Initially both Microsoft tablets look very much the same. It will take peeking beneath the cover to show how the Surface for Windows 8 Pro differs from its lighter sibling, the Surface for Windows 8 RT. One of the main advantages of the Pro model is that it operates the Windows 8 OS whilst RT device is loaded with a watered down variation of the same system OS designed specifically for tablets.
Surface Pro is an amalgamation of personal computer and Tablet - An overview of the technical specs for the Pro version of the Microsoft Surface tablet makes it obvious this is the company's shot at taking the best from both PC and tablet to re-invent what a tablet could be.
Microsoft CEO, Steve Ballmer discussed the consideration of both products this way, "We designed Windows 8 for the world we know, in which most computers are mobile." Even Microsoft founder, Bill Gates commented on this characteristic of the Surface tablets. Cited in a recent PCMAG.com article Gates stated, "I actually believe you can have the best of both worlds. You can have a rich ecosystem of manufacturers and you can have a few signature devices that show off, wow, what's the difference between a tablet and a PC?"
Microsoft Surface for Windows Pro
- Processor - Intel Core i5 (Ivy Bridge)
- Weight - 1.99 lbs
- Thickness - .53"
- Screen - 10.6 inch Clear Type Full HD
- Pixels - 1920X1080 (best guess)
- Storage - 64GB or 128GB of internal storage and a microSDXC slot
- Ports and I/O - USB 3.0, Mini Display Port, 2X2 MIMO antennae, forward and back facing cameras
- Extras - Touch/Type Cover options, built-in kickstand, stereo speaker
Digital Inking - One factor various evaluators are interested in is the tablet's digital inking design. Microsoft provided the Surface for Windows 8 Pro version the capability to write directly on the screen with a stylus. Its Gorilla Glass 2 is chemically bonded, which apparently makes the use of the stylus-on-tablet that mimics pen-on-paper.
Software - Windows 8 Pro should run pretty much any software that worked on Windows 7. Windows 8 RT tablets will run only apps which are found on Microsoft's Windows Store. This is amongst the biggest factors that will determine which unit you'll need.
On the other hand people can go the route of the Android tablet. The price is typically less and there are many app markets where you'll find Android tablet apps for the device. Be sure to have a look at a few of the various Android tablet reviews as well. This will ensure you're getting a unit that's appropriate for your needs.
