A growing number of people who purchased Microsoft’s flagship Surface Pro have been complaining of issues since purchase – from the device hibernating randomly, to backlight bleed. While the former is now fixed through a firmware update, the latter continues to plague users’ devices. The issue of backlight bleed on the Surface Pro gained momentum over the weekend after we published the number of users affected and reached out to Microsoft for comment on the issue, after customers have had no response through Microsoft’s official support channels.
We, too, have had no response from Microsoft. Their media line is silent.
What we have seen, though, is some users, and other media outlets, questioning why people are seeing backlight bleed as such a large issue on the Surface Pro. As many know, it is a common issue with LCD panels. The issue is more to do with Microsoft’s quality control – after all, this is supposed to be a premium device and set the bar high for Microsoft’s OEMs, such as Lenovo. It is also meant to compete with Apple, delivering Windows fans a premium device, and quite frankly, at a premium price, too.
Those who have invested in a premium device at a premium price expect quality, and rightly so. Some backlight bleed is acceptable, and normal. The Surface Pro’s issue is a little different. It is quite noticeable for many, and with the device being for creators, being premium, the range topper, it really doesn’t bode well. The distortion of colours, the less-than-premium display look – it all adds up to poor quality control, and leaves you thinking that the hundreds or even thousands of bucks thrown at Microsoft for the device just isn’t worth it.
For some, backlight bleed isn’t much of a noticeable issue. It may be that, for your particular device, it isn’t as noticeable. For others, you just may not care for an issue like that. But for others, it can be a distraction, it can make the device feel less premium, and is generally an annoyance.
While we are still patiently awaiting a response from Microsoft, if you have an affected device and it is within 30 days of purchase, attempt to have Microsoft issue a replacement. Some have been lucky and received a new device without the issue, but the numbers of those getting lucky are very low.
