Does the Surface Pro Have an HDMI Port?
Is the Surface Pro a Smart TV Alternative?
The Surface Pro is a popular ultrabook that has gained a lot of attention in recent years. While it’s often compared to smart TVs, one of the key features that sets it apart is its lack of an HDMI port. But does that mean it’s not a good alternative for streaming your favorite shows and movies?
HDMI Options on the Surface Pro
The Surface Pro has two different models, the Surface Pro 4 and the Surface Pro 6. In each case, there are two HDMI ports available: one is a 3.5mm port and the other is a USB-C port with DisplayPort 1.4 capabilities. While this might seem like a significant limitation, there are still ways to use HDMI on the Surface Pro.
When Can You Use HDMI on the Surface Pro?
There are a few scenarios where you can use HDMI on the Surface Pro:
- Direct from the Surface Website: You can purchase a third-party HDMI transmitter and use it to connect your TV to the Surface Pro. This will allow you to stream content from your TV to the Surface Pro using the HDMI port.
- Using an HDMI Capture Card: You can use an HDMI capture card to connect your TV to the Surface Pro. This is a more complex solution, but it will allow you to stream content from your TV to the Surface Pro using the HDMI port.
- Using a USB-C to HDMI Adaptor: Some third-party USB-C to HDMI adaptors are available that can be plugged into the USB-C port of the Surface Pro. These adapters convert the USB-C signal to an HDMI signal, allowing you to connect your TV to the Surface Pro.
Is an HDMI Port on the Surface Pro a Major Concern?
While it’s true that the Surface Pro doesn’t have a traditional HDMI port, it’s not necessarily a major concern. After all, the lack of HDMI ports is a relatively minor design choice compared to the typical two-inch screen size of the Surface Pro.
Alternative Display Options
The Surface Pro can also be paired with an external display, such as a USB-C or HDMI-enabled monitor. This can be a convenient option if you need to use the Surface Pro in conjunction with a TV.
- USB-C Monitor: You can use a USB-C monitor to connect the Surface Pro to the external display. This will allow you to stream content from the Surface Pro to the external display.
- HDMI Monitor: You can use an HDMI monitor to connect the Surface Pro to the external display. This will allow you to stream content from the Surface Pro to the external display.
Powering an External Display
When using an external display with the Surface Pro, you’ll need to power it separately. You can do this using the Surface Pro’s USB-C port or a separate USB-C to Power Delivery (PD) adapter.
- USB-C Power Delivery: You can use a USB-C to Power Delivery adapter to charge the external display. This will allow you to plug the USB-C to Power Delivery adapter into the Surface Pro and power the external display.
- External Power Supply: You can also use an external power supply to power the external display. This will provide a separate power source for the external display, eliminating the need to use the Surface Pro’s USB-C port.
In Conclusion
While the Surface Pro doesn’t have a traditional HDMI port, there are still ways to use HDMI on the Surface Pro. The lack of HDMI ports is a relatively minor design choice, and the Surface Pro can be paired with an external display using a USB-C or HDMI-enabled monitor. The Surface Pro’s design is still an ultrabook, and its compact size and lightweight design make it a great choice for everyday use.
Comparison Table: Surface Pro and Smart TV Options
| Option | Surface Pro 4 | Surface Pro 6 |
|---|---|---|
| HDMI Ports | 1 x 3.5mm | 2 x USB-C + 1 x HDMI |
| Display Options | Internal display | External display (USB-C, HDMI, or USB-C + HDMI) |
| External Display Power | USB-C to Power Delivery (USB-C) | USB-C to Power Delivery (USB-C) or External Power Supply (HDMI) |
| USB-C Ports | 1 x USB-C | 1 x USB-C + 1 x DisplayPort 1.4 |
Additional Tips and Considerations
- Screen Size: The Surface Pro is designed for everyday use, and its screen size is suitable for most users. However, if you’re looking to use the Surface Pro in a more professional setting, you may want to consider a larger screen size.
- Resolution: The Surface Pro can display up to 4K resolution, but its screen size is limited by its ultrabook design. However, the Surface Pro’s display is still high-quality and suitable for most users.
- Portability: The Surface Pro is designed to be portable, and its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around. However, if you’re planning to use the Surface Pro in a more professional setting, you may want to consider a larger display size.