Faisal Ghaffar 
The Microsoft Surface Pro 8 that was launched in 2021 came with some wholesale changes, due to which the changes in the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 may come off as more modest. However, there is no denying that the ARM-based brand-new model has plenty to offer because it comes with new video calling features, a better battery life and 5G support, which is a first.
Design and Build
The Surface Pro 9 is quite similar to its predecessor in terms of design, but this is not necessarily a bad thing. The feel is very premium, as it blends aluminum and glass and it weighs about 878g, which is on the heavy side. There is also a kickstand extending across its back, which makes it sturdy. There is a 10Mp camera on the back and a Windows logo, staying true to the minimalist design.
The ARM-based model can only be found in Platinum, but the Intel model has more options, such as Graphite, Forest and Sapphire. The front-facing camera is 1080p, which is one of the top built-in webcams. The ARM version has a separate Neural Processing Unit (NPU) that gives new video effects, thereby making video calling a completely different experience.
The Surface Pro 9 also has the dual microphones as the Pro 8 and there is also an IR sensor next to the webcam, allowing you to unlock your device via Windows Hello. A fingerprint sensor is not available and Microsoft has also chosen to ditch the 3.5mm headphone jack.
Screen and Speakers
Even though it is a tablet, the Surface Pro 9’s screen is as big as many laptops. Even though Microsoft is still stuck to the LCD display instead of OLED, the quality is good, thanks to the 2880×1920 resolution. The color scheme is also quite vivid and it can get bright. There is also a refresh rate of 120 Hz, which makes it more responsive and fluid.
Microsoft may have stuck with the dual stereo speakers, but they offer crisp and clear audio and even at high volumes, there is minimal distortion.
Specs and Performance
The Surface Pro 9’s Intel versions have the 12th-gen CPUs, but the ARM-based chip has been termed as ‘SQ3’ by Microsoft, which gives battery life a big boost. However, it affects performance and the device may come off as a big sluggish. But, it is the first device to come with 5G support and has NanoSIMand eSIM cards.
Charging and Battery Life
Battery life is the top reason to buy the ARM version and a single charge can give you 19 hours. But, when it comes to the Intel version, it has a life of 15.5 hours, despite the same battery size. There is a 65W adapter that Microsoft has added in the box and it connects through the Surface Connect Port, or you can use the USB-C charger if you want. However, the charging speed is not that impressive.
The Verdict
The ARM-based model is definitely a significant introduction, but since it affects performance, the Intel version would still be preferred. The former will cost $1,299, while the latter costs $999.99. The device is a good upgrade offering extra webcam features and a good battery life.
