Today’s unveiling from Microsoft introduces the latest in Surface PCs with the enhanced Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7, both now equipped with Intel’s cutting-edge Lunar Lake processors. Primarily targeting professional markets, these devices are Microsoft’s inaugural Intel-driven Copilot+ PCs, offering business clients top-notch Surface hardware powered by an x86 processor.
Starting with the Surface Laptop 7, its specs are impressive. With prices beginning at $1,499.99, this model features Windows 11 Pro, the choice between Intel Core Ultra 5 or 7 (Series 2) CPUs, and an Intel Arc GPU. It also comes with Intel’s AI Boost NPU, outputting 40 to 48 TOPS, depending on the model. Users can opt for 16GB or 32GB LPDDR5X RAM and choose between 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD for storage. The display options include a 13.8-inch 2304×1536 or a 15-inch 2496×1664 IPS screen, both offering 120Hz refresh rates and anti-reflective technology. Additional features include Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and upcoming 5G connectivity.
The rollout of these Intel-based Surface PCs is deliberately separate from the Snapdragon versions, available solely through Microsoft’s commercial channels. Hence, you won’t spot these in major retail outlets like Amazon or Best Buy.
Both the Surface Pro 11 and Laptop 7 use Intel Core Ultra 5 or 7 series 2 processors, with options for 16GB or 32GB RAM and storage capabilities ranging from 256GB to 1TB. These models are enhanced with an NPU, giving the Ultra 5 and Ultra 7 considerable processing power at 40 and 48 TOPS respectively, allowing for Copilot+ functionality.
While the design of the Intel and Snapdragon Surface models is largely consistent, slight enhancements distinguish the Intel versions. Both models now feature an anti-reflective screen. Moreover, the Surface Laptop 7 now includes a card-reader variant, and NFC technology is built into the Surface Pro 11.
Later this year, expect a 5G-enabled Surface Laptop 7—up until now, 5G was exclusive to the Surface Pro lineup. Microsoft promises further details on this development soon.
Specifications for the Surface Pro 11 include a starting price of $1,499.99, Windows 11 Pro, and Intel Core Ultra 5 or 7 processors. It features Intel Arc graphics, Intel AI Boost NPU, and similar RAM and storage options to the Laptop 7. Notable is the 13-inch display, available in either OLED or LCD, with a sharp 2880×1920 (2.8K) resolution, 3:2 aspect ratio, touch functionality, and a 120Hz refresh rate.
Silver and black color options are exclusive to the Intel series, while the Snapdragon models offer more vibrant hues. The price difference between these series is noticeable, with Snapdragon models starting at $1,099, making the Intel variants a $400 premium for enhancements like anti-reflective screens and x86 support.
This launch represents Microsoft’s second wave of business-centric hardware, following the Surface Pro 10 and Laptop 6, which incorporated Series 1 Intel Core Ultra chips in previous generation designs. The updated models aim to bring the sleek aesthetics of the Snapdragon variants to business users who prefer Intel processors.
Additionally, Microsoft debuts the “Surface USB4 Dock.” Priced at $199, it’s more compact with fewer ports than its predecessor, last year’s Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock, which costs $100 more.
Pre-orders are open for the Intel-powered Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7, each starting at $1,499 and expected to ship beginning February 18.
