Microsoft Surface Pro 3 Review, Release Date: New Model Comes With 12-inch Display, Intel Core i7 Processor

Since Microsoft's release of their Surface Pro line, promotion teams have put forward an effort to market the series as a replacement for laptops. The Microsoft Surface Pro 3, which can now be ordered from Microsoft Stores, Microsoft retail outlets, and select third-party retailers, has already been shipped out in Canada and the U.S., but consumers in the U.K. and Australia will have to wait until the end of August to get the device.

In addition, the device will be shipped to 26 other markets in August.

The Microsoft Surface Pro 3 runs on Windows Pro and incorporates a 12-inch display and Intel Core i7 processor. It also boasts a 64GB SSD and 8GB of RAM.

Currently, tablets are gradually overpowering laptops. As they are coming in with increased screen sizes, lighter bodies, and advanced software. Also, tablet hardware has been taken seriously as they have stronger processors now than ever before. Beyond that, hybrid devices have been increasing in popularity, as consumers desire the versatility of a laptop with the mobility of a tablet.

Now, Microsoft has released another option for tablet and laptop users, the Surface Pro 3.

The Surface Pro 3 has a 12-inch touch screen interface, 2160 x 1440 pixel resolutions, and comes with a kickstand and touch cover, which is remarkably flexible to work between 22° and 150°.

The initial two Surface Pro models were available with 10.6-inch screens having 13mm bodies. The third generation model is comparatively thin at 9.1mm. Similarly, the older Surface Pro models weigh 900g, while the Surface Pro 3 weighs 800g, offering a thinner and lighter user experience.

Even the battery life of Surface Pro 3 has been improved greatly. It ran for 7 hours and 28 minutes during a bench test conducted by CNET.com.

The Surface Pro 3 comes with a full-size USB 3.0 port, Mini Display Port, microSD card reader and stereo speakers having Dolby Audio-enhanced sound. Inside the casing, the new Surface Pro is somewhat similar to the Surface Pro 2. Collaborating with Intel, Microsoft has given its users an opportunity to use the ultra-low-voltage Core i3 or i5, as well as Core i7.

CNET.com review says, "While the new Surface Pro 3 is Microsoft's best PC to date, it's more successful as a tablet than a laptop replacement."