Microsoft introduces a new Surface Pro 3 version that will cater to those who are more keen on performance in their devices as opposed to storage.
Powered by Intel Core i7, the new Surface Pro 3 will have 128GB storage and a RAM of 8GB. It shares the same RAM size with two former Intel Core i7 models, namely the 256GB and 512GB versions, and with the Intel Core i5. The latter, with 256GB storage, is priced at $1,299, the same price as the new Surface Pro 3.
The latest i7 model seemed to be a slightly downgraded version of the two older i7 devices. It is also the cheapest in price among the three. The 256GB sells for $1,549 while the 512GB is priced at $1,999.
Microsoft touts the Surface Pro 3 as the sleekest and lightest in the Pro lineup. Some of its impressive features include a stunning 12-inch display, full-sized USB 3.0 port, multi-position Kickstand, Mini Display Port and microSD card reader. It comes pre-installed with Windows 8.1 Pro and can be upgraded to Windows 10 for free. Tipping the scale at 1.76 pounds, the Surface Pro 3 also boasts Full HD Display with a resolution of 2160 x 1440.
The Surface Pro 3 promises a battery life that allows up to 9 hours of Internet browsing. It's also equipped with notable sensors, such as the Magnetometer, Gyroscope, Accelerometer, and Ambient light sensor.
Camera geeks would be delighted to know that the Surface Pro 3 features 5MP and 1080p HD front- and rear-facing cameras, along with front and rear-facing microphones and stereo speakers that deliver fantastic sound enhanced by Dolby Audio. The latter allows the user to fully enjoy streamed audio from his playlist and also watch movies with cinema-quality sound.
Lastly, each device comes pre-installed with OneNote and Skype and offers free social media apps, such as Twitter and Facebook.
The Surface Pro 3 has been on the market for more than a year now, and Microsoft is said to be preparing for the launch of the Surface Pro 4. The new i7 model with its cheaper price tag is not only a more affordable way to enjoy a performance-focused device but also a good way to attract potential customers who are going back to school in September.
In the meantime, Microsoft is also launching updated models of the LTE Surface 3 in the UK and Germany this week. The device already went on sale in Japan two weeks ago and will be hitting U.S. store shelves in the weeks to come.
