Microsoft Surface Pro 3: Features InstantGo which is capable of connecting up to two external displays

By Kara Michelle Sep 09, 2014 08:18 AM EDT

Microsoft Surface Pro 3: Features InstantGo which is capable of connecting up to two external displays

The Microsoft Surface Pro 3 was released on June 20, 2014, running on the 64-bit version of Windows 8.1 Pro OS. It features a 12-inch display, which is larger than the Microsoft Surface Pro 2 but it is both thinner and lighter. It also comes with an improved high-friction kickstand which is capable of opening up to 150 degrees along with new accessories including a redesigned type cover and a battery-powered Bluetooth-active Surface Pen. The battery can support up to 9 hours of web browsing. The Microsoft Surface Pro 3 is built on the 4th generation Intel-Core processor with TPM chip and it comes with a hot swap microSD slot at the back of the device that can support memory cards up to 128GB.

Microsoft Surface Pro 3 price varies with choice of configuration options available at the Microsoft Store. A 64GB / Intel i3 Microsoft Surface Pro 3 model comes at $799, a 128GB / Intel i5 at $999, a 256GB / Intel i5 at $1,299, a 256GB / Intel i7 at $1,549, and a 512GB / Intel i7 at $1,949. The Microsoft Surface Pro 3 has InstantGo which allows for smartphone-type power management and is capable of connecting up to two external displays. Maximum supported resolutions varies across configurations according to a CPU model. For instance, the $799 i3-model can drive up to two WUXGU (1920x1200 at 60Hz) displays while the higher-priced i5 and i7 models can support up to two external monitors with maximum resolution of 2880x1800 at 60Hz.

Microsoft Surface Pro 3 review has generally been favorable, but always with a "but" qualification at the end. EndGadget says it "is Microsoft's biggest and best tablet yet, but it needs a better keyboard to truly replace your laptop." CNet says "while the new Surface Pro 3 is Microsoft's best PC to date, it's more successful as a tablet than a laptop replacement." Ars Technica says the "Surface Pro 3 is the closest Microsoft has come yet to producing a laptop-killing tablet. But the laptop will live on to fight another day. This time around, the third iteration isn't the one that gets it right." Gizmodo says "the Surface Pro 3 is now a passable laptop, which is fantastic. But the added benefit of a full Windows tablet is still pretty niche." PC Mag says "with its 12-inch, high-resolution display, full-friction kickstand, and Surface Pen, Microsoft's Surface Pro 3 tablet aims to be the only mobile PC you need. But will you ditch your laptop? We're not so sure."

Microsoft Surface Pro 3 support is available at the Microsoft Surface website. Registration of the device will entitle users to an improved support experience and quick access to Surface Assisted Support.