Microsoft is expanding 5G connectivity to its Surface Laptop 7 for business customers, marking the first time this model has offered cellular connectivity. While the Surface Pro 11 has boasted 5G capabilities since launch, this new development brings the Surface Laptop 7 in line with its tablet counterpart, at least for business users. Details are scarce, but Microsoft has stated that the 5G-enabled Surface Laptop 7 for Business will begin rolling out later in 2025. More information is promised in the coming months, including whether a consumer version will be available.
New Processor Options and Availability
Pre-orders for the Surface Laptop 7 and Surface Pro 11 for Business have been open since August 2024. Now, Microsoft is offering both devices with either Snapdragon X processors or the latest Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors (codenamed Lunar Lake). These Lunar Lake models, certified as Copilot+ PCs, will be available for businesses starting February 18, 2025, with a starting price of $1,500 for both the Surface Laptop 7 and Surface Pro 11.
Business Features and Management
While similar to the consumer models available at retailers, the business versions of the Surface Laptop 7 and Surface Pro 11 offer enhanced security and management features. Pre-loaded with Windows 11 Pro, these devices provide access to the Surface Management Portal, a valuable tool for IT administrators overseeing multiple devices. This portal simplifies device management and ensures enhanced security across the organization.
Consumer Availability and Pricing
It remains unclear if a consumer version of the 5G-enabled Surface Laptop 7 will be released. Currently, business-focused Surface devices are available for purchase directly from Microsoft, albeit at a slightly higher price point. For example, the Surface Pro 11 with the Snapdragon X Plus, 16GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage retails for $1,000 in the consumer market, while the business version starts at $1,100 for the same configuration. The exact price difference varies based on the chosen specifications.
Lunar Lake Models: A Premium Option
The new Lunar Lake models command a significantly higher price than their Snapdragon counterparts, with a difference of approximately $400. Both the Surface Laptop 7 and Surface Pro 11 Lunar Lake models can be configured with up to a Core Ultra 7 268V processor, 32GB of memory, and a 1TB storage drive. The base configuration, however, features a Core Ultra 5 236V processor, 16GB of memory, and a 256GB user-upgradable storage drive.
Conclusion: 5G for Business, Future Uncertain for Consumers
The addition of 5G to the Surface Laptop 7 for Business enhances connectivity and productivity for mobile professionals. The introduction of Lunar Lake processor options provides even more performance for demanding tasks. While business customers have exciting new options, consumer availability of the 5G Surface Laptop 7 remains uncertain. More details from Microsoft are expected in the coming months, which will hopefully shed light on consumer availability and pricing for this enhanced Surface Laptop 7.
