Microsoft Surface Pro 4 review: A refined Surface Pro is still the king of the tablet PC hill
Editors' note (June 29, 2017): Microsoft has unveiled its followup to the acclaimed Surface Pro 4. Called, simply the Surface Pro, the new version is very similar to its predecessor, reviewed below. The modest improvements include incrementally better battery life, a newer processor and a quieter, fanless design. On the downside, the Surface Pen stylus that came bundled with previous editions is no longer included by default and the new keyboard covers are more expensive than ever. That noted, the new $799 Surface Pro ($1,027 with the Surface Pen and basic black keyboard cover) remains the gold standard for Windows hybrid PCs though it does not warrant the upgrade from current Surface Pro 4 owners.
A host of small refinements cements the Surface Pro 4's position as the best-in-class Windows tablet -- so long as you're prepared to pay extra for the required keyboard cover accessory.
The Surface Pro 4 fits a larger screen with a higher resolution into a slightly slimmer body than last year's model; The pen and keyboard cover are also improved, and this is one of the first mobile systems shipping with Intel's latest processors.
Microsoft still refuses to include the Type Cover keyboard by default, forcing a separate purchase; Battery life still isn't enough for a full day.