Now that it's finally running software you'd actually want to use, the Surface 3 might make more people recognize Microsoft's design chops.

Even today, after testing all five previous Surface devices over the past few years, I'm still impressed with Microsoft's craftsmanship. This time around there's also support for Microsoft's pressure-sensitive stylus, something that's always been available on the Surface Pro series, but never the plain Surface line.ĭon't take my lack of surprise as a negative, though - the Surface 3 is still incredibly well-designed, with an attention to detail you don't find on most laptops and tablets. It's not nearly as versatile as the Surface Pro 3's fully customizable kickstand (which has no distinct positions), but it's enough to make the Surface 3 fit comfortably on your lap in many different orientations. And of course, there's the iconic kickstand, which can now click into three positions, one step beyond the Surface 2.

It has the same silver magnesium alloy case with smooth chamfered edges, which gives it a smooth, premium feel in your hands. No, there aren't any major surprises when it comes to the Surface 3's hardware.

Microsoft surface tablet