In two previous posts, an introduction and a deeper look, we have shared with you our impressions of the new Surface Tablets from Microsoft as mobile business computing tools. Now that the Surface RT has been delivered, more than a few folks have been writing reviews on the new tablet from Microsoft. Since our focus at North Star, Inc. is on technology for business, we need to discuss whether or not the new Surface Tablet is a tool that will benefit our Denver IT support clients.
The pros and cons of the Surface RT Tablet
Since the Surface RT is the tablet that Microsoft brought to market first, that is what we will examine before looking at the Surface Pro. Far and away, the most valuable feature of the Surface RT Tablet, at least for business productivity, is the ability to use the suite of services contained in Windows Office in a mobile environment. However, there are a number of other features we think will help your people remain productive in a mobile setting:
Surface RT Pros
- Windows 8 Operating System
- All Office apps available, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, Outlook
- 32 GB or 64 GB capable
- 10.6” widescreen display, with 16:9 ratio
- Built-in rear kickstand
- Clip-on keyboard for touch or type keyboard cover
- Nvidia Tegra 3 processor, with ARM technology
- 2 GB RAM
- 64 GB slot
- USB 2.0 slot
- Add traditional Wondows peripherals
- Comfortable one-hand operation
- A real, desktop-based file system
- Excellent browsing experience
- Instant messenger
- Full cloud-based filing and apps
- Excellent battery life, with up to 10 hours at full function
Surface RT Cons
- Does not run Windows 7
- Does not run legacy systems
- Slightly heavier than the iPad
- No built-in GPS sensor
- No built-in 4G connectivity
- Not the most vibrant display on the market
- Adequate, not excellent, camera
While some of the CONS we’ve read about the Surface RT seem a bit picky to us, except for the lack of 4G connectivity that some may be looking for, it seems that the PROS far outweigh them. As for the lack of a built-in GPS sensor, how many devices do you need hanging off your body that can track your movements? You have a Smartphone with GPS and Google maps, what more do you need?
Should you wait for the Surface Pro?
As for the rest, it is highly likely that the Surface Pro, designed with the fully mobile business person in mind, will handle these for you. We already know it will have a more vibrant display, with a 920×1080 (1080p) touch screen, as well as 64 GB memory standard with a 128 GB version available. It will also use a more robust processor, the Intel Core i5 CPU, and will not only run all Windows apps, including Windows 7, but will also accommodate your favorite legacy apps. It will even use a better battery. The Surface Pro will possess all the functionality of an Ultrabook, with vastly improved portability.
Microsoft has confirmed that the Surface Pro will be available by the end of January 2013.
- Operating System – Windows 8 Pro, and runs current Windows 7 desktop applications and integrates with your existing enterprise management infrastructure. Use the programs and the apps available in the Windows Store.
- Exterior – 10.81 x 6.81 x 0.53in, 2 lbs, VaporMg casing, Dark Titanium color, Volume and Power buttons
- Storage – 64GB beginning at $899, 128GB beginning at $999
- Display – 10.6″ ClearType Full HD Display, 1920×1080 pixels, 16:9 (widescreen), 10-point multi-touch
- Pen Input – Pen input and pen (included)
- CPU – 3rd Gen Intel Core i5 Processor with Intel HD Graphics 4000, 4GB RAM—Dual Channel Memory
- Wireless – Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n), Bluetooth 4.0 Low Energy technology
- Battery – 42 Wh
- Cameras and A/V – Two 720p HD LifeCams, front- and rear-facing with TruColor, Microphone, Stereo speakers
- Ports – Full-size USB 3.0, microSDXC card slot, Headset jack, Mini DisplayPort, Cover port
- Sensors – Ambient light sensor, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Compass
- Power Supply – 48W power supply (including 5W USB for accessory charging)
- Warranty – 1-year limited hardware warranty
- Apps (included) – Windows Mail and Messaging; SkyDrive; Internet Explorer 10; Bing; Xbox Music, Video, and Games
- Go here for a comparison of the Surface Pro vs. the Surface RT
- Touch or Type Cover Keyboard available
In short, for anyone looking for improved mobility with a tablet that can easily run the familiar business apps in Windows, the Denver IT services at North Star, Inc. believe the Surface Tablets from Microsoft to be an excellent choice.
If you are looking for reliable IT consulting in Denver and the surrounding areas, North Star, Inc., is the place to go for quality Denver IT support. Get in touch with us today with your IT Service Request.