Surface Pro 3 First Impressions

[Night Spring]

In my particular case, the SP3 is replacing my laptop, and NOT my iPad Mini. So I view it as a laptop in tablet form-factor. Others obviously view it the reverse.

I think that's how I view the SP3, too. And quibbles with Win8 aside, that's the main reason why the SP3 isn't for me right now -- I don't really have a need for a laptop. I do have a MacBook Air, but it is parked on a desk and I haven't moved it for more than half a year. In fact, I'm thinking of replacing it with an iMac.

If I order my devices by the amount of time I spend on them, then the iPad is number one, hands down. I've developed a system of thumb typing on the iPad in landscape, and while not as fast as typing on a physical keyboard, I'm fast enough that I do quite a bit of typing on my iPad. Most of my posts to macrumors are from my iPad, most of my text messaging is on my iPad, and I often do my most complex translation jobs on my iPad.

The iPhone, I have with me all the time, but I only use it when it's too awkward to take out my iPad. I can't really think of anything that I do that is better on the iPhone than on the iPad. Well, I use the iPhone to listen to music, but only because it fits in my pocket. I don't even use the phone as a phone much, because I'm hard of hearing. The only time I use the phone is to call someone when I need them to respond immediately to my texts. I call them, say "Read my texts!" and hang up.

So if I have to give up any of my devices, I guess the first to go will be my iPhone. Then the next would be my iPad, because there are some things I need to do that still can be only done on traditional PCs. But I'd really hate to be without my iPad.

So what Microsoft has to do to win me over is to forget the desktop, and make the very best tablet possible, one that is a better tablet than the iPad. But as of now, Microsoft is in danger of losing me on the desktop, because Apple keeps on improving the integration between iOS and OSX. So with each new generation of iOS / OSX, there is less incentive to install Windows on my Macs. I'm interested in where Microsoft goes with Win9 and the next generation of Surfaces, but they've got a big job ahead of them to convince me to switch from iOS.

 

[sracer]

In my particular case, the SP3 is replacing my laptop, and NOT my iPad Mini. So I view it as a laptop in tablet form-factor.

Many of us also believe that. My Surface RT and Surface 2 were decent netbook replacements, but sub-par as standalone tablets. But it is capable of doing both well (if Microsoft would take the long view) IMO.

 

[MozMan68]

Many of us also believe that. My Surface RT and Surface 2 were decent netbook replacements, but sub-par as standalone tablets. But it is capable of doing both well (if Microsoft would take the long view) IMO.

The exact reason I bought a Surface. I need light weight, full laptop capabilities. The fact that I can use it as a tablet when I would typically use a tablet (relaxing after work or in bed at night) is simply a bonus... like the pen...a huge bonus in my case due to all of the sketches I do to compliment my notes at work.

 

[Wolfpup]

Any thoughts on using the Surface Pro 3 as an ereader? The thing I'm kind of worried about is that it has a fan. Seems like that could make it hard to read on if it kicks in. Not sure if the i3 version would be less likely to have that happen than the i7 version or not.

I wish the i3 version were fanless or there were a second gen Atom version, or Core M, or Broadwell or...

The other thing I don't like is that Marvel doesn't make a Marvel Unlimited app for windows. You can still use it through a web browser on any surface 'cause of flash, but...

Seems like the 12" screen and aspect ratio would make it great for reading magazines and comics other than those issues...

Obviously if I were actually using it as my main system I'd never consider something with only 64GB (or even only 128!) buuuut I figure 64GB (20+ I think, really) is enough to probably have at least one game installed. Even the base Surface Pros should be able to run a huge percent of PC games :-D

 

[mclld]

....

 

[xraydoc]

Any thoughts on using the Surface Pro 3 as an ereader? The thing I'm kind of worried about is that it has a fan. Seems like that could make it hard to read on if it kicks in. Not sure if the i3 version would be less likely to have that happen than the i7 version or not.

I wish the i3 version were fanless or there were a second gen Atom version, or Core M, or Broadwell or...

The other thing I don't like is that Marvel doesn't make a Marvel Unlimited app for windows. You can still use it through a web browser on any surface 'cause of flash, but...

Seems like the 12" screen and aspect ratio would make it great for reading magazines and comics other than those issues...

Obviously if I were actually using it as my main system I'd never consider something with only 64GB (or even only 128!) buuuut I figure 64GB (20+ I think, really) is enough to probably have at least one game installed. Even the base Surface Pros should be able to run a huge percent of PC games :-D

I've had the Surface Pro 3 for a couple of weeks now (i5/8/256) and I've not heard the fan come on during web browsing or while reading PDFs. I haven't spent any time with the Kindle app, so I can't tell you how that responds.


The only time I've heard the fan come on is when I was syncing 10GB of Dropbox data over WiFi and while using multiple desktop apps in what I call "laptop mode" (I had Chrome, Word 2013, Outlook 2013 and a Citrix session open at same time with an active big download session plus the unit was plugged in and charging).

 

[Wolfpup]

I've had the Surface Pro 3 for a couple of weeks now (i5/8/256) and I've not heard the fan come on during web browsing or while reading PDFs. I haven't spent any time with the Kindle app, so I can't tell you how that responds.


The only time I've heard the fan come on is when I was syncing 10GB of Dropbox data over WiFi and while using multiple desktop apps in what I call "laptop mode" (I had Chrome, Word 2013, Outlook 2013 and a Citrix session open at same time with an active big download session plus the unit was plugged in and charging).

Oh wow, thanks! If it doesn't even come on while web browsing, that doesn't sound like a big issue.

I'll probably end up with one :-D

 

[TheHateMachine]

Oh wow, thanks! If it doesn't even come on while web browsing, that doesn't sound like a big issue.

I'll probably end up with one :-D

Yea to second his statement, my fan only ramps up when I am running a high intensive game. I think the fan is always spinning but normally at such a low rpm you cannot even hear it. The fan on this one is very quiet in comparison to the 1 and 2 when it is fully ramped too.

 

[Wolfpup]

Yea to second his statement, my fan only ramps up when I am running a high intensive game. I think the fan is always spinning but normally at such a low rpm you cannot even hear it. The fan on this one is very quiet in comparison to the 1 and 2 when it is fully ramped too.

Nice, thanks! Maybe I'll finally be able to read magazines on a tablet without squinting LOL

 

[MozMan68]

I've only heard the fan once... the first day I had it when I was installing Office365 while doing a couple of other things on there. After that, nothing.

Even when it came on, it was just a very quiet whirring noise.... had to tell people to shut up just so I could hear it.

 

[xraydoc]

Oh wow, thanks! If it doesn't even come on while web browsing, that doesn't sound like a big issue.

I'll probably end up with one :-D

The only time it really even gets warm is when I'm either downloading large files via WiFi or if I'm using it (holding it) while it's charging. Flash-heavy websites will do it, too, though that's hardly a surprise.

 

[mrex]

How does it feel in your lap when it gets warm? Getting cooked eggs? And how about the pen? Laggy? Accurate?

 

[Wolfpup]

The only time it really even gets warm is when I'm either downloading large files via WiFi or if I'm using it (holding it) while it's charging. Flash-heavy websites will do it, too, though that's hardly a surprise.

Wow, all this info about it sounds great!

Regarding flash-heavy, only bad thing with that is there's no Windows 8 Marvel Unlimited app (which would be SOOO cool on the Surface' 12" screen!) and the only way to use Marvel Unlimited without the app is...a flash heavy web page.

When you guys are talking about it being this quite, do you have the i5 version or the i3 version?

I'm not sure which to get...ironically it looks like the i3 does SLIGHTLY better in games as the i5 throttles a bit, but between the i5 + 2x the storage the extra $200 might be worth it...but if the i3 runs quieter...

 

[TheHateMachine]

How does it feel in your lap when it gets warm? Getting cooked eggs? And how about the pen? Laggy? Accurate?

Mine doesn't get terribly hot. It is warm but not uncomfortable. In relation to my Surface Pro 1... that thing would get borderline too hot to hold.

Wow, all this info about it sounds great!

Regarding flash-heavy, only bad thing with that is there's no Windows 8 Marvel Unlimited app (which would be SOOO cool on the Surface' 12" screen!) and the only way to use Marvel Unlimited without the app is...a flash heavy web page.

When you guys are talking about it being this quite, do you have the i5 version or the i3 version?

I'm not sure which to get...ironically it looks like the i3 does SLIGHTLY better in games as the i5 throttles a bit, but between the i5 + 2x the storage the extra $200 might be worth it...but if the i3 runs quieter...

I got the i5, it can handle anything I throw at it and is already fairly quiet. I believe performance throttling can be disabled in Windows. That and there is no throttling when it is plugged in I think.

 

[xraydoc]

Wow, all this info about it sounds great!

Regarding flash-heavy, only bad thing with that is there's no Windows 8 Marvel Unlimited app (which would be SOOO cool on the Surface' 12" screen!) and the only way to use Marvel Unlimited without the app is...a flash heavy web page.

When you guys are talking about it being this quite, do you have the i5 version or the i3 version?

I'm not sure which to get...ironically it looks like the i3 does SLIGHTLY better in games as the i5 throttles a bit, but between the i5 + 2x the storage the extra $200 might be worth it...but if the i3 runs quieter...

I have the i5. Can't speak to throttling since my usage is fairly light. But I wanted the 8GB and 256GB flash, so I didn't have much choice, since eventually (when my docking station comes), it'll be a desktop replacement, too.

 

[MozMan68]

How does it feel in your lap when it gets warm? Getting cooked eggs? And how about the pen? Laggy? Accurate?

The warm part never touches your lap if you use the keyboard or extend the kickstand out when on your lap.... it's never what I would consider "hot."

Pen is super accurate...

 

[Wolfpup]

I have the i5. Can't speak to throttling since my usage is fairly light. But I wanted the 8GB and 256GB flash, so I didn't have much choice, since eventually (when my docking station comes), it'll be a desktop replacement, too.

Thanks! It'll actually make a great desktop I'm sure, as I've got my mom set up with a Surface 1 (non-pro) as a desktop, and it works great her.

 

[nixiemaiden]

Thanks! It'll actually make a great desktop I'm sure, as I've got my mom set up with a Surface 1 (non-pro) as a desktop, and it works great her.

If your primary use is as an e-reader, the i3 would probably suffice but that is still pretty expensive. I think it would make more sense to get an i5 and use it as a primary system that is comfortable for reading comics and magazines on.

I'm not doing any hard core gaming or anything...lately I've been watching a lot of training videos and programming. I haven't noticed any throttling and it seems to run smoother than the quad core i7 I have at work.

 

[Wolfpup]

If your primary use is as an e-reader, the i3 would probably suffice but that is still pretty expensive. I think it would make more sense to get an i5 and use it as a primary system that is comfortable for reading comics and magazines on.

I'm not doing any hard core gaming or anything...lately I've been watching a lot of training videos and programming. I haven't noticed any throttling and it seems to run smoother than the quad core i7 I have at work.

I'm having trouble deciding... Obviously 64GB is INCREDIBLY limiting, but yet if I was using it as a main system, which I have no plans to ever do (my main system right now has a Geforce GTX 680m :-D ) I'd really need the 512GB drive. Plus the i7 versions have 40 GPU cores rather than 20 (although the same cooling system I guess, so...)

I don't know...I should probably just go for the $1000 model if I do this but yeah, I really plan to mostly use it as an ereader/tablet, though you never know what the future holds.

 

[sracer]

I'm having trouble deciding... Obviously 64GB is INCREDIBLY limiting, but yet if I was using it as a main system, which I have no plans to ever do (my main system right now has a Geforce GTX 680m :-D ) I'd really need the 512GB drive. Plus the i7 versions have 40 GPU cores rather than 20 (although the same cooling system I guess, so...)

I don't know...I should probably just go for the $1000 model if I do this but yeah, I really plan to mostly use it as an ereader/tablet, though you never know what the future holds.

Do you have any intentions on buying the TypeCover? If so, then it's going to be an additional $130 above any additional cost of upgraded memory and CPU.

If your plan is for the SP3 to be an ereader/tablet, then I guess that assumes that you won't be running many if any legacy/desktop apps... and if that's true, then the base model will be fine. 64GB microSD cards have come way down in price are a cost effective way to add storage for media.

As with Apple and their notebooks/tablets, Microsoft's pricing tiers are designed to entice you upwards. But IMO, I think that the base SP3 model is a better price proposition than the higher end/higher capacity models provided that you don't have the intentions on using the additional capacity.

 

[Night Spring]

I don't know...I should probably just go for the $1000 model if I do this but yeah, I really plan to mostly use it as an ereader/tablet, though you never know what the future holds.

My gut reaction is that anything above the base configuration seems excessively expensive if the main use is as a ereader.

Also, perhaps you should wait a bit to see if Apple or anyone else comes out with other 12 inch tablets. I think there are some 12 inch Android tablets around, but I suppose they are heavier?

 

[Wolfpup]

Do you have any intentions on buying the TypeCover? If so, then it's going to be an additional $130 above any additional cost of upgraded memory and CPU.

Not right now, although I wouldn't rule out buying a type cover at some point.

If your plan is for the SP3 to be an ereader/tablet, then I guess that assumes that you won't be running many if any legacy/desktop apps... and if that's true, then the base model will be fine. 64GB microSD cards have come way down in price are a cost effective way to add storage for media.

I'd plan on throwing in a 64GB card (or 128 if it takes that). I actually plan on running SOME programs...might throw on Office at some point. Firefox for sure as my main browser. Steam + Marvel Puzzle Quest right now (and probably have a game or two on there most of the time). VLC, maybe TiVo desktop.

Also, perhaps you should wait a bit to see if Apple or anyone else comes out with other 12 inch tablets. I think there are some 12 inch Android tablets around, but I suppose they are heavier?

I had been hoping Apple would do a 12" tablet...they keep talking about a "pro" one. Better still would be if it runs real OS X like the Surface runs real Windows.

BUT if it uses a lightning connection, I'm out. I had my iPod touch's connection die. I lost my iPod nano. Now I just lost my iPhone 5s. Sent it out for service today.

I don't trust that connection at all, so my plans I'd had for a second iPad are pretty much shot.

Regarding Android tablets, well, I'd rather have real Windows or iOS (or real OS X of course), and I don't like that my Nexus 7's brightness controls don't go dim enough, but my main problem is the only 12" reader I know of is Samsung's, and it's really overpriced compared to the Surface IMO. Close to $550, and it won't even get OS updates, sooooo... Basically it's advantage is there's a Marvel Unlimited app for Android right now.

 

[B...]

What do you think regarding a SP3 or a rMBP 13" for college? Is the Type Cover really good enough for long reports, or would I have to use a wireless keyboard?

 

[sracer]

What do you think regarding a SP3 or a rMBP 13" for college? Is the Type Cover really good enough for long reports, or would I have to use a wireless keyboard?

Keyboards are highly personal so I recommend stopping by a store to see and touch one for yourself.

I had the TypeCover2 for my Surface RT & Surface 2. I found the keyboard to be surprisingly excellent for long typing sessions. From what I hear, the TypeCover3 is even better. The downside was the trackpad which was horrendous, and only slightly improved with the TC3. I ended up carrying a bluetooth mouse with me for those times when I needed it.

If the trackpad was as usable as the keyboard, I could highly recommend the TC3. But to pay a premium for a keyboard cover that has a deficient trackpad, no.

The flipside, if you buy a wireless keyboard, you'll still need/want something to cover the screen. So I guess if you factor in the cost of a smartcover (if one even exists) then it isn't too bad.

 

[B...]

Keyboards are highly personal so I recommend stopping by a store to see and touch one for yourself.

I had the TypeCover2 for my Surface RT & Surface 2. I found the keyboard to be surprisingly excellent for long typing sessions. From what I hear, the TypeCover3 is even better. The downside was the trackpad which was horrendous, and only slightly improved with the TC3. I ended up carrying a bluetooth mouse with me for those times when I needed it.

If the trackpad was as usable as the keyboard, I could highly recommend the TC3. But to pay a premium for a keyboard cover that has a deficient trackpad, no.

The flipside, if you buy a wireless keyboard, you'll still need/want something to cover the screen. So I guess if you factor in the cost of a smartcover (if one even exists) then it isn't too bad.

I've used it a lot in-store, and the best way I could describe it would be ok, but it "feels" weird. I typed fine, made a few more mistakes than I usually do, but the non-chicklet style seems odd.