Microsoft Surface Pro 3 Review

There are five different configurations available for this computer. They are:

1.5GHz Intel Core i3 that has 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal storage
1.9GHz Intel Core i5 that has 4 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage
1.9GHz Intel Core i5 that has 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal storage
1.7GHz Intel Core i7 that has 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal storage
1.7GHz Intel Core i7 that has 8 GB of RAM and 512 GB of internal storage

The i5 and i7 processors offer turbo boost speeds of up to 2.9GHz and 3.3GHz, respectively. All versions use an 11.5 inch screen that responds to touch or pen and have a resolution of 2160×1440, which is higher than standard HD.

The tablet comes with Windows 8.1 Pro standard along with the pen that can be used for writing or drawing on the screen. It is very light, weighing only 800 grams, and is only 9.1 mm thick. All versions have front and rear facing cameras, Wi-Fi capability, and multiple ports, including a USB 3.0 port and a microSD card reader.

The Pro 3 is popular due to the wide range of computing tasks that can be accomplished with it. When the optional keyboard is purchased, users will gain the ability to type and work in the same way as they would on a laptop. The touch screen and pen allow users to draw, use their actual signatures, and manipulate on-screen items.

The ability to run popular Microsoft applications, such as Office and Excel, make the i5 and i7 versions reasonable choices as a business laptop. The i3 version is primarily designed for light tasks, web browsing and email. None of the configurations are suitable for those looking for a powerful gaming laptop.

The tablet has won several awards, including the Stuff Magazine's “Gadget of the Year” for 2014 and was on Time Magazine's “25 best inventions of 2014”. These awards are primarily due to the versatility of the product along with its portability.

Those looking for a hybrid device that will actually replace a laptop will find the Pro 3 lacking in the base model due to slow speeds and storage limitations. The i5 and i7 versions, however, are as close as any Windows device available at being a realistic laptop alternative.