In the first two version of the Surface tablet, Microsoft insisted on using a display in the very wide 16:9 aspect ratio. That changes with the new Surface Pro 3, which has a larger 12-inch display in a better 3:2 aspect ratio. It is sold as a tablet that can replace your laptop.
Larger, better display in Surface Pro 3
Microsoft’s latest Surface tablet is more powerful, thinner, and more expensive. Microsoft is also admitting that the previous 16:9 display was a mistake, instead changing to a taller 3:2 aspect ratio, closer to that of the iPad.
The display is also larger at 12 inches and has a resolution of 2160x1440 pixels. It is also optically bonded. The larger display supports multitasking and can be controlled either with your fingers or with the new, more advanced Surface Pen, which has a click button on top that can wake your tablet.
“96% of you who own an iPad also own a laptop,” Microsoft said at the presentation, and Surface Pro 3 is designed to replace both. The new keyboard cover has been redesigned, but is not included in the box.
The Surface Pro 3 starts at $799, but on top you have to add the $129.99 Type Cover, making it more expensive than most laptops. Is Surface Pro 3 the answer? Do people really want to combine the hammer and the screwdriver in one?
Prices below:
Core i3, 64GB disk, 4GB RAM - $799
Core i5, 128GB disk, 4GB RAM - $999
Core i5, 256GB disk, 8GB RAM - $1,299
Core i7, 256GB disk, 8GB RAM - $1,549
Core i7, 512GB disk, 8GB RAM - $1,949
Sign up for FlatpanelsHD's newsletter
The latest news, in-depth articles, reviews, and exclusives in your inbox.