First off I should make it clear that I am an SP2/256/8gb owner who did not experience most of the issues many others have reported. I have thoroughly enjoyed my SP2 as a tablet, laptop and desktop replacement. I run programs such as Adobe Premier and PS CC without issue. The only limitations I have discovered is with respect to the single USB port as I cannot run all my USB peripherals when docked and have to shut some off to use others. I was optimistically awaiting an improved version in the latt 2014/ early 2015. I did not expect what we got.
My question based on the limited info available to date is why would anyone want to upgrade. It seems clear that Microsoft does not listen to its users as many suggested upgrades did not make it into the new version. Instead of perfecting the excellent SP2, Microsoft has made a feeble attempt to attract Apple customers with its antiquated 3:2 screen format. There are very few benefits I can see with the new model. The CPU is virtually the same with the i5 versions and the graphics are only marginally better still using the deficient Intel graphics chips. True, you can now get faster performance with the i7 chips, at a significant cost, but you are still stuck with Intel graphics and a single USB port. The i7 must be perceived as a desktop replacement but with only 1 USB port it is severely limited. Personally I prefer the 16:9 form factor on my tablets and can use an external monitor if I want something else at home or in the office. Power management appears to have taken a step backward and I expect real world battery performance to remain the same or decrease as a result of the larger screen. To add insult to injury, most accessories such as the SP2 docking station, power cords and the form factor of the Type Cover 2 won't work on the new models. Instead of improving on the horrible design of the power cord they modify it slightly so that older cords will no longer work. Microsoft what were you thinking?
IMO this is not an evolution of the surface but a step backwards with what should be called a surface 12.2 This is a sad day for SP2 owners. We are not getting an improved version of what we committed to and have basically thrown away any money we spent on accessories which should be useable with the next-generation version. Also, its shareholders, after the likely dismal sales, will finally succeed in their efforts to get Microsoft out of the hardware marketplace. I think Microsoft was in a great position to move their innovative and unique but struggling Surface products forward but instead have probably driven the final stake into its coffin. Time will tell.
My question based on the limited info available to date is why would anyone want to upgrade. It seems clear that Microsoft does not listen to its users as many suggested upgrades did not make it into the new version. Instead of perfecting the excellent SP2, Microsoft has made a feeble attempt to attract Apple customers with its antiquated 3:2 screen format. There are very few benefits I can see with the new model. The CPU is virtually the same with the i5 versions and the graphics are only marginally better still using the deficient Intel graphics chips. True, you can now get faster performance with the i7 chips, at a significant cost, but you are still stuck with Intel graphics and a single USB port. The i7 must be perceived as a desktop replacement but with only 1 USB port it is severely limited. Personally I prefer the 16:9 form factor on my tablets and can use an external monitor if I want something else at home or in the office. Power management appears to have taken a step backward and I expect real world battery performance to remain the same or decrease as a result of the larger screen. To add insult to injury, most accessories such as the SP2 docking station, power cords and the form factor of the Type Cover 2 won't work on the new models. Instead of improving on the horrible design of the power cord they modify it slightly so that older cords will no longer work. Microsoft what were you thinking?
IMO this is not an evolution of the surface but a step backwards with what should be called a surface 12.2 This is a sad day for SP2 owners. We are not getting an improved version of what we committed to and have basically thrown away any money we spent on accessories which should be useable with the next-generation version. Also, its shareholders, after the likely dismal sales, will finally succeed in their efforts to get Microsoft out of the hardware marketplace. I think Microsoft was in a great position to move their innovative and unique but struggling Surface products forward but instead have probably driven the final stake into its coffin. Time will tell.
