Notebook Review
Microsoft Surface Pro X 2020 Review: Premium ARM Tablet With Clear Trade-Offs
Editor note: This review is an original English adaptation by Notebook Center based on source reporting from Notebook-Center.ru.
Overview
Microsoft Surface Pro X 2020 is a 13-inch premium Windows tablet with a high-resolution 3:2 display, LTE support, and a very light chassis for this class. The model uses the Microsoft SQ2 ARM processor with Adreno 690 graphics, 16 GB RAM, and a 512 GB SSD. In daily work, it targets web browsing, office tasks, video streaming, and light app usage rather than heavy desktop workloads.
Technical Specifications
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Processor | Microsoft SQ2 (up to 3.1 GHz) |
| Memory | 16 GB LPDDR4x |
| Storage | 512 GB SSD (removable) |
| Display | 13-inch IPS, 2880x1920, glossy, 3:2 |
| Graphics | Qualcomm Adreno 690 |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, LTE |
| Audio | Dolby Audio, 2 stereo speakers |
| Ports | 2x USB Type-C, Surface Connect |
| Cameras | 5 MP front IR camera, 10 MP rear camera |
| Battery | 39 Wh |
| Size and Weight | 287 x 208 x 7.3 mm, 773 g |
| Operating System | Windows 10 Home 64-bit |
Design and Build
The tablet is compact and well built, with an anodized aluminum body and a built-in kickstand. Surface finish quality is high, and the kickstand holds position firmly for desk use. At 773 g, it is light for a 13-inch device, but long handheld sessions can still feel tiring.
Display, Audio, and Cameras
The 13-inch IPS screen is a strong point: 2880x1920 resolution, up to 450 nits brightness, and about 93% sRGB coverage. This gives a sharp image for reading, editing documents, and media. Stereo speakers are loud and clear. The front 5 MP IR camera supports Windows Hello, while the rear 10 MP camera supports 4K recording.
Keyboard and Input Options
The keyboard is optional, not included in the base package. Two dock keyboard options are available, including a premium version with Alcantara finish and stylus storage/charging slot. Typing comfort is described as good, and touchpad size is practical for everyday use.
Performance, Connectivity, and Battery
For routine tasks, the SQ2 platform handles office work, browsing, streaming, and light apps well. The main limitation is software compatibility with many 64-bit Windows applications on ARM. Connectivity is modern with LTE, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, and nano-SIM support, but wired I/O is minimal with only two USB-C ports and no Thunderbolt 3. The 39 Wh battery is rated up to 15 hours by the vendor; practical use in the source indicates about 10 hours of web work and around 8-9 hours of streaming video.
Verdict
Surface Pro X 2020 is best for users who want a thin, premium Windows tablet with strong display quality, LTE mobility, and good everyday responsiveness. The key compromise is platform compatibility and accessory cost, since keyboard and stylus are extra. For buyers who rely on broad 64-bit app support and more physical ports, this model can feel restrictive.