Three new Intel-powered Surface devices have been released for businesses, though they come with steep prices.
Nearly two years ago, Microsoft launched Arm-based versions of the Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7, with Intel models delayed by over six months. This time, Microsoft is updating its Surface Pro and Surface Laptop series with Intel’s latest Core Ultra Series 3 processors first, ahead of models equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X2 processors later this year.
The Surface Pro 12, officially known as the Surface Pro for Business 13-inch (12th Edition), is available now for businesses, starting at $1,949.99. Its base model features an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor, 16GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, and a 13-inch PixelSense LCD display.
Higher-spec versions include the Core Ultra 7 processor, up to 64GB of RAM, and up to 1TB of storage. The top-tier Surface Pro 12 includes a Core Ultra 7, 64GB of RAM, and 1TB storage for $4,399.99, with options for OLED screens and 5G connectivity. The Surface Pro 12 5G model starts at $2,249.99, with a Core Ultra 5, 16GB RAM, and 256GB storage.
The design of the Surface Pro 12 is similar to the Surface Pro 11, retaining the two USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 4. Businesses can continue using the Surface Connect magnetic charging port, with Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, a 1440p Quad HD front-facing camera, and a 10-megapixel 4K rear-facing camera included.
Microsoft is also launching two new versions of the Surface Laptop for businesses. The Surface Laptop 8, called the Surface Laptop for Business 13.8 or 15-inch (8th Edition), features Intel’s Core Ultra Series 3 processors. A smaller 13-inch model is also available, labeled the Surface Laptop for Business 13-inch (1st Edition).
The 13.8-inch model starts at $1,949.99, with an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor, 16GB RAM, and 256GB storage. While business Surface devices generally cost more than consumer models, the $1,949.99 start for the Surface Laptop 8 is nearly double the original Surface Laptop 7 price. Recent price hikes have led consumer models to be $500 more expensive than their original prices, tying into Microsoft’s “RAMageddon.”
The max configuration for the 13.8-inch Surface Pro 8 includes a Core Ultra 7, 64GB RAM, and 1TB storage for $4,299.99, while a similar 15-inch model costs $4,499.99.
The Surface Laptop 8 retains the Surface Laptop 7 design, with an “advanced haptic touchpad” being a notable addition. This touchpad adds subtle haptics for actions like hovering over close buttons or dragging objects. Windows 11 supports this feature, and Microsoft is collaborating with third-party developers to enhance compatibility.
The 13.8-inch Surface Laptop 8 now offers an integrated privacy screen, although it’s not as advanced as Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra. Managed by IT teams or activated with a single key, the privacy filter protects business data without needing a physical screen protector.
The Surface Pro 12 offers an OLED display option, but the Laptop 8 lacks this upgrade. Instead, the 15-inch model upgrades its resolution from 2496 x 1664 (201 PPI) to 3270 x 2180 (262 PPI), maintaining a 120Hz refresh rate.
The Surface Laptop 8 retains the Surface Connect charging port, with USB-A and two USB-C ports on both models. The 15-inch model includes a MicroSDXC Express card reader.
The smaller, more affordable 13-inch Surface Laptop for Business (1st Edition) mirrors the Qualcomm model from last year. It starts at $1,499.99, though Microsoft promises 8GB RAM configurations starting at $1,299.99 “later this year.” The highest configuration with a Core Ultra 5 processor, 24GB RAM, and 1TB storage costs $2,249.99.
These high prices imply similar cost increases for upcoming consumer models from Microsoft, possibly announced in June, as hinted by leaker Roland Quandt. Rumors suggest a Surface Laptop with an OLED display may be in the works.