Which Microsoft Surface Laptop or Tablet Should You Buy?

Surface Pro Type Cover for $130: This Type Cover is one of our favorite accessories. The cover is easy to attach, the clicky keys feel satisfying to type on, and it’s the least expensive option for the Surface Pro lineup. It’s compatible with the Surface Pro 8 and earlier. There’s a similar Type Cover for the Surface Go line that also costs $130.

Surface Pro Signature Keyboard for $180: The Pro Signature Keyboard is expensive, but it’s the best option if you’re using the Surface Pro X or Surface Pro 8 with the Slim Pen 2. It comes with built-in storage for the stylus that doubles as a charger. That way, you don’t have to worry about losing it or running low on battery.

Surface Pen for $99: The Surface Pen is compatible with myriad Surface devices, so it’s useful if you’re always switching between Microsoft’s laptop and tablet. It packs precision ink—with tilt for shading—along with thousands of pressure points and virtually zero lag. Unlike the Slim Pen, which supports wireless charging, the Surface Pen runs on batteries.

Surface Slim Pen 2 for $130: With the second-generation Slim Pen, Microsoft added haptic feedback and lower latency (sketching and writing should feel more responsive). We liked using it with the Surface Pro 8, but it’s also compatible with a variety of other Surface devices. It’s an ideal accessory if you rely on your tablet for taking notes or drawing.

Microsoft Ocean Plastic Mouse for $20: We have yet to test Microsoft’s Ocean Plastic Mouse, but it’s an affordable and eco-friendly option if you prefer a mouse to a trackpad. It’s made of 100 percent recyclable packaging and 20 percent recycled ocean plastic. You’ll also find a built-in scroll wheel, fast-tracking sensors, left- and right-click buttons, and Bluetooth connectivity. 

Logitech K380 Wireless Keyboard for $40: If you want a cheap Bluetooth keyboard to use with your Surface device, we like Logitech’s K380 Wireless Keyboard. It’s inexpensive, offers a nice typing experience, and is compact. It also comes in a super cute pink color.

Twelve South StayGo Mini USB-C Hub for $60: Ports can be a bit scarce on Surface devices. This hub from Twelve South comes with a USB-A port, an HDMI, a headphone jack, and a USB-C port for pass-through charging. You can either plug it into the device or extend it with the included cord.

For most Surfaces, now is a good time to buy. Microsoft released the Surface Pro 8, Surface Go 3, and Surface Laptop Studio in October 2021. The Surface Laptop 4, on the other hand, came out almost a year ago in May 2021. Microsoft has yet to reveal any information on when it plans to release the Surface Laptop 5, but we recommend holding off on that one for now.

Microsoft no longer offers its Surface All Access installment plan. But if you’re short on cash, you can purchase a Surface device through Citizens Pay (a program that offers traditional lines of credit) for purchases over $900 or Klarna (which allows you to buy a device now and pay it off later through interest-free payments). You can learn more about both options here.

If you’re rough on your gadgets, get the Microsoft Complete extended warranty. Starting at $99, it gives you additional warranty coverage, plus two accidental damage claims with a $49 deductible. Given how much a Surface costs, it’s worth the peace of mind to add this protection to your new device.

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