The included keyboard is definitely better than an on-screen one for human factors, but is it good enough to not be in the trough where an on-screen keyboard is more available (no keyboard-cover needed) and a full-size physical keyboard/mouse?
Personally, I think there is some traction in the Transformer style tablet - but the surface cover seems gimmicky. We'll have to see - if it works, I'll be thrilled.
Re:Surface Pricing Announced - $499 USD
by astrodust on Tuesday October 16, 2012 @12:21PM
(#4660524)
Using either the Bluetooth wireless keyboard or the keyboard dock on the iPad makes it into quite a capable notebook alternative.
It's also what you're used to. Some people can T9 pretty darned fast because of experience.
Speed is certainly one issue, but the ergonomics of typing for an extended period favor separate screen and keyboard components. I too use a table for typing and while I'm pretty quick at it, I can't find a comfortable position that lets me do this for more than half an hour at a time. For this reason alone, the inclusion of a keyboard has certainly made me take notice of Microsoft's offering.