In early 2013, Microsoft took a bold step into the hardware market with the release of the Microsoft Surface Pro (1st Gen). It was an ambitious device, bridging the gap between tablets and laptops in a way that no other product had done before. But how well did it succeed? And how did it compare to its successor, the Surface Pro 2, which launched later that same year?
Microsoft Surface Pro (1st Gen) – A New Era for Windows Tablets
The Microsoft Surface Pro (1st Gen) was officially released on February 9, 2013. It was a significant departure from the ARM-based Surface RT, which launched in late 2012 and struggled due to software limitations. The Surface Pro, on the other hand, featured a full Windows 8 experience, powered by an Intel Core i5 processor, making it a true hybrid between a tablet and a laptop.
Key Specifications of Surface Pro (1st Gen):
- Processor: Intel Core i5-3317U
- RAM: 4GB
- Storage: 64GB or 128GB SSD
- Display: 10.6-inch Full HD (1920×1080)
- Operating System: Windows 8 Pro
- Stylus Support: Yes, with Surface Pen
- Kickstand: Fixed-angle
While the device received praise for its premium build and ability to run full desktop applications, it also had some notable downsides—particularly battery life (around 4-5 hours) and thickness compared to standard tablets.
Surface Pro vs. Surface Pro 2: What Changed?
Later in 2013, Microsoft released the Surface Pro 2 (September 23, 2013), addressing many of the first model’s shortcomings. While the design remained largely the same, key hardware improvements made a noticeable difference:
| Feature | Surface Pro (1st Gen) | Surface Pro 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i5-3317U | Intel Core i5-4200U (Haswell) |
| Battery Life | ~4-5 hours | ~7-8 hours |
| RAM Options | 4GB | 4GB or 8GB |
| Storage Options | 64GB, 128GB | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| Kickstand | Fixed-angle | Dual-angle |
| Windows Version | Windows 8 Pro | Windows 8.1 Pro |
The biggest improvement came with battery life, thanks to Intel’s Haswell processors. The dual-angle kickstand also improved usability, making it more comfortable for lap use.
Microsoft’s Philosophy Behind the Surface Pro Line
From the very beginning, Microsoft envisioned the Surface Pro as the ultimate “two-in-one” device—a tablet that could replace your laptop. The goal was to show the power of Windows in a sleek, portable form factor, offering users a device that was both touch-friendly and capable of running traditional desktop software.
What Microsoft Intended to Deliver:
- Versatility – A device for both work and play.
- Productivity – Full Windows experience with keyboard and stylus support.
- Portability – A compact form factor compared to traditional laptops.
However, the early Surface Pro models had growing pains. The first generation was a bit too heavy and thick to be a great tablet and had limited battery life compared to ultrabooks. But Microsoft learned from this feedback and gradually improved the lineup over the years.
How Did Users React?
Initial user reception was mixed. Many praised the build quality, display, and performance, but others were disappointed with battery life, lack of ports, and the small display size for a laptop replacement. The high price was also a barrier, making it difficult for some to justify over traditional laptops or even other tablets like the iPad.
However, enthusiasts and professionals found value in the Surface Pro’s flexibility, especially with the Surface Pen, which was a game-changer for digital artists and note-takers. Over time, Microsoft refined its vision, and today, the Surface Pro lineup is considered one of the best 2-in-1 devices in the market.
Conclusion
The Microsoft Surface Pro (1st Gen) was an ambitious product that laid the foundation for a successful hybrid laptop/tablet category. While it had its flaws, Microsoft took the feedback seriously and improved the formula with each iteration. Looking back, the first Surface Pro was a pioneering device—one that started the journey toward the modern Surface Pro models we know today.
Would you like to read more about other Surface models and their evolution? Let me know in the comments!