Microsoft refreshes Surface line with biz-friendly features – and a high price tag

newsMay 21, 20263 mins

Microsoft this week refreshed its Surface for Business range of devices, adding features designed to appeal to enterprises. But high prices for the devices might be hard for IT buyers to swallow.

Microsoft announced a new Surface Pro for Business on Tuesday, alongside two variants of its Surface Laptop for Business devices – a premium model available in 13.8- and 15-in. versions and a lower-cost 13-in. option that Microsoft describes as its “entry-premium tier.”

“The new Surface products use the latest Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors and are very focused on features that business users will appreciate,” said Tom Mainelli, group vice president for IDC’s device and consumer research. He noted that an optional integrated privacy screen with anti-glare on the 13.8-in. model would likely appeal to frequent travelers, for instance.

“I’m also happy to see a 5G option on the Surface Pro for Business,” Mainelli said. “Overall, the specs on offer here are compelling.”