Are you one of the proud owners of a Microsoft Surface Pro, but unsure about which generation it belongs to? You’re not alone! With the Surface Pro series being one of the most popular and sought-after devices on the market, it’s natural to wonder about the specifics of your device. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Surface Pros, exploring the different generations, their features, and how to identify which one you own.
The Surface Pro Family Tree: A Brief Overview
The Surface Pro series, launched in 2012, has undergone significant transformations over the years, with each generation introducing new features, design changes, and performance enhancements. To give you a better understanding of the Surface Pro family tree, here’s a brief overview of the different generations:
Surface Pro (1st Generation, 2012)
The first-generation Surface Pro, launched in 2012, was a revolutionary device that combined the power of a laptop with the portability of a tablet. It featured a 10.6-inch display, Intel Core i5 processor, 4GB of RAM, and a 128GB solid-state drive.
Surface Pro 2 (2013)
The Surface Pro 2, released in 2013, brought significant improvements over its predecessor, including a faster Intel Core i5 processor, improved battery life, and expanded storage options.
Surface Pro 3 (2014)
The Surface Pro 3, launched in 2014, marked a significant design shift, featuring a larger 12-inch display, a more comfortable Type Cover, and a range of processor options, including Intel Core i3, i5, and i7.
Surface Pro 4 (2015)
The Surface Pro 4, released in 2015, introduced a new, more compact design, improved performance, and enhanced display features, including a higher-resolution PixelSense display.
Surface Pro (5th Generation, 2017)
The 5th generation Surface Pro, launched in 2017, brought a new level of performance, durability, and versatility, featuring Intel Core m3, i5, and i7 processor options, improved battery life, and a range of storage and RAM configurations.
Surface Pro 6 (2018)
The Surface Pro 6, released in 2018, built upon the success of its predecessor, introducing new colors, improved performance, and enhanced security features, including a fingerprint reader.
Surface Pro 7 (2019)
The Surface Pro 7, launched in 2019, marked a significant design shift, featuring a new, more compact design, improved performance, and enhanced display features, including a higher-resolution PixelSense display and USB-C port.
Surface Pro X (2019)
The Surface Pro X, released in 2019, is a more recent addition to the Surface Pro family, featuring a larger 13-inch display, a more compact design, and a unique, ARM-based processor.
How To Identify Your Surface Pro Generation
Now that you have a better understanding of the Surface Pro family tree, let’s dive into the specifics of identifying your device’s generation. Here are some key steps to follow:
Check The Device’s Exterior
Take a closer look at your Surface Pro’s exterior. Each generation has unique design features that can help you identify it. For example:
- Surface Pro 1, 2, and 3 have a thicker, more angular design.
- Surface Pro 4 and 5 have a more compact, rounded design.
- Surface Pro 6 and 7 have a more refined, angular design with a larger kickstand.
- Surface Pro X has a more futuristic, sleek design with a thinner profile.
Inspect The Device’s Ports
The port selection on your Surface Pro can also give away its generation. For example:
- Surface Pro 1, 2, and 3 have a single USB-A port and a Mini DisplayPort.
- Surface Pro 4 and 5 have a single USB-A port, a Mini DisplayPort, and a SurfaceConnect port.
- Surface Pro 6 and 7 have two USB-A ports, a USB-C port, and a SurfaceConnect port.
- Surface Pro X has two USB-C ports and a SurfaceConnect port.
Check The Device’s Display
The display specifications can also help you identify your Surface Pro’s generation. For example:
- Surface Pro 1, 2, and 3 have a 10.6-inch Full HD display.
- Surface Pro 4 and 5 have a 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a higher resolution.
- Surface Pro 6 and 7 have a 12.3-inch PixelSense display with an even higher resolution.
- Surface Pro X has a 13-inch PixelSense display with a higher resolution and a 3:2 aspect ratio.
Look For The Device’s Serial Number
Your Surface Pro’s serial number can also provide clues about its generation. You can find the serial number on the device’s packaging, on the device itself (usually on the underside or back), or in the device’s settings. Once you have the serial number, you can check Microsoft’s website to determine the device’s generation.
Check The Device’s Specifications
Finally, you can check your Surface Pro’s specifications to determine its generation. For example:
- Processor: If your device has an Intel Core m3, it’s likely a 5th generation or later Surface Pro.
- RAM and Storage: Check the device’s RAM and storage configurations to determine its generation. Earlier generations typically had less RAM and storage options.
By following these steps, you should be able to determine which generation your Surface Pro belongs to. Remember, each generation has its unique features, design elements, and specifications, so take your time to inspect your device carefully.
| Generation | Release Year | Display Size | Processor Options | RAM Options | Storage Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Surface Pro (1st Generation) | 2012 | 10.6-inch | Intel Core i5 | 4GB | 128GB SSD |
| Surface Pro 2 | 2013 | 10.6-inch | Intel Core i5 | 4GB/8GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB SSD |
| Surface Pro 3 | 2014 | 12-inch | Intel Core i3/i5/i7 | 4GB/8GB | 64GB/128GB/256GB/512GB SSD |
| Surface Pro 4 | 2015 | 12.3-inch | Intel Core m3/i5/i7 | 4GB/8GB/16GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB SSD |
| Surface Pro (5th Generation) | 2017 | 12.3-inch | Intel Core m3/i5/i7 | 4GB/8GB/16GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB SSD |
| Surface Pro 6 | 2018 | 12.3-inch | Intel Core i5/i7 | 8GB/16GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB SSD |
| Surface Pro 7 | 2019 | 12.3-inch | Intel Core i3/i5/i7 | 4GB/8GB/16GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB SSD |
| Surface Pro X | 2019 | 13-inch | Microsoft SQ1 ARM-based processor | 8GB/16GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB SSD |
By following these steps and referencing the table above, you should be able to identify which generation your Surface Pro belongs to. Remember, each generation has its unique features, design elements, and specifications, so take your time to inspect your device carefully.
What Is The Surface Pro Generation And Why Does It Matter?
The Surface Pro generation refers to the specific model or version of the Surface Pro tablet-laptop hybrid produced by Microsoft. Each generation of Surface Pro brings new features, improvements, and upgrades to the device, making it essential to know which generation your device belongs to. Knowing your Surface Pro generation can also help you determine the compatibility of your device with certain software, hardware, and accessories.
Identifying your Surface Pro generation is also crucial when it comes to troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair. Microsoft provides different support options and resources for each generation, so knowing which one you have can ensure you get the right help. Furthermore, being aware of your Surface Pro generation can also impact your device’s performance, as newer generations often come with better performance, security, and features.
How Do I Find The Model Number Of My Surface Pro?
To find the model number of your Surface Pro, you can check the device’s packaging, receipt, or documentation that came with the device when you purchased it. If you no longer have these materials, you can also find the model number on the device itself. For newer Surface Pro models, the model number is usually printed on the back of the device near the kickstand. For older models, you might need to remove the kickstand to find the model number.
Once you have the model number, you can look it up on Microsoft’s website or other online resources to determine which Surface Pro generation it corresponds to. Keep in mind that the model number is different from the serial number, so make sure you’re looking for the correct information. Knowing your model number is an essential step in determining your Surface Pro generation.
What Are The Different Surface Pro Generations?
There are currently seven generations of Surface Pro, starting from the original Surface Pro in 2012 to the latest Surface Pro 7 in 2019. Each generation has its unique features, specifications, and improvements. The Surface Pro 1, Surface Pro 2, and Surface Pro 3 were part of the first generation, followed by the Surface Pro 4, Surface Pro 2017, Surface Pro 6, and Surface Pro 7.
Microsoft has also released several variations of each generation, such as the Surface Pro with LTE Advanced, which offers cellular connectivity. There are also business-focused models like the Surface Pro for Business, which provides additional features and support for enterprise users.
How Do I Identify My Surface Pro Generation Based On Its Design?
One way to identify your Surface Pro generation is by its design and physical features. Each generation has distinct design elements, such as the kickstand, bezels, and port selection. For example, the Surface Pro 1 to Surface Pro 3 have a more angular design and a thicker bezel compared to the newer generations. The Surface Pro 4 to Surface Pro 6 have a more rounded design and thinner bezels.
Newer generations, such as the Surface Pro 7, have even thinner bezels, a redesigned kickstand, and a USB-C port. Additionally, the Surface Pro X, a more recent model, has a completely new design language with a thinner and lighter profile. By examining the design and physical features of your device, you can make an educated guess about which generation it belongs to.
What Are The Internal Specifications Of Each Surface Pro Generation?
Each Surface Pro generation has unique internal specifications, such as processor, memory, and storage options. The original Surface Pro 1, for example, came with Intel Core i5 processors and up to 128GB of storage. The Surface Pro 2 and 3 had similar specifications but with improved performance and slightly larger storage options.
Newer generations, such as the Surface Pro 6 and 7, have more powerful processors, up to 1TB of storage, and improved graphics performance. The Surface Pro X, on the other hand, features a custom Microsoft SQ1 processor designed for mobile productivity. Knowing the internal specifications of your Surface Pro can help you determine which generation it belongs to and what kind of performance you can expect.
Can I Upgrade My Surface Pro To A Newer Generation?
While you can’t directly upgrade your Surface Pro to a newer generation, you can upgrade certain components to improve its performance. For example, you can upgrade the RAM or storage on some Surface Pro models, but this may void your warranty. Microsoft also offers trade-in programs or upgrade options for eligible devices, which can help you get a newer Surface Pro.
Keep in mind that upgrading to a newer generation often requires a complete hardware replacement, which can be costly. If your Surface Pro is no longer meeting your needs, it might be more cost-effective to purchase a new device. However, if you’re satisfied with your current device, upgrading certain components can help breathe new life into it.
What Are The Key Differences Between Surface Pro And Surface Go?
The Surface Pro and Surface Go are both tablet-laptop hybrids from Microsoft, but they cater to different needs and budgets. The Surface Pro is a more powerful device designed for professionals and heavy users, with larger screens, more storage options, and better performance. The Surface Go, on the other hand, is a more portable and affordable option, with a smaller screen, less storage, and more limited performance.
The Surface Go is ideal for casual users, students, or those who need a lightweight device for basic tasks. The Surface Pro, with its more robust features, is better suited for heavy users, business professionals, or those who need a device that can handle demanding tasks. While both devices share some similarities, their design, features, and pricing are distinct.