Microsoft Surface RT Tablet now available for pre-order at the Microsoft Store
The Microsoft Surface with Windows RT is now available at the Microsoft Store for preorder with delivery by 10/26. The pricing was announced to be competitive with the Apple iPad:
- 64 GB with Black Touch Cover $699.00
- 32 GB with Black Touch Cover $599.00
- 32 GB without Black Touch Cover $499.00
And note, if you want a different color Touch Cover that will be extra.
- Surface Touch Cover (5 color choices) Add $119.99
- Surface Type Cover (black) Add $129.99
Unclear on the difference between the Touch Cover and the Type Cover? Here’s the skinny:
- Both covers click into Surface and protect the display when folded closed.
- Touch Cover is a thin and ultra-light dual keyboard cover, with a spill-resistant surface, that comes in several vibrant colors to express your personal style. They keys are "printed" and are touch sensitive – they don’t move. When folded back, Touch Cover automatically disables keystrokes for a full touchscreen experience; when closed, it turns off the display.
- The Type Cover, is a dual keyboard cover that lets you work the way you’re used to working. With a full row of function keys, Type Cover marries the comfort and speed of a traditional keyboard with an incredibly thin form factor so you can be productive anywhere, anytime. The keys do move.
As far as the other specs, hit the link above for the full details, but here’s a brief summary:
- Exterior: 10.81 x 6.77 x 0.37 inches, 1.5 pounds, VaporMg casing, dark titanium color, volume and power buttons
-
VaporMg™ casing: Made with VaporMg, Surface is precision crafted to be tough yet elegant, without excessive bulk. At less than 1.5 pounds, with a watch-like finish that’s incredibly smooth, and durable, Surface is a delight to hold and touch.
-
Integrated Kickstand: Integrated Kickstand provides uncompromised support and flexibility. Flip out the Kickstand for hands-free entertainment. Whether you’re watching a movie, or shooting video, Surface stands on its own.
- Ports and Connectivity: Bring your entire media collection with you wherever you go. A microSDXC card slot lets you add up to 64 GB of extra storage. Show off everything on the big screen using the HD video out port. Full-size USB port and Bluetooth 4.0 provide clutter-free connections with wireless mice and headsets. Dual 2×2 MIMO antennas provide reliable internet connectivity.
-
Windows RT and Microsoft Office Home and Student 2013 RT Preview: Work anywhere, anytime with Windows RT and Office Home 2013 RT2 (which includes Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel and OneNote). Keep tabs on news, friends, and entertainment with pre-loaded Microsoft apps including Windows Mail and Windows Messaging, SkyDrive, Windows Internet Explorer 10, Bing, Xbox Music, Xbox Video, and Xbox Games. Visit the Windows Store to discover more apps and games.
-
Storage: 32 GB or 64 GB depending on model
-
CPU: NVIDIA T30, 2 GB of RAM
-
Wireless: Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n), Bluetooth 4.0 technology
-
Front and rear-facing 720p HD video cameras: Capture life from all sides with LifeCam. The rear camera is angled to shoot straight ahead when the Kickstand is flipped out. The Kickstand also enables hands-free Skype video chat or recording. Custom lens design and an ambient light sensor maximize light intake while providing sharp focus so you’ll never miss a shot
-
Audio: Two microphones, stereo speakers
-
Sensors: Ambient light sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope, compass
-
Power Supply: 24W power supply
-
Warranty: One-year limited hardware warranty
It will be interesting to see how well Microsoft can play in the tablet hardware game on it own versus Apple. Reportedly they have placed orders for 3-5 million during the 4th quarter.
