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- Best overall: LG gram 17 (Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD)
- Best budget: Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD)
- Best premium: ASUS Zenbook S 16 (UM5606, Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD)
- Best for travel: Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (SQ3, 5G, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD)
- LG gram 17 is the stronger choice for a large workspace, with a 17-inch display and a roomy keyboard.
- Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is the better pick for tablet flexibility, touch input and detachable keyboard use.
- For laptop-first work, compare Microsoft Surface Laptop 7th Edition 15-inch and Apple MacBook Air 15-inch (M3).
- Choose by form factor, screen size, memory and included accessories rather than headline specifications alone.
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 and LG gram 17 suit different kinds of Black Friday 2026 shoppers: the Surface Pro 9 is a detachable 2-in-1, while the LG gram 17 is a conventional 17-inch laptop. I researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to identify where each model earns its place, along with alternatives for shoppers who want a laptop-first design.
My pick for most people depends on how they work. Choose Microsoft Surface Pro 9 for handwriting, touch and tablet flexibility; choose LG gram 17 for a large screen and built-in laptop keyboard. The product cards below explain the trade-offs, and the buying guide covers what to check before choosing a configuration.
How We Picked
- Compared display size, resolution and aspect ratio to distinguish compact 2-in-1 use from large-screen laptop work.
- Reviewed processor, memory and storage configurations for everyday productivity, multitasking and creative workloads.
- Considered portability, battery design and connectivity alongside the practical differences between detachable and traditional laptops.
- Used published specifications, reviews and owner feedback rather than research.
- Selected alternatives that offer distinct screen sizes, operating systems or premium features for Black Friday 2026 shoppers.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Display | Memory | Storage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) | Detachable Windows tablet use | 13-inch | 8GB RAM | 256GB SSD |
| Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (SQ3, 5G, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) | Travel with mobile data | 13-inch | 8GB RAM | 256GB SSD |
| LG gram 17 (Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) | Large-screen productivity | 17-inch, 2560 × 1600 | 16GB RAM | 1TB SSD |
| Microsoft Surface Laptop 7th Edition 15-inch (Snapdragon X Plus, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) | A conventional Surface laptop | 15-inch | 16GB RAM | 256GB SSD |
| Apple MacBook Air 15-inch (M3, 16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD) | Quiet macOS work | 15.3-inch | 16GB unified memory | 256GB SSD |
| Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 (Intel Core Ultra 7 155U, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) | Business travel and typing | 14-inch | 16GB RAM | 512GB SSD |
| ASUS Zenbook S 16 (UM5606, Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) | Premium Windows multitasking | 16-inch, 3K OLED | 32GB RAM | 1TB SSD |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD)
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) is the best detachable Windows pick for students and mobile note-takers, with a 13-inch PixelSense touchscreen.
Best for: Windows tablet flexibility and everyday school or office work
- Display
- 13-inch PixelSense touchscreen
- Processor
- Intel Core i5
- Memory
- 8GB RAM
- Storage
- 256GB SSD
- Detachable design supports tablet and laptop-style use.
- Sharp, responsive touchscreen supports pen input.
- Compact body is easy to carry.
- Keyboard and stylus are separate accessories on many configurations.
- 8GB RAM limits demanding multitasking.
Is the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 Intel Core i5 worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) is worth considering for shoppers who value a Windows tablet that doubles as a laptop. The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD)'s 13-inch touchscreen suits notes, browsing and office tasks, while the detachable keyboard design adds flexibility.
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#2
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (SQ3, 5G, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD)
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (SQ3, 5G, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) is the best connected tablet-laptop for frequent travelers, with a 13-inch touchscreen and built-in 5G support.
Best for: Travelers who want mobile data in a detachable PC
- Display
- 13-inch PixelSense touchscreen
- Processor
- Microsoft SQ3
- Mobile connectivity
- 5G
- Memory and storage
- 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD
- 5G connectivity supports work away from Wi-Fi.
- Detachable form fits tablet-first use.
- Touchscreen and optional pen suit annotation.
- Some specialized Windows apps favor Intel systems.
- Keyboard and pen are often sold separately.
Is the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 SQ3 5G worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (SQ3, 5G, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD) is worth considering for mobile professionals who need a connected Windows tablet. The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (SQ3, 5G, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD)'s 5G capability and 13-inch touchscreen make it convenient for travel, while app compatibility deserves a check before purchase.
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#3 · Top pick
LG gram 17 (Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD)
The LG gram 17 (Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) is the best large-screen laptop for spreadsheet users and multitaskers, with a 17-inch WQXGA display.
Best for: Large-screen productivity and multitasking
- Display
- 17-inch, 2560 × 1600
- Processor
- Intel Core Ultra 7 155H
- Memory
- 16GB RAM
- Storage
- 1TB SSD
- Large high-resolution display gives apps room to breathe.
- 16GB RAM supports heavier everyday multitasking.
- 1TB SSD provides generous built-in storage.
- 17-inch size is less convenient for cramped bags and desks.
- Traditional laptop design does not convert into a tablet.
Is the LG gram 17 Intel Core Ultra 7 worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The LG gram 17 (Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) is worth considering for shoppers who prioritize screen space and multitasking. The LG gram 17 (Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD)'s 17-inch, 2560 × 1600 display suits documents and side-by-side apps, while its laptop-only design is less versatile than a detachable.
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#4
Microsoft Surface Laptop 7th Edition 15-inch (Snapdragon X Plus, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD)
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7th Edition 15-inch (Snapdragon X Plus, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) is the best Surface laptop for everyday portability, with a 15-inch touchscreen.
Best for: A conventional Surface laptop with a roomy display
- Display
- 15-inch touchscreen
- Processor
- Snapdragon X Plus
- Memory
- 16GB RAM
- Storage
- 256GB SSD
- Laptop-first build needs no separate keyboard.
- Touchscreen pairs naturally with Windows gestures.
- 16GB RAM is a practical multitasking baseline.
- ARM app compatibility is worth checking for specialist software.
- 256GB storage fills quickly with large media libraries.
Is the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7th Edition 15-inch worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7th Edition 15-inch (Snapdragon X Plus, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) is worth considering for shoppers who want a regular laptop rather than a detachable. The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7th Edition 15-inch (Snapdragon X Plus, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD)'s 15-inch touchscreen and 16GB RAM suit daily productivity, while app needs should guide the Snapdragon decision.
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#5
Apple MacBook Air 15-inch (M3, 16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD)
The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch (M3, 16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD) is the best quiet macOS laptop for everyday work, with a 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display.
Best for: macOS users seeking a large, fanless laptop
- Display
- 15.3-inch Liquid Retina
- Processor
- Apple M3
- Memory
- 16GB unified memory
- Storage
- 256GB SSD
- Fanless design runs quietly during routine work.
- Large display supports comfortable document viewing.
- 16GB unified memory fits broad everyday workloads.
- macOS is not a fit for every Windows-only workflow.
- Storage capacity is modest for large video collections.
Is the Apple MacBook Air 15-inch M3 worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch (M3, 16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD) is worth considering for shoppers committed to macOS and quiet everyday computing. The Apple MacBook Air 15-inch (M3, 16GB unified memory, 256GB SSD)'s 15.3-inch display gives work more room than a compact laptop, but check required apps and storage needs before choosing.
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#6
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 (Intel Core Ultra 7 155U, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD)
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 (Intel Core Ultra 7 155U, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) is the best business-travel laptop for frequent typists, with a 14-inch display.
Best for: Business travelers and long-form typing
- Display
- 14-inch
- Processor
- Intel Core Ultra 7 155U
- Memory
- 16GB RAM
- Storage
- 512GB SSD
- Business-focused design suits office and travel use.
- 16GB RAM and 512GB storage make a balanced setup.
- 14-inch size balances workspace and portability.
- Costs more than basic productivity laptops in many configurations.
- Not designed for tablet-style use.
Is the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 (Intel Core Ultra 7 155U, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) is worth considering for business users who value a portable keyboard-first laptop. The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 12 (Intel Core Ultra 7 155U, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD)'s 14-inch display and balanced memory and storage suit office work, while a detachable tablet is more flexible for pen use.
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#7
ASUS Zenbook S 16 (UM5606, Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD)
The ASUS Zenbook S 16 (UM5606, Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) is the best premium Windows alternative for demanding multitaskers, with a 16-inch 3K OLED display.
Best for: Premium Windows performance and a vivid OLED screen
- Display
- 16-inch, 3K OLED
- Processor
- AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370
- Memory
- 32GB RAM
- Storage
- 1TB SSD
- OLED panel provides high contrast and vivid color.
- 32GB RAM supports substantial multitasking.
- 1TB SSD gives plenty of space for active projects.
- Premium features are unnecessary for basic browsing and documents.
- OLED is not the best match for every long static-work session.
Is the ASUS Zenbook S 16 UM5606 worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ASUS Zenbook S 16 (UM5606, Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) is worth considering for shoppers who want premium Windows hardware and a vivid screen. The ASUS Zenbook S 16 (UM5606, Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD)'s 16-inch 3K OLED display and 32GB RAM suit demanding multitasking, though basic office users need less capability.
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Which is better, Microsoft Surface Pro 9 or LG gram 17?
LG gram 17 is better for a spacious laptop workspace, with a 17-inch display, while Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is better for tablet flexibility, with a 13-inch touchscreen. The right choice depends on whether screen area or detachable design matters more in daily use.
Choose LG gram 17 for spreadsheets, research and side-by-side windows at a desk. Choose Microsoft Surface Pro 9 for handwritten notes, presentations and travel where a tablet form is useful. Remember that the Surface keyboard and pen are separate accessories on many configurations, so compare the complete setup rather than the base device alone.
Which device is better for work and multitasking?
LG gram 17 with 16GB RAM and a 1TB SSD is the stronger fit for multitasking across large documents, browsers and office apps. Microsoft Surface Pro 9 configurations with 8GB RAM are aimed at lighter productivity and benefit from a focused workload.
Processor names alone do not settle the choice. Microsoft Surface Pro 9 with Intel hardware offers a familiar Windows app environment, while the SQ3 5G version uses a different processor platform. Check compatibility for specialist software. The larger LG gram 17 screen also makes split-screen work easier without an external monitor.
Which screen is better for reading, drawing and movies?
LG gram 17 offers a 17-inch, 2560 × 1600 panel for expansive viewing, while Microsoft Surface Pro 9 offers a 13-inch touchscreen for direct touch and pen input. Both display formats have a clear use case rather than one universal winner.
The LG screen makes long documents and multiple open windows easier to arrange. The Surface Pro 9 screen is the practical option for markup, handwritten notes and tablet-style reading. For either product, check the exact configuration and included accessories; pen support does not always mean a pen is bundled.
Is the LG gram 17 or Surface Pro 9 easier to carry?
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is easier to use as a small tablet, while LG gram 17 offers a larger 17-inch laptop workspace that takes up more room. Portability depends on the whole kit, including charger, keyboard and any pen.
For daily commuting on crowded transit or working while standing, the detachable Surface form can be more convenient. For a laptop that stays open at a desk and travels between rooms, LG gram 17 gives a built-in keyboard and larger display. Compare device weight and dimensions on the exact listing before packing for regular travel.
What should shoppers compare for Black Friday 2026?
Black Friday 2026 shoppers should compare the exact processor, RAM, SSD capacity, included accessories and return terms before choosing Microsoft Surface Pro 9 or LG gram 17. Configuration names can look similar while offering different memory, storage or connectivity.
Check whether a Surface listing includes a keyboard or stylus, then compare its full setup with the LG gram 17 laptop configuration. Confirm the display resolution and processor in the listing details. Skip it if the configuration leaves too little memory or storage for the apps and files you already use.
Buying Guide
Choose the right form factor
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is the detachable option for tablet use, touch input and optional pen work. LG gram 17 is the conventional laptop choice, with a built-in keyboard and 17-inch screen. Decide how often you need tablet mode before comparing other specifications.
Match memory to your workload
A configuration with 16GB RAM, such as LG gram 17, gives multitaskers more headroom than an 8GB Microsoft Surface Pro 9 configuration. For browser tabs, documents and video calls, 8GB can serve lighter routines; demanding software benefits from more memory.
Check storage and ports
LG gram 17 in a 1TB SSD configuration provides more built-in space than a 256GB Surface Pro 9 configuration. Estimate space for apps, photos and offline files, then confirm the ports you need for external displays, storage or accessories.
Compare the complete purchase
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 shoppers should verify whether the keyboard and pen are included, since accessories affect the usable setup. Compare the same RAM and storage tier when assessing value, and review return coverage and warranty terms before checkout.
Check app and operating-system fit
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 Intel configurations and LG gram 17 run Windows, while Apple MacBook Air 15-inch uses macOS. Surface Pro 9 SQ3 uses a distinct processor platform, so verify compatibility with specialized Windows software before selecting that version.
FAQ
Is Surface Pro 9 better than LG gram 17 for students?
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is better for students who take handwritten notes, read in tablet mode or value a compact touchscreen. LG gram 17 is the stronger fit for students who need a large 17-inch workspace for research, spreadsheets and multiple windows. Check whether Surface accessories are included.
Is LG gram 17 good for college work?
LG gram 17 is good for college work that benefits from a large screen, including research, writing and multitasking across documents. Its 17-inch display and 16GB RAM configuration suit laptop-first study. Students who carry a device all day should compare its size with a smaller laptop or detachable tablet.
Which has the bigger screen, Surface Pro 9 or LG gram 17?
LG gram 17 has the bigger screen, measuring 17 inches, compared with the 13-inch display on Microsoft Surface Pro 9. The larger LG display gives spreadsheets and side-by-side windows more room, while the Surface touchscreen is easier to use as a tablet.
Can Microsoft Surface Pro 9 replace a laptop?
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 can replace a laptop for many everyday Windows tasks when paired with a compatible keyboard. The detachable design is convenient for tablet use, but shoppers should check whether the keyboard is included and confirm that their essential apps run on the selected processor configuration.
Which is better for travel, Surface Pro 9 or LG gram 17?
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is the better travel pick for people who want tablet flexibility or the SQ3 5G configuration's mobile connectivity. LG gram 17 is better for travelers who prioritize a large laptop screen and built-in keyboard. Compare full-kit weight and your usual work setup.
What is the best alternative to Surface Pro 9 and LG gram 17?
Microsoft Surface Laptop 7th Edition 15-inch is a strong alternative for shoppers who want a conventional Surface laptop. Apple MacBook Air 15-inch suits macOS users, while ASUS Zenbook S 16 offers a premium OLED display and 32GB RAM for demanding Windows multitasking.