The Microsoft Surface Pro X was announced on October 2, 2019, and released shortly after. It represented Microsoft’s ambitious attempt to redefine the Surface lineup with an ARM-based processor. While the Surface series was traditionally powered by Intel chips, Microsoft took a bold leap by developing a custom Microsoft SQ1 processor in collaboration with Qualcomm. The goal? To create a thinner, fanless, and more power-efficient Windows 2-in-1 device.
Microsoft’s Vision vs. Reality
Microsoft envisioned the Surface Pro X as the future of ultra-portable Windows devices. The key selling points included:
- Sleek and lightweight design – The thinnest Surface Pro at the time, just 7.3mm thick.
- Longer battery life – Promised 13 hours of usage thanks to ARM efficiency.
- Always-connected experience – Integrated LTE for on-the-go productivity.
- Better app compatibility over time – Emphasizing the transition of Windows to ARM.
However, reality painted a different picture for many users. While the hardware was impressive, the Windows-on-ARM ecosystem wasn’t ready. Many popular x86 applications either ran poorly in emulation or weren’t supported at all. This led to frustration among early adopters who expected a seamless experience.
New Features & Innovations
The Surface Pro X introduced several new features that set it apart from previous models:
- Microsoft SQ1 Processor: Built in partnership with Qualcomm, optimized for power efficiency and LTE connectivity.
- Slimmer Bezels & 13-inch Display: A nearly edge-to-edge 2880×1920 PixelSense touchscreen, giving it a modern look.
- Slim Pen & Keyboard Storage: A redesigned Surface Slim Pen that could be magnetically stored and charged within the detachable keyboard.
- Integrated LTE: Unlike the Intel-based Surface Pro models, LTE was standard, providing a true mobile computing experience.
- USB-C Ports: Microsoft removed USB-A and the headphone jack, leaving users with two USB-C ports and the Surface Connect charger.
Competition in 2019
When the Surface Pro X launched, it faced competition from both traditional Windows laptops and other ARM-based devices:
- Apple iPad Pro (2018 & 2020): With its optimized iPadOS, superior app support, and the A12X/A12Z Bionic chips, Apple’s iPad Pro was a strong alternative for creative professionals.
- Surface Pro 7: Launched the same day, the Intel-powered Surface Pro 7 offered better app compatibility and performance, making it a safer choice.
- Samsung Galaxy Book S: Another ARM-powered Windows device with similar LTE-focused portability.
- Lenovo Yoga C630: A Snapdragon 850-powered laptop, but it suffered from the same app compatibility issues.
User Feedback: The Good and The Bad
What People Loved
✅ Design & Build Quality – The Surface Pro X was praised for its ultra-thin, premium design and gorgeous display.
✅ Battery Life – Many users appreciated the improved efficiency over Intel-based models.
✅ Always-On LTE – Having a built-in LTE connection was a game-changer for mobile professionals.
✅ Fanless Operation – The ARM processor eliminated the need for a fan, making it completely silent.
What Wasn’t Good
❌ App Compatibility – Many Windows apps, including Adobe’s full suite and some professional software, either didn’t work or ran poorly due to ARM limitations.
❌ Performance Issues in Emulation – x86 apps suffered from slow performance, making it difficult for power users.
❌ No Headphone Jack – The removal of a standard 3.5mm jack frustrated many users.
❌ Price vs. Performance – At launch, the $999 base price (without the keyboard and pen) was expensive for a device with so many limitations.
Conclusion: A Step Forward, But Not for Everyone
The Microsoft Surface Pro X (1st Gen) was an exciting experiment, but its app limitations held it back. Microsoft pushed for a future with Windows on ARM, but the software ecosystem wasn’t mature enough at the time. Despite its beautiful design and innovative features, it remained a niche device rather than a mainstream success.
Over time, Microsoft improved Windows-on-ARM compatibility, and later iterations of the Surface Pro X refined the concept. But in 2019, many users found themselves torn between its potential and its limitations.
Would you have chosen the Surface Pro X back then, or did you stick with Intel-based alternatives? Let us know in the comments!