Surface Pro 6 vs Surface Pro 7: Which Should You Buy?
Struggling to choose between two top-tier 2-in-1s? You’re not alone. The Microsoft Surface Pro lineup has consistently set the standard for premium tablets that double as laptops. Today, we’re diving deep into a head-to-head comparison to help you decide which device reigns supreme.
We’re putting the Surface Pro 6 and the Surface Pro 7 under the microscope. Both devices offer a compelling blend of portability, performance, and versatility. This detailed comparison breaks down the key differences to help you make the best choice for your needs and budget.
Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply someone who enjoys on-the-go productivity, understanding the nuances between these two Surface Pro models is crucial. We’ll explore everything from the processors and displays to the battery life and ports. By the end, you’ll know exactly which Surface Pro is the perfect fit.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Surface Pro 6 | Surface Pro 7 |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | 8th Gen Intel Core | 10th Gen Intel Core |
| RAM | 4GB, 8GB, 16GB | 4GB, 8GB, 16GB |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| Display | 12.3″ PixelSense | 12.3″ PixelSense |
| Resolution | 2736 x 1824 | 2736 x 1824 |
| Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics 620 | Intel Iris Plus Graphics (i5/i7) / Intel UHD Graphics (i3) |
| Ports | USB 3.0, Mini DisplayPort, Surface Connect, Headphone Jack | USB-C, USB 3.0, Surface Connect, Headphone Jack |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Battery Life (Typical Usage) | Up to 13.5 hours | Up to 10.5 hours |
| Weight | 1.70 lbs (770 g) | 1.70 lbs (770 g) |
| Operating System | Windows 10 Home | Windows 10 Home |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor
- Surface Pro 6: Equipped with 8th Gen Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, the Surface Pro 6 offered a solid performance boost over previous generations. However, it lacked the latest processor technology available at the time, potentially impacting demanding tasks.
- Surface Pro 7: Featuring 10th Gen Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 processors, the Surface Pro 7 provided a noticeable performance upgrade, particularly in integrated graphics. This made it better suited for multitasking and more graphically intensive applications.
- Winner: Surface Pro 7
Graphics
- Surface Pro 6: The Surface Pro 6 utilized Intel UHD Graphics 620, which was adequate for everyday tasks and light gaming, but struggled with more demanding graphical applications.
- Surface Pro 7: The Surface Pro 7 benefitted from Intel Iris Plus Graphics (on i5 and i7 models), offering significantly improved graphics performance compared to the Pro 6, making it better for photo and video editing.
- Winner: Surface Pro 7
Ports
- Surface Pro 6: The Surface Pro 6 included a USB 3.0 port, a Mini DisplayPort, and a Surface Connect port. It lacked a USB-C port, which was becoming increasingly common for accessories and charging.
- Surface Pro 7: The Surface Pro 7 added a USB-C port, providing more versatility for connecting peripherals, charging, and external displays. It retained the USB 3.0 port and Surface Connect port.
- Winner: Surface Pro 7
Display
- Surface Pro 6: The Surface Pro 6 featured a 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824, offering sharp visuals and vibrant colors. The display was bright and responsive, suitable for both work and entertainment.
- Surface Pro 7: The Surface Pro 7 retained the same 12.3-inch PixelSense display with the same resolution as the Pro 6. The display quality remains excellent, providing a similar viewing experience.
- Winner: Tie
Battery Life
- Surface Pro 6: The Surface Pro 6 offered decent battery life, typically lasting around 8-9 hours during mixed usage. Battery life was dependent on the tasks being performed.
- Surface Pro 7: While Microsoft claimed similar battery life, real-world tests showed the Surface Pro 7 often had slightly reduced battery life compared to its predecessor, depending on the workload.
- Winner: Surface Pro 6
Design
- Surface Pro 6: The Surface Pro 6 maintained the same design as the Surface Pro (2017), with a sleek and lightweight magnesium alloy chassis. It was available in platinum and, for the first time, black.
- Surface Pro 7: The Surface Pro 7 retained the familiar Surface Pro design, with minor aesthetic refinements. The overall look and feel were largely unchanged from the Pro 6.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Surface Pro 6: Initially, the Surface Pro 6 was priced competitively, but it has since seen price reductions due to its age. It can often be found at a lower price point than the Pro 7.
- Surface Pro 7: The Surface Pro 7 initially launched at a similar price point to the Pro 6, but depending on the configuration, it may be more expensive.
- Winner: Surface Pro 6
Wi-Fi
- Surface Pro 6: The Surface Pro 6 supported Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), offering reliable wireless connectivity.
- Surface Pro 7: The Surface Pro 7 also supported Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), offering improved speed and efficiency, particularly in crowded network environments.
- Winner: Surface Pro 7
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Processor | Surface Pro 7 |
| Graphics | Surface Pro 7 |
| Ports | Surface Pro 7 |
| Wi-Fi | Surface Pro 7 |
| Battery Life | Surface Pro 6 |
| Value | Surface Pro 6 (potentially, depending on price) |
What They Have in Common:
- Display: Both Surface Pro models share the same 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824, providing a crisp and vibrant visual experience. This ensures a consistent viewing experience across both devices.
- Design: The Surface Pro 6 and 7 share a similar design aesthetic, maintaining the iconic Surface Pro look with a built-in kickstand and a focus on portability. They both support the Surface Pen and Surface Type Cover.
- Portability: Both are designed to be highly portable, making them easy to carry around for work or travel. Their compact size and weight contribute to their convenience.
- Surface Pen and Type Cover Compatibility: Both devices are compatible with the Surface Pen and Surface Type Cover, allowing for a versatile user experience. These accessories enhance productivity and creativity.
- Operating System: Both run Windows 10 Home, offering a familiar and feature-rich operating system experience with access to a wide range of applications.
Surface Pro 6 vs Surface Pro 7 Buying Guide
Performance
The Surface Pro 7 boasts a significant performance upgrade over the Surface Pro 6, primarily due to its newer 10th generation Intel processors. This translates to faster processing speeds, improved responsiveness, and better handling of demanding tasks like video editing and multitasking. The Pro 7 also features improved integrated graphics, allowing for smoother gaming experiences and better overall graphical performance. The Surface Pro 6, while still capable, struggles more with intensive applications and may exhibit some lag compared to its successor. This performance difference is noticeable in everyday use.
Display and Design
Both devices share the same 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824, offering sharp visuals and vibrant colors. However, the Surface Pro 7 retains the same design language as its predecessor, maintaining the sleek, magnesium alloy build and iconic kickstand. There are no major design changes between the two models. Both devices offer a premium feel and portability. Ultimately, the display experience remains largely consistent across both generations.
Ports and Connectivity
A key difference lies in the ports. The Surface Pro 7 introduces a USB-C port, replacing the Mini DisplayPort found on the Surface Pro 6. This adds versatility, allowing for charging, data transfer, and connection to external displays with a single cable. The Surface Pro 6 relies on a USB-A port, a Mini DisplayPort, and a Surface Connect port. While both support Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, the inclusion of USB-C on the Pro 7 provides a future-proof connectivity option that the Pro 6 lacks. The Pro 7 supports faster data transfer speeds.
Battery Life
Battery life is an important consideration. The Surface Pro 7 generally provides slightly improved battery life compared to the Surface Pro 6, particularly under more demanding workloads. While both devices offer all-day battery life for typical use, the Pro 7 can often last an hour or two longer. The efficiency of the newer processors in the Pro 7 contributes to this enhanced battery performance. Actual battery life will vary based on usage patterns, screen brightness, and other factors, but the Pro 7 has an edge.
Price and Value
The Surface Pro 6 is often available at a lower price point now, offering a compelling value proposition for users with less demanding needs. The Surface Pro 7, being the newer model, typically carries a higher price tag. The choice between the two depends on your budget and performance requirements. If you prioritize budget, the Pro 6 is a great choice. If you want the latest features and improved performance, the Pro 7 is the better investment. Consider the price difference and your usage.
Features and Accessories
Both devices support the Surface Pen and Surface Type Cover, which are sold separately. The Pro 7 offers similar features and compatibility with existing accessories. However, the Pro 7 might have some new features enabled by its newer hardware, such as the ability to drive higher resolution external displays and faster data transfer rates. The Pro 7 also has improved microphones for better audio quality. The overall accessory ecosystem remains largely the same for both models, with a focus on productivity and creativity.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Surface Pro 6 If…
- You’re on a tighter budget and want a capable Surface Pro experience.
- You don’t need the latest processor or graphics improvements.
- You prioritize battery life over raw performance.
- You can find it at a significantly discounted price.
Buy Surface Pro 7 If…
- You want the latest Intel processor for improved performance.
- You need a USB-C port for modern connectivity.
- You desire better graphics performance (especially with the i5/i7 models).
- You want the latest Wi-Fi standard (Wi-Fi 6).
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key performance differences?
The Surface Pro 7 features newer 10th generation Intel processors, which deliver faster processing speeds and improved graphics compared to the 8th generation processors in the Surface Pro 6. This results in smoother multitasking, quicker application loading times, and better overall responsiveness. The Pro 7’s integrated graphics also provide a slight edge in gaming and graphical performance.
Does the Surface Pro 7 have a better display?
No, both the Surface Pro 6 and Surface Pro 7 share the same 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824. Both devices offer sharp visuals, vibrant colors, and excellent clarity. The display experience is virtually identical on both devices, providing a great viewing experience for both work and entertainment.
What are the port differences between the two models?
The Surface Pro 7 replaces the Mini DisplayPort of the Surface Pro 6 with a USB-C port. This offers greater versatility, allowing for charging, data transfer, and external display connectivity with a single cable. The Pro 6 has USB-A, Mini DisplayPort and Surface Connect. The USB-C provides a more modern and future-proof connectivity option for the Pro 7.
Is the Surface Pro 7’s battery life significantly better?
The Surface Pro 7 offers slightly improved battery life compared to the Surface Pro 6, especially under demanding workloads. The efficiency of the newer processors in the Pro 7 contributes to this. However, actual battery life varies based on usage, but the Pro 7 generally lasts a bit longer. Expect roughly an hour or two better battery life in the Pro 7.
Are the accessories compatible between the two devices?
Yes, the Surface Pen and Surface Type Cover are compatible with both the Surface Pro 6 and the Surface Pro 7. You can use the same accessories with either device. The design and dimensions of the devices are similar enough to allow for cross-compatibility of most accessories, including the keyboard covers.
Which model is better for gaming?
The Surface Pro 7 offers slightly better graphics performance due to its newer integrated graphics. While neither device is designed for high-end gaming, the Pro 7 will provide a smoother gaming experience and handle less demanding games better than the Surface Pro 6. The Pro 7’s graphics are a noticeable improvement.
Which Surface Pro is the better value?
The Surface Pro 6 is often available at a lower price point, making it a better value for users on a budget or with less demanding needs. The Surface Pro 7, with its enhanced performance and features, is the better option if you want the latest technology. Consider your budget and performance requirements.
Final Verdict
The Surface Pro 7 offers a significant performance boost with its newer processor and the inclusion of a USB-C port, making it a more future-proof and versatile device. While the Surface Pro 6 remains a capable machine and a good value, the improvements in the Pro 7 make it the superior choice for most users.
Winner: Surface Pro 7