Best for Most People: Surface Laptop 7th Edition
After years of incremental upgrades, Microsoft made proper changes with the Surface Laptop 7th Edition, launched in 2024. It remains the best Surface device to buy, offering a fantastic Windows alternative to the MacBook Air. While not quite as thin as the Air, the 7th Edition is plenty compact. The polish of its design and quality of components make it feel on par with Apple. You can get it with either a 13.8- or 15-inch screen size. The smaller model has a slightly larger display than its predecessor (up from 13.5 inches) with thinner bezels and rounder corners. It's brighter, too, and features a 12-core processor. Prices have dropped significantly since launch, making it a great value when on sale.
Best 2-in-1 Laptop: Surface Pro 11th Edition
For those who want a flexible device that works as both a laptop and tablet, the Surface Pro 11th Edition is the top choice. It combines a high-resolution touchscreen with a detachable keyboard and stylus support. The 2024 model brought significant improvements in battery life and performance, powered by Snapdragon X Elite chips. It's ideal for creatives, note-takers, and anyone who values portability. However, the new Surface Pro 12th Edition, announced in 2026, features next-gen Snapdragon X2 chips at a much higher price, making the 11th Edition a better value if you can find it on sale.
Best Budget Surface Device: Surface Laptop Go 3
If you're on a tight budget, the Surface Laptop Go 3 offers a premium feel at a lower price point. It features a 12.4-inch PixelSense touchscreen, an Intel Core i5 processor, and a lightweight design. While it lacks the performance of higher-end models, it's more than adequate for everyday tasks like web browsing, email, and document editing. It's often available for under $800, making it the most affordable entry into the Surface ecosystem.
Should You Wait to Buy?
With the announcement of the Surface Laptop 8th Edition and Surface Pro 12th Edition in July 2026, you might wonder whether to buy now or wait. The new models come with Snapdragon X2 chips, promising better performance and efficiency, but they launch at much higher prices. If you need a device immediately, the 7th Edition Surface Laptop or 11th Edition Surface Pro are excellent choices, especially with discounts. If you can wait and have a larger budget, the 8th Edition may be worth it. Additionally, Microsoft previewed a Surface Laptop Ultra due later this year, which could be a premium option for power users.
Things That May Annoy You
No device is perfect, and Surface devices have some quirks. The lack of a review program for the new 8th Edition and Pro 12th Edition means early adopters rely on limited information. Some users find the limited port selection frustrating—only USB-C ports on many models. The Surface Laptop's keyboard, while excellent, is not backlit on all models. Battery life, while improved, still lags behind some competitors like the MacBook Air. Also, the higher price of new models may not justify the performance gains for average users.
Laptop vs. Tablet: Which Form Factor Suits You?
Choosing between a traditional laptop like the Surface Laptop and a 2-in-1 like the Surface Pro depends on your needs. If you primarily need a laptop for typing and productivity, the Surface Laptop offers a more stable keyboard and larger trackpad. If you want to take handwritten notes, draw, or use it as a tablet for media consumption, the Surface Pro with its detachable keyboard and stylus is more versatile. Consider how you'll use the device most of the time.
Do You Need Surface All Access and Microsoft Complete?
Microsoft offers Surface All Access, a subscription program that bundles a Surface device with Microsoft 365 and support. This can be a good option if you want to spread out payments. Microsoft Complete is an extended warranty and accidental damage protection plan. For expensive devices, it may provide peace of mind, especially if you're prone to drops or spills. Evaluate your budget and risk tolerance before purchasing.
Other Microsoft Surface Devices to Consider
Beyond the main lineup, Microsoft offers the Surface Studio for creative professionals—an all-in-one with a large, adjustable display. The Surface Go is a smaller, more affordable tablet for casual use. The Surface Hub is a digital whiteboard for collaboration in business settings. However, for most consumers, the Surface Laptop and Surface Pro remain the best options.
Great Surface Accessories
To get the most out of your Surface, consider accessories like the Surface Slim Pen 2 for precise input, the Surface Dial for creative shortcuts, and the Surface Dock for connecting multiple peripherals. A good sleeve or case is also recommended for protection. Microsoft's keyboards and mice are well-designed, but third-party options may offer better value.
In summary, the best Microsoft Surface to buy in 2026 depends on your budget and needs. The Surface Laptop 7th Edition is the top pick for most people, while the Surface Pro 11th Edition excels as a 2-in-1. Avoid the new 8th Edition and Pro 12th Edition unless you need cutting-edge performance and are willing to pay a premium. Always look for sales to get the best value.
This article is based on reporting by Wired. Read the original article.
Originally published on wired.com
