The Surface Pro 4 Dilemma: How Much is it Worth in Today’s Market?

Microsoft’s Surface Pro 4 is a powerful and versatile tablet-laptop hybrid that has been a favorite among professionals, students, and casual users alike since its release in 2015. With its sleek design, impressive performance, and seamless Windows 10 experience, it’s no wonder that many are still holding onto theirs or looking to buy a used or refurbished model. But with the constant evolution of technology and newer Surface Pro models on the market, the question remains: how much is a Microsoft Surface Pro 4 worth in today’s market?

Understanding the Original Price and Specs

To determine the Surface Pro 4’s value, it’s essential to understand its original price and specs. At launch, the Surface Pro 4 started at around $899 for the base model, which featured an Intel Core M3 processor, 4GB of RAM, and a 128GB solid-state drive. The top-of-the-line model, with an Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD, retailed for a whopping $2,699.

Here are the original specs and prices for the Surface Pro 4:

Model Processor RAM Storage Price (at launch)
Base Model Intel Core M3 4GB 128GB SSD $899
Mid-Range Model Intel Core i5 8GB 256GB SSD $1,299
Top-of-the-Line Model Intel Core i7 16GB 1TB SSD $2,699

Determining the Current Value: Factors to Consider

Several factors contribute to the Surface Pro 4’s current value, including:

Age and Condition

As with any electronic device, the Surface Pro 4’s age significantly impacts its value. The older the device, the less it’s worth. Additionally, the condition of the device plays a crucial role. A Surface Pro 4 in excellent condition, with minimal signs of wear and tear, will fetch a higher price than one with scratches, dents, or other cosmetic damage.

Specifications and Performance

The Surface Pro 4’s specs, although impressive at launch, may not be as competitive in today’s market. Newer Surface Pro models boast more powerful processors, improved RAM, and larger storage capacities. This means that the Surface Pro 4’s value is directly tied to its ability to keep up with modern demands.

Competition from Newer Models

The release of newer Surface Pro models, such as the Surface Pro 5, 6, and 7, has undoubtedly impacted the Surface Pro 4’s value. These newer models offer improved performance, features, and designs, making them more attractive to potential buyers.

Market Demand

Market demand also plays a significant role in determining the Surface Pro 4’s value. If there is high demand for the device, prices will be higher. Conversely, if demand is low, prices will be lower.

The Current Market Value of a Surface Pro 4

Based on various online marketplaces, such as eBay, Amazon, and Craigslist, here are some approximate values for a used or refurbished Surface Pro 4:

  • Base Model (Intel Core M3, 4GB RAM, 128GB SSD): $400 – $600
  • Mid-Range Model (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD): $600 – $900
  • Top-of-the-Line Model (Intel Core i7, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD): $1,200 – $1,800

Keep in mind that these are rough estimates and can vary depending on the device’s condition, warranty, and other factors.

Refurbished and Certified Pre-Owned Options

Refurbished or certified pre-owned Surface Pro 4 models can offer a more affordable option for those looking to purchase a used device. These models have been inspected, repaired, and tested to ensure they meet certain standards and often come with a warranty. Here are some approximate values for refurbished or certified pre-owned Surface Pro 4 models:

  • Base Model (Intel Core M3, 4GB RAM, 128GB SSD): $300 – $500
  • Mid-Range Model (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD): $500 – $800
  • Top-of-the-Line Model (Intel Core i7, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD): $1,000 – $1,500

Tips for Buying or Selling a Surface Pro 4

Whether you’re looking to buy or sell a Surface Pro 4, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Buyer’s Tips

  • Research, research, research: Compare prices across different online marketplaces and retailers to find the best deal.
  • Check the warranty: Ensure that the device is still under warranty or comes with a refurbished warranty.
  • Inspect the device: Carefully inspect the device for any cosmetic damage or signs of wear and tear.
  • Check for any recalls: Verify that the device has not been recalled by Microsoft or other authorities.

Seller’s Tips

  • Set a competitive price: Research similar listings to determine a fair and competitive price for your device.
  • Highlight the device’s condition: Emphasize the device’s condition, including any cosmetic damage or wear and tear.
  • Provide detailed documentation: Include detailed documentation, such as the device’s specifications, warranty information, and any repair history.
  • Use high-quality images: Take high-quality images of the device to showcase its condition and features.

Conclusion

Determining the value of a Microsoft Surface Pro 4 requires careful consideration of various factors, including age, condition, specifications, and market demand. By understanding these factors and researching the current market, you can make an informed decision when buying or selling a Surface Pro 4. Remember to set a competitive price, highlight the device’s condition, and provide detailed documentation to ensure a smooth transaction.

Is the Surface Pro 4 still worth buying in 2023?

The Surface Pro 4 was released in 2015, and since then, there have been several newer models introduced to the market. However, the Surface Pro 4 can still be a viable option for those looking for a 2-in-1 device. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons before making a purchase decision.

In terms of performance, the Surface Pro 4 can still hold its own, especially for general productivity tasks like browsing, emailing, and office work. Additionally, its display is still impressive, with a high-resolution touchscreen and excellent viewing angles. If you can find a good deal on a refurbished or used Surface Pro 4, it might be worth considering. However, if you’re looking for the latest and greatest features, you might want to explore newer models.

How does the Surface Pro 4 compare to newer Surface models?

The Surface Pro 4 is an older model, and Microsoft has since released several newer Surface devices, including the Surface Pro 5, 6, and 7. These newer models have introduced several significant upgrades, including improved processors, better battery life, and enhanced features like facial recognition and USB-C ports.

Compared to the newer Surface models, the Surface Pro 4 may seem outdated, especially in terms of performance and features. However, the Surface Pro 4 still has its advantages, such as a more affordable price point and a still-capable processor. If you’re on a budget or have basic needs, the Surface Pro 4 might still be a viable option. But if you need the latest and greatest, a newer Surface model might be a better fit.

What are the main differences between the Surface Pro 4 and Surface Pro 7?

The Surface Pro 7 is a more recent model, released in 2019, and it has several key differences compared to the Surface Pro 4. One of the main differences is the processor – the Surface Pro 7 is equipped with 10th Gen Intel Core processors, while the Surface Pro 4 has 6th Gen Intel Core processors.

Another significant difference is the addition of USB-C ports and a USB-A port in the Surface Pro 7, making it more versatile in terms of connectivity. The Surface Pro 7 also has a more modern design, with rounded edges and a thinner profile. Additionally, the Surface Pro 7 has a longer battery life, with up to 10.5 hours of usage compared to the Surface Pro 4’s 9 hours.

Is the Surface Pro 4 still supported by Microsoft?

Microsoft has officially ended mainstream support for the Surface Pro 4, which means it will no longer receive new features or updates. However, Microsoft will still provide security updates and fix security vulnerabilities until 2024.

This means that the Surface Pro 4 will still receive critical security updates to keep your device safe, but you won’t get any new features or enhancements. If you’re planning to use your Surface Pro 4 for basic tasks, this might not be a significant issue. However, if you need the latest features and updates, a newer Surface model might be a better option.

How much is the Surface Pro 4 worth today?

The value of the Surface Pro 4 depends on several factors, including the condition, storage capacity, and processor type. A brand-new, unopened Surface Pro 4 can still fetch a reasonable price, around $600-$800. Refurbished or used Surface Pro 4 models can be found for significantly less, around $300-$500.

It’s essential to research and compare prices before making a purchase, especially if you’re looking for a used or refurbished Surface Pro 4. Additionally, consider the cost of any additional accessories you might need, such as a keyboard or stylus.

Should I buy a Surface Pro 4 or a newer Surface model?

The decision to buy a Surface Pro 4 or a newer Surface model depends on your needs and budget. If you’re looking for a device for basic tasks like browsing, emailing, and office work, the Surface Pro 4 might still be a viable option, especially if you can find a good deal.

However, if you need a device for more demanding tasks like video editing, gaming, or heavy multitasking, a newer Surface model with more modern processors and features might be a better fit. Additionally, if you want the latest and greatest features, a newer Surface model might be worth the investment.

What are some alternatives to the Surface Pro 4?

If you’re considering alternatives to the Surface Pro 4, there are several options available in the market. One option is the Lenovo Yoga series, which offers a similar 2-in-1 design and competitive pricing. Another option is the HP Envy x2, which provides a similar convertible design and impressive battery life.

Other alternatives include the Dell XPS 13 2-in-1, the Asus ZenBook Flip, and the Acer Aspire R series. These devices offer similar features and form factors to the Surface Pro 4, but with varying price points and feature sets. It’s essential to research and compare these alternatives before making a purchase decision.

Leave a Comment