Microsoft Surface Pro 3 (8GB + 512GB) Review | 168 Data compared

The Microsoft Surface Pro 3 review by CNET highlights a significant evolution in Microsoft’s 2-in-1 design, creating a device that feels like a viable primary PC. The device features a larger 12-inch, 2,160x1,440 resolution screen, a versatile friction-based kickstand, and is both thinner and lighter than previous models. Pros include a superior 3:2 aspect ratio for productivity, a more stable, angled Type Cover, and a comfortable Surface Pen, all driven by strong Intel Core processor performance. However, cons persist as the essential Type Cover is sold separately, and while the trackpad is improved, it still lacks the responsiveness of a traditional laptop. Furthermore, the device can feel awkward on the lap for some, and Windows 8.1 still presents a jarring split between desktop and tablet interfaces. Despite these issues, the Surface Pro 3 is considered a matured, high-performance hybrid.

PCMag highlights the Microsoft Surface Pro 3 as an ambitious hybrid featuring a vibrant 12-inch, 2160-by-1440 display and a flexible, infinitely adjustable kickstand that leans up to 150 degrees. The device, which supports the pressure-sensitive Surface Pen, acts as a functional laptop replacement due to its full Windows 8.1 Pro capability. However, the review cites significant drawbacks, noting the unit is heavy and bulky to hold as a tablet and requires the Type Cover to be purchased separately for $130, adding to the total cost. Additionally, the device features limited connectivity with only one USB 3.0 port and, while improved, the ergonomics can still be uncomfortable when used on a lap. Performance-wise, the Surface Pro 3 is considered a mixed bag, with benchmark results that do not significantly surpass the previous Surface Pro 2, despite its improved form factor. While it is deemed a more capable 2-in-1 than its predecessors, the review concludes that it still requires compromises in both tablet and laptop modes. For more details, visit PCMag.

The Microsoft Surface Pro 3, featured in a May 2014 hands-on by The Verge, is framed as a viable laptop replacement boasting a 12-inch, 3:2 aspect ratio display in a thinner, lighter magnesium chassis. Key design improvements include an adjustable "friction hinge" kickstand and a redesigned Surface Pen with low-latency N-trig technology for a better writing experience. While featuring a new magnetic, angled Type Cover, limitations include the separate $130 accessory cost and only one USB 3.0 port. Furthermore, the larger 12-inch footprint diminishes its comfort as a casual handheld tablet compared to smaller rivals.

In a July 2014 review for Time, the Surface Pro 3 is described as a refined, sophisticated, yet flawed attempt at a device that bridges the gap between tablets and laptops. Key strengths highlighted include the 12-inch 3:2 screen, a versatile multistage friction hinge, and a thinner, lighter magnesium chassis that feels more natural than its predecessors. While praised for its, the device is criticized for "lapability" issues and software constraints. Significant drawbacks stem from the "split identity" of Windows 8.1, which causes friction between touch-based and desktop environments. Specific, smaller issues, such as browser tabs opening blank and poor app scaling, detract from the premium experience. Additionally, the high cost is noted, particularly because the essential Type Cover is sold separately and top-tier models approach $2,000. Ultimately, the review argues that for many, the Surface Pro 3 is the best 2-in-1 hybrid, despite not perfectly replacing separate devices. It concludes that the advantages of having one powerful, pen-enabled device often outweigh the software bugs and ergonomic compromises. TIME

IGN's 2014 review described the Microsoft Surface Pro 3 as a highly capable, thin, and light "tablet in a laptop’s clothing" featuring a 12-inch 3:2 display and a versatile, multi-angle kickstand. Pros included fast performance, a premium build, and improved pressure-sensitive pen input, though significant cons centered on poor "lappability" and the added cost of the necessary Type Cover, which featured a sub-par trackpad. Ultimately, the review concluded that while it is an excellent hybrid for creative tasks, it remained an imperfect laptop replacement for traditional computing, according to IGN.

The Microsoft Surface Pro 3 is a versatile 12-inch 2-in-1 device featuring a high-resolution 2,160 x 1,440 display and a flexible friction-based kickstand that improves on previous models. It offers exceptional build quality, a highly responsive pressure-sensitive Surface Pen, and strong performance capabilities with Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 processors. Key drawbacks include the necessity of purchasing the Type Cover keyboard separately and a limited selection of ports, featuring only a single USB 3.0 port. Additionally, while functional, the battery life is moderate compared to dedicated tablets, and the device can become warm during heavy, sustained, or graphical tasks. For more details, visit Expert Reviews.