Microsoft has demonstrated its first own computers during a Hollywood event. The Surface tablets will be available in two models and should provide the ultimate stage for the upcoming Windows 8 operating system.
Both tablets feature a full-size USB-connector, and have a 16:9 widescreen panel. The Surface for Windows RT is based on an ARM-processor, while the other model, named Surface for Windows 8 Pro, is based on an Intel Core chip. One of the characteristics of the tablets is the bezel, which is angled at 22 degrees.
Microsoft states that the casing is best compared to that of a luxurious watch. The material VaporMg (pronounced Vapor-Mag) consists of a mixture of several compounds, including the robust and durable magnesium, which can be cast extremely thin, thus allowing a thickness of just 0.65 mm to be reached; thinner than an average credit card. The casing has an integrated stand, with which a Surface tablet can be stood upright easily, to watch movies or use the integrated front-facing or rear-facing cameras.
The cover is also special, as it can be used as a keyboard, which feels more natural and should type faster than using the screen. The covers will be available in a range of colours. While the standard cover is only 3.5-millimetre thick, a 5 mm version will also be available, featuring moving keys.
The ARM-version of the Surface Tablet is 9.3 millimetre thick, weighs 676 grams and is equipped with a 10.6-inch HD screen. The Windows 8 Pro version weighs 903 grams, has a 1.35 cm thickness and is based around a 10.6-inch Full HD screen. The lighter Surface for Windows RT has microSD, USB 2.0, Micro HD video and dual 2x2 802.11n WiFi onboard. The Windows 8 Pro model takes things further by implementing MicroSDXC, USB 3.0, Mini DisplayPort and 2x2 802.11n WiFi. The storage capacity also differs between the two models; while the ARM Windows RT-version will be available in a 32 GB and a 64 GB model, the Windows 8 Pro version comes in either 64 GB or 128 GB.
A model with the 3.5 mm cover
Surface for Windows RT, the ARM-version, will be launched simultaneously with the Windows 8 operating system. The Windows 8 Pro model is expected within 90 days after the launch of Windows 8.
A Surface Tablet using the 5 mm cover, which has real keys
| Name | Surface for Windows RT | Surface for Windows 8 Pro |
| Processor | ARM | Intel Core |
| Weight | 676 grams | 903 grams |
| Thickness | 9.3 mm | 13.5 mm |
| Screen diagonal | 10.6 inch | 10.6 inch |
| Resolution | HD | Full HD |
| Memory card slot | MicroSD | MicroSDXC |
| USB | USB 2.0 | USB 3.0 |
| Video | Micro HD | Mini DisplayPort |
| Wireless | 802.11 (2x2) | 802.11 (2x2) |
| Storage capacity | 32 or 64 GB | 64 or 128 GB |
