Is Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Worth Buying: A Comprehensive Guide

The Microsoft Surface Pro 4 is a versatile device that has captured the imagination of many tech enthusiasts. Its ability to switch between a laptop and a tablet makes it a highly sought-after device. However, whether it is worth your investment ultimately depends on your needs and expectations.

Is the Microsoft Surface Pro 4 a Good Idea for You?

Without knowing your specific usage scenario, it is hard to make a definitive recommendation. However, for many users like myself, an engineering graduate with an ultrawide screen desktop setup, the Surface Pro 4 is a practical choice. Given the device's portability, it is perfect for situations where a small screen feels uncomfortable, such as editing documents or doing some basic coding.

For my needs, the Surface Pro 4 with an i5 processor and 4GB of RAM works just fine. It is equipped to browse, edit documents, take handwritten notes, and last a full day on battery. The type cover provides a more comfortable typing experience, and the pen and text recognition work well in tablet mode.

The key to enjoying the Surface Pro 4 is to set realistic expectations. If you expect to use it for complex tasks like rendering, CAD design, or advanced engineering functions, you may be disappointed. However, if you simply need a device for basic tasks, the Surface Pro 4 is a solid choice.

Price Considerations

It is important to note that prices for the Surface Pro 4 will likely drop as newer models are released. This makes the device more attractive for those who want to wait for a better deal.

After a year of use, I am very happy with my Surface Pro 4. It integrates seamlessly with OneDrive, and the Edge browser has broken the stereotype of Internet Explorer's reputation. It also provides up to 6-7 hours of battery life.

Controversies Surrounding the Surface Pro 4

While the Surface Pro 4 has many redeeming qualities, some users have faced hardware issues, particularly with screen flicker. Many users have reported experiencing this issue within a year of purchase, and Microsoft has not provided a satisfactory solution.

According to the data, around 1600 customers have reported the screen flicker issue, resulting in approximately $2.5 million in losses. This highlights the importance of considering the long-term reliability of any device before making a purchase. Choosing a device that is not easily repairable and runs only on a specific operating system can lock you into the manufacturer's decision and support policy, which may not be ideal in the long run.

However, not all users have faced these issues. In my case, since the device started showing issues within the warranty period, I was able to exchange it through the Microsoft process. The exchange process was simple and very fast, which mitigates some of the concerns.

For those who have faced hardware issues, it might be worth considering other options to avoid the potential disappointment of a faulty device.

Overall, the Microsoft Surface Pro 4 is a powerful and versatile device that can serve as both a laptop and a tablet. However, users should carefully consider their needs and expectations, and factor in the potential for hardware issues. By weighing these considerations, you can make an informed decision about whether the Surface Pro 4 is right for you.

Keywords: Microsoft Surface Pro 4, Desktop Laptop Tablet, Hardware Reliability, Long-Term Use, Portable Device