows Search, Click to Do, and more.

Pricing and Availability

Preorders for the Surface Pro 12-inch start today at Microsoft’s online store, Amazon, and Best Buy, starting at $799. Consumers can expect delivery beginning May 20th, while businesses will gain access on July 22nd.

This new Surface Pro 12-inch represents a bold step forward for Microsoft, blending innovation with usability. It’s definitely worth considering if you're eyeing a premium tablet experience.