Many were actually amazed when Microsoft unleashed a slew of surprises earlier this month: the Surface Pro 4, second-gen Microsoft Band, Lumia 950, Lumia 950 XL and, of course, the Surface Book, Microsoft's very first laptop.
At first sight, it seems the Surface Book is akin to a traditional 13-inch notebook touting a long battery life, a sleek design just like any other laptop one can find in the market today, including the MacBook Pro.
However, what impresses its customers is its removable screen, turning the device into a 1.6-pound tablet.
While the Surface Book is the first laptop created by the company — since it normally produces operating systems and software to run computers — Microsoft will surely be happy to learn that this device seems well-received by experts.
Let's do the rundown.
Pros
Unique Display
What has caught the attention of many is the device's rare display. It boasts a 3:2 aspect ratio, making it look taller when compared to the screens of most laptops these days (which usually feature a 16:9 aspect ratio).
"I spend a lot of time reading content on the web, so I’ve fallen in love with this oddly shaped display," says The Verge.
What's also interesting about this two-in-one device is its absolutely absurd viewing angles, which means the user can clearly see what's on the screen at any angle they look at it.
"The top half is a 3,000 x 2,000, 13.5-inch screen that is clear and detailed and has absolutely absurd viewing angles," remarks Wired.
Boasts A Touch Screen
What also makes this device different from the usual laptops nowadays is its detachable screen. This means it touts a touchscreen, which its strong rival MacBook Air and MacBook Pro do not have.
Impressive Performance
"Microsoft's laptop is all about horsepower: fast performance, robust graphics and unmatched battery life," Engadget notes. "You can't get that in a sub-three-pound laptop, at least not right now."
Trackpad And Keyboard
The device's keyboard and trackpad are two of its top-selling points.
"[T]he keyboard and trackpad feel great," states Fortune.
"I’ve always found the trackpad on the Surface Pro 3 to be a little fiddly and too small, but the Surface Book is the complete opposite," The Verge added.
Cons
While it boasts a lot of pros, many say it also has a few downsides.
"The first is an inconsistent trackpad that’s jumpy, and often too sensitive or not sensitive enough," complains Gizmodo. "After nearly two weeks using the Surface Book, I’ve grown accustomed to the trackpad’s wonky behavior."
Other reviews also think the price tage, which is $1,499, is a bit hefty. However, a few reviews argue it is because Surface Book delivers notable performance.
Additionally, Engadget believes the "Fulcrum" hinge of the Surface Book makes the laptop appear bulkier when shut.
The Verdict
Overall, it seems many early reviews say Microsoft's laptop is indeed gifted.
Yes, it is quite pricey, but given that it is equipped with undeniably remarkable features and specifications, it is well worth it to fork $1,499 out of the pocket for the Surface Book.
