Surface pro 3: less iPad more MacBook Air

Saturday, 24 May 2014, 1:35 pm
Article: Digitl

Microsoft launched the Surface Pro 3 at an event in New York overnight New Zealand time.

The new device blurs the, already slim, distinction between tablet and PC. The Surface 3 has a 12 inch display, is just 9.1 mm thick and weighs 800 grams. Of course these dimensions are for a keyboard less device.

Inside the case is an Intel Core i7 processor.

To me this sounds more like a keyboard less touch screen laptop than an iPad class tablet.

And that's a good thing. Recent Windows laptops from third-party hardware makers have been largely disappointing. Microsoft is breathing fresh life into the segment.

Microsoft emphasises the Surface Pro 3 is a productive tool, not a consumption device.

US prices start at $800. A keyboard is extra. Even so, allowing for currency, GST and the usual NZ mark-up, the Surface Pro 3 should land in New Zealand at Apple MacBook Air-like prices.

I'm hoping to take a look when the first models arrive in New Zealand.

update

https://twitter.com/nathanm/status/468827285391294464

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Bill Bennett

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