Since the first Microsoft Surface device was released at the end of 2012, Surfaces have been one of the most popular business laptops on the market. With a combination of sleek design, good specifications and a variety of options, the Surface range has been an excellent option in businesses across the world.
We’ve covered the benefits, and how Microsoft Surfaces can empower your staff in a previous article. Whether you’re looking for a laptop, a 2 in 1 or an all in one PC, there’s a Surface device for everyone. Here are our 6 Microsoft Surface for business tips to help you get the most of your device.
Microsoft Surface Devices
What’s the difference between a Surface Pro and a Surface Laptop? And where does the Surface Go fit in? When deciding on the Surface device to suit, there are a range of options available. The devices currently available are:
Device | Type | Screen Size | Starting Prices (August 2021) |
Surface Laptop 4 13.5” | Laptop | 13.5” | £999 |
Surface Laptop 4 15” | Laptop | 15” | £1,299 |
Surface Laptop Go | Laptop | 12.4” | £549 |
Surface Book 13.5” | Laptop | 13.5” | £1,599 |
Surface Book 15” | Laptop | 15” | £2,199 |
Surface Go 2 | 2 in 1 | 10.4” | £399 |
Surface Pro 7 | 2 in 1 | 12.3” | £779 |
Surface Laptop 3 13.5” | Laptop | 13.5” | £795 |
Surface Laptop 3 15” | Laptop | 15” | £1,699 |
Surface Pro X | 2 in 1 | 13” | £999 |
Surface Studio 2 | All in 1 PC | 28” | £3,549 |
Your job role will likely have a massive impact on the best type of Surface device for you. If you are regularly travelling, in and out of meetings and need a portable device, one of the 2 in 1s would be a great option.
If you do much of your work at a desk and only occasionally need to be mobile, you cannot go wrong with one of the laptop options. If you only ever work in the same place and never need to be mobile or attend meetings away from your desk, and you don’t have to worry about budgets, why not try the Surface Studio 2.
Of course, this is entirely subjective, and you should research the different models to decide which would be the right fit for you. Make sure to have a look at the specifications so that you are buying a device powerful enough for you to get your job done.
Microsoft Surface Tips
Now you know which Microsoft Surface device is right for you, here are a few ways you can get the most out of your new device. Checkout our 6 Microsoft Surface tips.
Set up Windows Hello
Windows Hello is an excellent way of unlocking and using your device. Rather than having to type in your password every time you can unlock your device through biometrics. And because we always recommend a long, strong and secure password, this can be a significant time saving as well. Windows Hello will either use facial or fingerprint recognition, depending on the device.
Make use of the touch screen
If you’re transitioning from a laptop that doesn’t have touch screen, it can take a bit of time to get used to the new technology. With the Surface devices there are a number of handy gestures which can be much faster then using a mouse.
Enable device tracking
If you travel a lot for work, the last thing you want to do is misplace your Surface device. With device tracking enabled you’ll have a good idea of where your device is at all times so that if it does go missing the likelihood of tracking it down will be increased.
Surface Pen
The Surface Pen is fantastic with the 2 in 1 devices. If you’re making notes in a meeting, you can write them with the pen on the touch screen rather than typing, to replicate the feeling of pen and paper. But the pen can have habit of going missing so keep it in a pouch or a pocket when not in use rather than stuck to this side of the Surface by magnet.
Connect to an external monitor
This tip isn’t Surface specific, but is a great option when working away from the office. Rather than hunching over a small screen, sit comfortably and connect your device to a monitor to make work and collaboration easier.
Use an external keyboard and mouse
Again, if you’re sat at a desk away from the office this should make your working life easier. Rather than using the device is trackpad you should invest in a decent wireless mouse and get a keyboard that suits you. We would recommend wireless to reduce the amount of distractions on your desk at any given time.
Microsoft Surface for Business
The Surface range is one of our favourites available. If you think it’s time for a new device and you’re not sure which is the best for you, get in touch with one of the experts at ACUTEC today.