Many believe that the Surface Pro should come with a keyboard. In fact, it's something that reviewers and customers alike have complained about ever since the first Surface launched all the way back in 2012, as the keyboard is an integral aspect of the overall Surface Pro experience.
Well, it appears Microsoft is finally addressing those complaints, at least temporarily. With the launch of the new Surface Pro 12th Gen, Microsoft is including a Surface Pro keyboard with every new order for customers in the United States.
"For a limited time, customers in the U.S. can take advantage of our exclusive hero offer from June 16 through June 30, including a free Surface Pro 13-inch Keyboard when purchasing a Surface Pro 13-inch," Microsoft confirmed.
That means the $170 keyboard accessory is now free, as long as you order a Surface Pro before June 30. After that date, the Surface Pro Keyboard will once again become an optional extra that costs money. The keyboard that's included in the deal is the basic one with no Surface Pen charging functionality.
Of course, Microsoft still sells its more expensive Surface Pro Flex Keyboard, which is not part of this deal unsurprisingly. That keyboard costs an eyewatering $400, and that's without the Surface Slim Pen 2. If you want the pen too, that bumps the price up to $500.
The Surface Pro Flex Keyboard is the best Surface Pro keyboard however, complete with a haptic trackpad that feels amazing, built-in wireless charging for the Slim Pen 2, and it even supports Bluetooth so that it can be used while disconnected from the tablet.
The basic Surface Pro keyboard that's part of this deal includes no such features. It has a traditional diveboard trackpad, no pen storage or charging, and is made out of slightly cheaper materials. It still feels great to use and type on, but it's definitely no Surface Pro Flex Keyboard.
For most people who just want a new Surface Pro but don't need the full Surface Pro Flex Keyboard experience, this limited time deal will be great as it means you get the full 2-in-1 experience without having to pay extra for the entry-level keyboard accessory. As a bonus, it also protects your screen when the tablet isn't in use!
This deal is available for all Surface Pro 12th-Gen orders made on the Microsoft Store in the United States between now and June 30. So get your order in before it's too late!