Microsoft has come up with new solutions in terms of mobility with the launch of the latest versions of its Surface Pro tablet and its ultraportable, the Surface Laptop. A launch that was eagerly awaited and should support the manufacturer's growth in this sector.
Microsoft has resurfaced on the PC market with this range of computers and tablets. For the first time, the Redmond-based firm has climbed to fifth place in the US market, taking over from Taiwan's Acer according to figures from research firm Gartner, thanks to growing sales of its Surface family of products.
This latest generation of all-in-ones and laptops is no revolution, but the components have been updated to make these devices even more powerful, faster and longer-lasting. The central component is the processor. Both all-in-ones and laptops benefit from the new 8th generation quad-core processors unveiled by Intel last September. This is a real response to users' quest for greater productivity, especially when on the move. Another new feature, common to both the tablet and the ultraportable, is a new matt black finish for these devices. However, there are a wide variety of configurations depending on the version... and the prices for each of these devices, which are already on sale in the USA. Sales prices in France are not yet known, with both the tablet and the ultraportable due to hit French shelves in 2019.
A more powerful tablet
The Surface Pro 6 features Microsoft's traditional PixelSense screen. The touch-sensitive screen measures 12.3 inches. Like the previous generation with its aluminium chassis, this two-in-one can be used as a tablet, but also as a computer with its multi-position stand. The keyboard remains optional, as does the stylus.
In addition to the new black finish, the real innovation is the integration of
an 8th-generation quad-core Intel processor that executes 67 % commands faster than the previous generation. Microsoft has also announced an optimised cooling system inside the tablet. As a result, the device will be even quieter. More powerful and faster, the new-generation Surface Pro boasts a claimed battery life of 13.5 hours, just like the previous model. In terms of storage and memory, the most expensive model comes with 1TB of storage and 16GB of RAM, for an advertised price of $2,300.
Surface Laptop 2, a fast and elegant ultrabook
Another flagship product in the Surface range, the premium Surface Lap Top 2 ultraportable also benefits from this component update, starting of course with an 8th-generation quad-core Intel processor. However, according to Microsoft, this time performance has been boosted by 85%. The manufacturer is also announcing 14.5 hours of autonomy in video playback mode.
Apart from a new matt black finish, there are few visible changes to the 13.5-inch screen. The Alcantara-covered input zone, already present on the previous version, is a welcome addition for a smoother typing experience. This underlines the top-of-the-range character of this ultraportable. On the security front, we also appreciate the same Windows Hello facial recognition login via the camera to securely unlock your laptop. This feature is also present on the Surface Pro 6 tablet... as is the absence of a USB Type C connector.
However, the memory is doubled, with a minimum of 8GB of RAM depending on the version, compared with the previous generation, and the price is lower than its predecessor, with a starting price of $899. All of which should appeal to fans of premium ultrabooks who are more interested in the PC world than the Mac world... and its MacBook Air.
A multi-tasking tablet - Microsoft Surface Pro 6
Weight: 770 or 784 g depending on version
Screen: 12.6-inch Pixel Sense Display touchscreen
Processor: : Intel® Core™ i7-8565U and Intel® Core™ i5-8265U
Storage: from 128 GB to 1 TB depending on version
Memory: 8 or 16 GB RAM depending on version
Operating system: Windows 10
Cameras: 5MP 1080p front, Skype HD and Windows Hello; 8MP rear, 1080p
Connectivity: WiFi and BT 4.1
Connectivity: USB 3.0, Mini Display Port, MicroSDXC, jack.
Autonomy: 13H30 announced
Availability: during 2019
Price not stated
Racé - Microsoft Surface Laptop 2
Weight: 1.26 kg or 1.28 kg depending on version
Screen: 13.5-inch Pixel Sense Display touchscreen, 2256 x 1504 resolution
Processor: Intel® Core™ i7-8565U and Intel® Core™ i5-8265U.
Intel UHD Graphics 620
Memory: 8/16 GB RAM depending on version.
Storage: :from 128 GB to 1 TB depending on version
Operating system: Windows 10
Camera: Windows Hello-compatible 720p HD front camera
Connectivity: WiFi and BT 4.1
Connectors : USB 3.0, mini displayPort, jack socket
Autonomy: 14H30 announced
Availability: during 2019
Price not stated
