The self-built tablets by Microsoft were introduced to the public a few days ago. There are 2 editions of Microsoft Surface announced, the Surface RT and the Surface Pro.
Although there are still months to the release date of the Microsoft tablets, they have already been creating the buzz and promised to end the domination of iPad and Android tablets. I am myself really impressed with what Microsoft is offering this time and believe the devices could suit needs of most consumers. If you are still using a netbook/laptop and hesitating to get a tablet, this is the time and I totally recommend you to purchase a Microsoft tablet because this is an efficient and compact device. You can get the comfort and portability of a tablet, and still don’t lose the high performance of a laptop. Your choice will just become more narrow to the choice between Surface RT or Surface 8 Pro.
If you attended or watched the event online, you probably don’t understand clearly the differences between the 2 models as they look quite the same. Fortunately, Microsoft announced details on features and tech specs of the 2 tablets. The Surface RT is the lower-end edition compared to the Surface 8 Pro but it will be released 3 months sooner and have a lower price. Although RT is the lower-specced one, it is absolutely not weak at all compared to current tablets on the market. Besides, it has quite similar design with the full USB 2.0 port, optical bonding display, built-in kick stand and cover, and solid build. The RT edition is even thinner and lighter.
Let’s take a look at the detailed comparison between Microsoft Surface RT and Surface Pro.
| Surface RT | Surface Pro | |
| Screen: | 10.6-inch ClearType HD capacitive touchpanel | 10.6-inch ClearType Full HD (1080p) capacitive touchpanel |
| Processor: | NVIDIA Tegra-based ARM chip | Intel Core i5 (Ivy Bridge) |
| Battery: | 31.5 Wh | 42 Wh |
| Connectivity: | microSD, USB 2.0, Micro HD Video, 2×2 MIMO antennae | microSDXC, USB 3.0, Mini DisplayPort Video, 2×2 MIMO antennae |
| Software: | Windows RT + Office Home & Student 2013 RT | Windows 8 Pro |
| Accessories: | Touch Cover, Type Cover | Touch Cover, Type Cover, Pen with Palm Block |
| Design | VaporMg Case & Stand | VaporMg Case & Stand |
| Storage: | 32 GB, 64 GB | 64 GB, 128 GB |
| Weight: | 676g | 903g |
| Size: | 9.3 mm | 13.5 mm |
| Release Date: | September 2012 | December 2012 – January 2013 |
| Price (including Touch Cover): |
$599 (32GB) and $699 (64GB) | $999 (64GB) and $1099 (128GB) |
What do you think about the 2 new Microsoft Surface tablets? Could it become an iPad and Android killer with the higher price tag?
Rudraksh Pathak says
Jul 4, 2012 at 2:19 pmSurface is facing tough competition with the the launch of Nexus 7. And even Apple has announced that they are going to launch iPad mini 7 this year. Lord help Microsoft !!!1
uglybetty says
Aug 28, 2012 at 9:59 pmIam keeping concerning the Surface tablet pc. I do not know which I should choose RT or Windows 8 pro. Hard to make a decision.
Tuan Do says
Aug 28, 2012 at 11:47 pmIt depends on you and your budget. I prefer the Windows 8 pro Surface as it is stronger and I can run more apps.
carbon bicycle says
Sep 7, 2013 at 10:57 pmFor me, I prefer Surface RT.
I like its design as well as the price which is affordable for me.