There was a time not too long ago when it was difficult to find a really solid Windows laptop that could combine good looks, plenty of power, and appealing functionality. The industry had been commoditized to death. And consumers looking for something new or special were left out.
But in recent years, high-end Windows 10 laptops have become easier to find. And for many use cases, Microsoft, the company that for years stayed away from making computer hardware, has been one of the top device makers.
Now, after spending time with the Surface Pro 6 over the last few weeks, I can say unequivocally that in the realm of mainstream hybrid computers, it’s hard to beat Microsoft’s Surface Pro 6.
The Surface Pro 6 I tested ships with Intel’s Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM. It also comes with 256GB of storage and features the black finish instead of the platinum alternative. It ships for $999. Microsoft also sent me keyboard cover to type while I used the device. That’s sold separately for a whopping $160.
So, to get the same computing experience I’m reviewing here, you’ll need to fork over $1,160. That’s about the price of a midrange MacBook or a nicely equipped Windows 10 alternative. But either way you look at it, there are certainly more affordable alternatives elsewhere.
Still, I can’t help but find value in what you get for the money. Microsoft’s Surface Pro 6 isn’t perfect — few, if any, devices are. But if you’re looking to be far more productive on the go, Microsoft’s computer is a great choice.
Design
It’s hard to find much fault in the Surface Pro 6’s design. The device is a two-in-one hybrid that allows it to be used both as a tablet and a laptop with a keyboard you connect to it.
As a slate, the device’s thin bezel and matte black finish is extremely attractive. The bezel isn’t so big that it detracts from the user experience, but it’s also not so thin that you can’t help but touch things across the screen. And with buttons that feel both perfectly placed and sturdy enough to reduce damage, the experience of using the Surface Pro 6 felt decidedly premium.
Arguably the Surface Pro 6’s best and most useful feature is the kickstand on the back. It can be a little difficult to open at first, but once you get the hang of it, the kickstand becomes of the best complements to the user experience.
After opening the kickstand, you can place it at any angle you wish to prop up the screen exactly how you like it. Best of all, the kickstand is extremely strong and sturdy, which reduces—if not eliminates—chances of the device sliding when you’re using it.
Performance
The Surface Pro 6 is by no means the most powerful Windows two-in-one hybrid on the market. But if you’re looking for a computer that can capably handle most tasks, it’s a winner.
Again, the version I tested uses the Intel Core i5 processor. That’s a nice-enough processor that can work with most apps, but if you need better power to work well with more sophisticated apps, you’ll want to turn to the Intel Core i7 you can upgrade the Surface Pro 6 with.
Despite the power limitations, the Surface Pro 6 comes with 8GB of RAM, which helps to address an occasional lag in application performance. And with plenty of storage under the hood, there’s little chance that the Surface Pro 6 will fall short on the storage side.
I was impressed with the Surface Pro 6’s 12.3-inch PixelSense Display. It comes with a downright gorgeous screen for the price and its 10-point multi-touch functionality works extremely well. Even though I often use a mouse to move around a PC, its touch performance was stellar.
Microsoft should be commended for providing plenty of ports in an otherwise lightweight and user-friendly machine. It comes with one USB 3.0 port and one headphone jack. There’s also a Mini DisplayPort for adding another monitor to the experience. And since it comes with the option to connect to a Surface Dock, you can extend those port connections even further.
Aside from that, you’ll find a computer that delivers fast Wi-Fi connectivity and solid Bluetooth performance. The computer’s solid-state storage was fast and helped me quickly access the files I wanted.
Microsoft says that the Surface Pro 6 can get up to 13.5 hours of battery life if you play a video consistently. I tested the machine’s battery on typical use, like surfing the Web, typing up documents, using programs, and more. And it lasted for about a day of regular use before it needed to be charged.
In most cases, that’s just fine.
Software
Microsoft’s Surface Pro 6 ships with Windows 10 Home, a version that works well for consumers but might not be enough for professional users who should bump it to Windows 10 Pro.
Still, Windows 10 is a solid operating system that works well. And although it’ll take a little getting used to if you’re coming to the Surface Pro 6 from older operating systems, if you’re a Windows 10 user, you’ll feel right at home.
Of course, the benefit of using Windows 10 is your access to the slew of programs that support the operating system. And there’s certainly no shortage of applications to help you boost your productivity, enjoy games, watch your favorite movies, and so much more.
It’s hard to find any complaints with the Surface Pro 6 software experience. Granted, Windows 10 has its quirks and security concerns, but that’s not unique to the Surface Pro 6. In fact, it works quite well on the device.
Value and Final Thoughts
If you’re in the market for a new computer, you undoubtedly want to get a sense of whether the machine you’re considering can justify its price tag.
And with the Surface Pro 6, I can say unequivocally that it can.
Yes, the Surface Pro 6 is a little more expensive than some alternatives. And yes, there are some power limitations you’ll need to grapple with. But its combination of impressive specs, a great design, and a reasonable price for the power makes it a good choice for anyone seeking a new computer to boost their productivity.
