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Surface Pro 7 vs Surface Pro X: 4 Key Differences and Full Comparison

surface pro 7 vs surface pro x

Surface Pro 7 vs Surface Pro X: 4 Key Differences and Full Comparison

With smart devices getting bigger every year, it’s no surprise that we prefer to use our phones over traditional computers. Microsoft wasted no time with this idea when they released the 2-in-1 tablet, making it easy to carry around a slim device that can turn into a laptop when needed.

Years later, they’re still the industry leader in this designation, with a couple of devices available. The Surface is their latest model featuring a traditional processor. It has all the power you need in a device you can take anywhere you go.

On the flip side, the Surface is their experimental baby, introducing the first ARM-processing tablet on the market. So, when it comes down to it, which one is right for you? If you’re struggling to decide between the Surface Pro 7 vs Surface Pro X, here’s the information you need to make your purchase. 

Surface Pro 7 vs Surface Pro X: Side-by-Side Comparison

Surface Pro 7Surface Pro X
Operating SystemWindows 10Windows 10
Processor10th Gen Intel
Core i3-1005G1
Core i5-1035G4
Core i7-1065G7
Microsoft SQ1
Microsoft SQ2
RAM4GB, 8GB, 16GB8GB, 16GB
Storage128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB128GB, 256GB, 512GB
Display Size12.3 inches
3:2 aspect ratio
13 inches
3:2 aspect ratio
PortsUSB-C
USB-A
3.5mm audio
Surface Connect
MicroSD card reader
USB-C x2
Surface Connect
NanoSIM
LTEN/AQualcomm Snapdragon X24 LTE modem
ConnectivityWi-Fi 6
Bluetooth 5.0
Wi-Fi 5
Bluetooth 5.0
Battery Life (Rated)Up to 10.5 hoursUp to 13 hours
Dimensions11.5 x 7.9 x 0.3in11.3 x 8.2 x 0.3in
Weight27.2oz27.2oz
ColorsBlack, platinumBlack, platinum
PriceStarting at $461.00Starting at $669.99
infographic for Surface Pro 7 vs Surface Pro X

Surface Pro 7 vs Surface Pro X: What’s the Difference?

Design

Our Pick
Microsoft Surface Pro 7
$624.98
  • Up to 10.5 hours of battery life
  • 1.2 GHz CPU speed
  • Windows 10 Home OS
  • 2736 x 1824 display resolution
  • 128 GB hard disk size
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/10/2024 07:26 am GMT

As far as 2-in-1 detachable tablets go, the Surface Pro 7 has led the pack for the last few years. However, three years later, this model hasn’t changed much and it’s starting to show.

With the same thick screen bezels and blockier edges, it feels like you’re using an older tablet. Still, measuring only half an inch thick and weighing less than two pounds, the Pro 7 is highly portable, as it was designed.

While it’s built practically the same as when it was launched, the newest version features a USB-C port. Some people might criticize this addition, as modern laptops are starting to adopt Lightning 3 and 4 ports, but it’s still a welcome change. With a USB-A port alongside, this 2-in-1 tablet accommodates those that prefer to use devices for as long as they last.

By contrast, the Surface Pro X features only slight differences in its design, but it’s enough to feel totally refreshing. Microsoft’s newest tablet has the sleek and modern build that you wish the Pro 7 had. And with an even thinner frame than its predecessor, you’ll want to pack this model anywhere you go.

Microsoft opted to provide two USB-C ports on this design, which feels strange. While it’s handy to have two fast USB ports, it doesn’t accommodate older devices, and it still fails to keep up with connectivity. Also, this model doesn’t include an audio jack; the Pro X wants to follow modern trends in all the worst ways.

Performance

The main difference between the Surface Pro 7 vs Surface Pro X is their processors. Mircosoft’s older model features a 10th-generation Intel processor, the same used in just about every contemporary laptop. This makes using the Pro 7 feel natural; you can browse the internet, stream movies, and even play some games without any issues.

That is, so long as you have internet. The 2-in-1 tablet does not come with SIM ports that would allow it to connect to cellular service. However, this does not mean that its internet connectivity is limited. The newest model comes with Wi-Fi 6, which is the newest Wi-Fi standard that will accommodate large-bandwidth areas while providing some of the fastest internet speeds.

Where the Pro 7 uses the latest in traditional processing, the Pro X gets experimental. This model is only the second rendition of Microsoft’s attempts at a commercial ARM processor.

In a collaboration with Qualcomm, this tablet integrates the CPU cores into the physical platform. This reduces the size, lowers power consumption, and improves the battery life of the device. 

While this concept is common in smartphones, it’s still relatively new in laptops. So while the Pro X is diversifying itself with a more efficient system, there’s hardly any software prepared for it. Users can expect the infrastructure to develop over the coming years. But, for the time being, this severely limits the tablet’s functionality.

Users might not find this model appropriate if they plan on using major applications such as Adobe Suite, but for avid movie-bingers, it’s pretty handy. Unlike its companion tablet, the Pro X features a nano-SIM port, allowing it to connect to 4G-LTE towers. Although slightly behind, it does let users surf the internet just about anywhere they want to take it.

Battery Life

Our Pick
Microsoft Surface Pro X
$999.00
  • PixelSense Display touchscreen (13")
  • Microsoft SQ1 processor
  • LTE and Wi-Fi connectivity
  • Ultra slim
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
03/10/2024 07:27 am GMT

The Intel i7 core provides great performance for the Surface Pro 7, but at a cost to the battery life. While rated for 10.5 hours, users can expect to get about eight hours with regular use. Still, this might not feel too different than normal, as it’s about what other tablets in this designation get to.

On the other hand, longevity is where the Pro X shines. Its ARM processor comes through on its promise, with up to 13 hours of rated use. In practical terms, that translates to about 10 hours when used as intended. But even if you decide to use an emulator to run traditional apps, this tablet can still run for up to eight hours.

Price

Unfortunately for both of these models, their cost is a hard sell. For the basic model Pro 7 with a Core i3 and 4GB of memory, buyers are looking at about $450. And for the Pro X at the same tier, expect to pay no less than $700.

The worst part? These numbers are deceptively low when you consider the essential accessories that you have to buy separately.

These 2-in-1 tablets both come with a special keyboard port that allows you to use them as a laptop. To buy that keyboard, you’re looking at about $100. Include the Microsoft Surface Pen and your purchase could go from $450 to $600 instantly.

The Surface Pro X is even less forgiving. With everything, you can expect to pay about $1,000 to use the tablet as intended.

Surface Pro 7 vs Surface Pro X: 5 Must-Know Facts

  1. The Surface Pro 7 was released in 2019 and is still the industry leader in 2-in-1 detachable tablets.
  2. The Surface Pro X is the first tablet to introduce an ARM processor.
  3. Despite its age, the Pro 7 still feels nicer to use with its traditional Intel Core i7 processor.
  4. You can connect the Pro X to your cellular service using a nanoSIM card.
  5. Both devices require you to buy their separately sold accessories in order to be used as intended.

Surface Pro 7 vs Surface Pro X: Which One Is Better?

If you’re trying to decide between the Surface Pro 7 vs Surface Pro X, we tend to suggest the former. Microsoft’s premier 2-in-1 detachable tablet features one of the most advanced traditional processors without sacrificing too much battery life. Its design is a little outdated, but it includes a handy USB-C port for connecting your newer devices.

However, don’t count out the Pro X just yet; while its ARM processor might still need more structural development before it can meet the Pro 7, that software is catching up every day. It’s only a matter of time before you can use all your favorite applications while also having an incredibly efficient alternative.

Overall, users should choose the Pro 7 if they’re concerned about functionality and price. The earlier models can run your typical applications without overheating.

If you’re mainly using your device to watch videos or chat with your friends, however, the Pro X is the better option. With 4G-LTE connectivity, you can stay connected just about anywhere you take it.

Surface Pro 7 vs Surface Pro X: Further Reading

Whether you prefer tablets or laptops for the activities you run, there’s no going wrong when you decide between the Surface Pro 7 vs Surface Pro X. These 2-in-1 detachable devices are leading their industry in a sea of technological advancements. For more of the latest electronic toys that you should check out this holiday season, continue reading the articles below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, the Surface Pro 7 or Surface Pro X?

For those wanting performance in a portable 2-in-1 device, the Surface Pro 7 is ideal. However, for those that prefer to have an internet connection anywhere they go, the Surface Pro X is superior.

Which is faster between the Pro 7 and Pro X?

While the Surface Pro X features a state-of-the-art ARM processor, it’s still a developing technology. This makes the Pro 7’s Intel Core i7 processor faster and more versatile.

What is the difference between the Surface Pro and Surface Pro X?

Beyond the design differences, the Surface Pro X has an entirely new, ARM processing unit that integrates into the circuitry, making it faster and more power-efficient. Additionally, the device features a nanoSIM port that allows it to connect to 4G-LTE.

How old is the Surface Pro 7?

The Surface Pro 7 was released in 2019 and comes in four versions.

Is Surface Pro basically a laptop?

The Surface Pro is a 2-in-1 tablet that comes with a special keyboard port, allowing it to also function as a laptop.

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