Meta Description: The Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) is a versatile 2-in-1 device that offers laptop-like performance and tablet-style portability, making it a compelling choice for students and educators. This windows surface pro 2017 review explores its design, features, and capabilities.
The Versatile Windows Surface Pro (2017) for Academic Pursuits
The Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) is a powerful 2-in-1 device that aims to bridge the gap between laptops and tablets. While its battery life might not be as impressive as some would hope, its versatility and performance make it a compelling option for students and educators. This review delves into the device’s strengths and weaknesses, exploring its features and capabilities in detail.
Sleek, Durable, and Portable Design of the Windows Surface Pro 2017 Review
The Surface Pro (2017) boasts a sleek and durable design that sets it apart from the competition. Weighing just 1.73 pounds, it’s a highly portable device that’s easy to carry around in a backpack or tote. Its slim profile, measuring a mere 0.33 inches thick, further enhances its portability, allowing students to easily slip it into their bags and move between classes with ease.
Versatile for Every Task
One of the standout features of the Surface Pro (2017) is its ability to seamlessly transition between a tablet and a laptop. The adjustable kickstand can be positioned at various angles, including a “Studio mode” that reclines the screen to 15 degrees, enabling a more comfortable writing and drawing experience. This versatility allows students to take notes, read e-books, and work on projects with a natural, intuitive feel, whether they’re in the classroom or on the go. The option to detach the keyboard also adds to its flexibility, giving users the freedom to switch between modes as needed.
Durable Construction for Everyday Use
The Surface Pro (2017)’s magnesium alloy construction offers impressive durability, making it resistant to scratches, spills, and everyday wear and tear. This rugged design gives students and educators peace of mind to use their device without the constant worry of accidental damage. The premium materials used in its construction ensure that the Surface Pro (2017) not only looks good but also feels solid and reliable in hand.
Color and Aesthetics
In addition to its functionality, the Surface Pro (2017) features a modern aesthetic that appeals to users of all ages. The sleek lines and minimalist design make it an attractive option for students who want a device that looks as good as it performs. Available in a variety of colors, the Surface Pro (2017) can be customized to fit personal style preferences, making it a stylish addition to any academic setting.
Powerful Performance and Advanced Features
Under the hood, the Surface Pro (2017) packs a punch, with its latest Intel Core i5 and i7 processors delivering exceptional performance. Whether you’re engaged in demanding academic tasks or seeking entertainment options, this device has the capabilities to keep up with your needs.
Smooth Multitasking and Productivity
The Intel Core i7-7660U processor in our review unit provides seamless multitasking capabilities, allowing you to run even the most resource-intensive educational software with ease. The 16GB of RAM ensures a smooth operation, even when juggling multiple applications simultaneously. From complex data analysis programs to streaming lectures, the Surface Pro (2017) handles it all without breaking a sweat.
Vibrant Display and Graphics Capabilities
The Surface Pro (2017) boasts a stunning 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2,736 x 1,824, delivering crisp and vibrant visuals that are perfect for classroom presentations, creative projects, and multimedia consumption. The device’s Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 chip offers a significant boost in graphics performance compared to the previous Surface Pro 4, making it a capable companion for light gaming and video editing tasks.
The high pixel density ensures that text appears sharp and images are rich in detail, enhancing the overall user experience. Whether you’re editing photos, watching videos, or working on presentations, the display quality of the Surface Pro (2017) is sure to impress.
Enhanced Inking and Creativity
The Surface Pro (2017) shines when it comes to digital note-taking and creative expression, thanks to the upgraded Surface Pen. With increased pressure sensitivity, tilt support, and reduced latency, the Pen provides a natural and accurate handwriting and drawing experience. Students and educators can leverage the Pen’s capabilities for annotation, sketching, and even utilizing the integration with the Surface Dial for more immersive creative workflows.
This enhanced inking experience makes the Surface Pro (2017) an excellent choice for design students, artists, and anyone who prefers a more hands-on approach to their work. The ability to transform the device into a digital canvas opens up new possibilities for artistic expression, making it a valuable tool for those in creative fields.
Battery Life and Connectivity: Stay Powered and Connected
The Surface Pro (2017) offers a range of connectivity options and respectable battery life, ensuring that users can stay productive and connected throughout the day.
Reliable Battery Performance
Despite its slim profile, the Surface Pro (2017) delivers up to 8 hours of video playback on a single charge, providing enough power to get through a full day of classes or work. While this might not match Microsoft’s claimed 13.5 hours, it still offers impressive efficiency, allowing students to focus on their tasks without constantly worrying about finding a power outlet.
This level of battery performance is essential for students who often find themselves moving between classes, libraries, and study groups. The ability to rely on a single charge throughout the day enhances the overall user experience and minimizes interruptions during important tasks.
Versatile Connectivity Options
The Surface Pro (2017) includes a USB-A port, a mini-DisplayPort, and a microSD card reader, offering a range of connectivity options for users. The Surface Connect port also allows for easy integration with the optional Surface Dock, expanding the device’s capabilities with additional ports and accessories. This ensures that students can seamlessly connect external displays for presentations, transfer files from SD cards, or integrate various peripherals as needed.
Additionally, the Surface Pro (2017) supports Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to connect wireless peripherals such as mice, keyboards, and headphones. This feature adds another layer of convenience for those who prefer a cable-free workspace.
Windows 10 for Education and Productivity
The Surface Pro (2017) comes pre-loaded with Windows 10, providing a familiar and user-friendly interface that seamlessly integrates with the educational ecosystem. Windows 10 is designed to enhance productivity, making it an ideal operating system for students and educators alike.
Robust Educational Software and Apps
Windows 10 offers a wealth of educational software and apps that cater to a wide range of needs, from note-taking and productivity tools to creative applications and classroom management software. The Surface Pro (2017)’s compatibility with this vast library of Windows programs ensures that users can access the tools they need to excel in their studies.
Popular applications such as Microsoft Office, OneNote, and Adobe Creative Cloud run smoothly on the Surface Pro (2017), making it a versatile tool for various academic tasks. Whether you’re writing essays, creating presentations, or conducting research, the Surface Pro (2017) has you covered.
Secure and Seamless Integration
The Surface Pro (2017)’s compatibility with Windows 10 also brings built-in security features, such as Windows Hello facial recognition, providing an added layer of protection for sensitive data and information. This is particularly important for students who may be working with personal or confidential material. The seamless integration of these security features allows users to focus on their work without worrying about potential threats.
In addition to Windows Hello, the Surface Pro (2017) includes other security measures, such as BitLocker encryption, which helps protect your files and data in case of theft or loss. This focus on security makes the Surface Pro (2017) a reliable choice for students and educators who need to safeguard their information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Surface Pro (2017) good for note-taking?
A: Yes, the Surface Pro (2017) is an excellent device for note-taking, thanks to the capabilities of the upgraded Surface Pen. The Pen’s increased pressure sensitivity, tilt support, and reduced latency provide a natural and accurate writing experience, making it ideal for students who prefer to handwrite their notes.
Q: Can I use the Surface Pro (2017) for creative projects?
A: Absolutely! The Surface Pro (2017) is a capable device for a variety of creative tasks, such as graphic design, video editing, and even light music production. The device’s powerful processor, vibrant display, and integration with the Surface Dial make it a suitable choice for creative-minded students and educators.
Q: How long does the battery last on the Surface Pro (2017)?
A: The battery life of the Surface Pro (2017) is respectable, with up to 8 hours of video playback on a single charge. While this may not quite match Microsoft’s claimed 13.5 hours, it still provides enough power to get through a full day of use, making the device a reliable companion for students and educators on the go.
Q: Is the Surface Pro (2017) compatible with educational software?
A: Yes, the Surface Pro (2017) is compatible with a wide range of educational software, including Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Cloud, and many more. This compatibility ensures that students can access the tools they need for their studies without any issues.
Q: What accessories should I consider for the Surface Pro (2017)?
A: To enhance your experience with the Surface Pro (2017), consider investing in the Surface Pen for note-taking and drawing, the Surface Dock for additional connectivity options, and a protective case to keep your device safe while on the go. These accessories can greatly improve your productivity and usability.
Conclusion: A Standout 2-in-1 for Students and Educators
The Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) is a remarkable 2-in-1 device that truly shines in the hands of students and educators. Its versatile design, powerful performance, and advanced features make it a compelling choice for those who demand the best from their digital tools. Whether you’re taking notes, working on creative projects, or simply browsing the web, the Surface Pro (2017) delivers a seamless and enjoyable experience that sets it apart from the competition.
With its impressive build quality and performance, the Surface Pro (2017) stands out as an ideal companion for academic pursuits. If you’re in the market for a versatile and high-performing device to support your educational endeavors, the Surface Pro (2017) is undoubtedly worth considering. The combination of portability, power, and functionality makes it an excellent investment for anyone looking to enhance their productivity and creativity in an educational setting.
In summary, the Windows Surface Pro (2017) offers a well-rounded package that caters to the diverse needs of students and educators alike. With its powerful hardware, beautiful display, and robust software ecosystem, it is more than just a laptop or a tablet; it is a versatile tool designed to empower users in their academic and creative pursuits. Whether for note-taking in class, working on group projects, or enjoying multimedia content during downtime, the Surface Pro (2017) is equipped to handle it all with ease and style.