June 27, 2023

Laptops make your digital life more convenient, while desktop computers typically offer more powerful processors. That makes deciding between the two options a tough choice. Well, ditch the hard decisions and keep the versatility of a portable device by using a desktop replacement laptop.

From ultra-portable 2-in-1 devices to more traditional laptops, find out how to use Microsoft Surface laptops and accessories to combine the best features of laptops and desktop computers.

Choose the right desktop replacement laptop

Not every laptop makes a comparable desktop replacement—if you’re forgoing a desktop computer, choose a laptop with blazing fast power and functionality built for multitasking.

Surface Pro 9

While a traditional tablet doesn’t have enough power to mimic the desktop experience, the Surface Pro 9 has both the power of a PC and flexibility of a tablet. Its Quad-core 12ᵗʰ Gen Intel® Coreᵀᴹ i5 or i7 processors make great desktop replacements in both performance and versatility, and its compact form won’t get in the way of your setup. You can’t go wrong with the world-class performance and versatility of tablet mode on your Surface.

Surface Laptop Studio 2

When replacing your desktop with a laptop, look for a laptop with all of the powerful features that you’re accustomed to. Surface Laptop Studio 2 comes with powerful Intel Quad-core processors and NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ graphics processing units to handle everything you can throw at it. Whether you’re playing games or using it to work remotely, Laptop Studio 2 will give you just as much power as many desktop PCs on the market.

Surface Laptop 5

For a more traditional option, try Surface Laptop 5 as a desktop replacement laptop. With a vibrant PixelSense™ touchscreen and blazing-fast speed, you’ll get the perfect balance of features to get you through all of your tasks.

Use a laptop dock

If you’re going to use a desktop replacement laptop, a good laptop dock comes in handy. The Surface Dock 2 allows you to easily connect to the latest USB-C accessories and up to two external 4K monitors. Transform your Surface Pro or laptop into a powerful desktop computer by streamlining the way you connect. Accessories such as the Surface Thunderbolt™ 4 Dock and Surface Connect cable can charge your device while easily accessing external accessories like a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. The front-facing USB-C® ports charge your device and transfer data faster, while rear-facing USB-C ports are able to support dual 4K monitors for stunning desktop displays.

Set up your external monitor or laptop stand

With a laptop dock, you have the option of using your laptop screen in your desktop setup or choosing an external monitor instead. The Surface Dock 2 makes connecting to an external monitor easy, letting you connect your Surface device to your preferred monitor in a matter of seconds.

But you don’t need to purchase an external monitor to get the desktop experience. If you don’t need the extra screen real estate of a monitor, use your laptop screen instead; Windows can remember and adapt to the way you’re using your device, whether you plug it in or use it as a laptop or 2-in-1 device. Use your Surface laptop with a stand to replicate the feel of a desktop, and don’t forget the accessories like an external keyboard and Microsoft wireless mouse for the most comparable desktop experience.

Connect your external accessories

You’re halfway to an unbeatable desktop replacement, but don’t forget the extra accessories. A good external keyboard and mouse can make or break your setup. While you can’t go wrong with the classic Surface Pro Signature Keyboard for a Surface Pro, the Microsoft Designer Compact Keyboard mimics the feel of a desktop computer without taking up too much space on your desk or in your work bag. Plus, an external mouse, like the Surface Arc Mouse, gives you the full desktop experience by letting you forget about your laptop’s trackpad.

Powerful Surface laptops give you the performance of a desktop computer with the versatility of a portable device. If you’re not sure which Surface device makes the most sense as a desktop replacement laptop, take our quiz to find the perfect model for your setup.