Microsoft 13.5" Surface Book 2-in-1 Touchscreen 512GB Intel Core i7 16GB-Bundle
Feb 10, 2017
Simply the Best 2-in-1 and laptop out there.
I have over 40 years experience writing software. I have used a lot and I mean a LOT of PC’s and laptops. I had a Surface Pro 3 before getting a Surface Book i7 512/16G device. My very positive experience with the Surface Pro didn’t stop me researching the Book, reading reviews and studying spec’s. So here I my comments and observations for what they are worth:
Appearance – for a $2000 device it just has to look and feel…. wonderful. It does. Just about every aspect has been painstakingly considered. Actually, every aspect has been painstakingly considered !!
“The Hinge”. Interesting! It’s infinitely variable where it matters and gives a satisfying “click” as it snaps shut. At that point, it’s not infinitely variable, but what the hey, you can’t see the screen anyway! Now, “that gap” – sure, when it shuts there is a gap. And sure, it can collect lint and crud from your backpack. But if you are tossing a $2000 device into a backpack, you don’t care. Do what I did – spend $20 on a nice sleeve, put the Book in the sleeve and the sleeve in whatever bag you use. It’s a totally non-problem for me.
Screen – it’s better than my eyes can see so for me, it’s not getting any better. The aspect ratio (3:2) makes for great reading and document prep. Sure, it’s not as great for watching movies, but I’m not interested in that (just link the Book wirelessly to a TV and again, problem solved).
Keyboard – I am really, Really, REALLY fussy about keyboard. Wrist placement, spacing, size, key press depth, pressure – it’s the best I’ve used. But that’s just my experience. I’m getting a Surface Keyboard for my other PC’s. Yeah, I like it that much.
Track-pad. After adjusting to the mouse speed (which you can adjust), it’s the best I’ve used. Period. I did invest in a Surface Arc Mouse which is a great addition and takes up almost no space when flat. Another story for another time.
Device Speed – wow, this thing is quick. I don’t game or edit videos and for what I do; math modelling, software, documents, music editing, it keeps up with anything I throw at it. Oh sure, I can overload it, but it’s possible to overload any device, right?
Graphics: This is the GeForce device with 1GB of memory. Frankly I don’t think I’d ever need the 2GB device in the Surface Book 2. I’m sure it’s great, but I don’t need it and am happy to save the $$
Tablet-Mode: Best tablet I’ve ever used. Lightweight, a screen that WOW’s and easy to use. Miss the kickstand on the Pro’ series? Yeah, I do too, but wait! Just reverse the screen and use the keyboard base as a kickstand. Again, problem solved.
Conclusion – I could go on raving about this device, but I’ll summarize thusly: Don’t bother with the 1-star reviews as there will always be user issues with any device. My advice, it’s almost as perfect as it can get, so just get one. It’s. Worth. Every. Penny.
4 of 5 found this helpful
Peco SL-E497 HOn30 ~ Wye ~ Electrofrog ~ Medium Radius Y Turnout ~ Code 80
Mar 09, 2023
Peco make great turnouts!
Peco make the best turnouts, points, switches or whatever your region calls them and I've used them for years.
Oct 04, 2009
Awesome!
The packaging and quality is flawless.
I grew up with both of these musical works and they have remained a great influence in my life. These are MUST HAVES for all Who fans.
Buy this set -- its well, well worth the money.