As our performance tests reveal, such superb improvements without the distraction of a fan are truly worth applauding. Both the Core i3 and Core i5 models are entirely fanless designs, which absolutely depend on these passive heat distribution methods. Microsoft manufactured the Surface Pro 7+ out of what it calls a “unibody magnesium design with hidden perimeter venting.” The unibody construction gives the tablet structural strength, while the magnesium serves as a passive heat pipe to the outside world, bolstered by the tiny vents cut into the periphery of the chassis.

The Surface Pro 7+ can recline nearly flat, still sturdily supported by its kickstand. Mark Hachman / IDGĬlamshell tablets usually recline to about 45 degrees. Microsoft has always taken pride in the design of the Surface Pro’s hinge, and it’s justified-it enables triple-duty as a tablet, drawing pad, and something close to a traditional clamshell laptop. It’s a 12-inch Windows tablet with a sturdy kickstand that reclines almost flat.

Microsoft’s Surface Pro lineup of Windows tablets has remained largely unchanged since the Surface Pro 3. Optional accessories: Surface Pro Signature Type Cover ( $160 on Amazon) Surface Pen ( $64 on )

Price: From $900 at Microsoft $1,650 as tested.

Weight: 1.7 pounds (Core i3/i5 w/ Wi-Fi) to 1.73 pounds (Core i5, LTE).

Camera: 5MP/1080p (user-facing), 8MP (rear-facing).

Ports: 1 USB-C, 1 USB-A, 1 Surface Connector, 1 Type Cover, microSDXC (Wi-Fi) or 1 nanoSIM (LTE), 3.5mm headphone jack.

Memory: 8GB, 16GB LPDDR4x (Wi-Fi, LTE, as tested) 32GB LPDDR4x (Wi-Fi).

Graphics: UHD (Core i3), Iris Xe (Core i5/i7, as tested).

Display: 12.3-inch multitouch PixelSense display (2736×1824).

With a traditional DC laptop charger, I understand that if you try to charge a 60W laptop with a 45W charger (both 19.5v to remove voltage from the equation).Microsoft’s Surface Pro 7+ provides a bright enough screen to work outdoors on a sunny day, though shade is preferred.

Surface pro 7 plus charger