Microsoft released its Surface tablet device in late October with its Windows RT operating system. Competing with the Apple iPad 4 and Android tablet devices such as the Google Nexus 10, Asus Transformer Pad and Samsung Galaxy Note.
So how does the Surface compare?
The light tablet and sleek design is similar to other devices but with a slightly larger, lower res screen that is said to be actually easier to read. Microsoft Surface also comes with a USB port, built in kickstand and longer battery life. The keyboard can attach to the tablet as a touch cover at £80 or type cover at £110, with the touch cover a little harder to get used to and the type cover more comfortable to use.
Microsoft Surface Vs. Apple iPad
In comparison to the Apple iPad, the Surface has better productivity with the ability to have apps open side by side and better for multi-tasking. However,
with a slower graphical performance apps taking a little longer to open and less flexibility in what the device allows you to do.
Windows RT and the Windows 8 Pro
Microsoft Surface is currently available with Windows RT and the Windows 8 Pro is set to launch in early 2013, the major differences being that the pro has intel core processing to run PC software and larger hard drive. The pro also weighs a little more but is designed to be used as a small laptop as well as tablet device much like the Samsung ATIV Smart PC Pro 700T.
The Windows RT does not have the intel core processing but ARM based chip design and acts more like a tablet with RT apps to download. The selection of apps available is a lot less when you compare to the wide variety to download through Apple and Android devices, but then as a newer product this can be expected.
Price comparisons
The Windows RT 32GB Surface currently retails at £399, so is cheaper than the 16GB iPad at the same price. However, the Windows 8 Pro is looking to be at around the £1000 mark if it is to act as a laptop as well as a tablet. If you are looking for a little bit more flexibility in design and more space it may be worth the extra wait and cost for the Surface Windows 8 Pro.
What are your thoughts? Are you waiting for the new Microsoft Surface Tablet or will are you waiting for the next big thing from Apple iPad? Or do neither compare to your Android tablet device?
