The Surface Pro 4, a flagship device from Microsoft, has been a favorite among professionals, creatives, and tech enthusiasts since its release in 2015. Despite being several years old, this powerful 2-in-1 tablet remains a popular choice for those seeking a reliable, high-performance device. But how old is the Surface Pro 4, really? Has it stood the test of time, or is it due for an upgrade?
A Brief History Of The Surface Pro 4
Released on October 26, 2015, the Surface Pro 4 was the fourth generation of Microsoft’s Surface Pro series. It built upon the success of its predecessor, the Surface Pro 3, with improvements in design, performance, and features. The device was touted as a powerful, versatile, and portable solution for individuals who needed a device that could keep up with their demanding lifestyle.
At the time of its release, the Surface Pro 4 boasted some impressive specifications, including:
- 6th Gen Intel Core processor options (m3, i5, and i7)
- 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB of RAM
- 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB of storage
- 12.3-inch PixelSense touchscreen display with 2736 x 1824 resolution
- Windows 10 operating system
- Support for Surface Pen and Surface Type Cover
These features made the Surface Pro 4 an attractive option for professionals, students, and creatives who needed a device that could handle demanding tasks, such as graphic design, video editing, and gaming.
How Old Is The Surface Pro 4 Today?
As of 2023, the Surface Pro 4 is approximately 8 years old. While that may seem ancient in the fast-paced world of technology, the Surface Pro 4 remains a capable device that can still hold its own against more modern competitors.
Hardware And Performance
The Surface Pro 4’s 6th Gen Intel Core processor may not be the latest and greatest, but it still provides reliable performance for most tasks. The device can handle:
- General productivity: web browsing, email, office work, and streaming media
- Creative tasks: photo editing, graphic design, and video editing (although it may struggle with more demanding tasks)
- Gaming: casual gaming and older titles, but it may struggle with more demanding games
However, the Surface Pro 4’s hardware may show its age when it comes to more demanding tasks, such as:
- Resource-intensive tasks: 3D modeling, video rendering, and other compute-heavy tasks
- Modern games: newer titles with high system requirements
- Heavy multitasking: running multiple resource-intensive applications simultaneously
Software And Updates
The Surface Pro 4 originally shipped with Windows 10, which has received numerous updates and feature enhancements over the years. Microsoft has continued to support the device with security updates and bug fixes, ensuring that it remains a secure and stable platform.
However, the Surface Pro 4 is no longer eligible for feature updates, meaning it will not receive new features or functionality. This is a common practice for older devices, as manufacturers focus on supporting newer products.
Design And Build Quality
The Surface Pro 4’s design has held up remarkably well, with its sleek and durable magnesium alloy body still looking modern and premium. The device’s build quality is still excellent, with a sturdy kickstand and a responsive touchscreen display.
The only area where the design may show its age is the port selection, which includes:
- USB-A: 1x full-size USB 3.0
- Mini DisplayPort: 1x
- Headphone jack: 1x
- MicroSD card slot: 1x
- Surface Connect port: 1x
While these ports were sufficient in 2015, they may not be ideal for users who require newer connectivity options, such as USB-C or Thunderbolt 3.
Conclusion
The Surface Pro 4 may be 8 years old, but it remains a capable and reliable device that can still meet the needs of many users. While it may not be the most powerful or feature-rich device on the market, its timeless design, solid performance, and continued software support make it an attractive option for those who want a dependable 2-in-1 tablet.
If you’re considering purchasing a Surface Pro 4, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Performance: The Surface Pro 4 can still handle general productivity, creative tasks, and casual gaming, but it may struggle with more demanding tasks.
- Software: While the device will no longer receive feature updates, it will continue to receive security updates and bug fixes.
- Design and build quality: The Surface Pro 4’s design has held up well, with a durable body and responsive touchscreen display.
Ultimately, the Surface Pro 4’s age is just a number. What matters most is whether it can still meet your needs and provide the performance and features you require.
What Is The Surface Pro 4?
The Surface Pro 4 is a 2-in-1 detachable tablet laptop developed by Microsoft. It was released in 2015 as a successor to the Surface Pro 3. The device is designed to provide users with a versatile and portable computing experience, combining the features of a laptop with the convenience of a tablet.
The Surface Pro 4 is equipped with a range of features, including a 12.3-inch PixelSense touchscreen display, up to 16 GB of RAM, and a variety of storage options. It also comes with a stylus, known as the Surface Pen, which provides users with a precise and natural writing experience. Additionally, the device has a microSD card slot, a USB-A port, and a mini-DisplayPort.
What Are The Key Features Of The Surface Pro 4?
The Surface Pro 4 has several key features that set it apart from other devices in its class. One of the most notable is its 12.3-inch PixelSense touchscreen display, which provides users with a vibrant and detailed visual experience. The device also features a range of processor options, including Core M, Core i5, and Core i7, allowing users to choose the level of performance that best suits their needs.
In addition to its display and processing power, the Surface Pro 4 also features a range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB-A. The device also has a microSD card slot, allowing users to expand their storage capacity. Furthermore, the Surface Pro 4 is designed to be highly portable, weighing just 1.73 pounds and measuring 0.33 inches thick.
Is The Surface Pro 4 Still A Good Device?
Despite being released in 2015, the Surface Pro 4 remains a highly capable device that can still meet the needs of many users. Its powerful processing options, high-quality display, and versatile design make it an excellent choice for those looking for a portable and reliable computing solution.
In particular, the Surface Pro 4 is well-suited to tasks such as web browsing, email, and office work, as well as more demanding tasks like video editing and gaming. Additionally, the device’s stylus, known as the Surface Pen, provides users with a precise and natural writing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer to take handwritten notes.
Can I Still Buy A Surface Pro 4?
While the Surface Pro 4 is no longer a current-generation device, it is still possible to buy one from various retailers, both online and in-store. Microsoft no longer offers the device as a new product, but many third-party sellers continue to offer refurbished or used models.
Refurbished models can offer significant savings over buying a new device, and often come with a warranty or guarantee. However, be sure to research the seller and read reviews before making a purchase to ensure you’re getting a high-quality device.
Is The Surface Pro 4 Compatible With Modern Software?
The Surface Pro 4 is compatible with a wide range of modern software, including the latest versions of Windows 10, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications. However, it’s worth noting that the device’s processing power and RAM may not be able to handle the most demanding software, particularly those that require high-end graphics or processing capabilities.
In general, the Surface Pro 4 is well-suited to running most everyday applications, including web browsers, email clients, and office software. However, if you need to run more demanding software, you may want to consider a more modern device with more powerful processing options.
Can I Upgrade The Surface Pro 4?
The Surface Pro 4 has limited upgrade options, particularly when it comes to its processing power and RAM. The device’s processor and RAM are soldered to the motherboard, making it difficult or impossible to upgrade these components.
However, it is possible to upgrade the device’s storage capacity by adding a microSD card. Additionally, you can replace the device’s battery or screen if needed. It’s also worth noting that the Surface Pro 4’s operating system can be updated to the latest version of Windows 10, which can provide improved performance and new features.
Should I Buy A Surface Pro 4 Or A More Modern Device?
Whether you should buy a Surface Pro 4 or a more modern device depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a highly portable and versatile device with a powerful processor and high-quality display, a more modern device like the Surface Pro 7 or Surface Pro X may be a better option.
On the other hand, if you’re on a budget or don’t need the latest and greatest features, the Surface Pro 4 can still provide a highly capable and reliable computing experience. Additionally, refurbished or used models can offer significant savings over buying a new device. Ultimately, it’s worth weighing your options and considering your specific needs before making a decision.