Skip to main content

Surface Pro 3 firmware update claims to improve Wi-Fi reliability, system stability

Microsoft SURFACE Pro 3 start screen
Image used with permission by copyright holder
As part of its monthly “Patch Tuesday” update release schedule, Microsoft is rolling out a new firmware update for its Surface Pro 3 tablet.

The new patch, which should be available via Windows Update right now, promises to make multiple improvements. It targets areas like Wi-Fi performance, system stability, and more.

Related: Microsoft Surface Pro 3 review

Recommended Videos

Here’s what the newest Surface Pro 3 firmware aims to do, in Microsoft’s own words.

  •     “Surface Pro UEFI update (v3.10.250.0) improves system experience and enhances overall system stability, including Wi-Fi.”
  •     “Surface Pro Embedded Controller Firmware update (v38.6.50.0) enhanced support for system performance and user experience, including thermostat icon on boot.”
  •     “Surface Pro System Aggregator Firmware update (v3.9.350.0) increases the overall system reliability and compatibility with a Surface cover.”
  •     “Surface Integration driver update (v2.0.1102.0) enhances user experience, including Wi-Fi stability.”
  •     “Surface Wi-Fi and Bluetooth driver update (v15.68.3055.107) improves Wi-Fi/ Bluetooth reliability and system stability, and significantly enhances the user experience.”

Claims of performance improvements are great and all, but Microsoft has had a checkered past when it comes to releasing firmware updates for its Surface devices. Many Surface Pro 3 owners complained about issues with Wi-Fi performance after it turned out that a firmware update that was released back in June was to blame.

Prior to that, a firmware update for the Surface Pro 2 that was released back in December caused problems with sleep mode and battery life.

Related: 10 best cases and accessories for the Surface Pro 3

We wouldn’t be surprised if many Surface Pro 3 owners stayed away from this update simply due to the snafus Microsoft has experienced with past updates.

Konrad Krawczyk
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Konrad covers desktops, laptops, tablets, sports tech and subjects in between for Digital Trends. Prior to joining DT, he…
Microsoft Surface Pro vs. Microsoft Surface Laptop: mainstream battle
The edge of the Surface Pro 11.

Since releasing the original Surface tablet in 2012, Microsoft has grown its PC business into a multibillion-dollar enterprise. The mobile Surface line has expanded to include 2-in-1 and traditional clamshell laptops in various form factors. There's the Surface Pro 11, Surface Laptop 7, Surface Laptop Go 3, and Surface Laptop Studio 2. That's quite the lineup, and you'll find a Surface on a number of our best-of lists such as best tablets and best laptops.

The two most mainstream lines, though, are the Surface Pro 11 and the Surface Laptop 7. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, and you'll want to keep them in mind if you're looking for a Surface and choosing between the two.
Specs and configurations

Read more
The Surface Pro 9 finally has a significant price cut
The screen of the Surface Pro 9 on a table.

Microsoft Surface Pro 9 Luke Larsen / Digital Trends

Some laptop deals come around often, but we haven't seen the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 on sale for a while now. That’s changed today with Walmart discounting it by $400. Usually costing $1,600, it’s down to $1,200 for what we’re guessing is going to be a very limited time. The laptop looks great while packing some excellent hardware. Here’s everything you need to know before you tap the buy button, but bear in mind that you likely to need to be quick to snag that awesome discount.

Read more
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 and Surface Laptop 5 are at clearance prices
The Surface Pro 9 with the Type Cover keyboard lifted up.

The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 and Laptop 5 are at dueling prices thanks to Microsoft Surface deals. Usually $1,100 and $1,000, respectively, both of the products have dropped to $800. With all differences in price taken away, then, it all comes down to buyer's preference. Should you buy a Surface Pro or Surface Laptop? That's totally up to you, your preferences, and your needs. Should you want a versatile tablet that can turn into a laptop with a couple of simple steps, snatch the Surface Pro 9, but if you want something that is already a laptop without any fuss, grab the Surface Laptop 5. Tap the appropriate button below to inspect the products on your own and make your choice, or keep reading to see a rundown on the facts and stats of each choice.
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 - $800, was $1,100

Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 - $800, was $1,000

Read more