Drawing and sketching:
Surface Pro Signature Keyboard with Slim Pen 2
Choice of personnel
The Surface Slim Pen 2 can feel like writing on real paper thanks to a small haptic motor inside that vibrates when you use the device in certain apps. It has a great design and is more precise than the previous Slim Pen. Buy it with the new Surface Pro Keyboard, which not only serves as storage but also charges the stylus.
Stylish protection:
WaterField Zoom Shoulder Bag
There are bags, and then there is WaterField Designs. Made in the USA, these premium bags are the perfect, durable choice for those who want to carry Surface Pro 8 all the time and look stylish too. But in addition to fashion, this bag contains plenty of pockets, zippers and features for the discerning day traveler. Our review goes over all the reasons why you should buy this bag.
From $ 209 at SFBags
Better typing experience:
Surface Pro keyboard
There are no less than four options for official Surface Pro 8 keyboards, but this one is the cheapest. For $ 140, it has multi-level backlighting, a precision trackpad… and a single color (black). There’s no slot for a Surface Slim Pen, so it’s a good option alone if you have no interest in using this accessory. Otherwise, check out the Surface Pro Signature Keyboard with Slim Pen 2 ($ 280).
Additional ports:
Microsoft Surface Dock 2
Compatible with Surface Pro 8, Dock 2 offers four USB-C ports (two for video), two USB-A 3.2, Ethernet, 3.5mm audio, and a Kensington lock slot. It can drive up to two 4K displays, each with a 60Hz refresh rate, or a single 5K display at a 30Hz refresh rate. It will also charge your Surface Pro with up to 120W of power.
Multipurpose dock:
Kensington SD5750T Thunderbolt Dock
Kensington’s new Thunderbolt 4 dock is the same as the excellent SD5700T but is officially approved by Microsoft for Surface Pro 8 and Laptop Studio. It offers 90W power, 4 Thunderbolt 4 ports, 4 USB-A ports, Ethernet jack, audio and SD card slot, making it a compelling and powerful accessory.
$ 370 at Microsoft
Additional protection:
Kensington Blackbelt Rugged Case
The Kensington Blackbelt Rugged Case not only meets MIL-STD-810H drop and fluid tests to protect your Surface Pro 8, but also allows you to use the integrated fully articulated kickstand with the Surface Type Cover, and it features with a handle. There’s even a top pen holder with a drawstring and optional shoulder strap. It also has an official Made for Microsoft Surface badge.
$ 45 on Amazon
Portable mouse:
Surface arc mouse
The Surface Arc Mouse is available in many different colors and is designed to slip easily into a pocket or bag when you’re on the go. Its design allows it to fold flat when stored and fold into a comfortable curve when in use. The Surface Arc connects with Bluetooth and has a range of around 10 meters, and the batteries should last over six months on a charge.
More privacy:
Kensington MagPro Elite Magnetic Privacy Screen
If you use your Surface Pro 8 in public, the Kensington MagPro Privacy Screen is a must-have. Placed on top of the Pro 8’s screen, this privacy screen dramatically reduces viewing angles (+/- 30 degrees), so that only the person looking directly at the screen can see the content. The screen layer is magnetic, so you can just put it on when you need it. Built in conjunction with Microsoft, so you know it’s good.
$ 50 (coming February 2022)
Alternative game control:
Xbox Wireless Controller
The Surface Pro 8 with Intel Iris Xe is a great little gaming machine, but you’ll probably want something to help you navigate the game. The Xbox Wireless Controller connects to your Pro 8 via Bluetooth – no connectors stick out – so you can enjoy the haptic feedback and that classic feel in your hands.
From $ 77 on Amazon
A new look:
dBrand Skins
If you want to change the look of Surface Pro 8, add a high quality dBrand skin. Choose from many colors and textures including mix and match (one for top back half and bottom half). You can even get a skin for the Rear Surface logo for an additional $ 1.
From $ 20 at dBrand
A real laptop:
Brydge SP +
Want to turn the Surface Pro 8 into a real laptop? Just add Brydge’s excellent SP + Bluetooth Keyboard and you will have your wish. With a spectacular keyboard, solid trackpad, backlighting, and precision design, this replacement keyboard turns your Surface Pro into a whole new experience, all at a great price.
Protect your glass:
Spigen Tempered Glass Screen Protector
Spigen’s well-rated screen protector for Surface Pro 8 adds oleophobic coating to prevent fingerprints, adds 9H screen hardness, preserves clarity, brightness and color, thanks to quality tempered glass. It has cutouts for speakers, cameras, microphones and does not interfere with the keyboard. It also won’t interfere with your pen and ink experience.
$ 19 on Amazon
Cozy protection:
Protective cover for tomtoc 360 laptop
For better protection, you might want to take a look at this pouch / carrying case from tomtoc. It’s a soft fabric with two zippers to securely store your Surface Pro 8 and make room for small accessories like a charger. Not only is it available in four colors to match your style, but it also has a fancy handle for carrying it around.
From $ 25 on Amazon
Portable flexibility:
NOVOO 8 in 1 USB C Hub
What if you need more ports? This travel hub includes 1x HDMI 4K, 3x USB 3.0 Type A, SD card reader, TF card reader, Ethernet and 100W Type-C charging port. It clips to your bag with a keychain design and the cable is integrated into the aluminum body, making it clutter-free.
$ 50 on Amazon
Add a real GPU:
Razer Core X aluminum external GPU
With Thunderbolt 4, why not turn Surface Pro 8 into a real gaming PC? With this external GPU (eGPU) and only one cable, you will have a very powerful gaming experience. Also make sure you have the video card.
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$ 300 on Amazon
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$ 300 at Razer
This GPU:
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Ti
If you get this Razer eGPU, it’s the cheapest GPU you can get for it. Sure, there’s the 3080, but this 3060 Ti is more than enough for serious gaming, and it won’t crush your wallet.
Robust protection:
UAG rugged cases
If you’re planning to take your Surface Pro 8 out into the wild, don’t worry with UAG’s range of three rugged, semi-rugged cases. Scout is the lightest with essential corner and frame protection. Metropolis covers the entire device, while Plasma has an integrated rear handle and can even take a shoulder strap. All are tailored for Surface Pro 8.
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$ 70 on Amazon
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From $ 50 at UAG
Legacy assistance:
Syntech USB C to USB A Adapter
Unfortunately, Surface Pro 8 only has two Type-C (Thunderbolt 4) ports, so if you need an older Type-A in a pinch, you’ll need an adapter. Syntech provides you with two in the box, and while small (and easily lost), you can leave them attached to your favorite Type-A device, making your life easier.
$ 10 on Amazon