Fixing Graphics Performance Issues on Surface Pro 9 – Tips
Fixing Graphics Performance Issues on Surface Pro 9: Tips and Considerations
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9, while praised for its portability and general use performance, often faces significant graphics performance issues, particularly in gaming and graphics-intensive tasks. Here are some detailed tips and considerations to help mitigate these problems.
Understanding the Hardware Limitations
The Surface Pro 9, especially the Intel-based models, relies on Intel's Iris Xe integrated graphics. These graphics are not designed for high-performance gaming or intensive graphics work, leading to less-than-stellar benchmarks in games and graphics tests[1].
Optimizing System Settings
For general use, ensuring your Surface Pro 9 is up to date with the latest Windows updates and firmware is crucial. Regularly check for updates and run the Surface Diagnostic Tool to identify and fix any system issues[4].
Power Mode Adjustments
Adjusting the power mode can temporarily improve performance. Switching from the 'Recommended' power mode to 'Better' or 'Best' performance can boost CPU speeds, although this may not be sustainable for extended periods due to heat and battery life concerns[4].
Addressing WebGL and Browser Performance
Users have reported significant lag and performance issues with WebGL applications, particularly in browsers like Chrome. Switching to Microsoft Edge can slightly improve performance, as Edge seems to handle WebGL better than Chrome on the Surface Pro 9[2].
Reducing Rendered Pixels
For developers working with WebGL, reducing the amount of rendered pixels by adjusting the screen scale can help. However, this may compromise the visual quality of the models and is not a perfect solution[2].
Managing Heat and CPU/GPU Load
The Surface Pro 9's form factor can lead to overheating, especially during resource-intensive tasks like video conferencing or gaming. Using an external webcam instead of the internal camera can alleviate some of these issues, as it reduces the GPU load. Additionally, avoiding the use of the Surface screen in favor of external monitors can help keep the device cooler[3].
External GPU (eGPU) Considerations
For those looking to enhance graphics performance, using an eGPU could be an option, though it comes with its own set of limitations. The Surface Pro 9's Thunderbolt 4 (TB4) port, while an improvement over TB3, still introduces bandwidth bottlenecks that can affect eGPU performance. AMD Ryzen systems with USB4v1 may offer better eGPU performance compared to Intel TB4 systems like the Surface Pro 9[5].
Choosing the Right eGPU Setup
If you decide to use an eGPU, selecting a GPU that is not overly bandwidth-sensitive is important. For example, using a PCIe 4.0 GPU with an appropriate encoder like the ASM2464PD can provide better performance, but it may still not match desktop-level gaming smoothness due to the bandwidth constraints of the TB4 port[5].
Gaming and Graphics Workarounds
Given the inherent limitations of the Surface Pro 9's graphics capabilities, it is often more practical to use game streaming services like Xbox Cloud Gaming or Nvidia GeForce Now. These services allow you to enjoy high-quality gaming on the Surface Pro 9's screen without the need for local GPU processing[1].
Specific Application Tweaks
For applications like Zoom, tweaking settings can help manage resource usage. Disabling hardware acceleration, turning off video mirroring, and adjusting low-light settings can reduce GPU spikes and improve overall performance during video calls[3].
By understanding these limitations and applying these tips, users of the Surface Pro 9 can better manage and optimize the device's graphics performance for their specific needs.