The Wait for the Microsoft Surface Pro Is Nearing the End

Production has begun for the version of the Microsoft Surface running Windows 8, although the launch might be a bit behind Microsoft's earlier estimate. Panos Panay, who is in charge of the Surface at Microsoft, wrote, "On my way to the factory to check out #Surface Pro coming off the line...arriving in the coming weeks."

While this is generally good news for those who want a Microsoft-branded tablet running the full version of Windows, not Windows RT, Panay's phrase "in the coming weeks" might indicate that that the device won't be released until next month -- in November, Microsoft said the product would be available in January.

More About Microsoft Surface Pro

There are going to be two options for Surface Pro buyers: the one with 64GB of storage will cost $900, while a version with 128GB of storage will be $1000. Both will have an Intel Core i5 processor.

The tablet will have a 10.6-inch screen, with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The Surface Pro will include a full-size USB 3.0 port, plus a Mini DisplayPort that can drive an external display up to 2560 x 1440 pixels.

Because it will run Windows 8 Pro, the upcoming version of this tablet will be able to run software written for Windows 7 and earlier. The Surface RT cannot.

The device will come with a stylus dubbed the Surface pen, which will have Palm Block technology. They will not, however, be bundled with a Touch Cover or Type Cover. These will be sold separately, at $120 and $130, respectively.

The version of the Surface that was released in the fall runs Window RT, and therefore has a different type of processor and no backward compatibility with previous software. It also has a lower-resolution screen. On the other hand, it also has a lower price and longer battery life.

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