Microsoft introduced the Surface Pro 9 at the Microsoft Ignite event, showcasing their latest laptop lineup with both WiFi-only and 5G variants. These laptops come equipped with the latest Windows 11 updates, continuing the Surface series’ reputation for flexibility, especially with expandable storage options via SD cards. However, you might be wondering: Does the Surface Pro 9 include a MicroSD card slot? Let’s dive in.
Similar to the Surface Pro 8, the Surface Pro 9 lineup does not feature an SD card slot. This means you can no longer hot-swap SD cards on the go. While the built-in storage options on the Surface Pro 9 are adequate for basic tasks like web browsing, web apps, and meetings, they may not be enough for those needing more storage space.
The decision to remove the SD card slot is largely due to the Surface Pro 9’s slimmer design. Some may question why the relatively slim SD card slot was removed, but the answer remains with Microsoft.
For users who find the built-in storage insufficient, there’s an alternative. You can easily replace the M.2 SSD for a higher-capacity model, as long as you use a compatible M.2 2230 PCIe SSD. The good news is that swapping the SSD is straightforward—simply use the SIM ejector tool to open the SSD compartment located under the device’s kickstand.
If you still prefer using SD cards, you can purchase a USB-C SD card reader and plug it into the USB-C port on your Surface Pro 9. These readers are readily available and inexpensive on platforms like Amazon.
| Feature | Surface Pro 9 WiFi Variant | Surface Pro 9 5G Variant |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i5 1235U or Intel Core i7 1255U | Microsoft SQ 3 CPU |
| Graphics | Intel Iris Xe Graphics | Microsoft SQ 3 Adreno 8CX Gen 3 |
| RAM | 8GB, 16GB, 32GB LPDDR5 | 8GB, 16GB LPDDR4x |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| Display Size | 13-inch PixelSense Flow Display at 2880 x 1920 (267 PPI) | 13-inch PixelSense Flow Display at 2880 x 1920 (267 PPI) |
| Touch | 10-Point multi-touch | 10-Point multi-touch |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz |
| Battery | 15.5 hours | 19 hours |
| Camera | 1080p front-facing camera & 10MP rear camera with 1080p HD and 4K support | 1080p front-facing camera |
| Audio and Mic | 2W Stereo Dolby Atmos Audio Dual Field Studio Microphone | 2W Stereo Dolby Atmos Audio Dual field studio microphone |
| Ports | 2x USB-C 4.0 Thunderbolt 4 port | 1 Surface Connect port |
| Networking | WiFi 6E, 802.11ax | Bluetooth 5.1 |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Ambient Color Sensor | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Ambient Color Sensor |
| Color Options | Sapphire, Forest, Platinum, Graphite | Sapphire, Forest, Platinum, Graphite |
| Keyboard Color Options | Platinum, Black, Poppy, Red, Forest, Sapphire | Platinum, Black, Poppy, Red, Forest, Sapphire |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 have a MicroSD card slot?
No, the Surface Pro 9 does not include a MicroSD card slot. Unlike previous models, it has eliminated this feature to maintain a slimmer design.
Why did Microsoft remove the MicroSD card slot from the Surface Pro 9?
Microsoft removed the MicroSD card slot to make the Surface Pro 9 slimmer and more streamlined in design. The decision was part of optimizing the laptop’s overall aesthetics and performance.
Can I still expand storage on the Surface Pro 9 without a MicroSD card slot?
Yes, you can expand storage by replacing the M.2 SSD with a higher capacity model, as long as it’s a compatible M.2 2230 PCIe SSD.
How can I use an SD card with the Surface Pro 9 if there’s no MicroSD card slot?
You can use a USB-C SD card reader by connecting it to the USB-C port on the Surface Pro 9. These readers are widely available and affordable.
Are there any alternative options for expanding storage on the Surface Pro 9?
In addition to swapping the SSD, you can use external storage devices like USB drives or portable hard drives to store and transfer large files.
conclusion
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 does not have a MicroSD card slot. This decision was made to create a slimmer, more streamlined design. While this means you can no longer use hot-swappable SD cards on the go, there are still options for expanding storage. You can replace the internal M.2 SSD with a higher capacity drive or use external solutions like a USB-C SD card reader or portable storage devices. While the lack of a MicroSD card slot may be a limitation for some users, these alternatives provide flexibility for managing storage needs.
