Microsoft Surface Pro 8 for Business review: Surprisingly snappy

We would steer clear of the cheapest Core i3 version, as that relies on older Intel HD graphics and includes a measly 128GB SSD. It provides a slightly more affordable entry point, but the first spec we would consider is the Core i5 with 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD, which costs £983 exc VAT.

The top specification is a Core i7 with 32GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD for £2,116 exc VAT, but the configuration on test plots a sensible mid-course for £1,316 exc VAT. Note that all of those prices include Wi-Fi only (Wi-Fi 6, not the more advanced Wi-Fi 6E). And whilst it would have been great to see 5G, only 4G options are currently available, typically for around £100 extra.

Microsoft has long built excellent cameras into its Surface hardware, and the Surface Pro 8 is no exception. For Teams video calls, you’ll rely on the 5MP front-facing camera, which shoots smooth 1080p video at 30fps. It’s matched by a pair of highly effective Studio Mics, and in combination they make this a superb video conferencing tool.

If you need to take photos then switch to the rear 10MP camera, which includes autofocus for added sharpness. While it can’t match the advanced camera systems on flagship phones, there’s plenty of detail and rich colours. It can even extend to 4K video footage at 30fps, but you’ll notice the lack of optical image stabilisation.

Microsoft Surface Pro 8 review: Verdict

As always, the main question is whether or not the Surface Pro 8 is worth the price of admission. The answer boils down to how much you will use its undeniably attractive skills; it’s easy to rip off the keyboard and use this as a tablet, and the stylus works beautifully on that deluxe screen. Or, if you just want to use it as an ultra-portable laptop, it’s perfectly capable of filling that role.

Performance is strong enough to handle everything the average office-based employee will need to accomplish, although we do have our gripes. We wish the battery life was longer, especially bearing in mind its weight when used as a tablet, and come to that, we wish Windows 11 could hold a candle to iPadOS as a tablet operating system.

However, if you’re a Windows-based business and want maximum flexibility from your devices, then the Surface Pro 8 performs its multiple roles better than convertible rivals. The price sticks in the craw, especially considering the brief warranty and the meaty upsell for the keyboard and stylus, but there’s no arguing with the quality.

Microsoft Surface Pro 8 specifications

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