Microsoft’s best tablet-laptop hybrid has arrived

SINGAPORE — Based on specs, the Microsoft Surface 3 may seem like a downgrade from the Surface Pro 3. But as far as user experience goes, the Surface 3 may be the best tablet-laptop hybrid Microsoft has ever made.

For one, the Surface 3 just feels much more natural as a tablet compared to its Pro cousin. Its smaller frame and lighter weight (622g) gives it an edge in handling and manoeuvrability, and it doesn’t feel quite as oversized.

Unlike the Pro, the Surface 3 is fan-less: So there’s no longer a need for vents on the side, and you’ll never be disturbed to hear the unmistakable whir of a fan coming from a tablet.

Of course, the Surface 3 certainly doesn’t have the processing power as the Pro, but that’s not to say that the Surface 3 isn’t a solid performer.

Its Intel Atom x7 processor, while not fantastic, is more than adequate for your day-to-day tasks like browsing the web, checking social media and running Office documents. I also encountered no problems with light editing work on Photoshop CC, though it does slow down a little if you run too many tabs or apps.

Battery life is better than the Pro (up to 10 hours of video playback) and it even comes with a higher-resolution rear-facing camera.

But perhaps the most important factor of the Surface 3 is, unlike its predecessors the RT and Surface 2, it comes with the full Windows 8.1 operating system, which can be upgraded for free to Windows 10. 
This is important because finally the Surface 3 can effectively be used as both a laptop and tablet, rather than just a tablet pretending to be a laptop.

To fully maximise the potential of the Surface 3 though, you’ll have to buy the Type Cover (keyboard) as an additional accessory for S$199. It’s slightly annoying that the Type Cover does not come as a package together with the device, because it’s practically a must-have item, given that the Surface 3’s greatest strength lies in its versatility to run as both a full-working tablet and laptop. 

It’s tough when comparing the Surface 3 to “pure” tablets and laptops, but I will say this: The Surface 3 is definitely a better work machine, than say an iPad with a keyboard case. Conversely, I wouldn’t recommend getting the Surface 3, if you already have a good laptop and are just on the look out for a tablet.

The bottom-line is that the Surface 3 is arguably one of the best jack of all trades in the market. Get it if you’re keen to travel light without the need for multiple devices.

The recommended retail price for the Surface 3 starts at $748.00 (2GB of RAM, 64GB of storage). You can get it from authorised retailers or the Microsoft Store: www.microsoftstore.com