What To Know
- The Surface Pro X is a powerful and versatile device, but its initial configuration with Windows 10 on ARM can leave some users wanting more.
- If you’re looking to experience the full potential of your Surface Pro X, installing a full-fledged Windows 10 build is the way to go.
- Now that you have a full-fledged Windows 10 installation on your Surface Pro X, you can enjoy the full range of its capabilities.
The Surface Pro X is a powerful and versatile device, but its initial configuration with Windows 10 on ARM can leave some users wanting more. If you’re looking to experience the full potential of your Surface Pro X, installing a full-fledged Windows 10 build is the way to go. This guide will walk you through the process, providing a detailed and easy-to-follow solution.
Why Install Windows 10 on Your Surface Pro X?
While Windows 10 on ARM offers a streamlined experience, it comes with limitations. Installing a full Windows 10 build opens up a world of possibilities, offering benefits like:
- Wider software compatibility: Access to a vast library of Windows applications, including those not optimized for ARM.
- Enhanced performance: Potentially improved performance for demanding tasks and games.
- Customization freedom: Greater control over your system settings and configuration.
Prerequisites
Before embarking on this journey, ensure you have the following:
- A Surface Pro X: Make sure your device is compatible with Windows 10.
- A USB drive: This will be used to create a bootable installation media.
- Windows 10 ISO file: Download the latest version of Windows 10 from Microsoft’s official website.
- Backup of your important data: Always back up your data before making any major system changes.
Creating a Bootable USB Drive
1. Download the Windows 10 ISO file: Visit the Microsoft website and download the latest Windows 10 ISO file.
2. Format the USB drive: Insert the USB drive into your computer and format it to NTFS. Make sure to back up any data on the USB drive before formatting.
3. Use the Media Creation Tool: Download and run the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft. Select “Create installation media for another PC.”
4. Choose your language and edition: Select the language and edition of Windows 10 you want to install.
5. Select USB drive: Choose the USB drive you formatted as the destination for the installation media.
6. Start the process: The Media Creation Tool will download and create the bootable USB drive.
Installing Windows 10 on Your Surface Pro X
1. Boot from the USB drive: Restart your Surface Pro X and press the “F12” key repeatedly during boot-up to enter the boot menu. Select the USB drive from the list.
2. Start the installation: The Windows 10 setup will begin. Follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Choose your language and region: Select your preferred language and region.
4. Accept the license terms: Review and accept the license terms.
5. Choose a custom installation: Select “Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).”
6. Format the drive: Select the drive where you want to install Windows 10 and format it.
7. Install Windows 10: The installation process will begin. This may take a while.
Post-Installation Steps
1. Install drivers: After Windows 10 is installed, you’ll need to install drivers for your Surface Pro X. Visit the Microsoft website and download the latest drivers for your device.
2. Activate Windows: You’ll need to activate Windows 10 using a valid product key.
3. Customize your settings: Once you’ve installed the drivers and activated Windows, you can customize your settings to your liking.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While the installation process is generally straightforward, you may encounter some challenges. Here are some common issues and solutions:
- No bootable device found: Ensure the USB drive is properly formatted and contains the bootable installation media.
- Installation errors: Try re-downloading the ISO file and creating a new bootable USB drive.
- Driver issues: Visit the Microsoft website for the latest drivers for your Surface Pro X.
Making the Most of Your Windows 10 Experience
Now that you have a full-fledged Windows 10 installation on your Surface Pro X, you can enjoy the full range of its capabilities. Here are some tips to enhance your experience:
- Install your favorite apps: Download and install your preferred apps from the Microsoft Store or other sources.
- Optimize performance: Tweak your system settings to improve performance and battery life.
- Explore the features: Discover the many features of Windows 10, such as Cortana, Windows Hello, and Microsoft Edge.
Enjoying the Benefits of a Full Windows 10 Installation
Installing Windows 10 on your Surface Pro X unlocks a world of possibilities. You can now enjoy the full range of Windows applications, customize your system to your liking, and experience the power of a full-fledged desktop operating system on your versatile device.
Popular Questions
Q: Will I lose my data if I install Windows 10?
A: Yes, installing Windows 10 will erase all data on the drive you choose to install it on. Make sure to back up your important data before proceeding.
Q: Can I dual-boot Windows 10 on ARM and Windows 10?
A: While dual-booting is possible, it’s a complex process and may not be supported by all devices.
Q: What if I encounter an error during the installation?
A: Refer to the troubleshooting section in this guide. If you continue to have issues, you can reach out to Microsoft support for assistance.
Q: Will installing Windows 10 void my warranty?
A: Installing Windows 10 should not void your warranty as long as you follow the proper installation procedures and don’t modify the device’s hardware.
Q: Can I revert back to Windows 10 on ARM if I want to?
A: Yes, you can usually revert back to Windows 10 on ARM by using the recovery options provided by Microsoft. However, it’s always a good idea to back up your data before making any major system changes.
