Microsoft Surface Pro 2
Specifications

Price comparison
Average of 26 scores (from 43 reviews)
Reviews for the Microsoft Surface Pro 2
Cautious evolution. Microsoft's second iteration of the Surface Pro aims at eradicating its predecessor's biggest flaws while at the same time staying true to its original concept. We have done some extensive testing to find out whether this powerful tablet PC with its high-resolution display does now indeed come closer to the idea of a perfect working device.
Source: V3.co.uk

Having won six out of eight rounds, the Microsoft Surface Pro 3 is the clear winner of this versus review. However, thanks to Microsoft's wise decision to radically lower the upfront cost of the Surface Pro 2, which remains a top-end, powerhouse tablet and laptop replacement in its own right, buyers on a budget may do well to check out the firm's 2013 flagship.
Comparison, online available, Medium, Date: 08/11/2014
Source: Expert Reviews

The Microsoft Surface Pro 2 is a huge improvement over its predecessor and it remains the best Windows 8 tablet around. It may be being replaced with the Surface Pro 3 in just a few months, but Microsoft's latest price cut is a welcome incentive to get one before it disappears completely. Microsoft hasn't yet confirmed the exact type of processor that will be used in the Surface Pro 3, but we do know it will be a Haswell chip, so it's unlikely that the Core i5 version of the Pro 3 will offer any major boost in processing power than what's currently available in the Pro 2. Likewise, considering most modern Ultrabook convertibles still cost in excess of £1,000, the Surface Pro 2 is now even cheaper and more convenient than many of its hybrid rivals. If you want a great-looking tablet with the speed and power of a laptop, make sure you get a Surface Pro 2 before it's too late.
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 05/22/2014
Rating: Total score: 100%
Source: Tech Advisor

During the launch of the Surface Pro 3, Microsoft freely admitted that it hadn’t quite got it right with the original Surface Pro and even the Surface Pro 2. It claimed the Surface Pro 3 is the first tablet that can truly replace your laptop, so in our Surface Pro 3 vs Surface Pro 2 comparison, let’s see why.
Comparison, online available, Very Short, Date: 05/21/2014
Source: Pocket Lint

But use it plenty, add a keyboard and it's actually a pretty good experience. Not so much a "fun" experience, but we suspect there's a case for more business-aligned users to shower praise the Surface 2. Microsoft has pushed the hardware forward: the Full HD screen is amazing to look at, the build quality decent, the software - despite outlined potential confusions - steps ahead of where it once was. It all adds up to a very reasonable device and the price point is fairer than before too. We just wish it didn't sit on the fence so much.
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 05/21/2014
Rating: Total score: 80%
Source: V3.co.uk

However, for us here at V3, the Surface Pro 2 beats the Galaxy Note Pro 12.2 in a few key areas. Reviewed as a purely business tablet, the Surface Pro 2 features an admittedly less pretty, but more functional design and superior performance. Thanks to the use of Windows 8.1, the Surface Pro 2 also features a more robust portfolio of business and productivity focused services. By comparison, while cheaper and still very enterprise friendly, the Galaxy Note Pro 12.2's victories tended to be more consumer focused. That said, for those interested in a device for work and play the Galaxy Note Pro 12.2's display and superior battery mean it will be better for certain consumer purposes, like media consumption.
Comparison, online available, Very Short, Date: 03/19/2014
Source: PC World

With phones, tablets, phablets, and ultrabooks available in a staggering array of sizes and configurations, true road warriors can order up pretty much what they want. And that includes operating systems. I worked for a prolonged period on a Chromebox, just to see if it could be done, but in the end I returned to Windows. In the final analysis, if I were forced to spend my own money, I’d pick the slightly cheaper Note Pro. But if I could charge the bill to my company, I’d ask for the Surface Pro 2. But in the end, I mostly chose the Surface Pro 2 based on subjective preference, rather than any technical roadblocks on Android’s part. And that’s a flimsy ledge for Microsoft to cling to.
Comparison, online available, Short, Date: 02/28/2014
Source: ITNews Australia

Microsoft’s Surface tablets are maturing nicely. Silly flaws remain – the magnetic charger is too fiddly, and it’s plain daft that the stylus (supplied with the Pro 2) can’t be housed within the casing, instead clipping awkwardly onto the charger port – but these are minor quibbles about two exceptional pieces of hardware.
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 01/15/2014
Source: PC Authority

All in all, the updated Surface range offers a balance that’s fit for business and play. With its revamped selection of keyboards and docks, the inclusion of a year’s worth of free Skype telephone calls, bundled Office apps (for the Surface 2) and a generous helping of SkyDrive storage, Microsoft’s platform is stronger than ever. It’s supported by an increasingly sophisticated selection of built-in and third-party apps, too.
Comparison, online available, Very Short, Date: 01/13/2014
Source: Ultrabook News

The Surface Pro 2 is a great tablet that also becomes a portable Ultrabook with the Type cover 2 keyboard with back-lit keys. Some have reviewed the Surface Pro 2 and are comparing battery life to other slim tablets that are running either Clover Trail or Bay Trail but this is a fully-capable desktop/tablet that turns in some very impressive real-world battery life.
Single Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 12/02/2013
Source: Laptop Mag

Can a tablet be your only computing device? If you're using the Microsoft Surface Pro 2, our answer is now a qualified yes. The Surface Pro 2 improves upon its predecessor in almost every respect, featuring a faster and less power-hungry "Haswell" processor, a more versatile kickstand and, most importantly, battery life nearly twice as long as that of the original Surface Pro.
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 11/20/2013
Rating: Total score: 70%
Source: Digital Versus

The Surface Pro 2 has pretty much the exact same body as the first Surface Pro, but there are some changes on the inside: it has twice the battery life and a better display. It's too bad Microsoft didn't get the heat down and give it more ports, otherwise it might have been worth five stars. Also, frankly, at this price the keyboard should come included.
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 11/15/2013
Rating: Total score: 80%
Source: Comp Reviews

Microsoft's Surface Pro 2 tablet really is just a few minor changes to the original to address issues concerning battery life and use on some surfaces. While both of these are improved, the system is still much more of a laptop that masquerades as a tablet due to its size, performance and cost.
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 11/06/2013
Rating: Total score: 60%
Source: PC Pro

All in all, the updated Surface range offers a balance that’s fit for business and play. With its revamped selection of keyboards and docks, the inclusion of a year’s worth of free Skype telephone calls, bundled Office apps (for the Surface 2) and a generous helping of SkyDrive storage, Microsoft’s platform is stronger than ever. It’s supported by an increasingly sophisticated selection of built-in and third-party apps, too. Neither Surface is the best tablet on the market; neither is the best laptop. They are, however, the best hybrid packages out there for people who can’t afford, or don’t want, both.
Comparison, online available, Medium, Date: 10/31/2013
Rating: Total score: 83% price: 83% performance: 83% features: 83% workmanship: 83%
Source: It Pro

The Surface Pro 2 is an improvement over the original tablet, but it’s got a way to go before it rendering Ultrabooks obsolete. Performance is solid but the Pro 2 is let down in the key areas of portability and battery life. Microsoft has done little to address the upgradeability issues present on the original.
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 10/28/2013
Rating: Total score: 60%
Source: Techradar

The Microsoft Surface Pro 2 still straddles the middle ground between laptop and tablet, but a lack of identity doesn't mean that it should be shunned - far from it. The traditional lines between device form factors are increasingly blurred, and those seeking a fresh form factor that offers real productivity gains (in addition to on-hand entertainment) will find lots to love with the Surface Pro 2.
Single Review, online available, Very Long, Date: 10/25/2013
Rating: Total score: 90% price: 80% performance: 90% features: 80% workmanship: 80%
Source: Tech Advisor

The Surface Pro 2 crams a serious amount of power into a compact frame - enough to worry the latest Ultrabooks. Its design may be spot on for some but we can't help feel that instead of being the best of both laptop and tablet worlds, it's neither. The price quickly rises if you veer away from the base model - many people would be better off with a separate laptop and tablet, and you might even save money. Those less bothered about the tablet side of things should consider a convertible device.
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 10/24/2013
Rating: Total score: 70% price: 60% performance: 70% features: 70% workmanship: 80%
Source: Stuff TV

Like Windows 8.1, the Surface Pro 2 proves that Microsoft's dream of uniting tablet and laptop could still make sense. There's nothing else quite like this device out there – with the exception of bulky beasts like the Razer Edge Pro – and if the Pro 2 ticks your ergonomic and aesthetic boxes, it'll reward you with a near-seamless 'real' computing experience.
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 10/22/2013
Rating: Total score: 100% performance: 80% display: 90% workmanship: 90%
Source: Trusted Reviews

There are still some rough edges, but the Surface Pro 2 is an outstanding hybrid in the true meaning of the word. Nothing matches the flexibility it offers and it finally has the battery life to deliver on its promise.
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 10/22/2013
Rating: Total score: 80% price: 80% performance: 90% display: 90% mobility: 80% workmanship: 80% emissions: 90%
Source: V3.co.uk

In conclusion, the Surface Pro 2 is basically a reworked tablet-laptop hybrid designed to fix flaws in the original Pro. When judged purely by this criteria the Pro 2 is a great device, featuring a new Intel Haswell chip architecture that not only increases performance, but also greatly increases the device's battery life. This combined with other considered touches, like the upgraded cameras, move to USB 3.0 and two-position Kickstand make the Pro 2 a great productivity tool for businesses. Our only real criticism is that by not bundling the Pro 2 with one of its keyboard covers, which add an extra £100 to its already hefty £720 starting price, Microsoft's limited its overall appeal as a laptop replacement.
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 10/22/2013
Rating: Total score: 80%
Source: Engadget

When it came time to hand down a verdict on the first Surface Pro, we ultimately decided that, nice as it was, it felt compromised as both a laptop and a tablet. We wouldn't go so far as to say the Surface Pro 2 addresses all of the original's shortcomings, but it's definitely made progress.
Single Review, online available, Very Long, Date: 10/21/2013
Source: PC Pro

It isn't the best tablet on the market; it isn't the best laptop, either. Yet, with the exception of the Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga 11S, we haven't yet seen a form factor that performs both roles so well. The Surface Pro 2 is flawed, but if you're seeking a tablet/laptop hybrid, it must be on your shortlist.
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 10/21/2013
Rating: Total score: 83% price: 83% performance: 83% features: 83% workmanship: 83%
Source: Tech Advisor

Microsoft's Surface Pro 2 gets improved battery life and better overall performance thanks to the inclusion of a fourth generation Intel Core i5 CPU, but it also includes a better screen, an improved kickstand, and better accessories.
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 09/25/2013
Source: Techradar

Overall, the Surface Pro 2 comes across as another device being taken through the yearly refresh process. It's received some reactive, though not unwelcome, updates to keep up with the completion. It's a solid device, but so was the Surface Pro. The added upgrades can't be ignored. With far greater power and much improved battery life, the Surface Pro 2 should be on the top of your buy list if you're in the market for a Windows 8.1 tablet. The price is steep, but you do get plenty of machine for your money.
Single Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 09/23/2013
Foreign Reviews
Source: Com! - Heft 10/2014

Single Review, , Length Unknown, Date: 09/01/2014
Rating: Total score: 78%
Source: Mobicroco

Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 02/22/2014
Rating: Total score: 93% features: 97% workmanship: 98% ergonomy: 87%
Source: Cyberbloc

Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 01/16/2014
Rating: Total score: 80%
Source: Chip (Print) - Heft 2/2014

Single Review, , Length Unknown, Date: 01/01/2014
Rating: Total score: 80% features: 82% display: 95% mobility: 56% emissions: 83%
Source: Gamestar

Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 12/04/2013
Rating: Total score: 87% performance: 95% features: 85% display: 95% ergonomy: 75%
Source: Stiftung Warentest - Heft 1/2014

Single Review, , Length Unknown, Date: 12/01/2013
Rating: Total score: 80% display: 89% mobility: 91%
Source: Allround-PC.com

Comparison, online available, Long, Date: 11/18/2013
Source: PC Magazin - Heft 12/2013

Single Review, , Length Unknown, Date: 11/01/2013
Rating: Total score: 87%
Source: Stiftung Warentest - Heft 12/2013

Single Review, , Length Unknown, Date: 11/01/2013
Source: Onlinekosten.de

Positive: notebook + tablet in one; adequate battery runtime
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 11/03/2013
Rating: Total score: 80%
Source: Tom's Hardware

Negative: high price
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 10/31/2013
Source: Teknofilo

Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 12/30/2013
Source: Wintech

Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 12/21/2013
Rating: Total score: 83% performance: 90% display: 80% workmanship: 70% ergonomy: 90%
Source: Erenumerique

Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 11/21/2013
Rating: Total score: 80%
Source: Tabletowo

Positive: Versatility and high potential; excellent quality; a full-size USB 3.0 port; very good screen; great stylus; backlit keyboard which is also a screen cover. Negative: In-compact size and heavy; average battery life; weak touchpad; price; noisy cooling system.
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 04/01/2014
Source: Notebook-Center.ru

Positive: Docking station; Haswell processor; full HD display with wide viewing angles and good brightness; magnesium alloy case. Negative: Very high price; hot under load; glossy display; poor cameras.
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 03/03/2014
Source: Hi-Tech Mail

Positive: Quiet cooling system; good screen; battery life.
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 11/11/2013
Source: enet.com.cn

Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 10/26/2013
Source: Dinside

Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 10/29/2013
Rating: Total score: 83%
Comment
Model:
The new and improved Surface Pro 2 is here, though on the outside it may still look like the same old Surface Pro. For those craving the all in one tablet/laptop experience, this is the machine to consider. Running Windows 8.1 and with the must have detachable keyboard cover offered as an accessory - the gap between extreme portability and productivity is bridged much further than before. Unfortunately the optional keyboard cover price added to the price of the Surface Pro 2, makes it seem unreasonably expensive. There are other Windows 8.1 machines that sport a similar price tag, and unfortunately they outshine the Surface Pro 2.
The best thing about the Surface Pro 2 is really the optional magnetic backlit keyboard with touchpad. The Type version is well enough designed for comfortably use for long hours of work. The 10.6 inch touch display is gorgeous in Full HD with crisp colors and contrast that outperform the competition. With its Haswell Core i-series processor, it will zip along, playing HD video and getting users through work or casual play with no problems. Again, the performance is better than similarly priced machines currently available. Battery life is good and will last for a day of work, as can be expected from a device with the latest Haswell architecture on the inside. Overall, the Microsoft Surface Pro 2 seems like a good device, worthy of consideration for the prospective user.
Series:
Both the Microsoft Surface RT and the Surface Pro never really made it big and couldn't compete with its Android and iOs counterparts. A large reason for its low sales figures was due to the unpopularity of the tablet-notebook hybrid category itself. However it is important to note that the Surface Pro 2 is actually a full blown laptop acting as a hybrid. For a start, it comes with Windows 8.1 backed up with an Intel Core i5-4300U ultrabook class processor, 8GB of RAM and up to 512GB SSD. It looks and has the same dimensions as the first version making both their accessories compatible with each other. However, there's also the new optional Type Cover 2 which adds backlighting but is on the heavy side and is rather pricey.
The good thing about the surface is of course its ultra portability and undeniable performance. With its specs, it will quite likely outperform many other ultraportable laptops and hybrids. Also not to forget is the fact that it comes preinstalled with Windows 8.1 and has all the necessary built-in ports making it an actual laptop and not just a replacement. The primary I/O, the FHD screen is also accompanied with an included active stylus. The downside to all this is definitely the asking price for the tablet and detachable keyboard combination. There may be some serious competitors giving almost if not the same kind of specs for a lower price. Its kickstand, although improved, is still a letdown as it doesn't conveniently sit on a lap despite being a laptop. All in all, the Microsoft Surface Pro 2 is worthy laptop if budget is not an issue.
Intel HD Graphics 4400:
ULV integrated GPU (GT2) with 20 EUs found on certain Haswell CPU models.
Non demanding games should be playable with these graphics cards.
» Further information can be found in our Comparison of Mobile Graphics Cards and the corresponding Benchmark List.
4200U:
Haswell-based ULV dual-core processor clocked at 1.6 GHz with Turbo Boost support up to 2.6 GHz. Offers an integrated HD Graphics 4400 and a dual-channel DDR3 memory controller.
» Further information can be found in our Comparison of Mobile Processsors.10.60":
This is a standard display format for tablet computers or small convertibles. You see more on the screen than on a smartphone but you can't use big resolutions well. On the other hand, mobility is not a problem.
» To find out how fine a display is, see our DPI List.Microsoft:
Microsoft smartphones and tablets have been tested since 2012. There are many reviews with average ratings. The reader's interest is quite given, but the market share is not big enough for the Top 5 smartphone manufacturers (as of 2016).
81.62%: This rating is slightly above average, there are somewhat more devices with worse ratings. However, clear purchase recommendations look different.
» Further information can be found in our Notebook Purchase Guide.