Microsoft reveals a consumer version of the 2014 Surface Pro 3-- the simply named Surface 3, a 10.8-inch tablet running full Windows 8.1 on a fanless Intel Atom processor similar to that powering a number of budget notebooks.
The tablet is a bit thinner (8.7mm) and lighter (622g) than its Pro sibling, and features a display in the same 3:2 aspect ratio. Like the Pro model the 1920x1280 resolution touchscreen handles pressure-sensitive pen input, and all comes inside magnesium casing complete with built-in kickstand.
Microsoft claims the battery allows up to 10 hours of use, while ports include full-size USB 3.0, Mini DisplayPort, cover port and micro USB for charging. Wireless connectivity comes through wifi (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac) and Bluetooth 4.0.
Also on offer from Microsoft are a selection of regular accessories, including the keyboard-equipped Type Cover (available in red, blue, black and silver), a Docking Station (allows easy connection to peripherals such as an HD monitor, printer, keyboard and mouse) and a Surface Pen stylus (also available in red, blue, black and silver).
The Surface 3 is available from May 2015 with a free one-year Office 365 Personal subscription and 1TB OneDrive storage.
