The wait is over. Microsoft yesterday announced it’s entry into the tablet market with the Microsoft Surface tablet. Apple’s iPad is by far the dominate tablet on the market today, so it will remain to be seen if Microsoft’s Surface can compete with the iPad once it is released.
From the quick preview Microsoft provided, there are definitely some interesting features of its Surface tablet. Some of the options provided are things that some people have been hoping for, but I’m sure there are still items that others wish Microsoft had also included. Overall, it will be interesting to see how well Microsoft’s tablet will perform in the market.
The Microsoft Surface Tablet
There were probably a lot of speculation as to what exactly would be included with a Microsoft tablet, especially compared with what is currently available with the iPad and Android tablets.
Microsoft announced that there would be two versions of the tablet – one running Windows RT and the other running its new operating system, Windows 8 Pro. Microsoft has been developing Windows 8 with tablets and touchscreens in mind, so it only made sense that it have a tablet ready when the operating system is released.
I was looking for a few things myself, including USB and HDMI/DisplayPort support. I figured both of these options would make the tablet more usable that just as a mobile device that is always carried around.
With regards to the specifications, the table below lists what is included with both models of the tablet.
| Device Options | Model | |
|---|---|---|
| Windows RT | Windows 8 Pro | |
| OS | Windows RT | Windows 8 Pro |
| Weight | 676 g | 903 g |
| Thickness | 9.3 mm | 13.5 mm |
| Display | 10.6″ ClearType HD | 10.6″ ClearType Full HD |
| Power | 31.5 W-h | 42 W-h |
| Connections | microSD, USB 2.0, Micro HD Video, 2X2 MIMO antennae | microSDXC, USB 3.0, Mini DisplayPort Video, 2X2 MIMO antennae |
| Productivity | Office Home & Student 2013 RT, Touch Cover, Type Cover | Touch Cover, Type Cover, Pen with Palm Block |
| Case | VaporMg Case & Stand | VaporMg Case & Stand |
| Storage | 32 GB, 64 GB | 64 GB, 128 GB |
There are several interesting points from the above specifications. First, the connections that I was looking for are available, especially on the Windows 8 model. With USB 3.0 and mini DisplayPort, it should make many people happy, including myself. This probably means that many USB devices, such as printers, will be supported.
As for the mini DisplayPort, this will allow you to connect the tablet to a monitor when you are at home or in the office.
The most interesting part is the keyboard. A full-size keyboard is included in the cover of the case so you will always have a keyboard with you where ever you go. I am interested to see how responsive and durable the keyboard is as I have seen cases take a beating with other devices.
The only thing that wasn’t discussed was the price of the tablets, which many people are speculating will be around the same price as the iPad. If this is the case, it will have tough competition going against the iPad and the legions of happy users.
Overall, the Microsoft Surface seems like a good iPad competitor, but the price may be the determining factor in how well it does in the market.
9 Comments
What is the expected price for the surface pro and when it is going to be launched?
The Surface looks really cool and handy for those people who unwillingly choose iPad to get ease and portability by regretting is complexity.
If Microsoft prices the tablet right, the Surface could cause people to move from buying an iPad.
I like the tablet specifications because the users can be able to experience new things on it. I love Microsoft that is why I have confidence on this tablet they offer on the market.
Hi Paul
I am also looking forward to see how the Microsoft Surface will do.I have been testing Windows 8 and think that Microsoft finaly have made a Windows version that will work great with tablets. Also great to see it has USB and DisplayPort support, but as you mentioned about the price will be a very important factor for Microsoft to succed with these devices.
Hi, Thomas. I am also looking forward to seeing how Microsoft’s Surface will do. Windows 8 seems to be getting good reviews, but many people are still wary about Microsoft attempting to create one operating system for desktops/laptops and mobile devices.
Microsoft has been on the tablet market long before Apple, but they weren’t able to start “tablet madness” the way Apple did. Now they reenter on this market with a well structured tablet with a keyboard on case and a USB port, these are nice selling points. But if the price will be around the same price as the iPad, then I guess that we have another tablet that has died before it was born.
That’s quite interesting, Microsoft is offering tablet with keyboard.. I’m sure many people would love to try it as it promises to save more time while working on it.
I’m sure the keyboard will draw many people to the tablet. But I believe the cost will be the determining factor for most.