The Windows Surface Pro 5 has long been a popular choice for students and professionals seeking a versatile and powerful device. Released in 2017, the Surface Pro 5 was hailed as a game-changer in the world of 2-in-1 devices, blending the flexibility of a tablet with the performance of a laptop. However, with the rapid evolution of technology, newer competitors like the iPad Pro and Dell XPS 13 have emerged, leaving many to wonder if the Surface Pro 5 still holds its own in 2023.
This Windows Surface Pro 5 review will take a closer look at the device, exploring its design, performance, and overall value to determine if it’s still a worthy contender for students and professionals in the current market.
Windows Surface Pro 5 Review: Design and Build Quality
Sleek and Portable
The Surface Pro 5 boasts a sleek and compact design, making it an ideal companion for those constantly on the move. Weighing just over 1.5 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to carry around campus or to meetings without adding significant heft to your bag. The aluminum chassis provides a premium feel, promising both durability and a stylish appearance.
When compared to newer Surface Pro models like the 7 and 8, the Pro 5 maintains a similar footprint, ensuring it can still fit seamlessly into most bags and backpacks. However, the latest iterations have shaved off a few ounces, making them even more portable.
Kickstand and Versatility
One of the standout features of the Surface Pro 5 is its adjustable kickstand. This innovative design allows you to position the device at a wide range of angles, ensuring you can find the perfect viewing angle whether you’re typing at a desk, sketching in a café, or presenting in a meeting. The flexible kickstand makes the Surface Pro 5 a versatile companion for a variety of tasks and work environments.
Ports and Connectivity
The Surface Pro 5 offers a decent selection of ports, including a USB-C port and a Surface Connect port for connecting peripherals. Additionally, the microSD card slot allows for easy storage expansion, which can be particularly useful for users who require additional space for projects or media.
However, the absence of Thunderbolt 3 support may be a drawback for some users who rely on high-speed data transfers or advanced docking stations. This limitation could be a dealbreaker for those with specific connectivity needs.
Performance and Battery Life
Processor and RAM
The Surface Pro 5 is equipped with Intel’s latest processors, offering both i5 and i7 configurations. This hardware provides ample power for multitasking and running demanding applications, making it a suitable choice for students juggling research programs, note-taking apps, and more.
With up to 16GB of RAM, the Surface Pro 5 can efficiently handle multiple tasks simultaneously, ensuring a smooth and responsive experience. While the latest Intel processors may offer slightly more horsepower, the Pro 5’s performance remains impressive and should meet the needs of most users.
Storage and SSD
The Surface Pro 5 offers a range of storage options, from 128GB to a spacious 1TB SSD. These fast solid-state drives deliver quick load times and seamless file transfers, enhancing overall productivity. The capacity choices cater to a variety of user needs, whether you’re a student with a growing library of notes and projects or a professional managing large media files.
When compared to newer Surface Pro models, the storage options are still competitive, with the latest devices offering similar high-speed SSD configurations.
Battery Life
One of the standout features of the Surface Pro 5 is its impressive battery life. With up to 13.5 hours of use on a single charge, the device can easily last a full day of work or study sessions without the need to constantly search for a power outlet.
Real-world usage reports suggest that the Surface Pro 5 can indeed deliver all-day battery performance, making it a reliable companion for those who value uninterrupted productivity. While newer Surface Pro models may offer slightly improved battery life, the Pro 5’s longevity remains a key selling point.
Display and Input
Display Quality
The Surface Pro 5 boasts a stunning 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824. This high-resolution panel delivers vibrant colors, sharp details, and excellent clarity, making it ideal for a wide range of tasks, from document editing to graphic design.
The display’s color accuracy is also noteworthy, catering to the needs of creative professionals who require precise color representation for their work. While newer Surface Pro models may offer slightly improved display quality, the Pro 5’s panel remains a standout feature.
Touchscreen and Pen
The Surface Pro 5’s responsive touchscreen and the optional Surface Pen provide a seamless and intuitive user experience. The touchscreen allows for easy navigation and content manipulation, while the Pen’s precision and responsiveness make it a valuable tool for note-taking, sketching, and other creative tasks.
The Surface Pen’s pressure sensitivity and tilt support further enhance its capabilities, allowing users to unleash their creativity and express themselves with natural, pen-like strokes.
Keyboard and Trackpad
The optional Type Cover keyboard is an essential accessory for the Surface Pro 5, providing a comfortable typing experience with well-spaced keys and decent travel. The responsive trackpad also supports multi-touch gestures, enhancing navigation through documents, web pages, and various applications.
While some users may find the keyboard layout slightly cramped for extended typing sessions, the overall typing experience remains satisfactory for most users. Compared to newer Surface Pro models, the keyboard and trackpad may not offer the same level of refinement, but they still deliver a solid performance.
Software and Features
Windows 10
The Surface Pro 5 runs on the Windows 10 operating system, providing a familiar and user-friendly interface for students and professionals. The seamless integration with a wide range of desktop applications, including the Microsoft Office suite, ensures compatibility with the tools users rely on for productivity and collaboration.
Additionally, the reliability and regular updates of the Windows 10 operating system contribute to the Surface Pro 5’s long-term viability, making it a dependable choice for those who require a robust and secure platform.
Security and Enterprise Features
For professionals handling sensitive information, the Surface Pro 5’s security features are particularly noteworthy. The device supports Windows Hello facial recognition, allowing for convenient and secure login, and includes TPM 2.0 support for enhanced data protection.
These enterprise-level features make the Surface Pro 5 a suitable choice for businesses and organizations that prioritize data security and user authentication.
Microsoft Office Integration
The Surface Pro 5 comes with a trial version of Microsoft Office, providing users with access to the company’s productivity suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. This integration is particularly valuable for students and professionals who rely on these essential tools for their work and studies.
Additionally, the ability to save documents to cloud storage services enhances collaboration and accessibility, allowing users to work from virtually anywhere.
Overall Value and Alternatives
Price and Value
The Surface Pro 5 starts at a competitive price point, offering a strong value proposition for its blend of portability, performance, and versatility. However, the additional costs for accessories like the Type Cover keyboard and Surface Pen can add up, which potential buyers should consider when evaluating the overall investment.
When weighing the Surface Pro 5’s price against its features and capabilities, it remains a viable option for students and professionals who prioritize a compact and powerful device.
Alternatives
While the Surface Pro 5 is a compelling choice, there are several alternative devices that offer similar functionality and features. The iPad Pro, for instance, provides a tablet-centric experience with a focus on touch input, while the Dell XPS 13 offers a more traditional laptop form factor with robust performance.
When considering the Surface Pro 5, it’s essential to evaluate your specific needs and preferences, as each alternative device has its own strengths and weaknesses. By carefully assessing your requirements, you can ensure you make the best choice for your individual needs.
Conclusion
The Windows Surface Pro 5 remains a capable and versatile device that continues to appeal to students and professionals in 2023. Its sleek design, powerful performance, and impressive battery life make it a strong contender in the 2-in-1 market. However, potential buyers should weigh the additional costs of accessories and consider newer models or alternative devices to ensure they find the best fit for their needs.
If you value portability, productivity, and a tablet-laptop hybrid experience, the Surface Pro 5 is still worth considering. Its enduring appeal and reliable performance make it a viable option for those seeking a reliable companion for their work and studies.
FAQ
Q1: Is the Surface Pro 5 still supported by Microsoft?
A1: Yes, the Surface Pro 5 continues to receive security updates and patches from Microsoft, ensuring it remains a secure and supported device.
Q2: Can I upgrade the Surface Pro 5’s storage?
A2: No, the Surface Pro 5’s storage is not upgradeable. You’ll need to choose the appropriate storage option during the purchase.
Q3: Is the Surface Pro 5 compatible with the latest Surface Pen?
A3: Yes, the Surface Pro 5 is compatible with the latest Surface Pen models, including the Surface Pen 2, allowing you to take advantage of the latest pen technology.
Q4: What is the difference between the Surface Pro 5 and the Surface Laptop 5?
A4: The Surface Pro 5 is a 2-in-1 device with a detachable keyboard, while the Surface Laptop 5 is a traditional laptop with a built-in keyboard. The Surface Pro 5 offers more versatility and a tablet-like experience, while the Surface Laptop 5 provides a more conventional laptop setup.