Microsoft Surface Pro 3 review: The Microsoft Surface Pro line has always been posited as the “tablet that can replace your laptop.” What the device aims to be is a complete PC with the comforts and contour of a device popularized by its former nemesis in OS circles.

But at $799 starting price, practically buying you a Chromebook or two and a few hundreds of dollars shy away from an iMac, are the specs of this Windows-powered tabelt worth it?

The Microsoft Surface Pro 3, the latest in the Surface Pro line variants, has a 12-inch display with a high resolution of 2,160 x 1,440. It has a 3:2 aspect ratio, making it easy to use in either modes – portrait or landscape. Dimensions of the Surface Pro 3 is lighter and thinner than its predecessor, the Surface Pro 2, at 9.1 mm thick and 1.76 pounds heavy.

The tablet comes with a Surface Pen stylus, a Mini DisplayPort, and a single USB 3.0 port. It also has a 5-megapixel camera on both the front and rear portion of the device and battery can last up to six hours, at least referencing a test by IGN.

The function of the unit as a productivity suite is excellent; in many ways thanks to its ability to run major and essential MS applications, this is a useful portable workstation. IGN also notes that Window’s combination of a touch-based interface and traditional mouse-and-keyboard UI really shines with the new Surface variant.

According to IGN, snapping multiple apps is cleaner and easier than resizing windows only using desktop. Some useful web apps as well like Skype, Twitter, and Netflix, fused well as thin columns. The Metro UI is also perfectly designed for use with either your finger or stylus.

Overall, the built of the Surface Pro 3 is deemed impressive, but its ability to be a real replacement could only be judged if the trackpad and keyboard can act solid and if you intend to use it on your lap.

Generally, the Microsoft Surface Pro 3 is worth the price. It carries a premium feel and delivers well on performance and speed. But its value as a real PC replacement hangs in the balance, which an upcoming sales report could ultimately answer.

What do you think of the Microsoft Surface Pro 3?