Microsoft Surface Pro 5 vs Microsoft Surface Pro 4: Lighter, Longer Battery, Fingerprint Scanner? 5 Things to Expect [Release Date, Price, Specs & Features Rumor Roundup]

Microsoft's Surface Pro 4 was launched October 2015 and following its release, the device hasn't been as successful as envisioned. While it was well received, there remains a number of bugs and fixes that need to be made. Now in 2016, consumers and experts are already voicing out areas of improvement and what should be included in the next tablet.

After a few months of releases, the Micosoft Surface Pro has been subject to reviews and recently, Cubiclane released an article about key improvements that Micorsoft should consider adding in the next-generation tablet, the Microsoft Surface Pro 5.

Longer Battery Life

When Microsoft unveiled their Surface Pro 4, the company boasted that the tablet has 9 hours of battery life. But many users are saying that they get only get around 5-7 hours of usage. This also depends on the applications they run and general activity on the tablet. TechRadar's review did note that while the Surface Pro 4 has a "below-average" battery life, the duration is still an improvement when compared its predecessor, the Microsoft Surface Pro 3.

Lighter Weight

It's no secret that the Surface Pro 4 is a practical and functional gadget that can hold its own in terms of what it can do. However, compared to other tablets like Apple's iPad or Google's Pixel C, the Pro 4 is heavier.At 1.76 lbs, it weight can surely be improved. 

Keyboard Inclusion

In order to maximize the gadget's full potential, users have to option to purchase, as an additional accessory, the accompanying keyboard. Asking customers to spend more for the keyboard given that the Surface Pro 4 itself is priced between $800-$1500 is not ideal. Many users hope in the succeeding tablet, Microsoft would consider bundling the device with a keyboard already. 

Fan Noise

Users also complain about the fan noise when the tablet is being used. Again, the sound has improved from the Pro 3, this is a frustrating feature that should be addressed when the Surface Pro 5 is launched. 

Fingerprint Scanner

Microsoft Surface Pro 4 comes equipped with a fingerprint scanner but it's located in the Type Cover keyboard accessory. Unlike its competition, the Apple iPad Pro has incorporated the scanner into the actual device. The Pro's Type Cover keyboard is priced at $129.99 and comes in different colors and works with earlier versions of the flagship product.

According to the website Release Date Portal, the Surface Pro 5 is rumored to be released sometime between June and October 2016. It's said to possibly come with a pen/stylus and operate on Windows 10.1 Pro. The Microsoft Surface Pro 5 is pegged to cost around $899-$1599 price mark.