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The Microsoft Surface Pro 4 remains one of the most talked-about 2-in-1 devices even years after its launch. It was designed for users who wanted the portability of a tablet and the productivity of a laptop in one compact device.
Whether you are a student, office professional, or casual user, this in-depth guide will help you understand what the Microsoft Surface Pro 4 offers, where it still performs well, and where it shows its age.
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Overview
The Microsoft Surface Pro 4 is a premium Windows 2-in-1 device that runs full Windows OS. Unlike typical tablets, it supports desktop-class applications such as Microsoft Office, Photoshop, and even light development tools.
Its standout idea was simple but powerful: a tablet that can fully replace a laptop when paired with a keyboard. Microsoft refined the design, display, and performance compared to earlier Surface models, making it one of the most balanced hybrid devices of its time.
Even today, many users still rely on the Microsoft Surface Pro 4 for everyday productivity tasks.
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Specification Table
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Microsoft Surface Pro 4 |
| Operating System | Windows 10 (Upgradeable) |
| Display Size | 12.3 inches |
| Display Type | PixelSense Touchscreen |
| Display Resolution | 2736 x 1824 (267 PPI) |
| Processor Options | Intel Core m3 / i5 / i7 |
| Graphics | Intel HD Graphics / Intel Iris Graphics |
| RAM Options | 4GB / 8GB / 16GB |
| Storage Options | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB SSD |
| Front Camera | 5.0 MP |
| Rear Camera | 8.0 MP Autofocus |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 4.0 |
| Ports | USB 3.0, Mini DisplayPort, Headphone Jack, Surface Connect |
| Pen Support | Surface Pen (Active) |
| Keyboard | Detachable Type Cover (sold separately) |
| Battery Life | Up to ~9 hours (varies with usage) |
| Security | TPM Chip (varies by configuration) |
| Audio | Stereo speakers with Dolby Audio |
| Weight | Approx. 766g (tablet only) |
| Color Options | Silver |
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Design and Build Quality
The Microsoft Surface Pro 4 features a slim and lightweight magnesium alloy body that feels premium and durable. It is easy to carry in one hand and fits comfortably into backpacks and laptop sleeves.
Key design highlights:
- Ultra-thin profile for easy portability
- Built-in adjustable kickstand for flexible viewing angles
- Detachable Type Cover (sold separately)
- Solid, professional look suitable for office and academic use
The kickstand is one of the strongest design points. You can adjust it smoothly from almost flat to nearly upright, making it usable on desks, laps, or even beds.
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Display Quality
The Microsoft Surface Pro 4 comes with a 12.3-inch PixelSense display that was considered excellent at launch and still looks impressive today.
Display features:
- High-resolution screen with sharp text
- Accurate colors suitable for creative work
- Excellent brightness for indoor usage
- Touchscreen with pen support
The screen is ideal for reading, writing, note-taking, and media consumption. Watching videos, browsing the web, or working on documents feels comfortable and premium. For students and designers, the display quality remains one of the strongest reasons to consider the Microsoft Surface Pro 4.
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Performance and Hardware
The Microsoft Surface Pro 4 was offered in multiple configurations, allowing users to choose performance based on their needs.
Common hardware options included:
- Intel Core m3, i5, or i7 processors
- Solid-state storage for faster boot times
- Multiple RAM options for multitasking
For everyday tasks such as browsing, document editing, online classes, and office work, the Microsoft Surface Pro 4 performs smoothly. Higher-end variants handle photo editing, light video editing, and multitasking without major issues.
However, it is not designed for heavy gaming or advanced 3D workloads.
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Keyboard and Typing Experience
The Microsoft Surface Pro 4 supports a detachable Type Cover that transforms it into a laptop-like device. Although sold separately, it significantly improves productivity.
Typing experience:
- Comfortable key travel for long typing sessions
- Responsive and accurate trackpad
- Backlit keys for low-light environments
For bloggers, students, and office professionals, typing on the Microsoft Surface Pro 4 feels natural once the Type Cover is attached. While it may not fully match a traditional laptop keyboard, it is more than sufficient for daily work.
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Pen and Touch Support
One of the biggest advantages of the Microsoft Surface Pro 4 is its Surface Pen support. This makes it especially useful for note-taking, sketching, and annotations.
Pen features:
- Pressure sensitivity for natural writing
- Low latency for smooth strokes
- Ideal for digital notes and creative tasks
Students and professionals who prefer handwritten notes will appreciate how naturally the Microsoft Surface Pro 4 handles pen input. It is especially useful in meetings, classrooms, and creative workflows.
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Battery Life
The Microsoft Surface Pro 4 offers decent battery life for light to moderate usage.
Battery performance:
- Suitable for web browsing and document editing
- Shorter battery life during heavy multitasking
- Battery health depends on usage and age
As the device is now older, battery performance may vary depending on condition. For most users, it is still adequate for short work sessions, but power users may need to carry a charger.
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Ports and Connectivity
The Microsoft Surface Pro 4 includes a practical selection of ports for daily use.
Connectivity options:
- USB port for accessories
- Mini DisplayPort for external displays
- Headphone jack
- Surface Connect charging port
While modern devices offer USB-C, the available ports on the Microsoft Surface Pro 4 are still functional for basic needs such as connecting storage devices, monitors, and peripherals.
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Software Experience
The Microsoft Surface Pro 4 runs full Windows, making it different from Android or iPad tablets.
Software advantages:
- Full desktop applications support
- Seamless integration with Microsoft Office
- Familiar Windows interface
You can install productivity tools, browsers, creative software, and educational apps just like on a traditional laptop. This flexibility is one of the biggest strengths of the Microsoft Surface Pro 4.
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 for Students and Office Users
The Microsoft Surface Pro 4 is well-suited for students, teachers, and office professionals who need a portable yet capable device.
Ideal use cases:
- Online classes and note-taking
- Office documents and presentations
- Email, browsing, and research
- Light creative work
Its portability, touchscreen, and pen support make it especially appealing for academic environments.
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Pros and Cons
Pros
- Premium and lightweight design
- Excellent display quality
- Full Windows OS support
- Pen and touch functionality
- Flexible tablet-to-laptop experience
Cons
- Keyboard sold separately
- Limited ports by modern standards
- Not ideal for heavy gaming
- Battery life depends on condition
Microsoft Surface Pro 4: Is It Still Worth It?
The Microsoft Surface Pro 4 may not be the newest device, but it still holds value for users who prioritize portability, display quality, and productivity. For basic to moderate workloads, it performs reliably and delivers a smooth Windows experience.
If you find it at a reasonable price and your needs match its strengths, the Microsoft Surface Pro 4 can still be a smart and practical choice.
Final Verdict on Microsoft Surface Pro 4
The Microsoft Surface Pro 4 is a well-balanced 2-in-1 device that successfully bridges the gap between a tablet and a laptop. Its strong display, premium build, pen support, and full Windows environment make it useful even today.
From a real-world usage perspective, it is best suited for students, writers, office workers, and users who value flexibility over raw power. When used within its limits, the Microsoft Surface Pro 4 continues to deliver a reliable and enjoyable experience.
If your goal is a lightweight, professional-looking device for everyday productivity, the Microsoft Surface Pro 4 remains a dependable option.