Surface Laptop Studio v. Surface Pro 8 - Which do I choose? Impressions and Contrasts

[@TMJ32]

95%+ of the time I used my Surface Book either in laptop mode, connected to the base and folded down to draw, or flipped backwards using the base as a stand. I very very rarely popped the tablet off as a standalone device. And I suspect other users were the same, Microsoft saw that, and just created the Studio to suit the way people had converged using their Surface Books.

[@Gigglepud]

Yeah, pretty much this. The removable screen was a great gimmick the first month, but in practice I'm pretty much always using it attached to the base. The SLS essentially provides all the surface book forms I regularly use, and without the 5 second delay it takes to detach the screen. (And no longer will i have to look at Surface Pro users jealously for how quickly they switch between laptop and tablet mode). Not in the market for a new laptop yet, as my Gen 1 SB is still chugging along fine. But once it dies, I'm pretty sure i know what i want my next laptop to be.

[@PeterHamlin]

Me too! I loved the feel of that huge featherweight tablet, but the short battery life and lack of gpu limited its usefulness. I bet you're right about MS trying to adapt the design to be more usable without really losing many of the advantages of it.

[@natalythinks]

This review was extremely helpful! I see so many reviews on technical specs and benchmark specs but not enough on daily life use, thanks!

[@风都树影]

The Studio is the ultimate professor’s laptop for remote teaching. When you have external cam and mic connected to the device and need to switch from typing mode to tablet mode to write stuff, flipping the Surface Pro is a major pain, but flipping the Studio can be done quite nonchalantly because everything is connected at the base and base don’t move when flipping. For that reason I always used a Bluetooth keyboard with the Surface Pro. Typing is also a much better experience with the Studio, even though typing on Surface Pro is actually quite pleasant, too. Both have brilliant pen storage designs. Of course the Pro is much more portable, but weight doesn’t concern me, so I went from SP7 to Studio. So far very, very impressed with it.

[@davidletterboyz]

Yes. But too bad the processor is outdated.

[@minranelf3810]

Thank you, i have been struggling about choosing between these 2 in the past few days. This gave me more reasons to go with the pro 8 XD

[@BearMetro]

Why exactly? The price is almost the same after needing to buy a keyboard for the sp8. The SLS offers more versatility. Plus it's am overall better build. Great keyboard and trackpad, with more battery life and a bigger screen. Unless you need absolute portability then I guess that's the only case that would make sense.

[@minranelf3810]

@@BearMetro i draw a lot and will be using it as a tablet most of the time so it matters to me for it to be light-weighted and easy to hold and carry around. I have been using my ipad for drawing and it was absolutely amazing but it's getting old and slow now so i'm finding a new device. University starts soon for me so would also need a laptop but I don't see myself using the keyboard that much except when i do my assignment ^^

[@rohan_snj]

@@minranelf3810 did you end up buying it ?

[@Euquila]

@@BearMetro if you walk around a lot of the tablet (like a nutcase as I do), then get the 8. The studio is too big/heavy

[@PghCrawfords2K]

Excellent comparison and review. I’m upgrading from a Surface Pro 4 and I’ve narrowed my options down to these two. I’ve handled both machines. The Laptop Studio is like a stunningly elegant “trophy date.” (like its desktop big brother); theSurface Pro 8 is like the “reliable study hall mate from high school days who remains dependable. Can’t go wrong either way!

[@shivaniM100]

I'm extremely glad someone actually pointed out the importance of the bezels on the surface pro.

[@anaisabelribeiro2721]

Every time people tell me the Surface Pro is uncomfortable on the knees I wanna tell them about your trick at 18:11 ! I've been doing it for years for browsing on the bed and couch. Thanks for the video, it's long but worth it, like discussing pros and cons with a friend :)

[@indyjones720]

Very nifty but I can see that really scratching up the keys because they’re not made to be a stand on a table, unlike the Studio. That’s my worry :/

[@RK-um9tu]

@@indyjones720 A rational person would flip the keyboard over and put the kickstand between the first row of keys and trackpad...problem solved

[@fdegasperis]

I wish MS came out with a larger Surface Pro (14 ~ 15 in screen)

[@gehteuchnichtsan7911]

Surface book 3?

[@kinan6746]

Thank you for the timely comparison and review. I'm still struggling! I might have to buy both! XD

[@kinan6746]

Decided on Surface Pro 8 with 512GB. I have my gaming desktop. This is going to be a personal laptop replacement for traveling.

[@Ant_370]

I have the surface studio and there's many ways that I use the tent mode (covering the keyboard) for media consumption, gaming, if I'm just browsing the internet, etc... I really love this laptop 💻

[@NeKa..]

SLS is another beautifully designed device from Microsoft for sure... But to me it does not replace the surface book 3, which is way more versatile in form factor than anything out there... As for surface Pro 8, they seem to have finally nailed it...I am off course sulking because it seems like they pulled the plug on surface book 3 which has been my daily driver for over a year now and still a joy to use every day studio/tablet/laptop mode...I hope SLS is an addition and not replacement...I will treasure my SB3 and perhaps wait till they bump up ram to 32 for surface Pro line because most of my creative apps are CPU intensive ... Else I will look elsewhere... but I must admit that I have come to appreciate the balance of design, performance and versatility that Microsoft Surface offers and it won't be easy to find perfect alternative...it's just a joy to use them!

[@dougmcgee6075]

Great video. I myself was just in the same predicament. I was going back and forth on whether or not to get a Surface Laptop Studio, or a Surface Pro 8. Luckily we have a few stores in our city that let you demo the products pretty extensively. Like you, I think the Surface Laptop Studio is a pretty innovative new product, but I went with the Surface Pro 8. There was an amazing sale here that lowered the Pro 8 i7 by around $250. That discount let me get the Pro 8 i7 with 16G ram, and 512GB of internal storage for around what I would usually pay for an i5 mid tier Surface. The newly redesigned SP8 is a real powerhouse.

[@rush48192]

Prefer the studio, it replaced 3 devices for me, ipad pro Mac book pro and Razer gaming laptop, it has also convinced me to break away from apple and now using a Duo 2 as my daily phone driver

[@beyondthedetails]

And don’t understand when folks say “break away” from Apple. Windows is no different lol.

[@PlazDreamweaver]

@@beyondthedetails Look up the definition of "ecosystem." Apple calls their web of devices an ecosystem for a reason, and that has pros and cons. One pro being ease of use and accessibility. One con being you're coerced into buying only Apple products. For example, if a product from another brand better suits your needs, you'll think twice since it won't work as well with your existing products, forcing you to settle. Microsoft doesn't have an exosystem, so there's no need to break away from it.

[@alaggs7279]

this video was the sooo helpful and they way you described everything was so down to earth. i really appreciate the video!

[@matthewleonmartin]

I use the SLS in portrait mode all the time because I keep it connected to a monitor. The screen sits below the monitor as a secondary display. Occasionally I slide it forward and bring it down to tablet mode to draw with. I rarely ever detach it from the monitor but when I do it becomes a laptop. All three formats get use for me.

[@Buffer0verflow]

Great comparison video for real life use cases. I'm also torn between both devices. Thanks for the posting your input. Was very helpful. I dropped you a sub! ❤️

[@dariushjt8367]

For me as a student, the pro 8 is probably the better device as I see myself taking writing on the tablet with the pen during the lecture und the studio doesn’t seem to be made for this scenario. However, the Studio just looks so much more elegant with its keyboard to me. Furthermore the screen is bigger which could be important for reading e books while taking notes on an tab simultaneously and is just 200€ more expensive. What should I do?

[@Литотерапия101камень]

Go for the pro 8 (i5/8/128 or i5/16/256). Studio is way less versatile for students

[@RocketAdminAustin]

Consider reading ebooks in tablet mode on the pro 8 vs being stuck with the heavier studio.

[@Литотерапия101камень]

@@RocketAdminAustin Yes, it's way more convenient for reading too

[@johnhio1843]

4:45 - Though the same. Seems almost coincidental that you can still use the trackpad while it's set at an angle. Also, having it block the keyboard while set at a tilt is just gamebreaking. I know some people use Wacom Cintiq's without a keyboard, but it really slows you down; even doing digital art. Don't think I could ever work in something like ZBrush without a keyboard at hand.

[@linhkhanhbui0211]

Same here. I'm a freelance illustrator and I don't think I could ever do my artwork without a keyboard at hand. 👍🏼 would've been so much better if SP Studio can make the trackpad set at a tilt and not lock the keyboard.

[@paulodekkers5075]

Thank you for the comparison. What is Your opinion about the Surface Studio Laptop today? Did the software updates make it better? Would the difference be worth a second review? And what changes would you love to see in a future version?

[@maximgrinev6798]

Great video! As you have rear experience with both Surface Pro 7 plus and 8, does thermal improvements you mentioned (also slightly upgraded processor) make 8 feel faster in practice than 7 plus?

[@hk6926]

I choose the laptop studio . I just loved it . Bought the pro 8 but it wasn’t fitting my lifestyle . It was a heavy tablet and worse laptop experience . The Sls replaced my 16 inch m1 pro and iPad Pro 12.9 m1 .

[@jodie2025]

While it hasn’t replaced my 14 inch M1 MacBook Pro or 12.9 inch iPad Pro I now use the Microsoft Studio as my daily driver and I really love it. Great sound, trackpad and keyboard and just does everything really well. I’m one of those Apple people but I tell everyone the Studio Laptop is a game changer. Love it. Nice review Cameron.

[@dnegs7]

As a production planner I think the SP8 makes more sense… I need to run around from shop to shop and take photos and mark them up with notes. I know using it in your lap is awkward, but do any of you really do that very often? I usually wait to use my computer while commuting until I get where I’m going and can sit down at a table. Otherwise, I’d maybe consider just using it as a tablet.

[@PeterHamlin]

Thanks for a great comparison. I have a Surface Book 2 15" that I'll upgrade in the next year or so. I'm tempted by the SP8, but I do like having a gpu (I do a lot of 2d and 3d art that makes good use of the gpu). I wonder if a future design for the Surface Laptop Studio could add a few programmable physical shortcut keys to either side of the touchpad. When I go into tablet mode, most of the applications I use really only need a few shortcut keys, not the full keyboard. I'm kinda hoping the Surface Laptop Studio gets a cpu upgrade, and then I'll probably get one. Meantime, happily, my SB2 is pretty wonderful.

[@mahfah7911]

One of the most proper review done. So many things mentioned about cooling speakers which doesn’t come from regular reviews. And about bezels, 100% agreed with you. This design can’t get old or can’t get better. Such a convenience to carry this around. This is only stopping me from switching to Macs. Can’t loose the world it does for me. Thanks for mentioning how well the thermals is and how it stays. I didn’t knew that. My surface pro 4 plays all the classic Win XP PC games just fine. I love carrying it around. I think future surface will even do better. I love my surface with how durable it is. I just hope they do something about battery wear problem, if you connect external hard drives which pulls power, it takes a toll on Batteries too while it’s connected to power. My battery wear percentage goes up. Such good devices and made limited. Investments should pay off till years to come. Also I don’t think they put any type of lock to secure it in campuses etc. if these things are solved I’ll purchase or upgrade immediately. Thanks and glad I subscribed

[@GiichiOne]

So important to know about being able to flip the cover! Can you also flip the cover back on the asus rog flow z13?

[@msp5138]

Dude, on the SP8 you need to flip the keyboard over so the back is resting on the table and the keys are facing upward. Then use the different rows of keys viewing angles that hold up the kickstand.

[@linhkhanhbui0211]

i've thought the same thing lol 😂

[@io_inc]

First of all, thank you making this type of comparison... Trust me when is say this, It was hard to find a review of this products together.

[@LifeInTaiwan-Ita]

I don’t know, they are about the same price, but the studio includes an rtx 3050ti that while it’s not the most powerful gpu out there, it’s very handy to have for several kind of uses. And the dlss helps it to be a decent gaming machine too

[@sleepnclass]

Thanks for making this video. Helped me decide if I wanted to swap my studio for a pro

[@lmwald]

Really needed this. Thanks a million.

[@mcbc5189]

Thank you for an informative video. I was on the fence about which to get and you just convinced me towards the end of the video. I want a device I can sit in my lap at a coffee shop and comfortably consume content. I was leaning towards the Studio but then saw how you configured the Pro8. That blew me away. I was hesitant about the Pro8 because of the problematic typing experience with the device on my lap. I'll still have that issue but perhaps I'll get a Brydge SP+.

[@RK-um9tu]

Who pays well over $1,000 for a computer-tablet to watch KZbin videos? Why don't you just get a $300 tablet?

[@mcbc5189]

@@RK-um9tu because a $300 won't be able to do anything other than watch videos. I still need a computer that is powerful enough for photo or video editing. The Pro 8 is under consideration because it does provide enough power to do that. My concern is whether it can still provide a comfortable experience as a tablet and when used with type cover.

[@mcbc5189]

@@RK-um9tu I went ahead and purchased the Pro 8 and have owned it for about 3 1/2 weeks. I'm glad I did. Just as expected the Pro 8 is powerful enough to handle my full-fledged PC version Adobe products without a problem. I can also sit in a comfortable chair at Starbucks and use the Pro 8 as a tablet to watch KZbin while I'm relaxing and sipping coffee drinks. I can hold it in my hand or I can engage the kickstand and just have it on my lap at a good viewing angle. If I need to use the Pro 8 as a laptop on my lap, I attach the keyboard and set the whole thing on a tablet sleeve that I purchased. The sleeve gives the Pro 8 a flat surface on which to sit allowing for more stability than I would get putting the Pro 8 directly on my lap. The Pro 8 is definitely a homerun for me.

[@silverpro8356]

@@mcbc5189 I suspect that you are a shop owner or a marketer selling surfaces because every review i have seen about this surface pro 8 on amazon and other unbiased reviews are saying it overheats and the battery only lasts 3-4hrs tops and there is also quality control issues with it.

[@mcbc5189]

@@silverpro8356 You suspect incorrectly. I don't sell Surfaces or any hardware or software. I do web development & web maintenance type of work. This type of work isn't very taxing on the processor which is why I haven't experienced any overheating issues with the Pro 8. I have had to digitize VHS tapes to mp4 using OBS and then creating 30 minute compilation video files and slideshows using Adobe Premier. In those instances the Pro 8 does heat up causing the internal fan to audibly run. I'm overly careful with any device I pay over $1000 for so I do have an external fan that I removed from and laptop cooling pad I've had since 2011. The fan module is actually two fans. I sit the kickstand of the Pro 8 on the fan module, dividing the fans between the inner side of the kickstand and outer side. This method allows air to blow on the Pro 8 below the dividing line of the kickstand and above the line so that the Pro 8 is cooled in both places. About once a week I go mobile with the Pro 8 and spend an hour or two in coffee shops or wherever I find a comfortable spot. I've never known the Pro 8 to get hot when using on my lap because I have the kickstand engaged. This means I'd never feel the heat if the Pro 8 did get hot. The truth is, if it does get hot it hasn't hindered the performance. Also, I haven't experienced any hardware issues. Everything is working as it did when I first got it and perforance has been stellar for my purposes. If I'm just in "play" mode and using the Pro 8 for entertainment such as videos, web surfing, etc., I get about 5 hours of battery life by the time I reach 15% of battery remaining. I don't know if this is good or not good but it still works for me. I don't think I'd be sitting anywhere for 8 hours and not be connected to my home setup.

[@nineteeneightyfou100]

Wow the laptop seems very promising, I love to see that vent. I have an old surface pro from 2016/2017, and if I spend too much time on the laptop, it over heats and the screen shakes. This might be the better choice for that reason!

[@jay-jay5622]

Have you benchmarking the surface pro 8 for gaming without the keyboard, or with the keyboard flipped beneath it as a base? I'm curious because your other video showed the SLS improved on benchmarking when in Studio mode and tablet mode. Thanks for all the vids. I ordered the surface pro 8, and while waiting for it have convinced myself that the SLS will be better, and I should trade it in for the SLS before opening. I keep coming back to this video to convince myself that the Pro 8 is better for me because I plan to use it in tablet mode alot. From your experience is the SLS really uncomfortable in tablet mode, and what were the graphical differences in gaming? TL:DR - What are graphical differences btw Pro 8/SLS? How uncomfortable is the SLS in Tablet mode, and have you benchmarking the Pro 8 in tablet mode to see if there is a graphic boost (similar to SLS im Studio mode)?

[@keys299]

I use sketchup and auto cad but need a portable tablet sized device to show clients there models on site. I already have a desktop for designing my models now I just need a small viewer. Would the surface pro 8 be capable? Or is a new BETTER surface pro 9 in the works?

[@jaae.lo_]

I’m having a hard time trying to decide between the two. I am looking for something that allows me to have a 2 in 1 system. Being able to use it in laptop mode, and table mode. Can someone please help me out on which one is best if you’re editing yet videos, drawing, browsing, and watching media.

[@quinnryquinnry434]

Bro, you made a great analogy and brought up some excellent points. Is any of these two laptops become part of your own workspace?

[@jorgeluisfernandez2560]

Soooo...between this pro8 and ipad 11 pro or galaxy tab s8 plus which is better to send mails, watch Netflix, amazon and crunchyroll, also office? For heavy task i have a laptop, thanks a lot!

[@Pesto-64]

Having an issue with the screen glare on my SP8 and I can’t find a matte screen protector on Amazon. Anyone know of any?

[@loyannmunyan1174]

How is it for using either iOS or iPad apps and doing some lite gaming?

[@iu1191]

Excellent video. I had to think about both as well. Loved hearing your thoughts - really helpful! (Kept both .... don't tell anyone!!)

[@cbutters]

Haha.. I kept both at the time too xD

[@sjlewis7640]

I have an SP7 i7 16GB and do a fair amount of video editing. Would it be safe to say that the SP8 would handle video editing better then the SP7? Faster? Cooler? My SP7 fans go full blast and gets very hot when involved with video editing on Corel or Movavi Videostudio.

[@mist1373]

From what I have seen in tests and the such, the surface pro 8 has much better cooling, the i7 gets a couple degrees hotter than the i5 but they both stay cool enough thanks to the new aluminum chassis.

[@tejasbg8457]

one of the best review videos.

[@jodie2025]

I do have both of these machines and would say that as someone who draws a lot I prefer the Laptop Studio- the pen performance is amazing and the trackpad and keyboard are just as good as my MacBook Pro 14 M1- which is a huge compliment.

[@cameronmajer1531]

Which configuration did you get with the surface pro 8. RAM, Storage and graphics card?

[@jeffriart]

While flipping the type cover back is very useful, I regularly did it with my Surface Go (and Go 2), however, keep in mind that is also a weak point on the type cover. I have gone through 2 type covers which all failed at the hinge in the span of 2 years, I believe due to the additional stress when flipping it over.

[@PaSeBlu]

On previous Surface generations you could attach the keyboard the other way round, with the keys facing the back of the device, which should help with the stress on the keyboard.

[@yourapexgod2317]

Can anyone tell me if the Surface pro 8 used PWM i cant find any information anywhere about this.

[@marieantoine]

Does surface pro 8 have a screen protector?

[@mazinmasood9538]

Can you demonstrate opening sp studio multiple times without getting the screen flipping

[@jodie2025]

I learned a lot from this video, thanks!

[@linhkhanhbui0211]

Extremely helpful! Thank you for your review!

[@davosworks]

Im very dissapointed with the resolution of Surface laptop Studio. Idk why they didnt use resolution from Surface book 15”

[@96bulls2k]

How big is your external gpu tho?

[@MaN2Mega]

Check out Tablet Pro hot key dock software, eliminates the need for hotkeys on the keyboard completely

[@JK-xz1lt]

I'm looking to upgrade my Pro 2017 to a Pro 8, but I'm not sure if I want to get an i5 or an i7. My old one is an i7, and I use mine for art and lesson planning. Still undecided on the model I want. Kind of waiting for the LTE models too.

[@emiletonos3873]

There isn't THAT big of a difference in performance between both, I've read that there is only a 10% performance difference

[@RK-um9tu]

Based on your use case, get the i5 SP8 over the i7 SP8. The latter is for people who do heavy work like video editing and 3D modelling stuff. I have an i7 SP7 but the only reason I got it over the i5 varient was because it was on sale for only $960US.

[@carlw6247]

Great video Cameron. Good point on folding the Surface Pro back on the keyboard to make your own stage mode for the SP8. But after having my second Surface type cover fail due, apparently, to being folded back in this orientation and used mostly as a protective cover and flat base, I stopped using Surface type covers that way. Now, with the additional advantage that its lighter and never ruins my type covers (probably due to strain on the cables leading to the connector), I just take them off and keep them nearby when using in a stage-like mode. For the Surface with which I do the most browsing, I find I that rarely need the keyboard. The Go is also nicer than the Pro for this manner of use, because it is so light. It digs in less due to its light weight. Hopefully MS has improved the type covers durability in this config, but I'm not counting on it. BTW, it took both of my type covers about 6 months to go completely dead when used in this way. I did have the protection plan on the 2nd type cover and used it after it failed. I just didn't like seeing it die again and the hassle of replacing it with MS, so I stopped using them this way.

[@stingrays713]

When you put the keyboard backwards so that the surface pro 8 can have a nice platform.. What happens if a key is pressed on the keyboard while it is on your lap?

[@JohnSmith-gb8hd]

The keyboard switches off when you use it in that mode.

[@RK-um9tu]

Just flip it over so the cover is touching your legs, problem solved...

[@mackattack3613]

I'm confused, how will the screen appear on the Studio if it's lower resolution than the 8, but has better graphics?

[@TRYHARDRACCOON]

Graphics doesn’t equal resolution, it’s talking about the discrete GPU. This is better than the integrated GPU and offers more fluidity and responsiveness/speed of motion and/or games.

[@petitst]

Is the pen charging in Studio when clipped at the bottom as it does on the surface pro 8?

[@cbutters]

Yes it does.

[@majestymedia5008]

Had both surface pro 8 and book as well.. i gave them up and got an 11 inch ipad pro. I just rdp to a VM in azure if i need to do something graphics/compute intensive. Then i realized i can do the same using my Samsung phone via Dex. Never carried a laptop ever since

[@Stryker123321]

getting the surface pro 8 as well! Cheers!

[@emudojo]

You may think a lot easier for me I'll go for the eight pro now, I was thinking about getting it for the GPU alone but I don't game anymore not that much and I have an egpu that I can just buy a card for and use..

[@RodrigoFerreira-bs6hd]

What's your eGPU solution?

[@mariafirfiri6330]

which is better for video/foto editing?

[@MacBamboocha]

A detachable keyboard would have been cool imho. With that and a more honest price tag I might have gotten for one as well. Now I'll get the SP8 once it's available in Italy - _which I guess will take 2 months still, so January 2022._ 🤐 If the Surface Studio had something to replace the hidden keyboard I might have changed my mind and I would get the RTX 3050 TI model. However as a normal tablet it's too cumbersome, ~15 inch ain't as portable as the 13 inch Pro 8, drawing mode without keyboard on Photoshop... good luck. And *the price* of course. I've read the more powerful version comes at 2700,00 $! It's really too much for what it has under the hood. Functionality is amazing and the small details in it are impressive to say the least, but for that price not having DDR5 RAM and at least a 3070 is criminal, sorry. Heck, a RTX Quadro 3/4000 version for creators would have been amazing! Pro8 is overpriced too, but it's the only decent Win-tablet for artists out there. While for how portable the Studio is, a good 15 inch Asus or MSI Laptop for ~1800 bucks with a single cord Wacom tablet is a much better and more professional combo, and for a much smaller price tag. The all in design ain't worth it imho. Nice step in the right direction, but still not what most artists in a Windows ecosystem would need on the go.

[@Andres-sr7uv]

It's now July 2022. How is your laptop?

[@MacBamboocha]

@@Andres-sr7uv It ended up becoming March due to various issues, but I indeed got the Surface Pro 8 for myself and a Lenovo Yoga for my bro. And while I had to wait, at least I got some good deals and still could write it off my IVA. Both great choices on the go for our different needs. Win11 on tables in general is much better, SP8 to draw and paint with the right tools is awesome. You won't get the touch sensitivity of a wacom ofc, bit on the go? I freaking love it. And with one drive switch between portable and more professional fixed station ain't an issue at all. SP8 is too pricey still, however they made a great job all things considered. For the most part that is. Like I imagined already, I barely use the cover for shortcuts. Instead I opted for a on-screen overlay shortcut app. I wish there was a MS build in solution over the sole digital keyboard. There are a few choices though, hard to find however. Personally I suggest Touchkey 2, for Photoshop specifically it's a good tool with tons of options. My second gripe is the turn on button. It sticks out and is way too easy to press by accident. Never had the problem with previous versions. The solution is a thin, firm bag with protective foam and enough space on top instead of a tablet cover. Still annoying, I wish there was a method to change the power button function to a 2 second hold press to turn on. The pen for the price could be of better quality and press+touch for right click needs to get used to, but it feels fine once you wrap your head around it. More than enough pressure levels, tilt goes further than I thought and I love the flat design, really comfortable even after long sessions. How it lands magnetically in the cover? Priceless!

[@finnam]

Hope that surface laptop 5 13 inches will have a similar design to the surface studio (without a flip screen)

[@mikapeltokorpi7671]

Try git. You do not have to manage two devices. You are co-creating in multiple devices. Doing it with my Master's thesis at the moment. So you can do more than manage coding projects with version control software.

[@0617michael]

Great job with the review man think I'm just going to go with the Surface Pro 8 because of the ports

[@astephup]

Would it be better for me to stick with my tab s7+ 256gb model or go for i5 surface pro 8 with 16gb ram OR 8gb ram plus 512gb model. You can get the tab s7 plus on sale for like 800 dollars and the keyboard isn't that good but gets the job done at 150 bucks. I play minecraft, call of duty mobile, less extensive rpg games and fps shooters that use less than 8gb ram. Or should I keep galaxy tab and just get sls?

[@msp5138]

You are joking, correct? The SP8 is a Windows computer (that runs 35 million Windows applications) and as such is not comparable to Samsung's Tab s7 Plus which is just a big Galaxy smartphone that only runs (2.9 million) smartphone apps. One is a productivity device for mobile white-collar professionals and business folks, while the other is an entertainment device for watching NetFlix, KZbin, and playing games.

[@RocketAdminAustin]

@@msp5138 I'm not sure that there is really much I can't do on my tab s7 that I can on windows. Dex mode gives the tab S7 a desktop and although there are somewhat more functional versions of apps on windows, I don't think most users will need that. Unless you're using this for work, in which case your employer would usually provide you a suitable device.

[@renatollamosas9818]

thank you, but now what surface pro 8 u recommend, i5 or i7?

[@cbutters]

I've only tested the i7 version, but the i5 should perform pretty decent as well... (It isn't fanless anymore), if you are going to use it with an eGPU anyways... might be fine to just get the i5.... its hard to say.... plus I haven't tested the performance delta yet...

[@bastianherrmann8744]

Out of curiosity, when you flip the keyboard over and use it as a stand whilst on the couch, doesn't it still register keystrokes? Since I would use it in bed for instance with a more uneven underground than just a plain lap, that would probably not work, would it?

[@JohnSmith-gb8hd]

Don't worry, the keyboard switches off when you use it in that mode.

[@bastianherrmann8744]

@@JohnSmith-gb8hd crazy, may I ask how that is achieved? It seems rather out of the use case and I therefore wonder what the trigger is for it to shut off. Thanks for the info tho, this is really nice to know!!

[@JohnSmith-gb8hd]

@@bastianherrmann8744 It's actually a normal use-case, since the first Surface Pro of 2013. I use it like this every day. They even advertised this mode multiple times. There is a sensor in the Type Cover seam that switches it off after it folds over a certain reflex angle.

[@bastianherrmann8744]

@@JohnSmith-gb8hd thanks a lot, I was not aware of this, that is very interesting indeed. I agree that it's a solid use case but didn't expect it to be recognised as such in development, so I was simply surprised by it

[@JohnSmith-gb8hd]

@@bastianherrmann8744 This mode also provides extra friction on slippery surfaces preventing the device from sliding, for when you're taking notes or drawing on a table. Alternatively, you can also attach the Type Cover backwards, if you want to prevent the typing area from hitting the underlying surface, but then you won't be able to quickly switch between laptop and tablet mode.

[@boutstaxx]

Pro tip just flip the surface pro keyboard backwards when using in lap it gives the kick stand a platform to stand on

[@shanesonn]

My only concern with the Surface Pro 8 was the sharpness of the kickstand while on my lap. But I didn't know the keyboard could fold back and make a comfortable lap pad so thank you! I'll get the Surface Pro 8!

[@reianae.smiley8573]

Me too!

[@JohnSmith-gb8hd]

Don't worry, the kickstand is not sharp and padded with plastic. I've been using Surface Pros on my lap for years without any issue.

[@tombyrne6433]

Don't be fooled by that, you will do likely do it once then never bother with it. Because, it requires you to unfold and re-fold to type anything with the keyboard. The SLS keeps you in the flow. The kickstand is fine on a lap unless you have sensitive skin or short leg thighs.

[@shanesonn]

@@tombyrne6433 It has an on screen keyboard

[@tombyrne6433]

@@shanesonn Yes, how often does one use that? When you have a keyboard available? Phones use onscreen KB because they have to. Computers use real keyboards.

[@yaoyao6840]

is it only fit M.2-2230 SSD？if i trying to upgrade SSD can M.2-2280SSD is also OK？

[@cbutters]

Laptop studio will do 2230 & 2280.... pro 8 only 2230

[@_Digitalguy]

@@cbutters can you do a SSD upgrade demo or are you going to return the Studio?

[@cbutters]

I was going to do that, but since I have to return I can't.... just like you said. Hopefully someone does a good video on that soon.

[@_Digitalguy]

@@cbutters thanks a lot for you reply! You are making some excellent videos lately! Looking fortward to the next ones!

[@_Digitalguy]

@@cbutters well Linus did, and he ended up breaking it... Not something anyone would want to attemps, so I guess it's: buy as much as you need and live with it...

[@RodrigoFerreira-bs6hd]

Awesome comparison!

[@liveinthemoment.740]

Nice to hear that you like the SStudio. I don't like it 😕

[@raoulberret3024]

4:45 “Who is going t use it like this”?! Really?!! I have a SurfaceBook, and use at home as a desktop replacement. It is flanked by two monitors and I use it with a separate MS Keyboard, mouse and other MS peripherals. Ppl don’t always use laptops on their laps. I travel with mine for years, and appreciate the flexibility it offers. Little conveniences such as the different standing modes, extra ports, high quality screen, backlit keyboards are not just bells and whistles to some ppl. It often means productivity, normalcy when in faraway hotel room, conference, airport, train, client meetings… Please, kindly think again…

[@cbutters]

Keep watching...... That was my "initial impression"... I ended up loving that mode.

[@raoulberret3024]

@@cbutters If by that mode you mean with the screen covering the laptop keyboard area, then that’s fine. Many, many people use their laptop at their desk (home or work) as desktop replacement, and much prefer to use their machine with a dedicated (wired or wireless) keyboard, as I do. In fact at home I have a MS docking station snd two external monitors on either side of my laptop.

[@leverage5317]

will the i5 8gb ram be enough for drawing on photoshop?

[@MissSofiaAlex]

Barely "scratching" I'd get 16 for sure! The more the better!

[@BearMetro]

I bought a Dell XPS 15 oled and a drawing tablet instead. The oled panels are just too darn beautiful to pass up on.

[@marieantoine]

What drawing tablet did you buy?

[@BearMetro]

@@marieantoine returned the drawing tablet and I'm using a tab s7+. Expensive altogether, but an overall good combo.

[@bill942]

Surface pro 8 for sure. I tested both and SP8 in my option is much better especially for traveling professional. SP8 is truly a laptop replacement.

[@saadmultani7251]

I have a surface pro 8 i5 i am disappointed with the battery life.... should i get the surface laptop studio i5 for Better battery life..? Will it be worth it?...plz advice me bill

[@johnramhos]

I really wish Microsoft would have put a 3050ti also within the i7 models of the SP8.

[@s.z.x.01]

Same, would pick that in a heartbeat, but since that I’m getting laptop studio

[@lucasjhones7606]

the studio's talet is very heavy, whereas the one on surface 3 is lighter. This new version will force you to buy the surface pro x that wasn't necessary with the surfece book, which put Microsoft ahead of apple, since you have to buy apple's laptop and ipad. in short I thought it was a crap I could have launched the surface book 4 with rtx 3050 ti and with thunderbolt 4 it would be the perfect laptop

[@mortinocano169]

Great comparison!

[@18yearsoldnot]

I chose the studio because it complements my MacBook Air better. The surface pro models I feel are no longer able to compete in the portable laptop category thanks to the cheapest m1 macs being way better. Ironically when I compared the M1 Pro macs… I just preferred the surface studio laptop in every way

[@RK-um9tu]

Why do nut job MacBook fanboy always post lies on Windows laptop reviews? MacBooks don't have touch screen or pen support. Plus they have class action lawsuits filed every year. There is a reason they only have 8% market share. Also, have you got your $395 keyboard lawsuit refund yet...lol

[@shmeliniyshahid]

hi guys, who can tell me how and where to order pro 8 in russia?

[@BenjaminMudiaga]

Very good video. Thanks. Now it's clear to me that the Pro 8 is best for me too. Much improved performance, I can edit my videos on it...etc. It is easily the best portable all in one device out there. The Surface Laptop Studio is a truly amazing device but the Pro 8 is just better at potability.

[@silverpro8356]

I heard the surface pro 8 is not good for devinci is this true ? I want to buy the 16gb model.

[@ar3t33]

They should use the hinge on the surface pro on the Laptop studio so it isnt floppy

[@TENKIDGAMESLLC]

I think they should make the surface book 4, I like the 2 and 3

[@Manuel-rl6um]

I don't have the SLS but I guess the mid position can be use for gaming with a game controller, for watching films so the screen is closer, and to follow recipes while in the kitchen, where you are just scrolling through a blog post of following video instructions and you just have to tap the screen or touchpad to pause the video. Things like that. Also, as a software dev, I can think of another idea, having 1 or 2 external monitors and having the SLS screen in the mid position as the third monitor.

[@h.p.734]

I don't have much use for the 'hold in your arm and take notes' functionality of tablets. So considering that I'd go with the laptop studio. I mean, the pro 8 i5 with the cover costs around 1500USD and the Laptop studio costs 1600 with the same specs. Sure, you could get the slim pen with the money you saved on pro 8, but I'd prefer that larger screen and the much better peripherals for that 100 USD. Also, wouldn't an eGPU + SLS (i5) combo be better and more price efficient than the SLS with the 3050 ti? (Considering you could buy the gpus at MSRP)

[@marcolregina]

The Studio doesn't exist in Switzerland. So that was easy for me :-D I got the Surface Pro 8.

[@LvUhcX]

I would love this if it was at least 16”

[@alexross9630]

My concern is still battery life. I occasionally use Staffpad, which is nice on tablets and surely would be great on SLS, but that thing is chunky, not sure it's great for comfortable use without a table as a tablet. On the other hand, the 8 seems to continue the trend of poor battery life, 4-6 hours depending on use. Difficult decision.

[@_Digitalguy]

they have a similar battery size, so battery life should be close (hint: not great on the studio)

[@joewr]

Most reviews say 11h of typical light use (some Office use and web browsing) on the Laptop Studio, and about 9h on the Surface Pro 8. Both pretty good, and the Laptop Studio is not massively better.

[@RK-um9tu]

The SP8 is part of Intel's Evo Program which requires computers to have at least 9 hours of battery life. This number is consistent with all reviews that were transparent on the conditions of their battery test (e.g., PCMark 10 battery test). Further I get over 9 hours of continuous KZbin viewing on my SP8 (40% brightness, power saver on, wifi on, bluetooth off, all background apps closed). Only reviewers that noted "my regular use" (whatever that means) as their battery test reported 4-6 hours of battery life.

[@alexross9630]

@@RK-um9tu Battery saver seriously drops performance though. I guess light browsing at 40 percent brightness with is one way to use a laptop, but then why am I buying a laptop with these specs in the first place? Why not get something half the price with the same performance as SP8 on battery saver, but with a better battery? Obviously those options are out there, but we're talking about THIS particular device. "Battery saver" is no way to calculate average battery life (just like "connected standby" is no way to consider 'using the device' for Microsoft's 18 hour battery figures.)

[@RK-um9tu]

@@alexross9630 Wrong. I do all my work on battery saver, including word, excel, PowerPoint, and running statically software with all these apps open at once. All rational people want to maintain the life of their battery as long as possible because they are not replaceable on a SP. Next 40% brightness is bright for me. Also who are you to decide the best way to calculate battery time? Please share another device as portable, small, light, powerful, and versatile as SPs? My 2020 SPX (16 ram, 512 ssd) was $599US and my SP7 (i7, 16 ram, ssd 256) was $960US. Name another computer-tablet with those specs that is cheaper? I am just testing this SP8 and if I device to get one, it will also be at a huge discount. Only fools pay full retail price for anything.

[@tombyrne6433]

Thanks for your comparison and great video. Thinking about what you said as it relates to my use of a Surface Pro 4 and my wife's Surface Laptop. I almost never use my Surface Pro 4 as a tablet, maybe occasionally in the bathroom. The new type cover seems to me more wobbly with the pen holder. As for games, while eGPU is a expensive/ugly solution to say play Microsoft Flight Simulator. It requires you to hook it up and carry it. I have a Desktop with a dGPU that can play it but rarely do and would like it to be portable. I can see exactly what would happen if I bought an eGPU...it would go unused like some of the other accessories I bought.... like my Microsoft MS Keyboard with Fingerprint ID and Microsoft foldable Keyboard and MIcrosoft mobile dock . I use what I have with me at the time. The Surface Pro 8 would be an amazing upgrade to my Surface Pro 4 and in essence is the device that launched with Windows 10 versus the device that launched with Windows 11. The Surface Pro 4 runs Windows 11 well, So I am back to will the Surface Pro 8 feel "that much different" ? The SLS may be a better choice, for me , its the same price when you spec a Surface Pro 8+ Type KB to match internals of a SLS and then the SLS offers a few things the SP8 can't match: Haptic Trackpad, Amazing keyboard, mostly Magnesium, two more speakers, bigger screen and better pen use modes (I almost never use my pen now) , I'm leaning to the SLS side and roll with my SP4 until a time down the road where the Surface Pro 8 is on a great sale. Which will happen one day. Or maybe they actually make the Surface Pro X a real option without compromises

[@cbutters]

I agree completely, I think the SLS is the better choice for MANY people, which is why I tried to really emphasise how impressive I think the device really is, just not the best choice for me personally. It just depends on how you will be using your devices.

[@colepascua]

Me: *slowly getting sold to the Surface Laptop Studio* You: "and you can actually take the Surface Pro 8, and you can FLIP the cover back" Me: WHOOOAAAAAAA 😍😍😍😍

[@thefloorhasgone]

Middle screen position is for the digital artists. If only it didn't cover the keyboard...because we digital artists use keyboard shortcuts...

[@azzart979]

Naaah, that angle is just awkward for drawing.

[@thefloorhasgone]

@@azzart979 I'm used to this angle now 😅 from using a surface book 2 in laptop mode... Its honestly a little frustrating I'll have to plug in an external keyboard in this mode... Unless .. it's possible to use gestures (keyboard shortcuts) on the trackpad... Wait is this possible I wonder...

[@manleyphotography]

@@thefloorhasgone tablet pro app has been my work around for keyboard shortcuts.

[@brianpeter7139]

TLDR... 4 mins in and you're complaining about weight, and comparing size, but no figures??? How big are they? How thick are they? How big are the screens? How much do they weigh? Not a very good review or comparison. I stopped watching there.

[@diegogallegos1602]

If a have the enoguh money I would buy both

[@derFeef]

Thanks a lot for those videos. I am waiting for EU availabilty for the Studio and still have not decided. I will move to a eGPU setup and I am forever sad there is no new Book with Thunderbolt. Also wish they would move on from 4 cores, it's kinda outdated now and not very future proof for such an expensive device. But still, Surface laptops and devices are just so desirable and my prefered way to work on instead of a gaming or production laptop.

[@bvd110]

don't choose, intel 11th gen is SXXK for ultrabooks, wait for 12th gen surface devices~

[@mortinocano169]

Never wait. Never, ever wait!

[@asdjesdsd]

i will upgrade from my surface book 2 to the 3 and stay there. this new model is a step back, they got rid of their signature and most iconic characteristic, the detachable convertible. i always detach it to work on illustrations or read holding it on my arm ultra light.

[@s.z.x.01]

Probably surface pro 8 is better? I found the detach thing really slow and annoying, surface laptop studio is a lot easier