Microsoft's New Surface Pro Switches to Snapdragon Chips and Gets an OLED Screen

Microsoft just released the Surface Pro 2024 (called the 11th Edition), and it's a big change from previous versions. Instead of using Intel processors like before, it now uses Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite and Snapdragon X Plus chips. The device also offers an optional OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. Microsoft is marketing it as a "Copilot+ PC," which means it's designed to handle AI tasks directly on the device.

What Does ARM Architecture Mean?

The Surface Pro now uses ARM-based processors instead of Intel chips—this is a major shift. Think of it like switching from one engine type to another; both can power a car, but they work differently.

These Snapdragon X processors have built-in AI processors (called NPUs) that can handle 45 TOPS (trillion operations per second). In simpler terms: they're designed to run AI features locally on your device without needing to send data to the cloud. This meets Microsoft's requirements for a "Copilot+ PC," putting the Surface Pro in the same category as other new ARM-based Windows devices.

Better Screen, Same Keyboard Situation

The new OLED display option is a real upgrade. OLED screens show deeper blacks and better contrast than the LCD panels in older Surface Pro models—similar to how newer iPhones look compared to older ones. The 120Hz refresh rate (meaning the screen refreshes 120 times per second) makes scrolling and typing feel smoother and more responsive.

One thing that hasn't changed: you still buy the keyboard separately. The Surface Pro Flex Keyboard with Slim Pen costs $449.98, which is expensive but typical for Microsoft's accessory pricing.

What Is Copilot+ PC?

This label signals that the device is optimized for Microsoft's AI features. Instead of your requests being processed in the cloud, the integrated AI processor handles them right on your device. This approach is faster, keeps your data more private, and works even without an internet connection.

How Does It Compare?

This move puts Microsoft in direct competition with Apple's iPad Pro, which has used ARM processors for years. The key question: will the Snapdragon X processors deliver the same battery life and performance that made ARM tablets popular in the first place?

Interestingly, Microsoft isn't abandoning Intel entirely. Other Surface devices like the Surface Laptop Studio 2 still use Intel chips, so Microsoft is supporting both approaches for now.

What This Means for Businesses

Companies will need to think carefully about this change. If your organization uses older Windows software (built for Intel), it might run slower on the new ARM-based Surface Pro because Windows has to translate the instructions. This translation process, called emulation, can add a performance penalty.

On the flip side, the built-in AI capabilities could save money for companies using Microsoft 365 Copilot. Processing AI tasks on the device itself could reduce costs for cloud-based AI services.

Impact on Software Developers

This is significant for developers. Windows on ARM has existed for years, but hardware was limited, so most developers focused on Intel versions. Now that Microsoft is putting ARM in its flagship device, developers have a good reason to build apps for ARM processors. This could speed up the ecosystem growing around ARM Windows devices.

The Bottom Line

The Surface Pro 2024 represents Microsoft's biggest architectural bet since the original Surface RT in 2012. Unlike that earlier attempt (which didn't work out), today's Windows on ARM ecosystem is much more mature and compatible with existing software.

Success will depend on two things: whether the battery life is genuinely better than Intel models, and whether AI features actually prove useful in everyday work. If Snapdragon X chips can match MacBook efficiency while still running most Windows programs smoothly, Microsoft may have made a smart move.

The OLED screen is also a welcome improvement—it's something customers have wanted for years. Combined with the faster refresh rate, it brings the Surface Pro more in line with competitor tablets and premium laptops.

One caution: that $450 keyboard cost adds up quickly. When you include the base device price, you're looking at a significant investment compared to some competing options. This could be a barrier for people shopping on a budget.