Microsoft has launched an updated range of Surface computing devices available for pre-order, showcasing a new design aesthetic along with reduced pricing for its latest tablet and laptop models. Additionally, the company has removed the entry-level Surface Pro and Laptop models from its website.
Currently, the Microsoft online store lists Snapdragon X Plus and X Elite variants starting at $1,199. Similarly, the price for the Surface Pro has been set at $1,199.99 for its most basic configuration.
For the 15-inch Surface Laptop, the entry price has increased to $1,499. The Microsoft store lists the starting price at $1,299 for this model; however, the 256GB storage version is currently unavailable.
Additionally, both the Surface Pro and Surface Laptops (13.8-inch and 15-inch) are no longer available in the 256GB storage configuration on Microsoft's website. When these devices were launched last year, both started at a price of $999 in the U.S. market.
What’s changing?
This isn't strictly a price increase, as Microsoft has simply eliminated a low-storage option from its offerings. However, the price threshold for consumers has indeed risen. According to a statement shared with Engadget, the company reassures that the $999 models are still purchasable through third-party sellers.
It’s worth noting that the pricing for charging accessories under the Surface brand has risen by about 33%. For instance, the price for the 127W charger has jumped to $175 from $125. The 65W charger has also increased, now priced at $90, up from $60 on the official store.
The duration for which the $999 Surface Pro (13-inch) and Laptop (13.8-inch) will remain in stock is uncertain, as is whether Microsoft will restock the 256GB versions in its online store.
What are your options?
The latter scenario seems unlikely. Microsoft is now offering the new 12-inch Surface Pro and the 13-inch Surface Laptop at lower price points. Keep in mind that for the 13-inch Surface Laptop, customers will need to choose between SSD and UFS storage options, neither of which are user-replaceable.
The new Microsoft tablet starts at $799, providing a competitive edge against the larger Surface Pro. This device boasts a fresh design for both the slate and its keyboard, equipped with Qualcomm's mid-range Snapdragon X Plus chip, 16GB of RAM, and a new magnetic charging system for the stylus.
As for the 13-inch Surface Laptop, it seeks to compete with the MacBook Air, featuring a similar design and the same memory and processor configuration as the 12-inch tablet, with a price tag of $899. However, it lacks a high refresh rate display and does not deviate significantly from the limitations of its competitor.
