Hubbry Logo
Surface BookSurface BookMain
Open search
Surface Book
Community hub
Surface Book
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Surface Book
Surface Book
Surface Book
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Surface Book
DeveloperMicrosoft
Product familyMicrosoft Surface
Type2-in-1 PC
Release dateOctober 26, 2015 (2015-10-26)
with Performance Base: November 10, 2016 (2016-11-10)
Introductory priceUS$1,499.00 to $3,299.00
CA$1,949.00 to $4,379.00
£1,299.00 to £2,649.00
Operating systemWindows 10 Pro
CPUIntel Skylake dual-core processor:[1]
i5-6300U
2.4 up to 3.0 GHz, 3 MB cache, 15 W[2]
i7-6600U
2.6 up to 3.4 GHz, 4 MB cache, 15 W[3]
Memory8 or 16 GB LPDDR3 RAM
StorageSSD: 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB
Removable storageFull-size SD card slot
(supports SDXC cards)
Display13.5", 3000×2000 (267 PPI) LCD
GraphicsIntel HD Graphics 520
Optional custom variant of Nvidia GeForce 940M GPU with 1 GB of GDDR5 memory[4][5] or Nvidia GeForce GTX 965M GPU 2 GB of GDDR5 memory[6] within keyboard part
SoundStereo speakers, dual microphones, headset jack
InputKeyboard, touchpad mouse, stylus pen, sensors: accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, ambient light, Surface Dial
Camera5.0 MP front, 8.0 MP rear 1080p HD video recording
Touchpad5-point multi-touch
Connectivity802.11a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, two USB 3.0 ports, Mini DisplayPort
DimensionsAs a tablet: 12.3 by 8.67 by 0.3 inches (31.24 cm × 22.02 cm × 0.76 cm)
As a laptop: 12.3 by 9.14 by 0.9 inches (31.2 cm × 23.2 cm × 2.3 cm)
WeightAs a tablet: 1.6 pounds (0.73 kg)
As a laptop: 3.34 pounds (1.51 kg)
As a laptop with Performance Base: 3.68 pounds (1.67 kg)
SuccessorSurface Book 2
WebsiteSurface.com
This article is part of a series on
Microsoft Surface

Models

Accessories

The Surface Book is a 2-in-1 PC designed and produced by Microsoft, part of the company's Surface line of personal computing devices, and released on October 26, 2015. Surface Book is distinguished from other Surface devices primarily by its full-sized, detachable keyboard, which uses a dynamic fulcrum hinge that expands when it is opened. The keyboard contains a second battery, a number of ports and an optional discrete graphics card used when the screen part, also dubbed as the clipboard by Microsoft, is docked to it. Unlike Surface Pro devices, which are marketed as tablets, the Surface Book is marketed as a laptop, Microsoft's first device marketed as such. Unlike the Surface Laptop devices, the two parts are detachable. It was succeeded by Surface Book 2.

History

[edit]

Surface Book was announced at the Windows 10 Devices Event by Microsoft on October 6, 2015, alongside the Surface Pro 4, and went on sale shortly thereafter.[7] At the announcement, Panos Panay, corporate vice president for Surface Computing at Microsoft, initially presented the device as a laptop and positioned it as a competitor to the MacBook Pro, before revealing that it was a hybrid device, with a screen that could be detached and used with just the Surface Pen.[8][9]

In October 2016, Microsoft announced an updated Surface Book with a new Nvidia GeForce GTX 965M GPU and additional battery life over the original model.

In May 2017, Microsoft revealed the successor to the Surface Book, the Surface Book 2,[10] which was itself replaced by the Surface Book 3 in 2020.[11]

Features

[edit]

Design

[edit]

The Surface Book's design was influenced by a goal to design a 2-in-1 convertible tablet that could be folded like a laptop, and not require the keyboard to be heavier than the tablet portion in order to support and balance the tablet portion.[8] To reach this goal, the Surface development team developed a special hinge on the keyboard that would increase the footprint of the device when opened, thus maintaining the balance without increasing the weight differential between the two parts.[8][9] The hinge is accompanied by muscle wire locks that secure the tablet portion to the keyboard.[12] The wires are made from nickel titanium—an alloy that contracts when exposed to an electrical current; pressing a release button on the keyboard sends an electrical impulse through the wires that attach or release the clips.[8][9][13] The team also worked with the Microsoft team developing Windows 10 to implement a switchable graphics system, where the tablet would be able to switch to a discrete graphics card located within the keyboard when docked, and revert to internal graphics when undocked.[8][9]

The Surface Book's use cases are reflected by several design decisions, such as referring to the tablet portion as being a clipboard. Additionally, while the device as a whole is rated as having 12 hours of battery life, this capacity is divided between two separate batteries within the clipboard and keyboard portions: the clipboard has a 4-hour battery, while the base has 8-hour.[8][9] The Surface Book's keyboard is considered a standard component of the device, and is bundled with all models.[14]

The device consists of a tablet portion with a 13.5 inches (34 cm), 3000×2000 resolution display,[1] and a keyboard attachment.[8] That allows it to function similarly to a traditional laptop. Both components are constructed from machined magnesium.[14][15] The Surface Book's keyboard utilizes a dynamic fulcrum hinge, which compresses when closed, and expands outwards when opened. The hinge design allows the tablet portion to be held up at an angle resembling a traditional laptop screen without the use of a kickstand, a supporting part found in Surface-series devices, and increases the physical room between the keyboard and the tablet.[13][16]

Hardware

[edit]

Surface Book is the first Surface-family 2-in-1 to be shipped with a keyboard. Contrary to a Type Cover optional keyboard accessory of other Surface tablets, Surface Book's keyboard is a thick and sturdy part, capable of folding back behind the display. It contains two USB 3.0 ports, full-size SD card slot on the left, Mini DisplayPort and SurfaceConnect port on the right, has an integrated additional battery and an optional Nvidia discrete GPU with 1 GB of video memory.[14] It can be used for non-demanding tasks such as web browsing without the connected keyboard part, and when laptop convenience, extended connectivity, performance, and battery life are needed — with the keyboard attached.

The 2-in-1's display features the same 3:2 aspect ratio and 10-point multi-touch display, found in other Surface tablets starting from Surface Pro 3, but its size and resolution are significantly increased at 13.5 inches (34 cm) and 3000×2000 (267 PPI) respectively.[14]

Surface Book models are built with a 6th generation Skylake Intel Core i5 or i7 processors. The top CPU option, i7-6600U, has a clock rate of 2.6 GHz, with up to 3.4 GHz in Turbo Boost mode.[3] There is no TPM chip.

There is an Intel HD Graphics 520 GPU available, integrated in all processor options, however it is possible to order a Surface Book with an additional custom variant of Nvidia GeForce 940M[4][5] Maxwell-architecture discrete GPU for the improved operation of GPU performance-demanding programs such as Adobe Premiere Pro.[17] During the presentation it was stated that the models with Nvidia GPU can comfortably run games with a performance footprint of League of Legends.[18] The Surface Book is able to connect and disconnect the discrete GPU automatically, on-the-fly and without an OS reboot needed, when user attaches and detaches the keyboard part.[1]

Two system memory options available are: 8 or 16 GB and four SSD options: 128, 256, 512 GB, or 1 TB, but the higher SSD option is not available in some countries.[14]

The front camera contains an infrared sensor that supports logging in with Windows Hello.[19]

Surface Book allowing the user to detach the screen section from the keyboard section
Surface Book Configuration Options [20][21]
Price Tier (USD) Size CPU GPU RAM Internal Storage
1,499 13.5" Intel Core i5-6300U Intel HD Graphics 520 8 GB 128 GB
1,699 256 GB
2,099 512 GB
2,499 Intel Core i7-6600U 16 GB
1,899 Intel Core i5-6300U Nvidia GeForce 940M 1 GB 8 GB 256 GB
2,099 Intel Core i7-6600U
2,699 16 GB 512 GB
2,399 Nvidia GeForce 965M 2 GB 8 GB 256 GB
2,799 16 GB 512 GB
3,299 1TB

Surface Book with Performance Base

[edit]

At the Microsoft Windows 10 event on October 26, 2016, Microsoft announced a version of the Surface Book that contained an updated Nvidia GeForce GTX 965M discrete GPU along with an additional 1 GB of GDDR5 video memory (meaning the new Surface Book now has 2 GB of vRAM instead of 1 GB). The base of this updated Surface Book is also thicker than the original in order to incorporate an additional cooling fan for the new GPU and more internal batteries, allowing for an additional 4 hours of video playback - upping the total claimed runtime of the device to 16 hours. This model is also 0.3 pounds (0.14 kg) heavier and is available only with an Intel Core i7 processor. There are no upgrades to the processors, RAM, or storage in the Surface Book with Performance Base over the original.[6]

Software

[edit]

Surface Book models ship with a pre-installed 64-bit version of Windows 10 Pro and a 30-day trial Microsoft Office suite.[14] The system does not meet the system requirements for upgrade to Windows 11.

Accessories

[edit]

A Surface Dock was announced alongside the Surface Book and Surface Pro 4, and is compatible with both devices. It is also backward compatible with the Surface Pro 3. The Surface Dock adds two Mini DisplayPorts, one Gigabit Ethernet, four USB 3.0 and one audio out port to the 2-in-1.[22]

Just like the Surface Pro devices, Surface Book includes a Surface Pen.[23] Surface Book ships with the latest version of the pen with 1024 levels of pressure. A Surface Pen Tip Kit is also available for order, which includes a set of pen tips of various diameter aimed for artists and illustrators.

Reception and issues

[edit]

Critical reception

[edit]

Upon release the Surface Book received critical acclaim for its design and functionality, as well as its integration of a secondary GPU into the keyboard. However, the lack of certain features, such as LTE connectivity and USB-C ports, was noted along with the price of the highest-specs model (US$3,200 for one with 1 TB of storage and a Core i7).[1][24] In addition, many reviewers had pre-release issues with the hinge undocking mechanism and graphics display drivers, both of which Microsoft resolved at a later date through a Windows software update.[25] The first review versions of the hardware did not initially have Windows Hello enabled, but after a firmware update enabled it reception of the feature was positive.[26][19] The "teardown" site iFixit scored the Surface Book 1/10 for repairability mainly due to the use of glue instead of screws to hold the unit together and the impossibility of upgrading things such as the CPU and RAM that are both soldered to the motherboard.[27]

Issues

[edit]

The Windows Hello driver included in a firmware update failed to properly reinitialize the infrared camera after waking from sleep mode, causing Windows Hello to fail until a reboot.[28] Firmware updates were issued in April and May 2016 to fix the camera.[29] The device had a battery life issue where it failed to sleep properly, draining the battery very quickly.[30] Microsoft developed a fix that was available on February 17, 2016.[31] An additional issue raised by many Surface owners is problems with expanding lithium batteries that causes screen discoloration and separation of the screen from the body of the computer. This has led to concerns about potential fire and explosion hazards. The design of the Surface does not allow for the battery to be easily exchanged. Other reported problems included power management issues in which sleep and standby modes resulted in the unexpected continual drain of the battery.[32] Furthermore, overheating and CPU throttling to compensate for it are issues in the Surface Book 3's (13.5"), because they no longer have fans in the tablet.

Timeline

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Surface Book

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Surface Book is a line of high-performance 2-in-1 detachable computers developed by , combining a traditional laptop form factor with a removable display that serves as a standalone tablet or digital canvas for creative work. Announced on October 6, 2015, and released on October 26, 2015, the original Surface Book featured a 13.5-inch PixelSense display with a 3000x2000 resolution, 6th-generation processors, up to 16 GB of RAM, and optional discrete graphics in a Performance Base for enhanced computing power. The device was positioned as a premium versatile PC for professionals, offering up to 12 hours of battery life in laptop mode and support for the Surface Pen for precise input. Subsequent iterations expanded the lineup's capabilities and screen sizes. The Surface Book 2, released on November 17, 2017, introduced 13.5-inch and 15-inch models with 7th- and 8th-generation processors, GTX 1050 or 1060 graphics, up to 17 hours of video playback battery life, and a new port for improved connectivity. It emphasized versatility across laptop, tablet, studio, and view modes, with dual 4K external display support via the Surface Dock. The Surface Book 3, announced on May 6, 2020, and released on May 21, 2020, featured 10th-generation processors, up to 32 GB of RAM and 2 TB of SSD storage, GTX 1650 or 1660 Ti graphics, and battery life extending to 17.5 hours on the 15-inch variant. This model added options like charging and maintained the detachable design's hinge mechanism, which housed additional batteries and processing power in the base for modes like Studio Mode. Throughout its run, the Surface Book series prioritized creative and professional workflows, integrating features like 10-point multi-touch displays, Windows Hello facial recognition, and compatibility with accessories such as the Surface Dial for on-screen controls. Ports across models included USB-A, SDXC card readers, or , and Surface Connect for charging. However, the line faced challenges including higher pricing starting at $1,499 and occasional hardware issues like detachable clip failures in early units. discontinued the Surface Book series in 2021, shifting focus to successors like the Surface Laptop Studio, with driver and firmware support for the Surface Book 3 ending on April 1, 2025. Despite its discontinuation, the Surface Book remains notable for pioneering Microsoft's premium detachable PC category and influencing later 2-in-1 designs.

History

Development and announcement

Microsoft's development of the Surface Book was driven by a desire to enter the premium laptop market in 2015, where Windows devices had long lagged behind competitors like Apple's MacBook Pro, particularly for creative professionals seeking high-performance hardware for tasks such as graphic design and video editing. The project, led by Panos Panay, corporate vice president of the Surface team, aimed to reinvent the laptop category by combining the power of a traditional notebook with the versatility of a detachable tablet, building on the success of the Surface Pro 3, which had shifted perceptions toward Windows as a viable platform for premium productivity. This motivation stemmed from Microsoft's recognition of gaps in the ecosystem, where professionals often turned to macOS for its optimized creative workflows, prompting the company to create a device that would "redefine the laptop" and empower Windows 10 users with innovative form factors. Key development milestones spanned approximately 2.5 years, including two years of intensive and 18 months of prototyping conducted in Microsoft's Building 87 lab, which simulated full-scale production environments. Prototyping presented significant challenges, particularly with the detachable screen—internally referred to as the ""—and the innovative hinge mechanism, dubbed the "Screen." Engineers, including lead designer Ralf Groene and industrial designer Kait Schoeck, iterated on the hinge to achieve a stable, folio-like teardrop design that extended the base for better balance while reducing overall weight by hundreds of grams. The detachment system relied on a "muscle wire" lock for seamless, reliable separation without mechanical clicks, ensuring the could function independently for tasks like reviewing blueprints or reading, while avoiding gimmicky features that could compromise durability. An executive review about nine months before launch secured leadership approval for the detachable concept, marking a pivotal milestone in aligning the device's hybrid nature with Microsoft's vision for versatile computing. The Surface Book was publicly announced on October 6, 2015, during a event at Microsoft's headquarters, where it was positioned as a groundbreaking "laplet"—a high-performance hybrid blending functionality with tablet mobility, ideal for demanding creative workflows. unveiled the device as Microsoft's first true , emphasizing its detachable PixelSense display and robust capabilities tailored for professionals. Initial pricing was revealed at the event, with the base model starting at $1,499, underscoring its premium positioning in the market.

Release timeline

The original Surface Book was announced by on October 6, 2015, at the Windows 10 Devices event, with pre-orders opening the following day on October 7 and general shipping beginning on October 26, 2015, initially in the , , , and the . A mid-cycle refresh, the Surface Book i7, was announced on October 26, 2016, introducing an GTX 965 in the detachable Performance Base along with an upgraded battery offering up to 16 hours of video playback; pre-orders started immediately, with availability from November 11, 2016, in the same initial markets. announced the Surface Book 2 on October 17, 2017, expanding the lineup to include both 13.5-inch and 15-inch display options; pre-orders for the 13.5-inch model opened on November 9, 2017, in the and select countries, followed by the 15-inch model on November 12, with shipping to consumers beginning November 16 and the Performance Base available as an optional upgrade for discrete GPU configurations. The Surface Book 3 followed on May 6, 2020, via an online event, retaining the 13.5-inch and 15-inch sizes with improved processors and optional Performance Base bundles for enhanced performance; shipping started on May 21, 2020, first in the United States and major international markets including and regions.

Design and features

Form factor and build

The Surface Book series features a modular 2-in-1 design consisting of the , a detachable display, and the Base, a keyboard dock that houses additional components for enhanced performance. This architecture allows users to reconfigure the device into laptop mode for traditional , tablet mode by detaching the Clipboard for standalone use, or studio mode by flipping the screen over the keyboard for drawing and . The distinctive dynamic fulcrum enables a 180-degree of the while providing structural support through a series of expanding metal segments that contract when closed, ensuring stability across angles. Detachment is facilitated by a one-button mechanism using muscle wire technology, which securely releases the without mechanical levers, promoting seamless transitions between configurations. This design, refined across models, contributes to the device's ergonomic versatility while maintaining a wedge-shaped profile when closed for improved portability. Constructed with a frame for durability and lightness, the Surface Book employs on the display for scratch resistance, varying slightly by model to balance protection and thinness. Dimensions are compact for a premium , measuring approximately 12.3 x 9.14 x 0.51–0.90 inches (313 x 232 x 13–23 mm) for the 13.5-inch variant, with the alone weighing approximately 1.6 pounds (0.73 kg) for the 13.5-inch model to enhance mobility in tablet form. The Base incorporates a vapor chamber cooling system to dissipate heat from integrated graphics, supporting sustained performance during intensive tasks without compromising the slim form factor. Ergonomic considerations include optional integration with the Surface Pen, which magnetically attaches to the device for quick access in drawing modes, leveraging the hinge's stability for precise input on the tilted screen. Overall, these elements prioritize portability and adaptability, with total weights ranging from 3.4 to 4.2 pounds (1.5 to 1.9 kg) depending on configuration, making it suitable for creative professionals on the move.

Display and input

The Surface Book features a PixelSense touchscreen display available in 13.5-inch and 15-inch sizes across its models. The 13.5-inch variant utilizes an LCD panel with a resolution of 3000 × 2000 pixels at 267 pixels per inch (PPI), while the 15-inch option provides 3240 × 2160 pixels at 260 PPI. Both maintain a 3:2 aspect ratio and a contrast ratio of 1600:1 (1700:1 on the original model), enabling sharp visuals suitable for productivity and creative tasks. The display supports 10-point input, allowing simultaneous interactions for gestures like pinch-to-zoom and swiping. It is fully compatible with the Surface Pen, which employs N-trig active digitizer technology offering 1024 levels of pressure sensitivity for precise drawing and note-taking. Palm rejection ensures that hand rests do not interfere with input, enhancing usability during extended creative sessions. In terms of color performance, the PixelSense display covers approximately 99-100% of the , providing accurate representation for standard web and office content, while achieving partial coverage of around 75% for the wider RGB gamut, which supports professional photo editing with some limitations. The screen features a glossy finish with protection, though it lacks a dedicated matte anti-glare , leading users to often add third-party protectors for brighter environments. Input peripherals include a detachable keyboard base with an Alcantara fabric palm rest for comfort and a full-size backlit keyboard with Windows shortcut keys. The integrated precision glass trackpad supports multi-finger gestures for , with haptic feedback introduced in later models like the Surface Book 3 for tactile click simulation without physical buttons. Built-in orientation sensors, including an and , enable automatic screen rotation when the device detaches into tablet mode, adapting the interface from landscape to portrait based on user handling.

Hardware specifications

The Surface Book series features Intel Core processors spanning the 6th to 10th generations, specifically i5 and i7 models, paired with integrated Intel HD Graphics or Iris Plus Graphics for basic computing tasks. Optional discrete NVIDIA GeForce graphics (e.g., GTX series) are available in the Base for enhanced performance in select configurations. These processors enable versatile performance suitable for productivity and light creative workloads across the lineup. Memory consists of soldered LPDDR3 or LPDDR4 RAM configurations ranging from 8 GB to 32 GB, ensuring reliability without upgrade options but optimized for power efficiency in a mobile form factor. Storage utilizes PCIe SSDs with capacities from 128 GB to 2 TB, located in either the base or portion depending on configuration, providing fast access for operating systems and applications. Power is managed through a dual-battery system, with the providing approximately 4 hours of video playback and the base contributing 9 to 12 hours, yielding a combined total of up to 17 hours under optimal conditions. Connectivity includes Type-A ports, on later models, a full-size reader, Surface Connect charging port, and a 3.5 mm audio jack, supporting peripherals and expansion. Wireless options encompass 5 (802.11ac) or (802.11ax) and 4.0 or 5.0 for device pairing and networking. Audio hardware comprises omnidirectional dual microphones for clear input and front-facing stereo speakers enhanced by Dolby Audio processing, delivering immersive sound for media and calls.
ComponentCommon Specifications Across Series
ProcessorsIntel Core i5/i7 (6th–10th Gen), Intel HD/Iris integrated ; optional NVIDIA GeForce GTX discrete (in Base)
RAMSoldered LPDDR3/LPDDR4, 8–32 GB
StoragePCIe SSD, 128 GB–2 TB (base or clipboard)
BatteryDual setup; clipboard ~4 hours video, base ~9–12 hours, combined up to 17 hours
Ports, (later), SD reader, Surface Connect, 3.5 mm audio
Connectivity 5/6, 4.0/5.0
AudioDual omnidirectional mics, stereo speakers with Audio

Model variants

Original Surface Book (2015)

The original Surface Book, introduced in October 2015, marked Microsoft's entry into the premium laptop market with a detachable 2-in-1 design optimized for productivity and creative tasks. It combined a high-resolution touchscreen clipboard with a keyboard base housing additional processing power, setting it apart from traditional laptops through its dynamic fulcrum hinge that allowed the screen to detach and reattach in multiple modes. The base configurations featured sixth-generation processors, specifically the dual-core i5-6300U at 2.4 GHz (with Turbo Boost up to 3.0 GHz) or the i7-6600U at 2.6 GHz (with Turbo Boost up to 3.4 GHz), paired with 8 GB or 16 GB of LPDDR3 RAM soldered to the . Storage options included PCIe SSDs in capacities of 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, or 1 TB, providing fast access for demanding applications. were handled by integrated Intel HD 520 in entry-level models, while higher configurations included a discrete NVIDIA 940M GPU with 1 GB GDDR5 memory located in the keyboard base, enabling GPU acceleration when the device was fully assembled. Battery life for these base models was rated up to 12 hours of video playback, with the keyboard base contributing an additional power source. A key variant, the Surface Book with Performance Base, offered an upgraded keyboard dock exclusively with the i7-6600U processor, featuring an with 2 GB GDDR5 for enhanced graphical , along with a larger 63 Wh battery in the base for extended runtime. This configuration targeted users requiring more power, delivering up to 16 hours of video playback and supporting GPU-intensive operations without significantly compromising portability. The Performance Base was optional at launch, starting at configurations with 256 GB storage and 8 GB RAM, and could be purchased separately for compatible units. In October 2016, refreshed the lineup with expanded availability of i7-6600U models equipped with the GTX 965M as standard in higher tiers, alongside minor optimizations for battery efficiency that maintained the up to 12-hour rating for standard configurations while emphasizing real-world improvements in mixed usage. This update broadened access to the Performance Base features without altering the core architecture, focusing on configurations up to 16 GB RAM and 1 TB storage to meet growing demand for professional workflows. The original Surface Book pioneered the integration of a discrete GPU within the detachable base, a first for Microsoft's hardware lineup, specifically to accelerate creative workloads such as photo and in professional software suites. This design allowed seamless switching between integrated and discrete graphics, boosting performance for tasks like rendering in applications by offloading computations to the hardware when docked, while preserving battery life in tablet mode.

Surface Book 2 (2017)

The Surface Book 2, announced by Microsoft on October 17, 2017, represented a significant upgrade over its predecessor with enhanced processing power, dedicated graphics options, and the introduction of a larger screen size option. It maintained the detachable 2-in-1 form factor but incorporated 7th and 8th-generation Intel Core processors, including the i5-7300U for the base 13.5-inch model and up to the i7-8650U quad-core for higher configurations, enabling smoother multitasking and professional workloads. Configurations offered up to 16 GB of LPDDR3 RAM at 1866 MHz and SSD storage options ranging from 256 GB to 1 TB PCIe, providing ample capacity for demanding applications like video editing and 3D rendering. Graphics performance was bolstered by Pascal architecture discrete GPUs housed in the keyboard base, which also contained additional battery capacity: the 13.5-inch model featured an integrated HD Graphics 620 or optional GTX 1050 with 2 GB GDDR5, while the new 15-inch variant included the more powerful GTX 1060 with 6 GB GDDR5 for superior gaming and creative tasks. The displays retained PixelSense technology with a 3:2 and 1600:1 contrast; the standard 13.5-inch screen measured 3000 x 2000 resolution at 267 PPI, and the 15-inch option offered 3240 x 2160 at 260 PPI, the first such size in the Surface Book line to support expanded multitasking on a single device. Battery life was improved to up to 17 hours of local video playback, tested on preproduction units, thanks to the base's integrated GPU and power management. Distinguishing features included redesigned thermals that dissipated heat more effectively from the processors and GPU, allowing the 13.5-inch tablet portion to remain fanless during intensive use while enabling sustained performance in the 15-inch model for gaming at resolutions. The base's placement of the discrete GPU not only preserved the tablet's slim profile but also enhanced overall , reducing throttling during prolonged sessions compared to prior designs. These advancements positioned the Surface as a versatile powerhouse for professionals requiring laptop-level graphics in a form.

Surface Book 3 (2020)

The Surface Book 3, released in May 2020, represented the final iteration in Microsoft's detachable 2-in-1 laptop series, building on the design of its predecessors with enhanced performance for creative and professional workloads. Available in 13.5-inch and 15-inch configurations, it featured quad-core 10th-generation Intel Core processors, including the i5-1035G7 or i7-1065G7 for the smaller model and the i7-1065G7 for the larger one, paired with up to 32 GB of LPDDR4x RAM and storage options reaching 1 TB SSD for the 13.5-inch version or 2 TB for the 15-inch. These specifications marked the highest memory and storage capacities in the Surface Book lineup, enabling seamless handling of demanding tasks like video editing and 3D rendering. Graphics performance saw significant upgrades, with the base 13.5-inch i5 model using integrated Intel Iris Plus Graphics, while the i7 variant included an with 4 GB GDDR5 memory; the 15-inch model came standard with the more powerful featuring 6 GB GDDR6. For professional users, a 15-inch configuration offered the with 6 GB GDDR6, supporting advanced features like ray-tracing and AI acceleration in applications such as CAD and . The display received refinements for better visibility, with both sizes using PixelSense touchscreens—the 13.5-inch at 3000 x 2000 resolution (267 PPI) and the 15-inch at 3240 x 2160 (260 PPI)—achieving up to 400 nits of brightness for improved outdoor usability compared to prior models. Connectivity was modernized with a single 3.1 Gen 2 port supporting Power Delivery for charging and data transfer, alongside two USB-A 3.1 ports, an , and (802.11ax) for faster wireless performance. Battery efficiency was enhanced through the updated hardware, delivering up to 15.5 hours of typical usage on the 13.5-inch model and 17.5 hours on the 15-inch, with improved standby power management extending overall endurance during light tasks. The detachable discrete GPU in the Performance Base remained a hallmark feature, allowing the screen to function independently as a tablet while offloading intensive graphics to the base, a capability not carried forward in subsequent Surface devices. This design continuity from earlier Surface Books emphasized versatility for artists and engineers, though the series concluded with this model as shifted focus to integrated form factors.

Reception

Critical reviews

The Surface Book series received generally positive reviews from professional critics, earning average scores of around 4 out of 5 stars across major tech outlets for its innovative detachable design and premium build. The original 2015 model was praised by The Verge for its beautiful display, exceptional battery life, and comfortable keyboard and trackpad, scoring 8.3 out of 10, though it was criticized for its high price. awarded it 4.5 out of 5 stars, highlighting its ergonomics, vibrant screen, and over 15 hours of battery life in testing, positioning it as ideal for creative professionals needing short bursts of high performance. Subsequent models maintained strong ratings, with the series often lauded for blending laptop power with tablet versatility better than most 2-in-1 competitors at the time. Critics consistently highlighted the series' exceptional build quality, using durable construction that felt premium and robust in daily use. Battery life exceeded Microsoft's claims in many real-world tests, with the original model delivering up to 12 hours as a and around 9 to 10 hours in mixed usage according to reviewers, while later iterations like the Surface Book 3 achieved 11 hours and 10 minutes on continuous web surfing benchmarks. The discrete GPUs, particularly in performance base configurations, provided strong capabilities for creative applications such as and , with the Surface Book 2's GTX 1060 enabling smooth rendering and light gaming that outperformed integrated graphics in rival devices. Despite these strengths, the high starting price of $1,499 for base models—and often exceeding $2,000 for higher configurations—drew widespread criticism as a barrier to broader adoption, especially when compared to more affordable alternatives. Occasional concerns about the dynamic fulcrum hinge's long-term durability and the overall dated, bulky aesthetic were noted, particularly as it complicated repairs and portability. The series also faced stiff from Apple's , which offered superior integration and ecosystem advantages in creative workflows. For the Surface Book 2, reviewers particularly praised the 15-inch model's enhanced power, with giving it 8.3 out of 10 for its excellent performance and battery life, making it a standout for graphics-intensive tasks. The Surface Book 3 was seen as providing good value in 2020 with upgraded 10th-generation processors and up to 32GB RAM, earning 4 out of 5 stars from and for its display and keyboard quality, but critics like The Verge scored it lower at 3.8 out of 10 for the 13.5-inch version due to its aging design amid the rise of ARM-based systems like Apple's M1 MacBooks, which began outpacing it in efficiency.

Reported issues

Users of the Surface Book series have reported various hardware and software issues, particularly related to the device's detachable design and thermal management. One common problem involves the detachment mechanism, where the and connectors can fail to secure properly over time, leading to loose connections or inability to lock the to the base. acknowledges that dirty or worn connectors can cause attachment and detachment failures, recommending as a first step, though persistent issues may indicate hardware wear. Battery degradation has been a notable concern, with reports of swelling in the clipboard battery after prolonged use, often after 2-3 years, which can cause the screen to bow or separate from the frame. This issue affects models like the Surface Book and , stemming from internal cell deterioration due to age, heat, or charging cycles, and notes that such expansion is typically caused by non-flammable gas buildup without immediate safety risks but requires replacement. GPU throttling due to overheating has been observed, especially in the base unit during extended high-load tasks, where the discrete GPU triggers limits, reducing performance. This was particularly evident in the Surface Book 2, with some units locking CPU speeds to as low as 400 MHz even under moderate loads, attributed to faulty sensors or bugs rather than pure heat. addressed related flaws through updates, though residual throttling persists in some scenarios for earlier models and was improved in the Surface Book 3. Software glitches, including failures to wake from and conflicts with drivers, have also been documented, leading to crashes, black screens, or improper GPU switching. These issues, often tied to power state transitions, were mitigated by and updates released in and later, resolving sleep-related bugs in the original Surface Book and subsequent models. No major recall events have occurred for the Surface Book lineup, but has provided extended service options for specific display issues, such as flickering in certain configurations, through guides and extensions where applicable.

Discontinuation and legacy

End of production

The Surface Book line's production came to an end following the release of the in May 2020, with the line being discontinued in 2021 as shifted its focus to newer form factors within the Surface portfolio. In September 2021, confirmed the retirement of the entire Surface Book range, positioning the newly announced as its direct successor for creative and 2-in-1 workflows. This decision marked an implicit acknowledgment that the Surface Book 3 would serve as the final model in the series, with no successor planned despite initial expectations for a Surface Book 4. Several factors contributed to the discontinuation, including the evolution of Microsoft's Surface lineup toward more versatile and efficient devices like the and series, which better addressed 2-in-1 and detachable needs without the complex hinge mechanism of the Surface Book. The premium pricing of Surface Book models, starting at around $1,600 for base configurations, restricted broader market adoption despite strong initial demand for early variants that sold out quickly upon launch. Additionally, the rise of ARM-based Copilot+ PCs in 2024 and 2025, emphasizing AI capabilities and longer battery life through processors like X Elite, further diminished the relevance of the x86-focused Surface Book architecture. Retail availability for new Surface Book units tapered off by mid-2022, as official Microsoft Store listings were removed and production stock depleted. However, aftermarket options persisted through third-party resellers such as Amazon, where new or remaining inventory of Surface Book 3 models remained purchasable into 2025, albeit at varying prices and without manufacturer guarantees. This extended availability reflected the line's enduring appeal among professionals but underscored the official end of active production and development.

Support status

Microsoft's driver and firmware lifecycle policy for Surface devices provides a minimum of four years of support from the initial release date for models launched before , 2021, with extensions possible beyond this period. For the Surface Book lineup, which predates this threshold, support durations varied by model but adhered to this baseline. Driver and firmware support for the original Surface Book, released on October 26, 2015, extended until November 13, 2021. The Surface Book 2, launched on November 17, 2017, received updates until June 30, 2023. For the Surface Book 3, released on May 26, 2020, official driver support concluded on April 1, 2025, with the last firmware update released on February 19, 2025. Regarding operating system compatibility, all Surface Book models support up to its end-of-support date of October 14, 2025. As of October 14, 2025, reached end-of-support, requiring upgrade to for continued security updates on supported hardware. The Surface Book 3 is compatible with version 21H2 and later, receiving OS updates in line with Microsoft's general lifecycle policy beyond the hardware support end date, though it lacks support for architecture or Copilot+ PC features due to its processors. Standard warranty coverage for Surface Book devices is one year from purchase, with options to extend via Microsoft Complete plans up to three or four years, including mechanical breakdown protection and next-business-day replacement. Replacement parts, such as SSDs, keyboards, and displays, remain available through the Microsoft Store for out-of-warranty repairs on supported models like the Surface Book 3 into 2026, subject to stock availability. Post-official support, no new drivers or firmware updates are provided for the Surface Book series, though existing downloads remain available on Microsoft's site. Community-driven third-party drivers exist for legacy functionality, but users are advised to rely on archives for and compatibility.

References

  1. https://news.microsoft.com/source/2015/10/06/microsoft-redefines-the-laptop-with-surface-book-ushers-in-new-era-of-windows-10-devices/
  2. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/surface-book-1st-gen-specs-and-features-b2c7cf05-1144-da66-c4c8-dba0be246040
  3. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/surface-book-2-specs-and-features-d752c78d-d1fc-c483-c80d-8343e68ad96b
  4. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/surface-book-3-specs-and-features-261d4bb1-2851-d9d5-2020-283429f6cd8c
  5. https://www.windowscentral.com/hardware/surface/using-surface-book-3-in-2023-makes-me-wish-microsoft-would-announce-surface-book-4
  6. https://www.theverge.com/23490503/microsoft-surface-book-laptop-detachable-convertible
  7. https://www.wired.com/2015/10/surface-book-behind-the-scenes/
  8. https://www.theverge.com/2015/10/6/9454051/microsoft-surface-laptop-announced-specs-price-release-date
  9. https://blogs.windows.com/devices/2015/10/09/pre-order-now-surface-book-surface-pro-4-and-microsoft-band-2/
  10. https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2016/10/surface-book-i7-microsofts-laptop-gets-new-16-hour-battery-life/
  11. https://blogs.windows.com/devices/2017/10/17/introducing-surface-book-2-the-most-powerful-surface-book-ever/
  12. https://blogs.windows.com/devices/2020/05/06/introducing-surface-go-2-surface-book-3-surface-headphones-2-and-surface-earbuds/
  13. https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2015/10/surface-book-review-the-laptop-that-replaces-your-tablet/
  14. https://news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Surface-Book-Fact-Sheet.pdf
  15. https://www.mobiletechreview.com/notebooks/Microsoft-Surface-Book.htm
  16. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/how-to-use-your-surface-pen-8a403519-cd1f-15b2-c9df-faa5aa924e98
  17. https://www.tabletsforartists.com/category/n-trig/
  18. https://news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/66/2015/11/Surface-Book-Fact-Sheet.pdf
  19. https://www.notebookcheck.net/Microsoft-Surface-Book-with-Performance-Base-GTX-965M-Convertible-Review.216890.0.html
  20. https://www.windowscentral.com/surface-book-performance-base
  21. https://news.microsoft.com/windows-event-2016-assets/Surface-Book-Fact-Sheet.pdf
  22. https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/microsoft-surface-book-2016-intel-core-i7
  23. https://blogs.windows.com/devices/2015/11/03/surface-book-more-than-a-laptop/
  24. https://www.theverge.com/2017/10/17/16481628/microsoft-surface-book-2-price-release-date-specs-availability-processor
  25. https://www.engadget.com/2017-10-17-surface-book-2-hands-on.html
  26. https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2017/11/surface-book-2-review-monster-performance-but-lightning-hasnt-struck-twice/
  27. https://www.windowscentral.com/surface-book-3-specs
  28. https://news.microsoft.com/wp-content/uploads/prod/sites/574/2020/05/Surface-Book-3-Fact-Sheet.docx
  29. https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/surface-book-gpu-overview
  30. https://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/microsoft-surface-book-3-15-inch
  31. https://www.theverge.com/21271735/microsoft-surface-book-3-review-15-inch-screen-size-specs-features-price
  32. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/fix-problems-detaching-or-attaching-your-surface-book-keyboard-99503713-0818-ad7c-3375-423bf4fbb69e
  33. https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/answers/questions/2292361/surface-book-swollen-battery-and-options-for-repla
  34. https://www.engineering.com/the-microsoft-surface-swollen-battery-problem/
  35. https://www.theregister.com/2019/08/16/microsoft_surface_cpu_throttling/
  36. https://hothardware.com/news/surface-pro-6-surface-book-2-throttling-400mhz
  37. https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2016/02/new-firmware-finally-fixes-surface-pro-4-surface-book-bugs-but-microsoft-should-do-better/
  38. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/what-to-try-if-your-surface-screen-is-flickering-distorted-or-has-other-display-issues-c64061ba-8c11-48fa-86ad-6ad9761061f6
  39. https://www.trustedreviews.com/news/microsoft-confirms-its-retiring-the-surface-book-range-4169485
  40. https://www.trustedreviews.com/news/surface-book-4-release-date-price-specs-design-features-4161380
  41. https://www.marketwatch.com/story/microsoft-surface-book-sells-out-in-5-days-2015-10-14
  42. https://www.amazon.com/NEW-Microsoft-Surface-Book-Touch-Screen/dp/B086QRJX6X
  43. https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/surface-driver-firmware-lifecycle-support
  44. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/surface-book-3-update-history-935a7b6b-2f6d-dbf9-b3ba-0ea61e187b2d
  45. https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/surface-supported-operating-systems
  46. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/which-surface-devices-can-be-upgraded-to-windows-11-76c3c125-82e0-4d1e-9550-12ed09f9058e
  47. https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/business/warranty-protection-plans-and-support
  48. https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/store/b/surface-repair-parts
  49. https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/surface-service-options
  50. https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=101315
  51. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/download-drivers-and-firmware-for-surface-09bb2e09-2a4b-cb69-0951-078a7739e120
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.