Review of the Microsoft SurfaceBook, post Microsoft Store VIP Preview

I attended the VIP preview of the Surfacebook today, here are some insights from the event:

The SurfaceBook can be thought of as two computers. The tablet houses the CPU, storage and a small battery, while the keyboard houses the video card and a larger battery. What does this mean for users? You will be able to upgrade your video card by switching the keyboard module with one with a better video card! The keyboard is comfortable and beautifully backlit. The keyboard module is 66% of the total weight of the SurfaceBook (due to the large battery enclosed in it), while the tablet is lean and light. Folding the unit and holding like a book was a neat experience. The tablet ejects with the holding down of a keyboard button, after a satisfying mechanical click, powered via an electrical impulse.

The new Surface pen attaches to the tablet on the right side (sorry left handed users) via a magnet built into the tablet. The pen features an eraser at the end, and tips that can change the pen’s thickness.

Performance wise, 4K videos look amazing on the 3000 x 2000 pixel screen. The SurfaceBook certainly feels like it’s twice the speed of a MacBook, as Microsoft has claimed. For security, Microsoft has integrated an iris scanner for login. Just look at your SurfaceBook or Windows 10 phone and you’re logged in!