Microsoft Surface Tablet Review & Giveaway

Microsoft Surface Tablet Review

The Surface tablet represents Microsoft’s initial venture into designing and manufacturing its own tablet hardware. It stands as a prominent product within the Microsoft lineup.

Similar to the iPad in its ecosystem control, the Surface primarily restricts users to applications sourced from the Windows Store. However, a notable distinction exists: the ability to connect a USB drive and access a complete file management system.

Interface and Functionality

A key question arises regarding the effectiveness of the Windows 8 interface on a tablet form factor. Do the touch controls feel natural and responsive? Furthermore, does a traditional desktop mode remain accessible?

This comprehensive review from MakeUseOf will address these inquiries and more, culminating in a giveaway of the Microsoft Surface.

Review Details

For the purposes of this evaluation, a 32GB Microsoft Surface, accompanied by a black touch cover, was acquired at a price of $599.

One fortunate reader will receive this Surface tablet as part of a giveaway!

Terminology

Throughout this review, the term "Metro" will be used to describe the user interface. While officially known as Modern UI, "Metro" remains the more widely recognized name for clarity.

The Microsoft Surface Tablet: An Initial Overview

The Surface represents Microsoft’s inaugural foray into tablet design, paving the way for subsequent models like the Surface Pro. Utilizing an ARM-based processor, this initial (RT) version exhibits a key limitation: it is not compatible with traditional Windows software.

Instead, it is designed to exclusively operate applications sourced from the Windows 8 Store, aligning its functionality more closely with devices such as the iPad than conventional Windows computers. The forthcoming Pro model, however, will offer full Windows 8 compatibility thanks to its x86 architecture.

Competitive Landscape

Currently, the Microsoft Surface RT occupies a unique position, as there are no direct competitors offering devices running the Windows RT operating system. Within the same price bracket and screen size, the iPad emerges as the primary rival.

The 32GB Microsoft Surface tablet is priced at $499, representing a $100 cost reduction compared to a comparable 32GB iPad. When bundled with the Touch Cover accessory, the total package cost reaches $599, positioning it outside the realm of budget-friendly options.

Furthermore, the Surface RT faces competition from the recently unveiled Google Nexus 10, a 10" tablet available for $499 (32GB configuration). Given the positive impression created by the Nexus 7, it’s reasonable to anticipate that the Nexus 10 also delivers a high-quality user experience.

The Surface RT uses an ARM processor.
It only runs apps from the Windows 8 Store.
The iPad is its main competitor.

Key takeaway: The Surface RT offers a different approach to the tablet market, focusing on Windows Store apps and a unique hardware design.

First Impressions

The packaging design is modern and visually appealing, reflecting the quality of the product within. It showcases a distinctive bezel, mirroring the device’s own strong diagonal edge.

The package contains the keyboard accessory, the tablet itself, a charging cable, and the appropriate power adapter – a UK plug is included with this version.

Package Contents

The Surface Tablet device
A dedicated keyboard
Charging cable and adaptor
Minimalist instruction manual

The included instruction manual is concise, as extensive reading isn't necessary for initial setup and operation.

A visual inspection of the contents confirms a premium unboxing experience.

The components are thoughtfully arranged within the box, enhancing the overall presentation.

Design and Physical Attributes

The Surface boasts an industrial aesthetic, finished in a gunmetal matte black. Its construction imparts a remarkably robust feel, extending even to the integrated kickstand. Weighing in at 0.68kg, its portability is comparable to the new iPad, which registers at 0.66kg.

The device’s distinctly retro form factor represents a notable and welcome divergence from the prevailing trend of curved designs, particularly those popularized by Apple. In terms of design, the Surface confidently establishes a unique identity among its tablet competitors.

Keyboard and Cover Functionality

The keyboard cover operates similarly to Apple’s Smart Cover, attaching securely with a satisfying magnetic snap – a sensation akin to a Transformer’s transformation. This magnetic connection also automatically manages the device’s sleep and wake functions upon opening and closing.

However, unlike traditional notepads, laptops, or even the iPad’s Smart Cover, the keyboard unfolds from the top edge towards the bottom, presenting a somewhat counterintuitive user experience.

Keyboard Quality Concerns

Unfortunately, the standard touch-sensitive keyboard proves to be horrendous in practice. The layered construction, featuring a touch-sensitive substrate beneath a fabric covering, creates a perceptible gap between the surfaces.

Applying pressure to a single key causes a slight deformation on the opposite side of the keyboard, which is unsettling. Typing feels unpleasant, leading many users to utilize the on-screen keyboard for a more responsive and comfortable experience. A more substantial physical keyboard option is likely a significant improvement, though this remains untested.

Display Characteristics

The IPS screen delivers brightness, but exhibits noticeable pixelation, particularly when compared to newer Android devices or Retina-equipped iPhones and iPads. The screen’s aspect ratio of 16:9, with dimensions of approximately 23cm x 13cm, is its most significant drawback.

While ideal for landscape viewing, the screen feels disproportionately wide when held in portrait orientation – a decidedly monstrous in portrait mode. This format is advantageous for widescreen movie playback, but may require adjustment for eBook readers.

See a demonstration: http://youtu.be/P_2s9847nDY

Another demonstration can be found here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HrDAvlPqZ2A

Kickstand and Build Quality

The integrated kickstand is frequently highlighted as a key feature of the Surface, but its utility is somewhat ambivalent. The convenience of a built-in stand is undeniable, and the design is robust, constructed from solid metal that inspires confidence.

However, the kickstand offers only a single, fixed position, with a single point of articulation on the left side. Its metallic construction, while durable, also carries the risk of scratching delicate surfaces.

Camera Performance

The front-facing camera exceeds expectations, providing excellent quality for video conferencing applications like Skype – arguably its primary use case.

Conversely, the rear camera is deeply disappointing. Poor performance in low-light conditions, potentially exacerbated by the frequently overcast weather in England, results in grainy images. The automatic focus system lacks intelligence, offering only a basic shutter button for control.

Considering the superior camera capabilities of the iPad, the omission of a higher-quality rear camera is a notable shortcoming.

Audio Output

The integrated speaker is relatively quiet. A direct comparison with the iPad during Netflix playback reveals a significant difference in audio volume.

Even in a completely silent environment, the Surface’s audio output is noticeably weaker. In the presence of even minimal background noise, the Surface’s playback becomes virtually inaudible.

Audio comparison: http://youtu.be/-bp-HkPcCpY

Connectivity and Storage Capabilities

The provided model features 32GB of storage capacity, although the actual usable space is approximately 26GB. Of this, only 14GB is readily available for user data. A 64GB variant is also offered as an alternative.

Furthermore, a MicroSD card slot is included, albeit discreetly positioned (located beneath the kickstand). This expansion option mitigates concerns about the limited internal storage, despite the surprisingly large footprint of the pre-installed Windows and Office suites.

A standard USB port is present on the device, a feature highly desired by tablet users. This allows for direct connection of external storage and facilitates convenient file management, a familiar process for Windows operating system users.

For those frequently on the move, this connectivity option proves particularly valuable. However, its benefit is less pronounced for users primarily utilizing the tablet within a home network environment.

The device does not natively support 3G or LTE connectivity, though the potential exists for the development of compatible 3G dongles in the future.

Expanding on connectivity options, the Surface offers integration with the Xbox 360 console. It can stream personal media content directly to a TV via the Xbox 360.

This functionality excludes content protected by services like Netflix (as intended, given the availability of a dedicated Netflix app for Xbox 360). However, playback of home movies stored on a USB drive was seamless and straightforward.

A limitation exists regarding the Surface’s ability to natively handle .mkv video files. It is anticipated that future applications, such as Plex or VLC, capable of media transcoding or universal format support, will become available through the Windows Store.

Additionally, the Surface functions as a SmartGlass controller for compatible Xbox 360 games (including Dance Central 3, Forza Horizon, and Halo 4) and applications (such as Netflix, HBO Go, and ESPN). This provides supplementary information or enhanced functionality on the tablet’s display.

For instance, in Dance Central 3's party mode, the Surface enables song selection during gameplay, minimizing interruptions between dances.

The Surface can also be utilized to launch games, applications, and videos from the Xbox dashboard. It’s important to note that Smart Glass functionality is not exclusive to the Surface, being available on various Windows 8 devices, iPhones, iPads, and Android platforms.

The Desktop Environment on Surface RT

Despite claims to the contrary, the Surface RT does feature a desktop mode. This environment closely resembles a traditional desktop experience, offering functionalities like a file explorer and a desktop iteration of Internet Explorer. Furthermore, applications can be pinned directly to the taskbar for quick access.

However, the parallels with conventional desktops are limited. A key distinction is the inability to install traditional desktop applications. The pre-installed preview version of Office for RT is an exception, functioning within this desktop context.

The Rationale Behind the Inclusion

The presence of a desktop mode on the Surface RT, powered by Windows RT, can be perplexing. A more streamlined approach might have involved developing a robust file manager application specifically for the Metro interface, potentially eliminating the need for a desktop altogether.

Given that Office applications possess a fullscreen capability, their reliance on the desktop environment appears unnecessary. They could conceivably operate exclusively within the Metro interface. This raises questions about the purpose of presenting a desktop that lacks full functionality.

The inclusion of this partially functional desktop potentially disrupts the cohesive Metro user experience. It introduces an element that feels incomplete and may cause user confusion.

Key takeaway: The Surface RT desktop is present but limited.
It allows access to a file explorer and desktop IE.
Traditional application installation is not supported.

Apps

Let's examine my experiences with the primary applications included on the Surface device.

Internet Explorer: The browser options are limited, as Internet Explorer is the sole choice available. It can be utilized in either Metro mode, which proved cumbersome when navigating between tabs, or in the conventional desktop mode.

Mail App: Unfortunately, the Mail application presented several issues. Synchronization with both of my Gmail accounts was unreliable; emails read on the Surface would still appear as unread on my other devices. This inconsistency was not observed with Apple or Android platforms. Furthermore, the inbox lacks unification, becoming unwieldy when managing multiple email accounts. While consolidating accounts into a single Gmail address offers a workaround, it’s not an ideal solution. Additionally, the email display and thread management proved difficult to adapt to; expanding a thread directly within the list view caused disorientation. Gmail and Apple Mail both manage threads within the email viewing pane, rather than the list itself. Consequently, I found the browsing experience unsatisfactory and will not be utilizing this application.

People: The People app was pre-populated with numerous unfamiliar contacts. Attempting to reply to an email and inputting a frequent contact—my supervisor—yielded no suggested recipients. Selecting the "add people" option reduced the contact list to a mere ten entries, most of which were unknown to me. This was a disappointing initial experience. I attempted to integrate my Facebook account, accessing the “social updates” section. Authentication was initially reported as successful, but no updates appeared. A subsequent attempt, initiated through the Settings panel, prompted a message stating that “a few minutes may be required for setup”.

After a thirty-minute wait, and exploration of other applications, no progress was observed. I found the constant notifications and screens, like the one shown below, to be simultaneously condescending, discouraging, unhelpful, and aesthetically jarring. Providing users with progress updates or notifications would be a significant improvement – simply provide feedback, please?

Only a system restart initiated the display of any information.

Office: Some consider this a standout feature. Upon launching Word, I was immediately directed to the desktop environment. This transition was jarring, as I anticipated a Metro-style Office version. However, such a version does not appear to be available. Bugs surfaced immediately when attempting to open and modify a template, as demonstrated in the following video. While this is a preview release, a fully functional version would have been preferable prior to the tablet’s launch.

http://youtu.be/eIa8zuQZV8g

Beyond these initial issues, the Office applications functioned as expected. My Office usage is not extensive, so I did not conduct thorough testing. If you are a satisfied user of Office 2013, you will likely overlook these early bugs and appreciate the Surface tablet.

Gestures

The gesture controls become usable with practice, however, they aren't immediately obvious. Individuals familiar with the desktop iteration of Windows 8 – as I am – will likely be accustomed to certain active screen corners. These include the bottom left for accessing the start menu and the top left for application switching; these functions remain operational with the Surface’s trackpad.

When interacting directly with the screen, a natural inclination might be to drag from, into, or simply hover over a corner; however, these actions yield no result. Switching between tasks using touch alone involves swiping in from the left edge to display the most recently used application, then swiping back to transform it into the task list.

This particular gesture feels awkward and wasn't found documented in any official resources. Despite my familiarity with the system, the logic behind it was unclear and inconsistent compared to mouse or trackpad functionality. We strongly suggest utilizing our recently released cheat sheet for assistance with mastering these controls.

Discovering how to remove applications from the home screen also presents a learning curve. The process requires touching an app tile, then applying a slight downward pull – not enough to reposition the tile, but sufficient to trigger a checkmark indicator. This simple action took a considerable amount of time, approximately 30 minutes, to decipher.

Despite the touch display’s responsiveness, occasional unintended touch registrations or overextended gestures continue to occur even after a week of use. This can lead to the execution of incorrect commands.

Battery Performance

According to Microsoft, the device is capable of delivering up to 8 hours of video playback when utilized under ideal circumstances. However, most users will likely keep features like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enabled, resulting in approximately 6 hours of intensive use.

Standby time is notably efficient, meaning those with lighter usage patterns can anticipate needing to recharge only once every few days.

The Magsafe-style charging connector proved convenient for reconnection, a significant improvement over the often-difficult mini-USB port found on many mobile phones.

Overall, the battery performance aligns with expectations for a device of this type.

Charging Experience

Recharging the device was simplified by the magnetic connection of the power cable. This design offers a more user-friendly experience compared to the smaller, more cumbersome USB charging ports.

The ease of attachment and detachment contributes to a more seamless charging process.

Is the Microsoft Surface Tablet a Worthwhile Purchase?

My initial foray into Windows 8 occurred on a 24-inch widescreen desktop, leading me to believe it was fundamentally conceived for tablet functionality. However, after extensive use of the Surface, I'm uncertain if it was truly designed with tablets in mind.

While the hardware boasts an appealing aesthetic – and a somewhat unconventional choice of screen dimensions coupled with its integrated kickstand – the software currently resembles a pre-release alpha build. Considering the Surface is positioned as a premier device intended to showcase Windows 8 at its finest, I find myself considerably underwhelmed.

It’s difficult to comprehensively detail the numerous issues encountered during basic Surface testing. Functionality frequently malfunctioned, or when operational, the user experience felt poorly conceived and akin to a software defect. Instances of unresponsive screens, a lack of progress indicators, and the absence of error notifications were commonplace.

Much of the interaction involved a process of experimentation; repeatedly tapping various elements to attempt resolution, restarting the device, navigating between applications, and inadvertently launching unintended programs. Given my professional experience, I can only imagine the frustration a less tech-savvy user would experience.

I genuinely commend Microsoft’s ambition. It represents a courageous effort to compete directly with Apple, asserting, “We are capable of designing both the hardware and software, creating a unified ecosystem, mirroring your approach! We can offer applications, videos, and music!” – a bold declaration, though currently unrealized.

I’ve actually begun to appreciate – or perhaps, accept – the Metro interface on my desktop computer. It functions effectively as a media center, and its potential will be fully unlocked when Plex, VLC, or XBMC release dedicated Metro applications. Furthermore, I am optimistic that the Surface Pro model will resolve many of the shortcomings present in this initial device.

Microsoft has demonstrated its ability to produce visually appealing hardware. However, as is typical with first-generation products, this iteration is hampered by an inadequately tested interface, peculiarities, bugs, and a lack of truly compelling software. These are issues Microsoft can and will undoubtedly address over time.

For the present, however, this tablet isn’t prepared to compete with established market leaders – despite its premium price point.

[recommend]It is advisable to refrain from purchasing this device at this time.[/recommend]

Claiming the Microsoft Surface Tablet Prize

The recent giveaway for a Microsoft Surface tablet has now concluded. We extend our congratulations to Alan Miranda, the lucky winner!

Prize Claim Instructions

Our Associate Editor, Jackson Chung, will be contacting the winner directly via email. It is important to respond to this email within 48 hours to validate your claim.

Please note that any inquiries received after this 48-hour window will unfortunately not be considered.

Important Reminders

The winner, Alan Miranda, should anticipate an email from Jackson Chung.
A prompt response is crucial to secure the prize.
Contact attempts beyond the specified timeframe will be unsuccessful.

We appreciate everyone who participated in the giveaway. Stay tuned for future opportunities!

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