IIRC it was a power setting and something else.
Here we go : Posted from
surface pro brightness bug - Microsoft Community
Great news folks! I was able to fix this issue!!!!! :-D
So the issue appears to be the Intel HD 4000 implementing 2 forms of battery saving contrast adapting. But we have no ability to change these settings by default.
So first of all make sure your dynamic brightness is turned off in your PC Settings and/or battery plan. Then...
Go Intel's site and download and then install the latest driver for the Intel HD Graphics 4000.
I believe this is the correct link -
EDIT: Oops my link was for the 32 bit driver. This is the one you need -
http://downloadcenter.intel.com/Det...cs+driver+for+windows+7*+and+windows+8*+(exe)
This should give you access to the Intel Graphics and Media Control panel when you right click and select Graphics Properties from the desktop.
Select ADVANCED MODE
GOTO > MEDIA > IMAGE ENHANCEMENT and disable "Adaptive Contrast Enhancement"
Then GOTO > POWER > Change POWER SOURCE to "On Battery" and make sure "Display Power Saving Technology" is disabled (that is unchecked).
Click APPLY and viola no more dynamic contrast annoyances!
YAY!