Performance: Overall this laptop's performance was good, below that of many other models but still powerful enough for tasks such as email, word processing, web browsing, streaming movies and even some gaming. Compared to other tested laptops, it was fast for common tasks such as web browsing and video conferencing. Applications start up quickly. Speed was adequate when composing documents, working on data spreadsheets, and other productivity tasks, and its speed was adequate for manipulating filters on images, converting and editing videos, and rendering models and calculating simulations.
Portability: This laptop is a very good choice for traveling. At 12.25 hours, battery life was very long, enough for a full day's work with a little more battery life to spare. At 2.4 pounds, weight was typical for a laptop this size.
Ergonomics: Some features of the keyboard, touchpad, and labeling, were well-designed, and were comfortable or convenient to use. The keyboard has large keys and was comfortably sized. Its high contrast letters were easy to read, and the backlighting can be useful in dark rooms. The power button labeling was hard to read when the laptop is off, and it was inconveniently placed, either difficult to reach or too easy to accidentally press. The touchpad was uncomfortably small, providing less space for gestures than most others tested. This laptop was tested with the optional Surface Pro Signature Type Cover, sold separately.
Display: The display quality was very good overall. Colors were accurately reproduced, realistic, and natural looking. The laptops display was brighter than most, a plus for viewing in bright indoor lighting or outdoors. The display has a wide viewing angle, especially important if more than one person needs to see the screen at a time, say, for a video or presentation. The touchscreen is smooth enough for fast swipes, and fingerprints clean off easily.
Useful features and attributes on this model include: Laptop converts to a touchscreen tablet to be used as either a laptop computer or a tablet. There's a 128GB solid-state hard drive, which uses less power and accesses data more quickly. You can connect common external devices such as hard drives and Blu-ray burners to the USB 3.0 ports for maximum performance. This laptop is compatible with DisplayPort for connecting to an HDTV.
Downsides: There's no optical drive like a CD or DVD reader, so you'll have to buy an external drive if you need one. The battery is not easily removable.
