(ThyBlackMan.com) Microsoft’s Surface device family will probably welcome some new members by the end of this year. Microsoft has not shared any information about the surface 2018 release, fans are expecting a Surface Pro 5 this year and some more products from the company. If Microsoft launches a new Surface Pro in 2018, the company will likely bring some solid changes in design and overall performance and we can expect the device to arrive sometime around October.
At this point, we expect that Microsoft will introduce a new Surface Pro in 2018 and the device will feature a bigger display, longer battery life, USB-C ports (one or more) and a faster processor. It won’t be a surprise if Microsoft decides to skip the Surface Pro release this year because, in 2016, the company skipped the launch and kept fans waiting. If you can’t wait and want to buy a powerful, stylish and decent laptop or 2-in-1, here are some alternatives from Microsoft.
For Power Users
Microsoft Surface Book 2 is the best choice for power users looking for a decent laptop that looks stylish and can handle even the heaviest software applications. It is the only laptop in the Surface device family that accommodates optional graphics chip for a performance boost.
You can use the device in four different modes. You can use the Surface Book 2 as a laptop and a tablet. If your work requires drawing and sketching, you can use it in studio mode and to watch your favorite shows or movies, just detach the screen and use the 2-in-1 in view mode.
Surface Book 2 is available in 13.5-inch and 15-inch PixelSense display options. The device supports up to 8th generation Intel i7 processor. Microsoft Surface Book 2 can be considered the best alternative to Apple’s MacBook Pro series. If your budget allows you to spend $2499, choosing the 15-inch Surface Book 2 is the best option because it sports the biggest and highest resolution screen and the fastest graphics chip Nvidia 1060.
Pocket-friendly
Microsoft Surface Laptop range packs style and performance with price starting from $699. But most users won’t buy the entry level laptop because it comes with the Intel Core M3 processor and is available only in platinum color. The laptop is good enough for light use and everyday tasks, but for heavy software applications, it is not an ideal option.
The good news is you can choose Intel Core i5, 4GB/8GB RAM and 128GB/256GB internal storage for $999 and $1299 respectively. It is obviously not a tablet but it can be the best choice for those who need a notebook computer. The device features a beautiful 13.5-inch screen and it is available in four color options including burgundy, platinum, cobalt blue and graphite gold depending on the configuration you choose.
Do more with a 2-in-1
Microsoft Surface Pro is now available with LTE. The Surface Pro family has several options in 2-in-1 range. Customers can the Pro series devices in laptop and tablet modes. A laptop in this range can be purchased for as low as $799 featuring Intel Core M3 processor, 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage capacity.
If portability and medium performance are your primary concern, configure the Surface Pro with the i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, 256GB SSD and Intel HD Graphics 620 for $1299. If you want LTE version, get the same configuration with LTE advanced technology for $1499.
For more power, you can choose the i7 processor for your Surface Pro and it will be capable of handling those heavy graphics designing apps, video editing software, and drawing applications.
Should You Wait For The Microsoft Surface 2018 Release?
There are good reasons to wait for the Microsoft Surface 2018 release. This year, the company will probably release new products in the Surface device family and we can expect some significant improvements. Some of the existing devices do not offer Intel 8th generation processors as the company is still relying on the 7th generation hardware. We don’t know when Microsoft will make an announcement for the same, but we expect the same to happen sometime later this year.
If you need a laptop now and can’t wait for the new products, choosing any of the above-mentioned products won’t make you feel left behind even if Microsoft releases something new this year. Microsoft is taking good care of the Surface device family with updates and accessories so buying a year old device isn’t a bad idea.
Staff Writer; Corey Shaw
Have any Tech Tips? News? Hit up our Tech Guru at; CoreyS@ThyBlackMan.com