Surface Pro: How to Open the Boot Menu Fast

How to

Milan Stanojevic

Windows Toubleshooting Expert

How to

3 min. read

Updated on December 10, 2025

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Learn how to access the boot menu on Surface Pro quickly. Whether you need to boot from USB, change startup settings, or troubleshoot, the process is simple.

How to Access the Boot Menu on Surface Pro?

How to Access the Boot Menu on Surface Pro?

1. Use Hardware Buttons

Shut down your Surface Pro completely.
Press and hold the Volume Down button.
While holding Volume Down, press and release the Power button.
Keep holding Volume Down until the Surface logo appears.
The device will boot directly to the USB or boot menu.

If you are not sure which model you own, here is a guide on how to tell what version of Surface Pro you have. You can follow this clear guide on how to boot Surface Pro from a USB drive to get step by step help.

2. Access via Windows Settings

Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Go to System > Recovery.
Under Recovery, select Restart now in Advanced startup.
On the blue screen, choose Use a device to boot from USB or network.

While you are in these menus, it helps to know how to enable smart charging on Surface devices.

3. Through UEFI Firmware Settings

Open Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
Select Restart now under Advanced startup.
Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings.
Press Restart to enter UEFI and set your boot options.

After adjusting startup options, you can also learn how to use the Surface Pro pen to write text.

Why You May Need the Boot Menu

Install or repair Windows using a USB drive.
Change boot sequence for troubleshooting.
Run diagnostics when your device does not start properly.

FAQs

How do I boot my Surface Pro from a USB drive?

Hold Volume Down, press Power, then release Power but keep holding Volume Down until the logo appears.

Can I access BIOS and boot menu the same way?

No. The boot menu selects devices. UEFI settings are accessed through Advanced startup and UEFI Firmware Settings.

Why is my Surface Pro not showing the USB option?

Ensure the USB is bootable and properly formatted. Try another USB port or recreate the media.

Does entering the boot menu erase my files?

No. Opening the boot menu or UEFI does not delete data. Data loss occurs only if you reinstall or reset Windows.

How do I change the default boot order on Surface?

Enter UEFI via Advanced startup, then adjust the boot sequence under Boot configuration and save changes.

Conclusion

The boot menu on Surface Pro helps with installs, startup repairs, and device selection. Use hardware buttons for quick access, Windows settings for guided options, or UEFI to change boot order.

To make your Surface Pro even easier to use, check out how to turn on the keyboard light so you can type comfortably in low light conditions.

Once you finish adjusting startup options, you may also want to expand your knowledge. Our how to use Surface Pro guide shows you how to set up the device, work with the pen, and make the most of its features.

More about the topics: boot, Microsoft Surface

Milan Stanojevic

Windows Toubleshooting Expert

Milan has been enthusiastic about technology ever since his childhood days, and this led him to take interest in all PC-related technologies. He's a PC enthusiast and he spends most of his time learning about computers and technology. Before joining WindowsReport, he worked as a front-end web developer. Now, he's one of the Troubleshooting experts in our worldwide team, specializing in Windows errors & software issues.