Microsoft is rolling out its latest Surface PCs today, featuring updated versions of the Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7. Powered by Intel’s new Lunar Lake processors, these are the first of Microsoft’s Intel-powered Copilot+ PCs. Targeted at business users, these devices cater to those who are keen on the latest Surface hardware but prefer the robust capabilities of an x86 processor.
For those eyeing the Surface Laptop 7 with Intel, it’s coming in with a price tag starting at $1,499.99. With Windows 11 Pro running the show, you can choose between Intel Core Ultra 5 or 7 (Series 2) processors. Graphic needs are handled by Intel Arc, and the setup includes Intel AI Boost with impressive 40 or 48 TOPS for AI tasks. RAM options include 16GB or 32GB LPDDR5X, while storage offers range from 256GB up to a hefty 1TB M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD. Two display sizes are available: a 13.8-inch at 2304×1536 and a 15-inch at 2496×1664, both boasting a 120Hz anti-reflective screen. Battery life varies slightly by size, with 54Whr for the smaller and 66Whr for the larger model. Connectivity is modern with Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and 5G is slated to join the mix soon. For ports, there are two USB4 Type-C, one USB 3.2 Gen 1, a microSD slot, and a 3.5mm audio jack.
These Intel-powered Surface models will sit alongside the Snapdragon variants, but if you’re shopping through Microsoft’s usual retail chains, you won’t find them. These are exclusive to Microsoft’s business storefront and commercial sales channels.
Under the lid, options for both the Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7 allow configurations featuring Intel Core Ultra 5 or Ultra 7 series 2 processors. Memory choices are either 16GB or 32GB, with storage up to a roomy 1TB. The NPU offers either 40 TOPS with the Ultra 5 or 48 TOPS with the Ultra 7, and both are suitable for Copilot+ functionalities.
While the external design sticks closely to the Snapdragon versions, the Intel models sport some subtle enhancements. Both the Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7 now feature anti-reflective screens to cut down on glare, making visibility better under challenging lighting. The Surface Laptop 7 even sees an addition of a card-reader version, while the Surface Pro 11 comes with built-in NFC functionality.
In an exciting development, the Surface Laptop 7 is also slated to receive a 5G model later this year. So far, 5G was a reserve for the Surface Pro models only. More specifics about the Surface Laptop’s 5G capabilities will be revealed by Microsoft in the upcoming months.
The Surface Pro 11 with Intel is not spared any less attention. Starting from $1,499.99, it carries Windows 11 Pro, similar choice of processors and RAM, and a storage capacity aligned with its Laptop counterpart. Display-wise, you have a 13-inch, 2880×1920 (2.8K) screen, available in either OLED or LCD with touch functionality. Expect about 10 hours of web browsing with its solid battery performance. For connectivity, it sticks to Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and potential 5G options. Two USB4 ports and Surface Connect are featured, with room for a Nano-SIM.
Design-wise, these devices come only in Platinum and Black, reserving playful colors for Snapdragon editions. The Intel systems do command a higher price, a fact that illustrates a substantial $400 gap from their Snapdragon siblings, but offer x86 compatibility and anti-reflective displays as a trade-off.
This release is part of Microsoft’s continued effort to cater specifically to business clients, following the release of the Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6 with older Intel Core Ultra series 1 chips. With these new ‘for business’ editions, Microsoft is providing consumers who desire Intel processors the fresh designs previously only available with Snapdragon devices.
In addition to the new Surface PCs, Microsoft is introducing a smaller, more affordable Surface USB4 Dock priced at $199. This model brings fewer ports than last year’s Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock but is a nice alternative for budget-conscious buyers.
Pre-orders for the Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7 with Intel are open now, each starting at $1,499, with shipments kicking off on February 18.
