Review Tuesday: Surface Pro 3 - 128GB

Last Christmas my sister and her husband gave me a very generous gift, the Microsoft Surface Pro 3.

Microsoft Surface Pro 3

(128 GB, Intel Core i5)
by Microsoft

This devise is Microsoft's entry in the tablet battle. With the number of iPads out there, it's obvious that people are willing to spend some money for a "premium" tablet. So Microsoft took it to the next level, a competitively priced tablet that can also double as your laptop. Is it catching your interest yet?

As I understand it, the previous versions were troublesome and buggy. Now they seem to have it right with the Surface Pro 3. It seems to me that this is the platform that Windows 8.1 was made for.

Details:

• Brand: Microsoft
• Memory: 4 GB RAM; 128 GB Storage Capacity
• Operating system: Windows 8.1 Pro
• Screen: 12-Inch HD (2160 x 1440) Touchscreen Display
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi Only
• Battery life: 9 hour battery
• Intel 4th Generation Core i5 Processor
• 36W Power Supply and Surface Pen Included; Keyboard sold separately

As with any new product, there will be some issues and getting used to. It took me a little while to get used to a completely different Windows interface. Windows 8.1 doesn't warn you when it's updating. The machine makes you think it just keeled over. That's definitely something that MS needs to work on. One day I flipped this thing and the sound refused to work. After a series of reboots and attempted updates, I just reset the machine to factory specs. That was the worst thing to happen. Otherwise it's been an absolute joy. I use it for writing my newsletter, did some tax returns, played some games, shows, and movies. The blue-tooth pen it comes with is a nifty novelty. The keyboard / cover is sold separately and I highly recommend it. It has ONE USB 3 port which is a minor bummer. I noticed another port on the power cord, but it seems it's just for charging other devices. It also has a micro-SD port, no idea what capacity it can accommodate. It DOES do that cool snapping in place thing with that detachable keyboard and power supply. It's done with magnets but neat, nonetheless!  It's exceeded all expectations. 

If you're looking for a tablet that will also be your work horse, this is your all-in-one machine. I'm impressed. 

AMAZON
MICROSOFT