The Surface Pro: Microsoft’s Most Powerful Tablet

Performance has always been one drawback with tablet computers. With a tablet, you are not quite getting a PC, but you are getting more than a smartphone. Microsoft looks to break through the surface of this hardware barrier with the new Surface Pro, a tablet that can handle a full Windows 8 operating system.

Most tablets use a stripped down OS in order to accommodate for the tablets lack of power. With a full Windows 8 OS, the Surface Pro can run all the same applications that a laptop can, and with a 10.6 inch touch screen that has 1080p resolution, it's great for work or play.

As far as performance goes, the Surface Pro is similar to an ultrabook, minus the keyboard. Microsoft does sell a keyboard separately that is an innovation of its own. The keyboard is called a Type Cover, it can easily attach and detach magnetically and is strikingly thin and very durable.

The Surface Pro's specs are impressive for a tablet:

• 1.7 GHz Intel Core i5 processor
• 4 GB Ram
• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity
• Weight: 2 pounds
• Dimensions: 11 x 7 x 0.53 inches (HWD)
• Internal Storage: 64 GB & 128 GB
• Cameras: front and rear

These are all very strong features for a tablet; however, a short battery life of 4-5 hours may be its biggest drawback. The $899 price tag is a little steep and may detract consumers looking for a casual tablet experience and do not need that much computing power. The Surface RT is a less expensive alternative Slate tablet, but it lacks the full Windows 8 OS. Surface Pro was released in January 2013, and the advantage of using a full OS might give Microsoft the sales boost they need since the Surface RT tablet and Windows 8 have pulled less-than-expected sales figures.

If you have been holding off on buying a tablet computer due to their lack of power, then the Surface Pro might the tablet that you been waiting for. A high end mobile device like the Surface Pro puts Microsoft in direct competition with Apple and its popular iPad; this rivalry is sure to heat up as 2013 continues. Tell us in the comments your opinion of the Surface Pro!