Earlier this year Microsoft launched its newest device in the world of laptops, tablets, and notebooks. Surface Pro 3 was launched in the American and Canadian markets with two models that are powered by a dual core Intel Core i5 processor. Microsoft released other Surface Pro configurations for sale starting August 1st.
Other models will include Surface Pro 3 with 64GB of storage and powered by a dual core Intel Core i3 processor. Two other models will run a dual core Intel Core i7 processor; one with 256GB of storage and another one with 512 GB.
The device retail price stands at $999 for a 128GB storage space and $1,299 for 256GB. However, none of the models includes a cover keyboard which is needed to fulfill Microsoft claim that the Surface Pro 3 is geared to replace laptops. Adding the keyboard cover will push the price of the 128GB to $1,129. Compared to other laptops, like the MacBook Air, the Surface Pro is 13% to 26% more expensive.
The device is thinner and lighter than the Surface Pro 2, even with a USB 3.0 port, micro SD card, and a mini Display Port. The 5 megapixel camera works both front and back and produces 1080p videos. The device connects to the internet through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth and is claimed to have good connection capabilities even in public places and dead zones. The device also comes with a stylus made of polished aluminum. The stylus has two buttons that give more flexibility depending on the app it is being used for.
For some analysts, the Surface Pro 3 offers a bigger touch pad, a bigger screen, and an improved screen aspect ratio. However, analysts also consider that selling the cover keyboard as an add-on is an issue and that the extra price should have been bundled in the device price.
Another drawback of the Surface Pro 3 are the lack of apps compared to the other iOS and Android operating systems. First not all apps are available to download and use on the Surface Pro 3 and even when an app is available in the Windows Store, it does not include all the features that are available in the desktop version of the app.
Overall we feel the Surface Pro 3 offers good value, especially to someone who prefers Microsoft Windows. If you try it out let us know what you think.