Before we answer that question, here’s a little refresher on the very unique Surface Studio.
Unlike several other Surface devices, you can’t slip it in a bag and tote it around. However, that’s not what Surface Studio is designed for anyway. Surface Studio is a truly impactful device for modern workplaces and customer-facing settings.
Even just a few generations in, this adjustable, all-in-one touchscreen device has gained a massive fan base amongst creators, 3D designers, R&D visionaries, data workers and more. It’s jam-packed with amazing colour and graphics, blazing-fast processing, intuitive inking and immersive conferencing.
With the upcoming release of Surface Studio 2+, a significant increase in performance and enhanced features promises to further unlock creativity and productivity in the hybrid workspace, and look phenomenally good doing it. Let’s take a look!
Australian release date: 1st November 2022
Most suited for: engineers, designers, researchers, data professionals, animators, architects
Upgrade focus: Less about form and more about incredible graphics and powerful performance
The Surface Studio 2+ screen looks almost identical to its predecessor with the same generously sized 28” PixelSense touchscreen with a 4500 by 3000-pixel resolution. However, the main improvement here is the Dolby Vision support which allows for a more extensive number of colours, brightness and contrast and a more natural look on the screen.
The massive reclining touch display is ideal for 3D modelling and split screen multitasking with up to four at once or immersive conferencing. Users can work upright at the desktop by lowering and raising the display with the Zero Gravity Hinge, or down low at an angled drafting table.
Whereas Studio 2 has a single USB 3.1 type-C port, there are now three Thunderbolt 4 connections. The 3.5mm audio port remains, but the card reader has vanished. Wireless connectivity has also taken a step forward, with Wi-Fi 6 replacing Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth graduating from 4.1 to 5.1. As a result, users can expect a far better wireless peripheral experience with this latest iteration.
Audio quality has been given a generous boost moving from 2D immersive technology with Dolby Audio speakers thanks to Dolby Atmos, a 3D immersive technology that ‘tricks’ your ears into thinking that sound is coming from all directions, not just in front of you. It’s a highly sought-after feature and a truly immersive sound experience. The webcam specification stays the same, offering 1080p FHD video, Studio mics and support for Windows Hello facial recognition.
Another big plus is the number of replaceable and repairable components that will extend the life of your Studio 2+. These include the display module, feet, SSD module, PSU, thermal module and motherboard.
Graphics-intensive workloads such as 3D rendering, animation and video editing will be more than supported by the very capable new Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 GPU, an improvement on the GTX 1060. However, it’s the new Intel 11th gen processor Core i7-11370H processor that really shines, a chip that Microsoft says makes Studio 2+ 50% faster than Studio 2. As an all-in-one desktop aimed at professional users, these performance upgrades will undoubtedly power them through all their power-intensive, multi-tasking workloads – and then some.
As customers return to in-person interactions and employees return to the office, inspiring technology with impactful design creates that next level of professionalism. Surface Studio 2+ will impress on sales floors, reception desks in healthcare and other enterprises, hotel lobbies, or as an executive desktop. However, it also ties into the battle for talent. Studio 2+ is a crucial technology advantage that will help attract top talent.
Overall, if you’re looking for more power and better graphics, more immersive video and sound, and a high-end experience, Studio 2+ more than delivers. While the plus in its name indicates that it’s not quite the anticipated full leap forward hoped, if you’re planning on upgrading your top-level user devices, you should absolutely choose this latest model.
Data#3 is your go-to partner for end-to-end support, maintenance and training for all your Surface fleet requirements. Find out how we can transform your team with the Surface suite at the best possible prices, or pre-order from the new Surface family with us.