As someone who has just used a Surface Pro 3, i7, 8GB RAM with 256GB SSD for some 12+ months now, I have to say these reviews about 'comfort' of portability, are a bit lazy and wrong (IMHO). I've been flying between Sydney and Melbourne (1 hour 10 minute flight) in Australia every week for 7 months working for a Melbourne based company. I've had to spend roughly an hour in the airport lounge on the way at both ends, obviously an hour on the flight both ways, working in the hotel almost every night and then working at a desk in the client's office who has supplied me with a large monitor. Not once have I experienced 'discomfort' because of the design. When I can't use the tray table on the plane - you can't use a keyboard anyway when plane is taxiing and taking off and landing - I simply use the onscreen keyboard. Otherwise with my bluetooth headphones I listen to music or watch videos. You can actually close the lid completely and put the Surface in the seat pouch in front of you and still listen to music! The kickstand is a godsend when watching videos on your lap or even doing some light work. Then when I can use the tray table it's great because I can either flip the keyboard out or reverse the keyboard cover underneath and sit the Surface on itself (think of a triangle side on with the keyboard as the base). I can comfortably use the keyboard and have a drink or coffee on the tray table. When back in the airport lounge I can simply either flip out the keyboard or just use it in tablet mode. When I get to the hotel I just put it on the desk and fire it up! I either tether it to my Lumia 930 mobile 4G hotspot but I always carry a portable 4G WiFi dongle with me and use that (it's safer than using hotel WiFi!). I've also been watching Netflix and other videos from the Surface Pro 3 onto the hotel TV via HDMI or the Microsoft wireless adapter (if the TV has a USB port as well). When I get to the client office I just pull it out and plug in the monitor and I have a desktop PC. It is awesome when I'm going to meetings all day and either taking notes or presenting. I use a HD cable to plug into a room TV or projector and I can use Office Remote to control the PowerPoint remotely if I need to. Now, if I had a laptop I would not have the flexibility to use it in all situations as the laptop footprint on a tray table is a big footprint, particularly in an economy seat. Also, I cannot use a laptop when the flight is taxiing, taking off and landing but I can use a Surface. I have some 500GB of files synced on OneDrive so I have a subset of them on my Surface Pro 3 at anytime, all on my home PC, available to download to my mobile or ability to access, download and share them via a browser. It is also the best backup system ever for all my files! I've been video editing, image editing, running 250MB+ PowerPoint presentations with embedded video and a lot of really taxing stuff and yet my i7 Surface Pro 3 barely purrs. And boot times are 3-5 seconds at most if shutdown and instant from sleep which is automatic if you close the keyboard - but music still runs in headphones if it's playing. Literally the only gripe I have is trying to use the Surface type cover for hours everyday! Sometimes I've had to plug in a real keyboard as you sometimes make mistakes (keys so close together) but that's a sinch to use another proper keyboard. However, they've nailed this with the keyboards for the Surface Pro 4 by spacing the keys further apart and making the trackpad larger. And, the Surface Pro 4 keyboards are backwards compatible with Surface Pro 3! So, you can listen to a reviewer using it for a few days or a couple of weeks or someone who's been using it full on over 7 months of weekly travel. P.S. I forgot to mention I have a 64GB micro SD card in my Surface Pro 3 as well just for extra space, but I've never actually needed it with the 256GB SSD onboard.
+Martin Walsh Finally someone who knows what they're talking about. I've been telling most people who put down this machine as bad because it does not have 4G/LTE are just nitpicking. I carry a wifi dongle with me as well because I know I cannot always rely on other establishment's internet connection and at best, it's always great to have a backup.
+Experiment Eks Agree! As a Chief Digital Officer I always advise people to never use public or hotel WiFi (I never use it and I certainly don't do banking or other critical personal tasks over it) as it's so easily compromised.
Martin Walsh Meanwhile here in Asia, you need to pray to the gods first to get the SP4 configuration you want and it won't be on sale until later. Singapore's MS store still has it under "coming soon" and they're not even offering the MS Book. Jeeeeezzzzz...
These are the type of reviews I want!! Not focused on how many cores or I don't know what have been put in... No, it's how useable and useful it is for a guy like Lee. Thank you!
Brilliant review. You speak so well, and your points are so clearly laid out. You considered so much so this felt like a full review. It was a real treat to see your review here. And the logic of how you use the machine, and how you address common concerns, i.e., purpose of use, battery drain, how you multitask on the SP4 vs. monotasking in the iPad, is very helpful and nice to hear you mention. Thanks for this. You're a great reviewer.
I can't see myself buying one of these yet, but it's awesome seeing where these are at right now. I can only imagine how cool this will be in 2 years or so
Hey man awesome video!!!!One question. I'm getting into photography and I am starting to use Photoshop a lot for photo editing. What version do you recommend the 8GB RAM or the 16GB RAM? Is the extra cost to get 16 worth it?Any info would be appreciated.Thanks,
Extra ram will help with massive photoshop files (most people never have 200 layers) or having tons of depart files and programs open. 8 should be sufficient for average photoshop use.
+Fstoppers How does it run Zbrush? I know that it should be able to do the starting stage so you can start sculpts and finish them on work station but how far can you go with it. Do you have a in house artist? Also speed tests on the Micro SD slot would be nice, and external drives
Since you were so long winded you should have mentioned that it has a microSD card reader. That is VERY IMPORTANT!I put microSD card cards from my Gopro and Samsung phones in to my Surface Pro 3 quite often.They should let cameras guys have these early. Because, yes the keyboard track pad is glass.
I love my top of the range Microsoft Surface 4 Plus and I can highly recommend it. I am nearly 50 years lecturing and working in the computer world and without a questions the Microsoft Surface 4 is the best computer I ever had. It is handy, versatile, light, and does the same my laptop or desktop can do, actually it is better. (Cr)Apple eat your heart out.
Im not a Microsoft fan, i love powerfull systems but i bought this for study and it helps me pretty well, also very good at graphics, and pretty fun at web designing you should try it. Also i am typing this from the surface just arrived, stunning display O.O .
I've been debating whether to buy a Surface Pro or not for over a month. I just stubbled upon this video while researching about the product and I must say that this has been the greatest and most informative review I have come across. I'm definitely subscribing to your channel. Your reviews are absolutely sweet bro! Thanks.
Great review. Liked the comparison with the iPad. I'm on my iPad Air right now but can't wait for the sp4 I ordered, multitasking is a huge plus for me.
Nice review! I'm looking at getting a SP4 for getting into some sound/music design, photoshop work and potentially editing within premiere (and after effects too). I've got myself higher spec'd machine I'd do my serious editing / compositing / animating on, and more systems at where I work, but as a computer doing the aforementioned stuff, would you recommend the i5? or the i7? At the moment i'm thinking the i5, 8gb RAM. How have you found the system running all that software? I also intend to grab myself that SP dock and connect a couple of monitors to it - have you done this at all and do you know if (at all) it hinders performance?
I don't understand why you have so many dislikes, but it's a really good review; I remember a build quality comparison you did with the Macbook and while it was really honest, I think a lot of people got 'offended' hahas. Don't mind them and keep up the good stuff!
Probably because this is not a device for the masses, only people from high income countries like US, Europe, Canada, Japan and Australia can buy this product.
I have came across this channel while I was searching for some reviews and image to say I absolutely loved it. I loved this review as it addresses all my concerns and doubts about the surface Pro. It is not coming to Brazil any time soon and even if it did on would probably have to seek their house to get one
Great video!! Would you recommend this for running a DAW and Dj software? Would I get an i5 or i7 with 8GB or 16GB RAM? Are Macbooks still supreme? Will i ever stop asking questions? lol But for real tho, I love the form factor of Surfaces a lot better than MacBooks, but Macs are the standard in music making.
Great review. Have you considered having a comparison video between the Surface and MacBook Air. Just because that what Microsoft suggest is it's really competition. I just purchase an Air where I have Windows and IOS on yet. So while I'm likely to keep it, I would like to know if it where is that perfect multipurpose computer for both platforms. Or is Surface the better investment.thanks
Surface pro 4 vs surface pro 3 with new type cover and new surface pen? which is a better value proposition for a college student mainly looking for portability, for taking notes and battery life for a day's use in class.
This guy is awesome speaks to a very wide audience and keeps a very open mind and seems extremely rational. If I was Microsoft I would pick him up as a rep.
Thanks for the great review. I am a Mac person. After watching your video and checking out the products, I have decided to buy Surface Pro 4. But, I would like to know if there is an app like Astropad, which lets me use my Microsoft surface pro 4 as a mirror image of my Mac book pro screen so that I can edit my photoshop pictures on my surface pro.
I didn't like his previous review comparing Surface Book and Macbook Pro Retina 15'' because the number of cores are different and he seems like why Surface Book is not good enough. But this review is really awesome! Thanks, Fstoppers.
Hi! I got a question. I'm an architect and I have a powerfull desktop to do my work. I also have an alienware 17 inch laptop to make presentations or to edit something when I´m not at home. But I´m going to sell this laptop because I need something more portable. I used to have an ipad air and I was able to present stuff sometimes and of course watch lots of series and movies. So, After I saw your review of the MICROSOFT SURFACE PRO 4 i´m considering to buy one. Because is a hybrid, I can do some work and watch my series. I was thinking about to get a macbook pro 13 or another lightweight laptop. But I don´t know which option is the best. My budget now is 1,400$. Which product you think I should buy?
how do you rate this to the Dell Inspiron 13 7000 Series 2-in-1 Special Edition? my usage is working on softwares like Matlab. run simulations there.. basically for studies.. I do watch a lot of movies and UA-cam a lot .. so..which one will you get ?
Hey sweetie. I just bought this device and I need advice on which editing software to use. I'm going to make YT videos with my kids so I am looking for something simple to use that will get the job done. Thank you
Would I be able to run Photoshop and Lightroom (not the apps, the full programs) on this without any problems? Also, would I be able to edit 1080 video without any problems?
Nice video man, I ended up buying one today brand new (never opened!) for $680.00! Its the one with 4GB ram, 128GB SSD, and the core i5 6300u processor. I bought this specific model because first of all its a great price but also I wasnt for sure if I was going to fall in love with it or hate it because its my first surface pro computer but so far its working great. Very happy with it so far and hope it keeps working this great. So how is your Surface pro 4 working for you? Has it slowed down at all?
jo chi I bought mine off craigslist, a guy was selling it because he got it as a gift for collage but he already had a macbook he uses so he sold me his brand new surface pro 4 for $680.00. If anything maybe look on ebay they sell for a pretty good price used just make sure if you do buy online that its in the condition you want and that it works properly. I was about to do this but I am very very picky when it comes to how clean the device is. Every electronic device I have has either a hard case or some type of soft case.
Hey man, is the 4gb ram enough? Do you have slowdowns when using photoshop and illustrator? I tend to keep them open at the same time. Also, if you are an after effects user, how does it run on your surface?
Just switched over from a Mac and I'm having trouble accessing photos of the surface pro. I have my catalog on a external hard drive that was created on a Mac (so I know paths won't cross). Is there a way to easily switch between Mac and PC??
When I got a Surface Pro 3, I was going to sell my Samsung Galaxy Tab Pro 8.4 tablet, but it is sometimes inconvenient to carry the SP3 around (even bedside) just to watch Netflix or UA-cam on my tablet. My SP3 is usually tethered to a USB3 hub, etc., and I leave it at one spot on my desk station. That's why I still use a tablet for bedside viewing (besides using my HDTV as well).
Have you had any issues with the dynamic contrast not turning off? I have it turned off and it still changes as I go from one photo to another in Lightroom.
I'm thinking about what model of the Surface Pro 4 to get. If I watch UA-cam videos, Netflix, do school work and maybe play a few games that aren't very demanding like League of Legends or CSGO, what model would be the best choice? I was thinking about the i5 with 4 gb of ram but I don't know if its worth it or not to pitch in an extra $300 and get the model with 8gb of ram.
Thxs for the review, just got mine! After searching online for the best deal... Found a bundle that included the keyboard/cover, mouse, sleeve, stylus and Office 365. So, Im happy.
im an apple fan boy but this really tempting to replace my 2012 macbook especially for editing photos on the go. would love to see a review of how well it works for a photo workflow from importing the photos, editing and exporting the final images.
Not that you need my endorsement, as it would be like a drop of water in the ocean... I still feel compelled to say that your reviews are wonderful. They are mixed with bias, objectiveness, contradiction and somewhere between those conflicting elements you are dealt with your truth. I approached the review with the intent of maybe catching the first 5 min to affirm my preconceived notions, skipping through to get some quick highlights, but you kept me from beginning to end. Bravo sir! You are an excellent storyteller and presenter. Keep it up. I think the Surface line is a game changer and while Apple and Android are dwindling in uncertainty, the time is right to introduce a new way of computing and you sorta alluded to it when you stated the conundrum of watching Netflix in the app vs the site. Or where you mention the blessing and curse of doing more with it because you simply can. The UX philosophy MS has presented is NOT fully baked and is open ended, but they're on to something. Anyway, I have said too much.
So you've been editing 4k footage in premiere on the Surface Pro 4 but you can't do it in the Surface Book? What am I missing, they have the same specs >_>
Good review, I just notice you never mention anything about the micro sd card slot and how many gigs it can hold, so your review was not complete as it could have been. But still a good job.
I have a macbook pro retina 13inch (2015) model. But the surface pro 4 is looking great. My only onus with macbook pro is its weight and size with a laptop casing on. Should I switch over to surface pro 4? And, the office suite on macbook is killing me. It's crashing every now and then after I updated to el capitan. Oh and I love my macbook's trackpad so much. But man, mission control and file managment on mac isn't my thing.
Have you guys tried using this for tethered shooting? Seems like this surface is finally powerful enough to keep up with a scenario like a portrait shoot in the field.
How does it work between two machines? For example, I do MOST of my work on my iMac 27" 5k, but I was wanting to get this for "ON-THE-GO" photo-touch ups in ADOBE Creative Cloud. I keep all of my files in DROPBOX so both machines can access the files.... but would the Surface Pro 4 work well for my creative mobile needs and then when I get back into the office, since everything is cloud based??? THanks so much for your time and this video!!
Grateful any comments with glare on what looks like a high gloss screen. I would have though it would be a real problem particularly when photo-editing? Thanks.
Hi, Thank you for this great tutorial.. on another topic, any thoughts of extending Surface Pro 4 battery life? am desperate looking for powerbanks and hoping for power keyboards !! thx :)
Hello All Just got the SP4 i7, 8Gb, 256 GB. I got home and pluged the power cabel ind to it. And it got to like 50% Battery power. I downloaded games from Steam and the fan just run like hell:-) The Power cabel stil plugged in and the battery slowly Drained the battery!! Slow but still...? I turnet on WoW and gamede like 45 min and the screen went black and the battery was out of juice!! :-((( WTF! Just like Fstoppers said in the rewiev, the Microsoft ingeenere is not correct it will shut down even if the powere cabel is in and ON. Sorry my bad English. Other got the same experience? with the SP4 i7?
Great video, an honest user's perspective. Really helpful. About your comparison to the iPad; can we expect windows universal apps make apps like HBO and Netflix available on windows 10 desktop? In that case more and more apps will find their way to the desktop and be more easy to use by touch. I really hope that will be the case sooner rather than later.
Dude, do an Anniversary update review on this! I heard there were some problems before, and I want to know if the update fixed a lot of those problems/frustrations.
you did a really good job. i am normally somewhat critical of most reviewers, but you covered a lot, and were honest about the important things. i also love this product. bought a pro 3 for the price, saw a few pro 4 vids, and the pro 3 is going back and have a pro 4 on the way. in fact, the exact one you have there in this vid. can't wait to get it. now, on the critical side, there are a few things you need to know. first, there are several programs in the ms store to get around the things you are complaining about, such as small things to touch with your fingers. for example, a free app called touch zone desktop. it has a three finger mag that works great. also, there is another free app called touchme gesture studio, which lets you touch zoom the screen. one last very cool thing, is an app called event ghost, which allows you to change what the clicks on the back of the pen do. you don't just have to open one note with that click, you can set it to open anything, or do something else. cheers!
Can anyone help me decide? I have a Wacom cintiq companion 2.. I don't like the portability of it. Am I downgrading or upgrading if I got the surface pro 4? Both i7 btw
Presumably with the ability to proxy all your 4k+ files in Pr this is now just about all you need for rough cutting saving to the cloud and finishing editing on a workstation. Small enough and powerful enough to take into the field with you etc.
Would you recommend this for a student studying engineering? Or something like the Dell XPS 13. My university requires a 16 GB Ram minimum, at this amount of ram what is the applicable difference between i5 and i7?
Stev We didn't SanDisk come out with a 256GB one already? well, point is this thing is future proof and will work with cards of up to 2TB, whenever those might be released or not
Great review! I am considering replacing my Mac-Book Air with the Surface Pro 4 w/ 16gb RAM. I heard you really emphasize your frustration with trying to use your fingers to touch the interface in Photoshop & the like. Doesn't the pen work in those applications? I would imagine you could use the pen to move sliders in Lightroom, or select from your tools in Photoshop, or use pinch to zoom in on your art board. My main concern would be using keyboard shortcuts with the onscreen keyboard if you don't have the detachable one with you. Can you speak to that, and how the pen works with in the creative suite apps. Using keyboard shortcuts & just basic app navigation & work flow using the pen & touch interface together? Thanks!
+RLx The pen works throughout the interface, and I find it superb for using small buttons in photoshop. There's always the trackpad, or a USB to plug a mouse in if you need too.
Autosynthesise thanks for the feedback. Now that I have some free time I plan to stop by the Microsoft store for some hands on time. Hopefully they have a unit loaded with adobe cc.
Great review, thank you! One important question that I haven´t seen answered yet: Can you talk about fan noise? Afaik the SP3 suffered from an audible fan when under stress. Is the same true for the SP4 or would you say that it is basically quiet?
I have nothing to compare it to but the fan is fairly loud and comes on fairly often. The mbp has a way louder fan under heavy stress but barely ever turned on.
I would like to see a review on gaming...how well it cools, the fps rate on some games..things like that.. I'm sure this wasn't your intention with this review, but that would have been helpful
Another excellent review by Lee, as I also saw his comparison between the Surface Pro 4 and the Surface Book. Thanks. THE SURFACE PRO 4 IS NOTHING SHORT OF AMAZING. I COULD SAY THE SAME FOR THE SURFACE BOOK AND EVEN FOR THE MICROSOFT LUMIA 950 AND 950XL SMARTPHONES!! AND I DO NOT EVEN MENTION THE WINDOWS 10 OS THAT IS ALSO AWESOME.
How would you rate the SP4 type cover's typing experience compared to typical laptop keyboards? Is it 50% of the way there, maybe 90-100% etc... Really considering getting one of these but I do type often. I have a gaming rig with a $200 keyboard (I'm a Software Engineer so typing for work or hobby is important) for serious work and power, but if the type cover is even remotely close to an ultrabook level keyboard I'm considering getting one of these. Wish I could borrow one from a store for a week lol.
+Matthew Langley I am a software developer as well. I'm using Surface Pro 2 and having no problem for coding. Considering that SP4 has much better and bigger keyboard than SP2, I think you will have no problem at all.
+Matthew Langley I have a Surface Pro 3, and its somewat "inferior" type cover. The typing experience is ~80-90% there. The Surface keyboard may be incredibly thin, but it's still backlit and mechanical so don't underestimate Microsofts engineers. It's the BEST laptop keyboard I've ever used and about 80-90% as good as a desktop mechanical keyboard ALTHOUGH it's obviously missing the numpad! Anyway, I haven't used a Surface Pro 4 Type Cover yet but judging from the comparisons people have been making for it vs the Pro 3s, it's probably a solid 90% of a desktop keyboard. Btw mine is a K70 with cherry mx brown switches.
i have a surface pro 4 i7 8gb of ram and 256gb of ssd and i'm typing this comment on one right now. And i love it! anyone who dosent own a surface pro 3 or 4, you should get one!!!
Hi, Many thanks for your straight forward review. I'm looking to replace my desktop. I'm a home user, pretty much. I receive about 80 emails a day, many with attachments. Surf the net. Love YT and watch a lot of blockbuster movies, and not into gaming. On my desktop I have the G Force, GTX 960, which up until now I've used to get the max out of the movies. So based on your review, and comments by Martin Walsh, I'm looking to get the Surface Pro 4 i7 256GB 8GB Ram, but got to pay $300 extra for the keyboard, or go for the Surface Pro Book version with the added G Force. From your experience, which model will easily suit my needs.?
brel3274 You should consider getting one like this (laptop/tablet hybrid) for half the price and just as effective for what you want to do. Don't let this guy lie to you, there's multiple ones to choose from look into it a bit more.
A GTX 960 is so incredibly overkill for movies. If you don't play games, just get one of these. You don't need the i7 either if you aren't running any intensive programs. i5 should do you well!
![[UA] NAVI vs MOUZ | BO5 | IEM Rio 2024](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/CMBYk0cbGoA/mqdefault.jpg)
As someone who has just used a Surface Pro 3, i7, 8GB RAM with 256GB SSD for some 12+ months now, I have to say these reviews about 'comfort' of portability, are a bit lazy and wrong (IMHO).
I've been flying between Sydney and Melbourne (1 hour 10 minute flight) in Australia every week for 7 months working for a Melbourne based company.
I've had to spend roughly an hour in the airport lounge on the way at both ends, obviously an hour on the flight both ways, working in the hotel almost every night and then working at a desk in the client's office who has supplied me with a large monitor.
Not once have I experienced 'discomfort' because of the design.
When I can't use the tray table on the plane - you can't use a keyboard anyway when plane is taxiing and taking off and landing - I simply use the onscreen keyboard. Otherwise with my bluetooth headphones I listen to music or watch videos. You can actually close the lid completely and put the Surface in the seat pouch in front of you and still listen to music!
The kickstand is a godsend when watching videos on your lap or even doing some light work. Then when I can use the tray table it's great because I can either flip the keyboard out or reverse the keyboard cover underneath and sit the Surface on itself (think of a triangle side on with the keyboard as the base). I can comfortably use the keyboard and have a drink or coffee on the tray table. When back in the airport lounge I can simply either flip out the keyboard or just use it in tablet mode.
When I get to the hotel I just put it on the desk and fire it up! I either tether it to my Lumia 930 mobile 4G hotspot but I always carry a portable 4G WiFi dongle with me and use that (it's safer than using hotel WiFi!). I've also been watching Netflix and other videos from the Surface Pro 3 onto the hotel TV via HDMI or the Microsoft wireless adapter (if the TV has a USB port as well).
When I get to the client office I just pull it out and plug in the monitor and I have a desktop PC. It is awesome when I'm going to meetings all day and either taking notes or presenting. I use a HD cable to plug into a room TV or projector and I can use Office Remote to control the PowerPoint remotely if I need to.
Now, if I had a laptop I would not have the flexibility to use it in all situations as the laptop footprint on a tray table is a big footprint, particularly in an economy seat. Also, I cannot use a laptop when the flight is taxiing, taking off and landing but I can use a Surface.
I have some 500GB of files synced on OneDrive so I have a subset of them on my Surface Pro 3 at anytime, all on my home PC, available to download to my mobile or ability to access, download and share them via a browser. It is also the best backup system ever for all my files!
I've been video editing, image editing, running 250MB+ PowerPoint presentations with embedded video and a lot of really taxing stuff and yet my i7 Surface Pro 3 barely purrs. And boot times are 3-5 seconds at most if shutdown and instant from sleep which is automatic if you close the keyboard - but music still runs in headphones if it's playing.
Literally the only gripe I have is trying to use the Surface type cover for hours everyday! Sometimes I've had to plug in a real keyboard as you sometimes make mistakes (keys so close together) but that's a sinch to use another proper keyboard. However, they've nailed this with the keyboards for the Surface Pro 4 by spacing the keys further apart and making the trackpad larger. And, the Surface Pro 4 keyboards are backwards compatible with Surface Pro 3!
So, you can listen to a reviewer using it for a few days or a couple of weeks or someone who's been using it full on over 7 months of weekly travel.
P.S. I forgot to mention I have a 64GB micro SD card in my Surface Pro 3 as well just for extra space, but I've never actually needed it with the 256GB SSD onboard.
+Martin Walsh Finally someone who knows what they're talking about. I've been telling most people who put down this machine as bad because it does not have 4G/LTE are just nitpicking. I carry a wifi dongle with me as well because I know I cannot always rely on other establishment's internet connection and at best, it's always great to have a backup.
+Experiment Eks Agree! As a Chief Digital Officer I always advise people to never use public or hotel WiFi (I never use it and I certainly don't do banking or other critical personal tasks over it) as it's so easily compromised.
+Brand C I'm off to LA from Sydney tomorrow and I'll hopefully be picking up a Surface Pro 4 over there!
Martin Walsh Meanwhile here in Asia, you need to pray to the gods first to get the SP4 configuration you want and it won't be on sale until later. Singapore's MS store still has it under "coming soon" and they're not even offering the MS Book. Jeeeeezzzzz...
+Martin Walsh Thanks for sharing.
These are the type of reviews I want!! Not focused on how many cores or I don't know what have been put in... No, it's how useable and useful it is for a guy like Lee. Thank you!
Thanks so much. I'm glad you found it useful.
Brilliant review. You speak so well, and your points are so clearly laid out. You considered so much so this felt like a full review. It was a real treat to see your review here. And the logic of how you use the machine, and how you address common concerns, i.e., purpose of use, battery drain, how you multitask on the SP4 vs. monotasking in the iPad, is very helpful and nice to hear you mention. Thanks for this. You're a great reviewer.
You guys at Fstoppers did the review better than most of the other reviews that I watched in UA-cam so far! Thanks guys!
I can't see myself buying one of these yet, but it's awesome seeing where these are at right now. I can only imagine how cool this will be in 2 years or so
Hey man awesome video!!!!One question. I'm getting into photography and I am starting to use Photoshop a lot for photo editing. What version do you recommend the 8GB RAM or the 16GB RAM? Is the extra cost to get 16 worth it?Any info would be appreciated.Thanks,
Extra ram will help with massive photoshop files (most people never have 200 layers) or having tons of depart files and programs open. 8 should be sufficient for average photoshop use.
+Fstoppers How does it run Zbrush? I know that it should be able to do the starting stage so you can start sculpts and finish them on work station but how far can you go with it. Do you have a in house artist? Also speed tests on the Micro SD slot would be nice, and external drives
Fstoppers thanks for the info!! :)
+Bernard M Zbrush runs like a charm on it. There are some videos of it on youtube.
Kalpesh Patel Aaa cool you got one? :D
What model? I've seen SP3 videos but no real SP4 ones yet :/
Since you were so long winded you should have mentioned that it has a microSD card reader. That is VERY IMPORTANT!I put microSD card cards from my Gopro and Samsung phones in to my Surface Pro 3 quite often.They should let cameras guys have these early. Because, yes the keyboard track pad is glass.
I love my top of the range Microsoft Surface 4 Plus and I can highly recommend it. I am nearly 50 years lecturing and working in the computer world and without a questions the Microsoft Surface 4 is the best computer I ever had. It is handy, versatile, light, and does the same my laptop or desktop can do, actually it is better. (Cr)Apple eat your heart out.
Surface pro 4: A tablet with all capabilities of a laptop
Surface book: A laptop with all capabilities of a tablet
Both=overpriced af. You can get an hp omen with i5-7300hp and GTX 1050 which smoke this shit at half the price.
this is not for gaming
Andrei Stefan so now Microsoft fanboys are using the typical Apple "this is not made for gaming excuse" huh?
Im not a Microsoft fan, i love powerfull systems but i bought this for study and it helps me pretty well, also very good at graphics, and pretty fun at web designing you should try it. Also i am typing this from the surface just arrived, stunning display O.O .
+Supcharged because it is a legitimate argument. It a *TABLET/LAPTOP* that is meant for *PRODUCTIVITY*
I've been debating whether to buy a Surface Pro or not for over a month. I just stubbled upon this video while researching about the product and I must say that this has been the greatest and most informative review I have come across. I'm definitely subscribing to your channel. Your reviews are absolutely sweet bro! Thanks.
Great review. Liked the comparison with the iPad. I'm on my iPad Air right now but can't wait for the sp4 I ordered, multitasking is a huge plus for me.
Nice review!
I'm looking at getting a SP4 for getting into some sound/music design, photoshop work and potentially editing within premiere (and after effects too).
I've got myself higher spec'd machine I'd do my serious editing / compositing / animating on, and more systems at where I work, but as a computer doing the aforementioned stuff, would you recommend the i5? or the i7? At the moment i'm thinking the i5, 8gb RAM. How have you found the system running all that software?
I also intend to grab myself that SP dock and connect a couple of monitors to it - have you done this at all and do you know if (at all) it hinders performance?
I don't understand why you have so many dislikes, but it's a really good review; I remember a build quality comparison you did with the Macbook and while it was really honest, I think a lot of people got 'offended' hahas. Don't mind them and keep up the good stuff!
+Bryan Lee
Because this video is offensive to Apple fans.
Probably because this is not a device for the masses, only people from high income countries like US, Europe, Canada, Japan and Australia can buy this product.
Solid review sir. The 411 on the dock was useful so far no other review I've seen has touched on that. Thanks!
I don't see why people are downvoting this video...
+Beforeffects IBeI i dont understand either
+Beforeffects IBeI apple fanboys
+Beforeffects IBeI Apple fanboys who are really annoyed that their toys aren't as cool as what MS is putting out lately.
+Beforeffects IBeI because hes an arrogant dipshit
hum... arguments ? I don't see why you're saying that.
you are doing great man ,keep yourself and videos improving soon you're channel become one the most watchable channel .
I have came across this channel while I was searching for some reviews and image to say I absolutely loved it. I loved this review as it addresses all my concerns and doubts about the surface Pro. It is not coming to Brazil any time soon and even if it did on would probably have to seek their house to get one
Which one should I pick MacBook or surface 4? I would like to do homework on online and watching video and watching movie and(which version)
Great video!! Would you recommend this for running a DAW and Dj software? Would I get an i5 or i7 with 8GB or 16GB RAM? Are Macbooks still supreme? Will i ever stop asking questions? lol But for real tho, I love the form factor of Surfaces a lot better than MacBooks, but Macs are the standard in music making.
What is it with people and the track pad?
Been watching your surface coverage and I saw some of your photography work. You earned a sub today.
You are very informative. You just made it a lot easier to understand and you answered several of my questions. Thank you
Great review. I actually use the type cover intensively and it works extremely well for me. Haven't had no issues at all.
I love your honest review. Am considering buying Surface Pro 4. Surface 3 was so awesome! Should I go for Surface Pro 4 Or Surface Pro 2017 eidtion???
Great review. Have you considered having a comparison video between the Surface and MacBook Air. Just because that what Microsoft suggest is it's really competition. I just purchase an Air where I have Windows and IOS on yet. So while I'm likely to keep it, I would like to know if it where is that perfect multipurpose computer for both platforms. Or is Surface the better investment.thanks
Surface pro 4 vs surface pro 3 with new type cover and new surface pen? which is a better value proposition for a college student mainly looking for portability, for taking notes and battery life for a day's use in class.
This guy is awesome speaks to a very wide audience and keeps a very open mind and seems extremely rational. If I was Microsoft I would pick him up as a rep.
best review of Surface Pro 4 I've watched !!!!
This is one of the best product reviews i've ever seen. Thank you! Subscribed :)
If the keyboard sound bothers you just move it flat to the table. I only hook up the magnet to the screen if I'm using it on my lap.
m3 or i5 model? Which has a better battery life? i dont think not necessarily the higher battery capacity
Excellent review. much better when you get real life situations for the product. not just specifications.
Hi, just to let you know that your review helped me decide to buy my Surface, thanks!
very well made video .glad to find another channel to touch the Technology !
Thanks for the great review. I am a Mac person. After watching your video and checking out the products, I have decided to buy Surface Pro 4. But, I would like to know if there is an app like Astropad, which lets me use my Microsoft surface pro 4 as a mirror image of my Mac book pro screen so that I can edit my photoshop pictures on my surface pro.
I didn't like his previous review comparing Surface Book and Macbook Pro Retina 15'' because the number of cores are different and he seems like why Surface Book is not good enough. But this review is really awesome! Thanks, Fstoppers.
Hi! I got a question. I'm an architect and I have a powerfull desktop to do my work. I also have an alienware 17 inch laptop to make presentations or to edit something when I´m not at home. But I´m going to sell this laptop because I need something more portable. I used to have an ipad air and I was able to present stuff sometimes and of course watch lots of series and movies. So, After I saw your review of the MICROSOFT SURFACE PRO 4 i´m considering to buy one. Because is a hybrid, I can do some work and watch my series. I was thinking about to get a macbook pro 13 or another lightweight laptop. But I don´t know which option is the best. My budget now is 1,400$. Which product you think I should buy?
how do you rate this to the Dell Inspiron 13 7000 Series 2-in-1 Special Edition? my usage is working on softwares like Matlab. run simulations there.. basically for studies.. I do watch a lot of movies and UA-cam a lot .. so..which one will you get ?
should I buy this or ipad pro for tablet and laptop use
When I use my SP on a table like you so I don't use the second magnet. Works a lot better and no bouncing, which you mention you didn't like.
Hey sweetie. I just bought this device and I need advice on which editing software to use. I'm going to make YT videos with my kids so I am looking for something simple to use that will get the job done. Thank you
Would I be able to run Photoshop and Lightroom (not the apps, the full programs) on this without any problems? Also, would I be able to edit 1080 video without any problems?
+Heist Everything you can play GTA V on it
Nice video man, I ended up buying one today brand new (never opened!) for $680.00! Its the one with 4GB ram, 128GB SSD, and the core i5 6300u processor. I bought this specific model because first of all its a great price but also I wasnt for sure if I was going to fall in love with it or hate it because its my first surface pro computer but so far its working great. Very happy with it so far and hope it keeps working this great. So how is your Surface pro 4 working for you? Has it slowed down at all?
hello, where did u buy your pro4? im looking at bestbuy, its $849
jo chi I bought mine off craigslist, a guy was selling it because he got it as a gift for collage but he already had a macbook he uses so he sold me his brand new surface pro 4 for $680.00. If anything maybe look on ebay they sell for a pretty good price used just make sure if you do buy online that its in the condition you want and that it works properly. I was about to do this but I am very very picky when it comes to how clean the device is. Every electronic device I have has either a hard case or some type of soft case.
thanks, I'll try look for other websites/sellers :)
your welcome, glad I can help(:
Hey man, is the 4gb ram enough? Do you have slowdowns when using photoshop and illustrator? I tend to keep them open at the same time. Also, if you are an after effects user, how does it run on your surface?
What games can you play on this? I like toting the IPad about because there are tons of good cheap games available for my gaming fix on the go..
Awesome review, mate! Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Just switched over from a Mac and I'm having trouble accessing photos of the surface pro. I have my catalog on a external hard drive that was created on a Mac (so I know paths won't cross). Is there a way to easily switch between Mac and PC??
Hi. Can you please do review how the Microsoft Surface Pro 4 works with Photoshop and Lightroom? or even with Capture One? Thanks
When I got a Surface Pro 3, I was going to sell my Samsung Galaxy Tab Pro 8.4 tablet, but it is sometimes inconvenient to carry the SP3 around (even bedside) just to watch Netflix or UA-cam on my tablet. My SP3 is usually tethered to a USB3 hub, etc., and I leave it at one spot on my desk station. That's why I still use a tablet for bedside viewing (besides using my HDTV as well).
Have you had any issues with the dynamic contrast not turning off? I have it turned off and it still changes as I go from one photo to another in Lightroom.
if the SP4 runs out of power you can just plug it back in and it will open back to where you were because it will be in hibernation mode
Thank you so much, you help me to take a decision.
Can I do music production on this laptop/tablet? If I can, does it work good on it? Thanks, sorry my english not good
I'm thinking about what model of the Surface Pro 4 to get. If I watch UA-cam videos, Netflix, do school work and maybe play a few games that aren't very demanding like League of Legends or CSGO, what model would be the best choice? I was thinking about the i5 with 4 gb of ram but I don't know if its worth it or not to pitch in an extra $300 and get the model with 8gb of ram.
Sir can we use general usb port instead of microsoft dock and can we connect usb keyboard and mouse to it instead of using cover keyboard? 😊
would 3d softwares like Autodesk maya and zbrush work well on the i5 8gb ram one? which one would you recommend for animators?
Thxs for the review, just got mine! After searching online for the best deal... Found a bundle that included the keyboard/cover, mouse, sleeve, stylus and Office 365. So, Im happy.
im an apple fan boy but this really tempting to replace my 2012 macbook especially for editing photos on the go. would love to see a review of how well it works for a photo workflow from importing the photos, editing and exporting the final images.
Not that you need my endorsement, as it would be like a drop of water in the ocean... I still feel compelled to say that your reviews are wonderful. They are mixed with bias, objectiveness, contradiction and somewhere between those conflicting elements you are dealt with your truth. I approached the review with the intent of maybe catching the first 5 min to affirm my preconceived notions, skipping through to get some quick highlights, but you kept me from beginning to end. Bravo sir! You are an excellent storyteller and presenter. Keep it up.
I think the Surface line is a game changer and while Apple and Android are dwindling in uncertainty, the time is right to introduce a new way of computing and you sorta alluded to it when you stated the conundrum of watching Netflix in the app vs the site. Or where you mention the blessing and curse of doing more with it because you simply can. The UX philosophy MS has presented is NOT fully baked and is open ended, but they're on to something. Anyway, I have said too much.
do you think i5 should be more than enough because im not sure if i need a i7 or i5. please help!!!
So you've been editing 4k footage in premiere on the Surface Pro 4 but you can't do it in the Surface Book? What am I missing, they have the same specs >_>
You have to render the workspace first. I mention that.
Good review, I just notice you never mention anything about the micro sd card slot and how many gigs it can hold, so your review was not complete as it could have been. But still a good job.
I have a macbook pro retina 13inch (2015) model. But the surface pro 4 is looking great. My only onus with macbook pro is its weight and size with a laptop casing on. Should I switch over to surface pro 4? And, the office suite on macbook is killing me. It's crashing every now and then after I updated to el capitan. Oh and I love my macbook's trackpad so much. But man, mission control and file managment on mac isn't my thing.
Have you guys tried using this for tethered shooting? Seems like this surface is finally powerful enough to keep up with a scenario like a portrait shoot in the field.
What would be the best model to get for premiere pro on a surface pro 4: i7 model or i5? I want to spend the least money possible, help me out!!
How does it work between two machines? For example, I do MOST of my work on my iMac 27" 5k, but I was wanting to get this for "ON-THE-GO" photo-touch ups in ADOBE Creative Cloud. I keep all of my files in DROPBOX so both machines can access the files.... but would the Surface Pro 4 work well for my creative mobile needs and then when I get back into the office, since everything is cloud based???
THanks so much for your time and this video!!
Cool I'm getting mine in a few weeks I'm so happy
Will the pen work if I use Citrix Receiver to login to a remote desktop?
Grateful any comments with glare on what looks like a high gloss screen. I would have though it would be a real problem particularly when photo-editing? Thanks.
Hi,
Thank you for this great tutorial.. on another topic, any thoughts of extending Surface Pro 4 battery life? am desperate looking for powerbanks and hoping for power keyboards !!
thx :)
Hello All
Just got the SP4 i7, 8Gb, 256 GB. I got home and pluged the power cabel ind to it. And it got to like 50% Battery power.
I downloaded games from Steam and the fan just run like hell:-) The Power cabel stil plugged in and the battery slowly Drained the battery!! Slow but still...?
I turnet on WoW and gamede like 45 min and the screen went black and the battery was out of juice!! :-((( WTF!
Just like Fstoppers said in the rewiev, the Microsoft ingeenere is not correct it will shut down even if the powere cabel is in and ON.
Sorry my bad English.
Other got the same experience? with the SP4 i7?
Do you recommend it if I want to edit videos on it?
Great video, an honest user's perspective. Really helpful. About your comparison to the iPad; can we expect windows universal apps make apps like HBO and Netflix available on windows 10 desktop? In that case more and more apps will find their way to the desktop and be more easy to use by touch. I really hope that will be the case sooner rather than later.
Would the surface pro 4 be good for video editing in After Effects?
what will happen if the battery drain? it cant be use anymore?
Dude, do an Anniversary update review on this! I heard there were some problems before, and I want to know if the update fixed a lot of those problems/frustrations.
you did a really good job. i am normally somewhat critical of most reviewers, but you covered a lot, and were honest about the important things. i also love this product. bought a pro 3 for the price, saw a few pro 4 vids, and the pro 3 is going back and have a pro 4 on the way. in fact, the exact one you have there in this vid. can't wait to get it.
now, on the critical side, there are a few things you need to know. first, there are several programs in the ms store to get around the things you are complaining about, such as small things to touch with your fingers. for example, a free app called touch zone desktop. it has a three finger mag that works great. also, there is another free app called touchme gesture studio, which lets you touch zoom the screen. one last very cool thing, is an app called event ghost, which allows you to change what the clicks on the back of the pen do. you don't just have to open one note with that click, you can set it to open anything, or do something else. cheers!
When Did you start working for Microsoft
Can anyone help me decide? I have a Wacom cintiq companion 2.. I don't like the portability of it. Am I downgrading or upgrading if I got the surface pro 4? Both i7 btw
Presumably with the ability to proxy all your 4k+ files in Pr this is now just about all you need for rough cutting saving to the cloud and finishing editing on a workstation. Small enough and powerful enough to take into the field with you etc.
Would you recommend this for a student studying engineering? Or something like the Dell XPS 13. My university requires a 16 GB Ram minimum, at this amount of ram what is the applicable difference between i5 and i7?
Your university placed a limit on the RAM?! Damn. Where do you even go?
Roberto Estrada watch the student guide video by Sean Ong, it's great
PLEASE do a demo of Lightroom on the SP4, specifically using the pen for burning/dodging/etc...!!
He forgot to mention that it also has a microSD card reader built in that supports microSD cards up to 2TB big
+0M9H4X but the biggest microsd card at the moment is only 200gb.
Stev We didn't SanDisk come out with a 256GB one already? well, point is this thing is future proof and will work with cards of up to 2TB, whenever those might be released or not
+Stev We Actually there's a 512gb Microsd card available for sale right now. that's currently the highest.
kninez although when i made the comment it was accurate, please enlighten us with your 512gb micro SD card?
Stev We Google it yourself. It can't be that hard. it exists. deal with it.
Great review! I am considering replacing my Mac-Book Air with the Surface Pro 4 w/ 16gb RAM.
I heard you really emphasize your frustration with trying to use your fingers to touch the interface in Photoshop & the like. Doesn't the pen work in those applications? I would imagine you could use the pen to move sliders in Lightroom, or select from your tools in Photoshop, or use pinch to zoom in on your art board.
My main concern would be using keyboard shortcuts with the onscreen keyboard if you don't have the detachable one with you.
Can you speak to that, and how the pen works with in the creative suite apps. Using keyboard shortcuts & just basic app navigation & work flow using the pen & touch interface together?
Thanks!
+RLx The pen works throughout the interface, and I find it superb for using small buttons in photoshop. There's always the trackpad, or a USB to plug a mouse in if you need too.
+RLx You can use the pen, yeah, but overall Photoshop and Lightroom work best with keyboard/mouse.
Autosynthesise thanks for the feedback. Now that I have some free time I plan to stop by the Microsoft store for some hands on time. Hopefully they have a unit loaded with adobe cc.
Great review, thank you! One important question that I haven´t seen answered yet: Can you talk about fan noise? Afaik the SP3 suffered from an audible fan when under stress. Is the same true for the SP4 or would you say that it is basically quiet?
I have nothing to compare it to but the fan is fairly loud and comes on fairly often. The mbp has a way louder fan under heavy stress but barely ever turned on.
+Fstoppers thx for the quick reply. would you say the level of noise could pose problematic during classes at university?
For 3d modeling like 3ds max, would I need the i7?
Do you still have the unit, sir?
Bought an i5 model with the keyboard bundled however it didn't come with the pen?
Thanks Ashton, great review!
is this good for editing gaming videos ?????
I would like to see a review on gaming...how well it cools, the fps rate on some games..things like that.. I'm sure this wasn't your intention with this review, but that would have been helpful
Another excellent review by Lee, as I also saw his comparison between the Surface Pro 4 and the Surface Book. Thanks.
THE SURFACE PRO 4 IS NOTHING SHORT OF AMAZING. I COULD SAY THE SAME FOR THE SURFACE BOOK AND EVEN FOR THE MICROSOFT LUMIA 950 AND 950XL SMARTPHONES!! AND I DO NOT EVEN MENTION THE WINDOWS 10 OS THAT IS ALSO AWESOME.
I am using it to watch your video. It does be a great product, especially with touchme gesture studio.
But will it blend?
How would you rate the SP4 type cover's typing experience compared to typical laptop keyboards? Is it 50% of the way there, maybe 90-100% etc... Really considering getting one of these but I do type often. I have a gaming rig with a $200 keyboard (I'm a Software Engineer so typing for work or hobby is important) for serious work and power, but if the type cover is even remotely close to an ultrabook level keyboard I'm considering getting one of these. Wish I could borrow one from a store for a week lol.
+Matthew Langley btw excellent review, best and most comprehensive one I've seen for the SP4 so far.
+Matthew Langley I am a software developer as well. I'm using Surface Pro 2 and having no problem for coding. Considering that SP4 has much better and bigger keyboard than SP2, I think you will have no problem at all.
+Matthew Langley I have a Surface Pro 3, and its somewat "inferior" type cover. The typing experience is ~80-90% there. The Surface keyboard may be incredibly thin, but it's still backlit and mechanical so don't underestimate Microsofts engineers. It's the BEST laptop keyboard I've ever used and about 80-90% as good as a desktop mechanical keyboard ALTHOUGH it's obviously missing the numpad! Anyway, I haven't used a Surface Pro 4 Type Cover yet but judging from the comparisons people have been making for it vs the Pro 3s, it's probably a solid 90% of a desktop keyboard. Btw mine is a K70 with cherry mx brown switches.
Is there a place to store the pen on the keyboard or in the pad when not in use?
You stick it to the side of the tablet via magnets.
I'm finally getting one. The i5 base model is finally down to 899.
Nice, I am also getting one ;)
i have a surface pro 4 i7 8gb of ram and 256gb of ssd and i'm typing this comment on one right now. And i love it! anyone who dosent own a surface pro 3 or 4, you should get one!!!
Aston Kutcher?
Hi, Many thanks for your straight forward review. I'm looking to replace my desktop. I'm a home user, pretty much. I receive about 80 emails a day, many with attachments. Surf the net. Love YT and watch a lot of blockbuster movies, and not into gaming. On my desktop I have the G Force, GTX 960, which up until now I've used to get the max out of the movies. So based on your review, and comments by Martin Walsh, I'm looking to get the Surface Pro 4 i7 256GB 8GB Ram, but got to pay $300 extra for the keyboard, or go for the Surface Pro Book version with the added G Force. From your experience, which model will easily suit my needs.?
brel3274 You should consider getting one like this (laptop/tablet hybrid) for half the price and just as effective for what you want to do. Don't let this guy lie to you, there's multiple ones to choose from look into it a bit more.
A GTX 960 is so incredibly overkill for movies. If you don't play games, just get one of these. You don't need the i7 either if you aren't running any intensive programs. i5 should do you well!
Does the keyboard sold with the surface pro, or is it separate?
***** you're the one who is wrong, it is 'separate'. (When people think they are smart)