Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB)

Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB) — image 1
Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB) — image 2
86%
85%
Performance
92%
Battery Life
94%
Portability
88%
Display Quality
90%
Build Quality
83%
Usability
80%
Software Experience
82%
Connectivity
95%
Weight
75%
Customer Support
87%
Value for Money
77%
Multitasking
More

Overview

The Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB) is a versatile 2-in-1 device that functions both as a laptop and a tablet. With its 12.3-inch PixelSense touchscreen display, it offers crisp, vibrant visuals for a variety of tasks. Weighing just 1.7 pounds, this Surface Pro model is designed for portability, making it an ideal choice for people on the go. Powered by an 8th-gen Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB RAM, and a 128GB SSD, it runs Windows 10 Home to deliver a full computing experience without the bulk of a traditional laptop.

Features & Benefits

This 2-in-1 device shines in its flexibility, offering users the ability to switch between laptop, tablet, and studio modes. With up to 13.5 hours of battery life, it ensures long-lasting productivity, whether you're working or enjoying entertainment. The Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB RAM deliver solid performance, making it ideal for everyday multitasking. The 2736 x 1824 resolution display provides sharp details for everything from document editing to media consumption. Its slim design and lightweight nature make it an excellent choice for people who need a portable yet powerful solution.

Best For

The Microsoft Surface Pro 6 is best suited for users who need a versatile and portable device. It’s perfect for students and professionals who require a lightweight laptop that can also double as a tablet for reading or note-taking. Creatives, including content creators and digital artists, will appreciate its responsive touchscreen and flexible design, making it easy to use with digital pens. Additionally, users who prioritize long battery life for uninterrupted work or leisure time will find this device well-suited to their needs.

User Feedback

Overall, users praise the Surface Pro 6 for its lightweight design and portability, which makes it an excellent choice for travel. The ability to quickly switch between laptop and tablet modes is another highlight, with many appreciating the flexibility it provides. However, some users have noted occasional performance lags during heavy multitasking, which may be a limitation for those who need more processing power. While battery life is generally well-regarded, it can vary based on usage, with some users getting closer to 10 hours of screen time rather than the full 13.5.

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Pros

  • This 2-in-1 device is highly portable, weighing just 1.7 pounds, making it perfect for frequent travelers.
  • The 12.3-inch PixelSense touchscreen provides sharp visuals, making it a great option for media consumption and creative work.
  • Battery life can last up to 13.5 hours, which is ideal for extended use during travel or a full workday.
  • The flexible 2-in-1 design allows seamless transitions between laptop, tablet, and studio modes for different workflows.
  • The Intel Core i5 and 8GB RAM offer smooth performance for everyday tasks, including document editing and web browsing.
  • This Surface Pro model is well-suited for students and professionals who need a versatile device for both work and play.

Cons

  • Heavier multitasking, such as running multiple resource-intensive apps, may cause performance lags.
  • The 128GB SSD may not be enough storage for users with extensive files, such as large video projects.
  • The device's USB 3.0 ports are somewhat limited, which can be inconvenient for users needing multiple peripheral connections.
  • Some users have reported that the Surface Pro 6 can get warm under load, which may affect comfort during prolonged use.
  • While the 12.3-inch display is high quality, it may be too small for users who prefer larger screens for productivity or media editing.
  • The lack of Thunderbolt ports can limit connectivity options for users who need faster data transfer speeds or external display support.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews across multiple platforms and languages, we’ve compiled the ratings for the Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB). Spam, bot, and incentivized reviews were excluded to ensure a fair evaluation. The following scores reflect both the strengths and potential pain points highlighted by real users, giving you a comprehensive understanding of this device’s performance and features.

Performance
85%
Users find the Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM offer excellent performance for day-to-day tasks. This device handles multitasking with ease, making it a reliable choice for both work and light entertainment. The device responds quickly, even when running several apps simultaneously, delivering a smooth experience.
However, some users have reported occasional lags when performing more demanding tasks such as video editing or heavy multitasking. For power users, this device may feel slightly underpowered compared to newer models with upgraded processors or more RAM.
Battery Life
92%
The battery life of this device is widely praised, with up to 13.5 hours of use on a single charge. Users find it convenient for all-day use, whether at work or on the go. The battery easily lasts through long meetings, study sessions, or travel without needing to be plugged in.
A few users mention that battery life can fluctuate depending on usage. More intensive tasks, like gaming or video rendering, may drain the battery faster than lighter activities like browsing or word processing.
Portability
94%
Weighing just 1.7 pounds, this device is incredibly lightweight and easy to carry around, making it perfect for travelers and students. The slim design allows users to slip it into a bag without taking up too much space, and the flexibility of a 2-in-1 device adds to its portability.
Although it is light, some users find the screen size a bit small for long-term use, especially for tasks like extended reading or editing documents. Additionally, the thin build might not feel as sturdy to those who prefer more rugged devices.
Display Quality
88%
The 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a 2736 x 1824 resolution delivers sharp and vibrant visuals. Many users appreciate the high-quality screen for watching movies, video calls, and productivity tasks, with colors that pop and text that is clear and crisp.
However, some users find the screen brightness lacking in direct sunlight, making it difficult to use outdoors. A few also wish the display could go brighter for a better experience in bright environments or when viewing in challenging lighting conditions.
Build Quality
90%
The device’s build quality is generally well-regarded, with a solid feel and premium materials used throughout. The magnesium alloy body feels sturdy and gives the device a high-end appearance. Additionally, the 2-in-1 design offers flexibility while maintaining a sleek, professional look.
A few users have mentioned concerns about the screen's durability, particularly when used in tablet mode. The screen can be prone to scratches or minor wear, especially when handled without extra care, which may be a concern for those with more demanding usage.
Usability
83%
The device’s flexibility in switching between laptop, tablet, and studio modes makes it ideal for users who need versatility. The touchscreen and responsive Surface Pen enhance usability, especially for digital artists or those who frequently take notes or annotate documents.
However, some users report that the keyboard attachment could be more stable, particularly when used on uneven surfaces. Additionally, the small screen size can be less comfortable for long work sessions or multitasking with multiple apps open.
Software Experience
80%
20%
Windows 10 Home offers a familiar and full desktop experience, allowing users to run traditional PC applications seamlessly. The software runs smoothly on this device, and the touch interface works well, providing a nice balance of desktop functionality and tablet ease of use.
There are occasional compatibility issues with some older software or apps designed for larger screens. Users who prefer a simpler OS might find Windows 10 slightly more complex than tablet-only systems like iOS or Android.
Connectivity
82%
18%
This device comes with a solid range of connectivity options, including USB 3.0, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, and Bluetooth, making it easy to connect to peripherals and networks. The versatility in ports allows for seamless integration with external devices like monitors or storage drives.
However, the lack of more modern connectivity options, such as Thunderbolt or USB-C, may limit users looking to connect to high-performance devices or use it for more specialized tasks. Some users have expressed frustration with the limited number of ports.
Weight
95%
At just 1.7 pounds, this device is exceptionally lightweight, making it one of the most portable 2-in-1 devices available. It’s perfect for those who are always on the move, offering the balance of power and portability needed for day-to-day tasks while traveling.
While the lightweight design is an advantage for portability, some users find it less sturdy than heavier devices. The thinness may give a feeling of fragility to those who are used to bulkier laptops.
Customer Support
75%
25%
Microsoft offers a range of customer support options, including online resources, chat support, and phone assistance. Many users appreciate the quick response times and the availability of detailed troubleshooting guides.
Some users have reported mixed experiences with customer service, citing delays in response or difficulty resolving specific issues. The quality of support can vary depending on the region, leading to frustration for some buyers.
Value for Money
87%
This device offers solid value for the price, especially for users looking for a versatile 2-in-1 laptop with a high-resolution display and long battery life. The combination of premium features, performance, and portability makes it a good investment for everyday use and business tasks.
While the device is competitively priced for its features, some users feel that it lacks the cutting-edge specs or power that newer models offer. The value proposition may not be as strong for those looking for the latest technology or advanced processing power.
Multitasking
77%
23%
For lighter multitasking, such as web browsing, document editing, and media consumption, this device handles tasks smoothly without significant slowdowns. Users appreciate its responsiveness when juggling basic tasks like email and spreadsheets.
When handling more demanding multitasking scenarios, such as running several intensive programs at once, the performance can lag. Users have noted that the 8GB RAM and Intel Core i5 processor may struggle with heavy multitasking or complex workflows.

Suitable for:

The Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB) is well-suited for students and professionals who need a versatile and portable device for daily productivity tasks. Its lightweight design and long battery life make it an excellent option for those on the go, whether commuting or traveling. The flexible 2-in-1 functionality allows users to easily switch between laptop, tablet, and studio modes, making it a great choice for content creators, digital artists, or anyone who needs precision touch control. Additionally, its solid performance and display quality make it ideal for casual multitaskers and media consumption, providing a seamless experience for most work and entertainment scenarios.

Not suitable for:

However, this device may not be the best choice for users with demanding multitasking needs or those looking for the highest performance. The Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB RAM, while sufficient for everyday tasks, can struggle with more resource-intensive applications such as video editing or heavy gaming. Users who require a larger screen or more powerful hardware for professional-grade work might find this device underwhelming. Additionally, the limited port selection and lack of advanced connectivity options like Thunderbolt may be a downside for those looking to connect to high-performance peripherals or specialized hardware.

Specifications

  • Processor: Powered by an 8th-generation Intel Core i5 processor for fast and efficient performance.
  • Memory: Equipped with 8GB of RAM to support smooth multitasking and productivity.
  • Storage: Features a 128GB SSD, offering quick data access and ample space for files and apps.
  • Display: 12.3-inch PixelSense touchscreen display with a high resolution of 2736 x 1824 for sharp, vibrant visuals.
  • Weight: Weighs only 1.7 pounds, making it highly portable and easy to carry.
  • Battery Life: Offers up to 13.5 hours of battery life for extended use throughout the day.
  • Operating System: Runs on Windows 10 Home, providing full functionality and compatibility with a wide range of software.
  • Graphics: Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620, suitable for everyday tasks and light creative work.
  • Ports: Includes a USB 3.0 port, microSDXC card reader, and a 3.5mm headphone jack for connectivity.
  • Camera: 8MP rear camera for decent photo and video capture, along with a 5MP front camera for video calls.
  • Wi-Fi: Supports Wi-Fi 802.11ac for fast wireless internet connectivity.
  • Design: Slim and compact design with a durable magnesium alloy body, ideal for on-the-go use.
  • Sensors: Includes an accelerometer, gyroscope, and ambient light sensor for enhanced interaction.
  • Audio: Stereo speakers with Dolby Audio Premium, delivering clear sound for multimedia and video conferencing.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with Surface accessories like the Type Cover and Surface Pen, available separately.
  • Connectivity: Supports Bluetooth 4.1 for pairing with wireless peripherals and devices.
  • Dimensions: Measures 11.5 x 7.9 x 0.33 inches, offering a compact and portable form factor.
  • Warranty: Comes with a 1-year limited warranty, providing coverage for manufacturer defects.
  • External Storage: Supports external storage options via the USB port and microSD card reader for additional space.

FAQ

The Surface Pro 6 is a versatile 2-in-1 device that works as both a laptop and a tablet. It's ideal for students, professionals, and content creators who need a portable device for productivity, media consumption, or creative tasks like drawing and graphic design.

Setting up this device is simple. Turn it on, and follow the on-screen instructions to select your region, connect to Wi-Fi, and sign in with your Microsoft account. You can also customize Windows 10 settings and install necessary software afterward.

With its Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM, this device can handle moderate photo editing and light video editing tasks well. However, for heavy multitasking or high-end video rendering, a more powerful laptop or desktop may be needed.

For everyday tasks like browsing, word processing, and streaming, the 128GB SSD should be sufficient. However, users with large media libraries, heavy apps, or a need for more storage might find it limiting and should consider using external storage or cloud services.

The Surface Pro 6 offers up to 13.5 hours of battery life, making it great for a full day of work or study. However, battery life can vary depending on usage, such as running resource-heavy applications or streaming videos.

Yes, the Surface Pro 6's high-resolution 12.3-inch PixelSense display, paired with its responsive touchscreen, makes it an excellent choice for digital artists. You can use it in tablet mode for precise touch control and pen input (with compatible Surface Pen).

The Surface Pro 6 does not come with a keyboard in the box. You'll need to purchase the Type Cover separately if you want to use it as a full laptop with a physical keyboard.

Yes, most accessories from previous Surface models are compatible with the Surface Pro 6, including the Surface Pen, Type Cover, and docking stations. However, you should verify compatibility for specific accessories, especially if they require a particular port or connector type.

While the Surface Pro 6 offers solid performance with its Intel Core i5 processor and portability, the Surface Pro 7 features newer processors, better ports (like USB-C), and a slightly improved display. The Pro 7 also supports faster charging and better overall performance, making it a better choice for those needing cutting-edge power.

Yes, the Surface Pro 6 is an excellent travel companion due to its lightweight design (only 1.7 pounds) and long battery life. It can easily fit into most bags, and its 2-in-1 flexibility allows it to be used as both a laptop and a tablet, making it versatile for different tasks on the go.