I’ve been using the new Microsoft Surface Pro 4 for the last few days, and all I can say is, “Wow.”
Microsoft sure made the right choice with its Surface Pro line of tablet computers — utilizing the full version of Windows — to enable users to run all their Windows programs and have full access to the filing system, while allowing the convenience of a touch-screen tablet.
Most of my readers know that I use an Apple Macintosh computer for my day-to-day work and at home. I also own an iPad mini that I don’t use much.
Apple decided years ago to make its Macintosh computers and iPads run different operating systems.
Sure, there are some similarities between Mac OS and iOS, but not when it comes to running each other’s apps.
I can’t run a Mac app on my iPad, and my Mac can’t run iOS apps.
This means I really can’t use an iPad for work.
Sure, I can use my iPad to surf the Internet, read email or even type a column, but we use a pagination system (CCI Newsgate) at work to put the paper together, and while there are clients for Mac and Windows, there is no iOS app for Newsgate.
So I’m stuck using a Mac or a PC if I want to work in our system.
If I used Windows, I’d have the option of using and carrying a much smaller device, such as the Surface Pro 4, as my only computer.
So yes, I’m jealous of Windows users who can run their programs on such a small, cool tablet.
I might not be jealous enough yet to switch from the Mac, but I reserve the right to change my mind in the future.
The basics
Microsoft has been making Surface tablets since 2012, and this latest version is really firing on all cylinders.
Advancements in chip technology have enabled Microsoft to put a very fast computer and very nice screen in a case the size of a tablet.
The Surface Pro 4 is available with a sixth-generation Intel Core m3, i5 or i7 processor with up to 16 gigabytes of RAM and up to 1 terabyte of internal storage. If you’re shopping today, you’ll only find storage options up to 512 gb, but Microsoft says the 1 terabyte configuration will be available very soon.
The unit I tested had a Core i5 with 8 gb of RAM and a 256 gb solid state drive. It uses the Windows 10 operating system. This configuration costs $1,299, which is in line with a similarly equipped Macbook Air.
The Surface Pro has a 12.3-inch display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824 pixels, for a pixel density of 267 pixels-per-inch. The crystal-clear display has a 3:2 aspect ratio and features 10-point multi-touch.
The magnesium case measures 11.5 inches by 7.93 inches by 0.33 inches, and it weighs 1.73 pounds.
The back side features a now-familiar hinged kickstand that can hold itself steady at virtually any angle.
It was unexpected, but the kickstand really did help keep the Surface Pro 4 at a comfortable reading angle on my lap.
Combined with the new Surface Pro Type Cover ($129.99), the Surface Pro 4 is ready to take on any program you can install.
Full-featured
Where the Surface Pro shines is in its expandability. There’s a USB 3.0 port for connecting peripherals, a Mini DisplayPort for connecting external monitors, a microSD card slot for extra storage and a physical connector for the keyboard covers.
There are front and rear cameras and stereo microphones and stereo speakers.
Also, Microsoft includes the Surface Pen, which is really well-designed.
The pen clips to the side of the Surface Pro with a really strong magnet. The Pen has 1024 levels of pressure sensitivity for really precise drawing. There is an optional pack of extra tips for the pen that provide different feels on the screen. If you like drawing with a pencil, or desire the smoothness of a ballpoint pen, there’s a tip for you.
The pen also has an eraser that really works and feels like you’re erasing on paper.
The buttons on the pen can also trigger events such as launching a new note or taking a screen shot.
Microsoft could have easily charged $100 for the pen, but was good enough to include it.
I know there are some iPad Pro users who wish Apple were as generous.
Speaking of the iPad Pro, comparisons to the Surface Pro 4 are inevitable.
I’ve only used the iPad Pro for a few minutes, but while it has the build quality of the Surface Pro 4, the fact that the iPad doesn’t run a full operating system means it will only appeal to users who can live with its limitations.
The Surface Pro 4 is smoking fast and could handle anything I tried to run.
It is a seriously full-featured computer that would be my first choice if I had to buy a portable Windows computer.
