Surface pro siwtches between laptop and tablet modes unexpectedly

Question

My surface pro 5th Gen has recently started to switch from laptop mode to tablet unexpectedly, on its own and seemingly subject to my slightest movement:) I have already tried applying the changes to the setting so it is not supposed to change to tablet mode, and have turned the Auto rotate off. Any solutions to this problem is very much appreciated.

Parin

Answer 1

Hi ParinNaeimi,

Thanks for reaching out to Microsoft Community and posting your inquiry.   

We suggest the methods below:

• Run Surface Diagnostic Toolkit and check Windows Update.
• Run the System File Checker.
• Check settings. Open Windows Settings > System > Tablet mode > Under When this device automatically switches tablet mode on or off, set the drop down to Don't ask and don't switch.
• Install drivers package. Check the specific OS build of your Windows Settings> System> About. Download the driver and firmware for Surface, choose Surface Pro 4 and click download on the next page. Please choose the .msi file that matches your current OS Build and click Next. After the download, runand installthe .msi then Restart the Surface Device.

Keep us updated by replying on this thread.

Answer 2

Thank you for your thorough and comprehensive response. Tried every suggestion and unfortunately, it did not work. I seem to be stuck on tablet mode as soon as I move the laptop even the slightest on the desk, let alone trying to work with it on my lap :)

I hope there are more strategies you can give me. I am getting very frustrated and can't get my work done properly.

Parin

ps:just noticed that my Surface pro is listed as 4th generation, it is in fact 5th Gen. I apologize for mistake.

Answer 3

thank you, I will try that later today. However can you clarify for me: do I need a different pc to download recovery image for my surface?

Answer 4

In your case since the device is still accessible, you can download the recovery image from the device then follow the rest of the steps.

Answer 5

Thank you for pointing that out, ParinNaeimi. We suggest to re-image the Windows system using USB recovery. This process will wipe everything out on your device and install a fresh operating system. Please make sure that you have back up your files and data either in an External Hard drive or use your OneDrive app. You’ll need a USB (USB stick) with at least 16GB/32 GB and format it clean (make sure that you have chosen FAT32 as the file system while formatting the USB). You'll need a PC running Windows 10 or Surface Device to download the system files/recovery image on the Microsoft Website.    Note: USB/Flash drives are the only required device for you to perform the follow steps below successfully.• Download the System Files or Recovery Image:1. Go to the Download a recovery image for your Surface.2. If you’re signed in with your Microsoft account, you will be prompt to choose the device from the list of devices on your Microsoft Account. If you’re not signed in, choose a product on the drop-down menu and provide the Serial Number of the device.3. Once the download is finished, go to the file, right-click and choose Extract all then choose the USB/Flash drive. • Perform the USB recovery:

1. Shutdown the device by pressing/holding the power button for 10 seconds until it’s off. 
2. Insert the USB recovery drive into the USB port. 
3. Press and hold the volume-down (-) rocker. 
4. Press and release the power button. 
5. When the Surface logo appears, release the volume-down (-) rocker. 
6. Choose your language options and keyboard layout. 
7. Select Troubleshoot. 
8. Select Recover from a Drive. Choose Remove Everything and Fully Clean the Drive. Recovering this PC. If prompted for BitLocker Key, tap Skip this Drive. 
9. Select “Recovery”.