Here's our breakdown of everything you need to know about the Microsoft Surface Pro 3.
Prices: Microsoft Surface Pro 3 comes with five different storage and processor options. The five variants are priced as follows:
1. 64GB/Intel i3 is priced at $699.00
2. 128GB/Intel i5 is priced at $899.00
3. 256GB/Intel i5 is priced at $1,199.00
4. 256GB/Intel i7 is priced at $1,449.00
5. 512GB/Intel i7 is priced at $1,849.00.
Deals: We checked out Amazon for the latest deals and were able to scrounge up some options to consider. Check out the 128GB model starting at $883 here. If you're going for the pricier versions, the 256GB i7 starts at $1369 here, while you can get over $200 off the 512GB model through these vendors.
Pros: Microsoft Surface Pro 3 has a sharp design. It's built with the intention of replacing the laptop and tablet. It has a 12 inch display and high pixel density which makes it ideal for web browsing, reading and streaming videos. The transition from using the device as a laptop to a tablet is very quick with the use of the multi-position kick stand and Surface Pro 3 type cover. The surface pen provides a natural writing and drawing experience.
Cons: The biggest problem with the device is its keyboard. The keyboard which is essential for making it a laptop alternative offers a typing experience below par and one even has to pay an extra 130$ for it. The device's trackpad has issues making it frustrating to operate. The device doesn't have a good battery life and gets very hot on prolonged usage.
Specs: Microsoft Surface Pro 3 has a 12 inch full HD display with a 2160x1440 resolution. The phone comes with Intel core i3, core i5 and core i7 performing at 1.5 Ghz, 2.9 Ghz(w turbo) and 3.3GHz(w turbo) respectively. It comes in two variants, one provides a storage of 64GB or 128GB with 4GB RAM and the other provides a storage of 256GB or 512GB with an 8GB RAM. It has a 5MP front-facing camera and a 5MP rear-facing camera. It comes with Windows 8.1 pro.
Talking Points: Despite its screen size, this device can be used as a tablet due to its thin and light design. The keyboard and the trackpad problems need to be addressed by Microsoft to make this laptop-tablet a real success.
Conclusion: Microsoft Surface Pro 3 is Windows' third and the best attempt towards making a laptop-tablet hybrid device so far. The day Microsoft resolves the keyboard and the trackpad issues, this will be the best replacement for a laptop. If one doesn't really want a tablet and laptop in equal measure and doesn't like the Windows store apps, there are better devices in the market.
