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Buy NOW? Or Wait for Surface Pro 5?? - Surface Pro 4 Review

Linus Tech Tips@LinusTechTips1.4M viewsMar 22, 20178:37
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With the recent drop in its price is the Surface Pro 4 a compelling purchase? Or should you wait around to see what the Surface Pro 5 will bring? Try Tunnelbear for free at tunnelbear.com and save 10%

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AI OverviewDefault language

The video opens by noting how much has changed in the year since the Surface Pro 4’s release, including a notable price drop that makes the device even more compelling. The host compares the Surface Pro 4 to its predecessor, the Surface Pro 3, explaining that although the exterior resembles the older model, the under-the-hood upgrades and Skylake CPUs still hold strong performance after 18 months on the market. They assess the value of buying now versus waiting for a rumored Surface Pro 5, weighing the new lower price against potential future improvements, and they set expectations for what kind of buyer will benefit most from the Pro 4. The review then delves into hardware specifics, including the choice of CPU options, RAM configurations, and the trade-offs of the Core M3 model, which can feel sluggish for heavier tasks. A key point is that RAM cannot be upgraded after purchase, so selecting the right configuration upfront is critical for longevity. The discussion also covers practical aspects such as the device’s 1080p front and rear cameras, Windows Hello IR camera, and the single USB 3.0 port, highlighting how these choices affect everyday use, from typing to media consumption. The reviewer praises the Surface Pro 4’s screen, viewing angles, and color accuracy, while commending the improved keyboard and touchpad feel that make long-form typing comfortable. They also spotlight the included stylus as a major upgrade over earlier models, noting its natural pen-to-paper feel for note-taking, which could be especially valuable for students. Finally, the host addresses thermals, noting the i7 maintains cool temps under load and remains relatively quiet, supporting all-day productivity, before concluding that the Pro 4 remains a strong choice now that the price has dropped, while the prospect of Surface Pro 5 keeps some buyers curious for future improvements.

Topics · technology · gadgets · consumer-electronics · tablets · laptops

Questions answered

What are the main upgrades of the Surface Pro 4 over the Pro 3?
The Pro 4 offers under-the-hood upgrades with Skylake CPUs, improved keyboard and touchpad, a stronger stylus, a 1080p front camera with Windows Hello IR, and a more robust build, while keeping the same general form factor as the Pro 3.
Is the single USB-A port a deal breaker at 2017 standards?
The reviewer notes that the single USB-A port is a limitation and hopes for USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 in future models, but also acknowledges adapters can add multiple ports.