Microsoft Surface 3 Pro Reviews

The Microsoft Surface 3 can be best summed up as that hybrid computing device, one that offers the portability and travel-friendly package of a tablet, but also leverages the power of a full desktop platform. It might not be razor thin, or incredibly swift with its performance, but it blends enough of the tablet and desktop experiences to broaden its appeal.

Had Microsoft placed the versatile Surface 3 at a more attractive price point, it would be one of the most attractive tablet-laptop hybrids on the market, despite a few minor flaws. Unfortunately, at $630 with the all-important Type Cover, the Surface 3 becomes harder to recommend.

Think of the Surface 3 as a smaller, cheaper Surface Pro 3, with slightly disappointing battery life but surprisingly good performance.

Objectively, the Surface 3 is the best compromise between a laptop and tablet. It's a highly portable gadget which can run full Windows programs and it costs less than the Surface Pro 3. It's not exactly cheap by the time you've added the keyboard and stylus, though. It's also only good for lightweight duties - it's less powerful than laptops costing the same - and some people will find the screen is too small for 'proper' productivity. It's a better work tool than an iPad and Bluetooth keyboard, it has to be said, and if you only need to use office apps and a web browser, it could be exactly what you're after. Most people are better off spending more on the Surface Pro 3 or, if you don't need a touchscreen, a Core M laptop such as the Asus UX305F.