Microsoft Surface Pro 3 /4/finally replace the laptop

Microsoft: We are sure that this is the device that can replace the laptop.

Microsoft vowed to replace the laptop when it announced the first-generation Surface tablet in 2012. It failed. But with its Surface Pro 3, announced earlier today, Microsoft /4/have finally nailed it this time.

Panos Panay, the corporate vice president of Microsoft Surface, boldy said today that the larger-yet-lighter Surface Pro 3 can indeed replace your laptop.

“So many people carry both a laptop and a tablet but really want just one device that serves all purposes. The Surface Pro 3 packs all the performance of a fully-powered laptop into a thin, light and beautifully designed device. You’ll love being able to carry a single device for your next class, workday or weekend getaway knowing you have all the power you need,” Panay proudly said.

Unlike its predecessors, the Surface Pro 3 features a 12-inch full HD display with a whopping 2,160 x 1,440 resolution. It’s powered by a 4th-generation Intel Core processor, with Core i3, Core i5, and Core i7 options.

The storage capacity is ample with up to 512GB of space. There’s a 4GB or 8GB RAM configuration. Other features include a full-size USB 3.0 port, a mini DisplayPort, a microSD card reader, and a battery that offers up to 9 hours of operation.

But the exciting features of the Surface Pro 3 are its accessories. A laptop-killing tablet would mean having a portable keyboard. Surface fans will be happy to hear that the new click-in keyboard has a 63 percent larger track-pad.

There’s also a nifty kickstand that flexes from zero to 150-degrees in a snap.

The best part is the new digital pen that will automatically open Microsoft OneNote in the tablet. Just push the pen and the Surface Pro 3 will open OneNote on the screen.

Microsoft also teased a Surface-optimized version of Adobe Photoshop which features impressive touch and gesture controls, amazing pen accuracy, and line precision. The Microsoft Surface Pro 3 Core i3 model retails for $799, while the top-end version will sell for $1,949 without the keyboard.

The keyboard that doubles as a cover will retail for $129.99. Pre-orders will start tomorrow, Wednesday, /4/21st.