When Microsoft announced Surface 3, the software giant revealed that its latest Windows 8.1 slate would be offered with two main hardware configurations: 64 GB of internal storage with 2 GB of RAM, and 128 GB of internal storage with 4 GB of RAM. Either can be had with or without 4G LTE cellular connectivity.
However, what most people do not know is that Surface 3 is actually available in a third hardware configuration, which slots between the two aforementioned models. It gives users 64 GB of internal storage and 4 GB of RAM to play with. And now, this model is surfacing in Europe.
This mid-range Surface 3 can be had for €659 in Germany, without Surface Pen, or for €668.99 with Surface Pen included. Those who want to get the base Surface 3 in Germany, from Microsoft Store, will have to shell out €599, while for a top-of-the-line Surface 3 (without 4G LTE) they will have to spend €719. So, the mid-range model is adequately priced, at least on the surface (no pun intended).
The mid-range Surface 3 is actually designed for commercial clients, and there apparently is no Office 365 subscription included, as is with the models sold by Microsoft through its online store. That is a perk many would find useful, so it is something to consider if you plan on getting this model.
Also, those who want Surface Pen will have to shell out an additional €49.99, which brings the price in line with the better-spec'd high-end Surface 3. There is also no 4G LTE option available, which limits usability when outside of Wi-Fi coverage.
Do not fret if you live in US. The mid-range Surface 3 has actually been available in US through CDW and MacMall for quite some time now. Both retailers sell the slate for $549, without Surface Pen. Once again, at this price, it slots right between the base ($499) and top-of-the-line Surface 3 ($599), based on Microsoft's pricing.
Again, there is no 4G LTE option, and no Surface Pen included in the box. The stylus can be had for $49.99, which if purchased alongside the mid-range model, brings the price (again) in line with the top Surface 3 model. So, it makes little sense to get it.
However, it would be nice of Microsoft to officially introduce a Surface 3 with the mid-range configuration, and Surface Pen in the box and with the option of 4G LTE, for €659/$549. It would certainly help attract more buyers, which is something the Surface lineup could certainly use more of. A little bit more flexibility would not hurt.
Surface 3 specs: 10.8-inch display with a resolution of 1,920 by 1,280 (3:2 aspect ratio); 1.6 GHz quad-core Intel Atom X7-Z8700 processor (Turbo Boost up to 2.4 GHz); 2 GB or 4 GB of RAM; 64 GB or 128 GB of internal storage; battery life: up to 10 hours of video playback; Wi-Fi 802.11ac (4G LTE is optional); Bluetooth 4.0; full-size USB 3.0 port; mini DisplayPort; microSD card slot; 3.5 MP front camera; 8 MP rear camera; stereo speakers; Windows 8.1. There's a typical suite of sensors included. Physical dimensions: 267 x 187 x 8.7 mm and 622 grams (10.52 x 7.36 x 0.34 in and 1.37 lbs).