To set up a new Surface Laptop, plug it in and follow the on-screen prompts. To bring files over, use Windows Backup restore if you have an eligible backup, sync them with OneDrive if you have enough cloud storage, or copy them manually using an external drive. Microsoft’s current PC-to-PC transfer page says that feature is no longer available, so don’t rely on that route.
Set up your Surface Laptop
- Connect power. Keep the Surface plugged in while you work through setup.
- Follow the on-screen instructions. Sign in with a Microsoft account or create one. If setup offers to restore a backup or transfer files, choose the appropriate option; the available choices depend on your account and backup.
- Complete the remaining setup prompts. These can include Windows Hello face or fingerprint sign-in, Find my device, and updates. Microsoft’s Surface setup guide covers the initial process.
- Check for Windows updates. Once setup is complete, install available updates and configure Windows Hello if you want biometric sign-in.
- Reinstall any missing apps. A restore may bring back app pins, but that does not necessarily reinstall every app. Store apps can be restored from pins; for other apps, use the installer from the app maker.
Choose a way to move your files
| Method | Best suited to | What to plan for |
|---|---|---|
| Windows Backup restore | You already have a backup and use an eligible personal Microsoft account. | Sign in with the same account used for the backup. Supported settings and app pins may return; apps may need reinstalling. Files are available through OneDrive. |
| OneDrive | Your files can be synced and your account has enough storage. | Confirm the upload has finished and check available storage. Cloud-only files might not be saved locally for offline use. |
| External storage | You prefer an offline, manual copy or lack enough cloud space. | You need a USB drive, SD card, or external hard drive with enough free capacity, plus time to copy and check the files. |
Restore with Windows Backup
Windows Backup is intended for consumer devices using a personal Microsoft account; Microsoft says work and school accounts do not work with the app. On the old PC, use Windows Backup to back up the supported folders and settings you want to carry over. During setup of the new Surface, sign in with the same Microsoft account and select the restore when offered. Microsoft’s Windows Backup guidance explains what can be backed up and restored. A Microsoft account includes 5 GB of OneDrive storage at no charge according to Microsoft’s support guidance; check your account’s current space before relying on it.
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Move files with OneDrive
- Check the old PC. Put the files you want to move in the OneDrive folder and let them sync. To confirm what is available, check your files in OneDrive online before switching devices.
- Check available storage. Microsoft’s migration guidance lists 5 GB of free storage and 1 TB with a Microsoft 365 subscription, but plan details can change. Check the storage shown for your own account before starting, especially if you have a large photo or video library.
- Sign in on the Surface. Use the same Microsoft account in OneDrive. Synced files will be accessible in File Explorer or through the OneDrive icon. See Microsoft’s instructions for moving files with OneDrive.
With Files On-Demand, you can see OneDrive files without downloading every file to the laptop. You can choose which folders sync to the device, which is useful if local storage is limited. A cloud-only file still needs an internet connection to open; mark or download files you’ll need offline. Microsoft explains these options in its Files On-Demand guidance.
Copy files with an external drive
- Connect a USB drive, SD card, or external hard drive to the old PC.
- Copy the folders and files you want to move onto the drive. Allow time for the copy to finish; duration depends on the number and size of the files.
- Safely disconnect the drive, connect it to the Surface, and copy the files into the folders where you want to keep them.
- Open a sample of the copied files and check important folders before deleting or changing anything on the old PC.
Microsoft documents this manual approach in its external-storage file transfer instructions. Choose a drive with enough capacity for the files you plan to copy; the process does not require a particular drive model.
#1 Best Overall
- [This is a Copilot+ PC] — A new AI era begins. Experience enhanced performance and AI capabilities with Copilot+ PC, boosting productivity with security and privacy in mind
- [Introducing Surface Laptop] — Power, speed, and touchscreen versatility with AI features. Transform your work, play, and creativity with a razor-thin display and best-in-class specs.
- [Exceptional Performance] — Surface Laptop delivers faster performance than the MacBook Air M3[1], with blazing NPU speed for seamless productivity and AI apps.
- [All-Day Battery Life] — Up to 20 hours of battery life[6] to focus, create, and play all day.
- [Brilliant 15” Touchscreen Display] — Bright HDR tech, ultra-thin design, and optimized screen space.
Why not use Microsoft’s PC-to-PC transfer?
Although the Surface setup guide links to transfer information, Microsoft’s PC-to-PC transfer page says: “This feature is no longer available. Use Windows Backup and Restore instead.” Treat its described workflow as unavailable unless Microsoft confirms otherwise. That page also says its transfer method excluded installed applications, saved passwords and sign-in credentials, OneDrive files, BitLocker-encrypted drives, and system and operating-system files; those exclusions are cautions, not a complete description of what every current backup or copy method can move.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to check separately
Neither a file copy nor a backup guarantees that every part of the old PC will be reproduced on the Surface. Before retiring the old computer, make sure you can access key accounts and services, have a way to reinstall applications, and can unlock any encrypted drives. Sign in to services again as needed, and verify that the files you care about are present and open correctly.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- With 16 GB of memory, runs as many programs as you want without losing the execution
- The 13.5" 2256 x 1504 screen provides a great movie watching experience
- 512 GB SSD is enough to store your essential documents and files, favorite songs, movies and pictures
- 8 Hours battery run time helps you stay unwired and work longer non-stop
Rank #4
- Brilliant Display – Stunning 13.8" PixelSense touchscreen[1], with brilliant LCD display[2], unleashes luminous whites, deeper blacks and colors so richly saturated bringing vivid life into every frame – perfect for work, school, streaming and creative tasks.
- Power that lasts all day – With 20 hours of battery life[3], the new Surface Laptop powers through your entire day, so you can create, work and stream from morning to night without reaching for a charger.
- Work at the speed of your ideas – Built with the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Elite (12 Core) processors, Surface Laptop delivers fast, AI‑accelerated performance—making it the most powerful Surface laptop for everything from multitasking to demanding workloads.
- The ports you need – Charge on-the-go, transfer data fast, or create the ultimate desktop set up with two USB-C / USB4[4] ports.
- Built-in AI Companion – Work smarter, create freely, and communicate with confidence—Copilot[5] on Windows 11 is always there to help.
Rank #3
- ULTRA-PORTABLE LAPTOP - Boost productivity and creativity with the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 for Business in a sleek, ultra‑portable design, weighing just 2.96 lbs. Enjoy long‑lasting battery life of up to 20 hours with fast charging support to keep you powered throughout the day. The dedicated Copilot key delivers instant AI assistance, powered by an advanced on‑device AI engine with up to 45 TOPS NPU, helping accelerate everyday workflows and enhance efficiency wherever work takes you.
- POWERFUL PERFORMANCE - Powered by Snapdragon X Plus processor with Qualcomm Adreno Graphics, this system delivers fast, efficient performance for daily productivity and multitasking. Paired with 16GB DDR5 memory and 1TB PCIe SSD, it supports quick startup, smooth application switching, and reliable handling of professional workloads.
- EXCELLENT VISUAL - Enjoy stunning visuals on the 13.8" 2K+ (2304 x 1536) touchscreen with 120Hz refresh rate. USB4 ports support two external 4K monitors @60Hz (without docking station). The enhanced 1080p front IR camera with Windows Studio Effects (background blur, framing) ensures you look great on video calls for remote work and conferences.
- ADVANCED CONNECTIVITY - Connect effortlessly with two USB-C (USB4), one USB-A, Surface Connect port, and a 3.5mm jack. Experience ultra-fast Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3 for reliable wireless performance. Working comfortably in any lighting with a backlit keyboard.
- OPERATING SYSTEM - Preinstalled with Windows 11 Home, this Copilot+ PC supports everyday business workflows such as task organization, information retrieval, and collaboration across common professional applications. Built‑in security features and intuitive system management help protect data and enable a secure, efficient operating experience for modern mobile work.
Rank #2
- Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 13.5" | Certified Refurbished, Amazon Renewed | Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 features 12th generation Intel Core i7-1265U processor, 13.5-inch PixelSense Touchscreen Display (2256 x 1504) resolution
- This Certified Refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, a minimum 90-day warranty, and may arrive in a generic box.
- 256GB Solid State Drive, 16GB RAM, Convenient security with Windows Hello sign-in, plus Fingerprint Power Button with Windows Hello and One Touch sign-in on select models., Integrated Intel UHD Graphics
- Surface Laptop 5 for Business 13.5” & 15”: Wi-Fi 6: 802.11ax compatible Bluetooth Footnote Wireless 5.0 technology, Surface Laptop 4 for Business 15” in Platinum and Matte Black metal: 3.40 lb
- 1 x USB-C 1 x USB-A 3.5 mm headphone jack 1 x Surface Connect port
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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