I am testing a new type of computer, at least for me. They first came into the public view in early to mid-2013 depending on where on the globe you are located. You know the one as the marketing for this “new” computer was worldwide and abundant. You know all the happy people dancing around to a “snappy” tune, and flipping/closing their small computers in rhythm like they were in a euphoric trance. Yeah, you have it now, the Microsoft Windows based, “Surface Pro.”
First was the Surface, next the Surface Pro, then a 2, and 3 which has progressed into the current Surface Pro 4. Of course, that is not all Microsoft now has. The Surface Book, Hub and in December, 2016 the Surface Studio rolled out.
First what is different about it? It is smaller than a usual notebook, more the size of a tablet with a very thin keyboard. Approximately 11″ x 7″ x 0.6″. When the keyboard is attached, it is closer to an inch thick. There is a foldout section on the back to provide a stand to keep it upright with a couple of positions. You need that “wedge” to support the actual screen/computer as the keyboard is only a hinge with no support like you may be used to with a regular notebook.
The keyboard is slightly smaller than some other brands of notebooks but not significantly. It also includes a touchpad – similar to all the others. I choose to use a wireless USB mouse with this one which functions well. I have been typing on it regularly for a couple of days. I am having no problem hitting the correct keys – other than caused by my regularly average typing. (Hallelujah, for auto-spell checking in word processors!)
You have three keyboard options. First, you can use the keyboard like any other notebook and type on it. Next, you can fold the keyboard over to become the back surface of the notebook. It then becomes a tablet. When in tablet mode your screen rotates when tilted like any other tablet and you can use the touchscreen. Finally, you may choose to detach the keyboard all-the-way and have a Windows tablet.
It has good response and speed although nowhere near as quick as some larger notebooks I have used. I have been using spreadsheets, word processing, web browsing, email, a very few online games (no pc games or Steam) and everything works as it should.
I cannot really find a lot to nitpick about with this nice little notebook/tablet combo.
Well, OK, there is one major issue for me, the price. For the top of the line Surface Pro 4 today you may figure about $1,400. Oh wait, that does not include a keyboard which may be had for an additional $55 – $130. I am currently testing an older (2014) Surface Pro 2 which again I find to be a very decent system. The price on one of these is around $550 and again that is without a keyboard. I pulled these prices off of Amazon so you may be able to find others elsewhere.
My problem is at that price I can find two equally decent regular notebooks or tablets (with Bluetooth keyboards included. If money were no object, sure, I would not mind owning one. However, not currently for me.
