Debating a Surface Pro 2


Recommended Posts

I'm thinking of getting a Surface pro 2 128GB as a portable Windows machine.

 

I travel a lot for work and taking two laptops (company T520, and 15in Retina) just doesn't make sense. i am thinking of getting a Surface Pro 2 and using it as a personal laptop, tablet (or to augment my Nexus 7), and a semi-work machine. 

 

I don't mind windows 8.1 at all, and I have an Office Home 365 account that I will be using with it. My mail concerns are:

 

1) How is the screen when editing multiple documents and referencing websites? I sometimes have to bounce between Word, Excel, and a few browser tabs along with Power Point.

 

2) Also how is the footprint? it actually looks like it is longer than my 15in laptop be be able to stand up on its kickstand. I know that really on an airplane I can just lean the screen back against eh chair in front of me, but on a train that would be a bit annoying if I am trying to multitask as there is no pull down tray.

 

3) Would it make more sense to just get an 11in Air instead? It is cheaper than a Surface and Type Cover

 

The reason I bring my work laptop is that I use all the ports while doing network setups/configs. I mostly just bring my MacBook for light gaming and personal videos that I have downloaded to watch on the trip and in the hotel. 

 

I like to keep my personal life and work life separate if I can, or at least keep my personal stuff on a device I own as opposed to the company machine. The company has no issue with me doing my work on a personal machine as long as I am saving my data back to their shared drives.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I have a SP2 128GB w/ Type Cover 2. It is a pricey machine, but you are getting a lot of computing power (relative to size) for the money. I'm using mine on a business trip now, and I brought this instead of my work laptop, because the SP2 is a winner when it comes to note taking, and portability (didn't want to lug around a 14" Dell work laptop around). 

 

The screen is great for editing a document and having a reference site open side by side. The resolution is 1920x1080, which is the same as most consumer grade desktop monitors on sale today. 

 

On a desk (or airplane tray table, which I just tried a few hours ago), the device is steady, and you can obviously use the Type Cover 2 without any problems. On a train, I'd think the most comfortable option is using the device in tablet mode (no keyboard attached). You can use the device on your lap with the Type Cover 2, and it's not too bad (your lap is just not as sturdy as a table). 

 

Just keep in mind, the SP2 has just one USB port, and a mini-Displayport out. If you're looking for expandability, a USB hub would be very beneficial. All in all, I think it's a great device. I also complement it with my Nexus 7 2013, and a desktop computer. The SP2 is too big for a traditional tablet, and is more suitable for a laptop replacement. 

  • Like 2
Link to comment
Share on other sites

As tsupersonic said look for a USB 3 hub and try to get the ones that also have a RJ-45 connector on as well, little bit more expensive but you never know when you'll need to plug into a network. Also note there's a USB port on the power pack which is great for charging phones and stuff a really handy little feature.

 

Unfortunately I got mine with a touch keyboard which I will gladly burn rather than pass on or sell to anyone else when I get a type cover, even I'm not that cruel. 

Link to comment
Share on other sites

As tsupersonic said look for a USB 3 hub and try to get the ones that also have a RJ-45 connector on as well, little bit more expensive but you never know when you'll need to plug into a network. Also note there's a USB port on the power pack which is great for charging phones and stuff a really handy little feature.

 

Unfortunately I got mine with a touch keyboard which I will gladly burn rather than pass on or sell to anyone else when I get a type cover, even I'm not that cruel. 

 

The touch keyboard isn't horrible, but it does require more focus on the keyboard itself than I'd like. You kind of need to keep an eye on where you're putting your fingers. I imagine it's a nightmare for touch-typists to try to use.

 

I only have one because it was $25 after a gift card, and more convenient that carrying around a wireless keyboard for the Surface. I'm planning on getting a type cover at some point, once my car inspection and my cat's annual checkup are past and paid for.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

The touch keyboard isn't horrible, but it does require more focus on the keyboard itself than I'd like. You kind of need to keep an eye on where you're putting your fingers. I imagine it's a nightmare for touch-typists to try to use.

 

I only have one because it was $25 after a gift card, and more convenient that carrying around a wireless keyboard for the Surface. I'm planning on getting a type cover at some point, once my car inspection and my cat's annual checkup are past and paid for.

 

I also got mine due to saving some money out my works budget but will probably pay myself to replace it. I'd be interested to know how yours is looking with use and age? I have the cyan one and faint white circular patches are showing on the more common pressed keys and on the track pad, I wouldn't even say I'm a heavy keyboard typist as well.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I also got mine due to saving some money out my works budget but will probably pay myself to replace it. I'd be interested to know how yours is looking with use and age? I have the cyan one and faint white circular patches are showing on the more common pressed keys and on the track pad, I wouldn't even say I'm a heavy keyboard typist as well.

 

I've noticed slight wear on the trackpad, but nothing on the "keys" yet. But I've only had it a few months, and it only sees light use.

 

I have the cover off half the time, and am more worried about wear from setting it down in the wrong place. Specifically, I'm worried about claw marks and the cover ending up smelling like kitty b*tt. It's a flat item with an interesting texture, a sure-fire cat magnet, both for scratching and for sitting.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I don't blame Chara - it's not her fault MS released a Surface accessory that looks like a scratching pad.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

This topic is now closed to further replies.
  • Recently Browsing   0 members

    • No registered users viewing this page.