What to know
- The Surface Pro 6 is available at a lower price point compared to the Surface Pro 8.
- However, if you are on a budget or prefer a more compact device, the Surface Pro 6 remains a solid option.
- The Surface Pro 8 is rated for up to 16 hours of battery life, while the Surface Pro 6 is rated for up to 13.
The Microsoft Surface Pro series has established itself as a formidable competitor in the 2-in-1 laptop market. With the release of the Surface Pro 6 and Surface Pro 8, consumers are faced with a choice between two exceptional devices. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Surface Pro 6 and 8, enabling you to make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs.
Design and Display
The Surface Pro 6 and 8 share a similar sleek and elegant design, but there are subtle differences. The Surface Pro 8 features a larger 13-inch PixelSense Flow display with a higher resolution of 2880 x 1920. This provides a more immersive and vibrant viewing experience, making it ideal for designers, artists, and content creators. The Surface Pro 6, on the other hand, has a slightly smaller 12.3-inch display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824.
Performance and Hardware
Under the hood, the Surface Pro 8 boasts a significant performance advantage over the Surface Pro 6. It is powered by the latest 11th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, which offer up to 40% faster performance. The Surface Pro 6, in contrast, is equipped with 8th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors. Both devices offer up to 16GB of RAM and up to 1TB of SSD storage.
Connectivity and Ports
The Surface Pro 8 features a more comprehensive array of ports and connectivity options. It includes two USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports, a Surface Connect port, a microSD card slot, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The Surface Pro 6 has only one USB-C port, a Surface Connect port, and a microSD card slot. The addition of Thunderbolt 4 ports on the Surface Pro 8 allows for faster data transfer speeds, external display connections, and charging.
Battery Life
In terms of battery life, both devices offer similar performance. The Surface Pro 6 is rated for up to 13.5 hours of battery life, while the Surface Pro 8 is rated for up to 16 hours. However, real-world battery life may vary depending on usage patterns and settings.
Keyboard and Pen
The Surface Pro 6 and 8 are both compatible with the Surface Type Cover and Surface Pen. The Surface Type Cover provides a comfortable typing experience and doubles as a protective cover. The Surface Pen offers precise and responsive writing and drawing capabilities, making it a valuable tool for artists, designers, and note-takers.
Price and Availability
The Surface Pro 6 is available at a lower price point compared to the Surface Pro 8. The Surface Pro 6 starts at $899, while the Surface Pro 8 starts at $1,099. The price may vary depending on the configuration and storage capacity.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Surface Pro 6 and 8 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance, a larger display, and the latest connectivity options, the Surface Pro 8 is the better choice. However, if you are on a budget or prefer a more compact device, the Surface Pro 6 remains a solid option.
Takeaways
Both the Microsoft Surface Pro 6 and 8 offer exceptional functionality and versatility. By carefully considering the differences highlighted in this comparison, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your unique requirements and budget. Whether you opt for the Surface Pro 6 or 8, you can be confident that you are investing in a premium 2-in-1 device that will enhance your productivity, creativity, and entertainment.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which device has a better display?
A: The Surface Pro 8 has a larger and higher-resolution display than the Surface Pro 6.
Q: Which device is more powerful?
A: The Surface Pro 8 is powered by the latest 11th-generation Intel processors, while the Surface Pro 6 has 8th-generation processors.
Q: Which device has more ports?
A: The Surface Pro 8 has a more comprehensive array of ports, including two USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports.
Q: Which device has longer battery life?
A: The Surface Pro 8 is rated for up to 16 hours of battery life, while the Surface Pro 6 is rated for up to 13.5 hours.
Q: Which device is more affordable?
A: The Surface Pro 6 is available at a lower price point than the Surface Pro 8.