Skip to main content

Will Surface Pen work better with the Surface Studio?

Microsoft Surface Studio & Pen
Last month, we got some hands on time with the new Surface Studio, Microsoft’s first all-in-one PC effort and the flagship of the Surface line. Since related hardware often gets released when a signature item rolls out, it’s fair to ask if the Surface Pen’s hardware had been improved: Is there an entirely new Pen to go along with the rest of the revamped lineup?

According to MSPoweruser, the answer isn’t with the Pen, it’s with the tech behind the new device — the Studio itself. A Microsoft rep told them “the technology in the Pen hasn’t changed, but Pen enhancements are linked to the new devices themselves. So [it is the] same Surface Pen but improved performance with the technology built into Surface Studio.” So for a larger price tag (the Studio starts at $2,999), you get improved usability for the peripherals.

You should still be able to use your old Surface Pens that came with the Surface Pro 4 and the Surface Book on the Surface Studio. As MSPoweruser noted, “Microsoft’s Pen improvements are mostly tied to the hardware and firmware of the Studio, (so) you should be able to use your older Pens on the upcoming device should you choose to.”

The Surface has had a bit of a checkered past to this point. The line was released back in 2012, and the Surface Studio marks the 10th edition if you include models like the Surface Hub. Rolled out with a radical new keyboard cover and pen, it really was a tablet/laptop hybrid the likes of which we had not seen before. The release of the Studio and the marketing push behind it — including Surface being the official tablet of the NFL despite the objections of a certain New England coach — means Redmond is all-in on its evolutionary/revolutionary device. Get your Pen ready!

Editors' Recommendations

Brinke Guthrie
Brinke’s favorite toys include his Samsung Galaxy Tab S, Toshiba Chromebook 2, Motorola Moto G4, and two Kindles. A…
This might be a big year for the Surface after all
The Surface Pro 9 in laptop mode on a table.

After a disappointing and concerning 2023, the Surface line of laptops might end up having an interesting year in 2024 after all.

According to the latest reports, there may already be a potential lineup for Microsoft Surface products set for 2024, with the first devices likely set to ship in April and June.

Read more
Why I went with the MacBook Pro over the Mac Studio
Apple MacBook Pro 16 front angled view showing display and keyboard.

A few weeks ago, I decided to migrate to all-Apple computing. It's been a fascinating journey and certainly not a straight line, with several unanticipated twists. Perhaps the biggest is an about-face when it comes to my main PC.

I had fully intended to replace my workhorse Windows desktop with Apple's most powerful, yet accessible desktop, the Mac Studio. That seemed entirely logical: a desktop PC should replace a desktop PC. As it turns out, however, Apple's MacBook Pro 16 better fits my needs. The reason why involves a lot of personal decision-making that hopefully you'll be able to relate to as you map out your own computing needs.
The M3 Max made me wonder

Read more
How to configure a Mac Studio that’s right for you
Apple Mac Studio top down view showing PC and keyboard.

Apple's Mac Studio is an elegantly designed desktop PC that fits into tight spaces. It's also one of the quietest desktops you'll find, making it an unobtrusive choice, while also providing surprisingly fast performance.

But while the Mac Studio offers decent connectivity, it's also a sealed enclosure with zero expandability. What you order is what you'll have forever, so choosing carefully when configuring your Mac Studio is vital. This guide will help you make the right decisions.
Specs and configurations

Read more