With the rise of Thunderbolt and desk docking stations, it’s not uncommon to see more people use their personal laptop as their only computer. But the display of a laptop is significantly lower than a desktop display, meaning you’re always looking down at an angle.

Kensington’s new SmartView Organizing Laptop Riser (K50825WW) — which also won a 2022 Red Dot Design Award — solves that problem by putting the laptop’s display up at eye level, ensuring all-day comfortable computing.

Developed in partnership with Microsoft and meeting the Design for Surface standard, any laptop can benefit from this riser. Still, Surface owners will want to give it an even closer look.

I’ve been using it for the last week, and here is what you need to know about it.

Kensington SmartView Organizing Laptop Riser: Price and availability

The Kensington SmartView Organizing Laptop Riser is now available from Kensington directly with a two-year warranty for $79.99 and partner retailers.

There are no options for configuration.

Kensington SmartView Organizing Laptop Riser: Thinks I liked

A laptop riser is a simple accessory: It puts the laptop at eye level like a desktop monitor. Since the keyboard is too high, you presumably use Bluetooth or a wired one instead. With a desktop dock connected, you also get more ports for a mouse, external storage, a high-performance webcam, or a premium microphone.

This riser from Kensington can fit any laptop that is 16-inches or smaller, but it’s made with Surface devices (like Surface Book, Laptop, Laptop Go, and Laptop Studio) in mind.

There’s not much to the Kensington SmartView Organizing Laptop Riser itself. Open the box, and pull out the various parts, including the base, the neck, and the laptop riser itself. The base and neck were attached via three hex screws using the included hex wrench, and assembly took two minutes.

The stand is a combo of aluminum alloy and steel with a sturdy feel and some weight at 3.9lbs (1.78kg). The bottom has a rubber grip, so there is no sliding on the desk. The metal is painted white, which gives a clean, minimalist look, especially for those who don’t like standard bare aluminum or black-painted laptop risers.

The color-coded neck is to be used with the instruction manual, where you can measure your hand size. Whatever color zone your hand falls into is where you should mount the riser in one of five positions for optimal viewing. The riser fits in with a stem and can be moved without needing tools.

The top of the riser has large rubber feet at the front and back, which helps keep the laptop in place and prevents sliding. It also allows a small gap between the riser and laptop to enable air circulation, which is suitable for non-Surface laptops with bottom-fed air ventilation.

On the rear is a headphone hook mount. Drop your headphones onto the hook when you’re no longer in a meeting for safekeeping.

The bottom of the riser has a fabric-covered cutout built for placing any modern dock, including Kensington’s SD5750T, Razer Thunderbolt 4 Dock Chroma, or ones from other companies like Dell (see our best Thunderbolt 4 docking stations). At the rear is some cable management to properly channel the dock’s power cord for tidiness.

If you don’t have a Thunderbolt dock, you could use the cutout for things like your smartphone or any other accessory for quick access.

For this review, I used the Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio. While you could just put the Laptop Studio on the riser like any laptop, it was more fun to reverse the computer and flip the display backward. By doing so, the Surface Laptop Studio’s screen is now a significant 9-inches closer to your face, a nifty trick that no other laptop can do (besides Surface Book).

Connecting an external keyboard and mouse and the flexibility to move the riser closer, you now have an ergonomic and pragmatic desktop setup.

Kensington SmartView Organizing Laptop Riser: Thinks I didn’t like

While the rise is easy to pop in and out for toolless repositioning, I wouldn’t mind a locking mechanism to hold it in place. There’s a bit of wiggle with the riser where I’d prefer something a bit firmer.

You also must be careful if you put any closed laptop down on the riser and have it pushed too far back. When you open the laptop’s lid, the moving lid’s bottom edge begins to protrude, and it could scrape against the riser’s stem. Placing the laptop on the riser with the display already in an open position is best to avoid this.

While the raised rubber pads do offer some ventilation, I think a design with grill lines or holes on the riser platform would make more sense for laptops with bottom-feeding ventilation. Granted, this accessory is mainly positioned at Surface devices, which do not have bottom ventilation making the point moot, and regular laptops can still pull in air from the bottom sides.

Also, unlike many laptop risers on the market, Kensington’s does not slope at an angle downward. This really isn’t a huge issue, but because Kensington (and Microsoft) didn’t opt for front “hooks” to keep the laptop in place, it is a unique design.

Kensington SmartView Organizing Laptop Riser: Competition

Laptop risers are a dime a dozen on Amazon, but none quite match what Kensington offers here, which may help explain the $80 price tag (no doubt discounted for business bulk orders).

The Besign LSX3 Aluminum Laptop Stand is just $28 on Amazon but lacks any dedicated area for a docking station, cable management, or headphone mount. Its height is adjustable but lacks the SmartFit system for “finding the most ergonomic height for your Surface laptop screen,” like Kensington.

The LIFELONG Ergonomic Laptop Stand ($59) uses a hinge mechanism for height adjustment, which can be cumbersome, but gets the job done. Again, it omits any dedicated area for a docking station, cable management, or headphone mount.

The Tounee Laptop Stand ($65) offers a unique (and perhaps gimmicky) 360-degree swivel hinge in addition to going up to a very high 21-inches, which is good enough to make it a pseudo-standing desk. It also does not have any area for a dock, headphone hook, or cable management.

Kensington SmartView Organizing Laptop Riser: Should you buy?

You should buy this if …

• You want a proper and official laptop rise for Surface
• You want more than just a generic riser
• Design and looks are important
• You work in an office or have a serious desktop setup

You should not buy this if …

• You want something cheaper

The Kensington SmartView Organizing Laptop Riser is a solid piece of kit. It is simple to set up, the SmartFit system is clever, and I liked the added cable management features, rear headphone hook, and space for a dock at the bottom.

Sure, there are other more affordable options on Amazon that all look the same. But the Kensington riser is more interesting between the off-white aesthetic, being made for Surface, and value-added features.

This observation is especially true if you own a Surface Laptop Studio or Surface Book where reversing the display is an option.

What you need to know

• Microsoft is replacing its Surface Audio app with a new Microsoft Surface one on Android, iOS, and Windows.
• The app lets users add and manage Surface Earbuds and Surface Headphones on smartphones and Windows PCs and view info about Surface PCs and phones.
• On Windows, the app consolidates two apps into one likely to streamline device management.

When Microsoft introduced its Surface Headphones it also released apps for Android, iOS, and Windows to manage firmware updates, equalizer, and general settings. Dubbed "Surface Audio," the app was straightforward and is a standard solution for headphone makers on various platforms to keep devices up to date, manage warranties, and control settings.

Well, that app is now dead. After today, there is now just one app: Microsoft Surface.

In fact, if you launch it on Windows right now, it'll tell you as much. But before you read too much into that, it's because Microsoft is, rightfully, consolidating its efforts. At least on Windows, there were always two apps if you were on a Surface PC: Surface Audio, and one call just Surface.

The Surface app is still barebones, but it has an updated design with some new graphics for Surface Headphones and Surface Earbuds. If you're on an actual Surface device, you also get any settings and warranty information about that device. That includes Surface Duo, which not only gives you that information but nicely spans across dual screens, too.

If you have a Microsoft account, you can log in as well. Interestingly, if you have a Surface Slim Pen 2 paired to Surface Duo 2, it does not show up under these Surface devices (instead, it's under generic Bluetooth settings). We'll have to wait and see if Microsoft builds that out as its Android efforts evolve.

One interesting feature that seems to be new is those Surface audio products (Headphones and Earbuds). Under "Device Information," you can now see a list of all the PCs and phones that have been paired with your headphones. Next to each is a toggle, letting you quickly jump between multiple devices by turning one device off and another on to force connectivity to the preferred one.

Of course, the question we're wondering is if Microsoft has any more Surface accessories up its sleeve that it plans to use with this app. For that, we'll have to wait and see, but as the app's name no longer limits it to just audio, there are certainly more possibilities.

For those on Android and iOS, you don't need to uninstall Surface Audio as the app will update through the Store and be updated and replaced with the Microsoft Surface app. Those on Windows 10 or 11 will be prompted to uninstall the old app and download the new one in the Microsoft Store.

You can download the Surface app at the App Store, Google Play, and Microsoft Store now.

Your Microsoft Surface Book 2 is a fantastic Ultrabook as is, but a few accessories could make your life easier. Whether you're looking for a new way to play games, a little protection for the body, or some new headphones, these are the best accessories for Surface Book and Surface Book 2.

If we're picking some accessories

All of the above accessories can complement your Surface Book or Surface Book 2, but if we're picking a few to get started, stick with the Surface Pen for an excellent inking experience. You'll be able to use it with just the tablet or while connected as a complete laptop, and its 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support offer a natural feel.

To add some storage to the Surface Book 2 without risk of seeing your SD card damaged, the BaseQI microSD adapter can be used. You pop a microSD card into the adapter before inserting it into the side of the Surface Book 2, where it sits flush. It's practical, it's affordable, and it's the best way to add some space to a laptop that's not easily upgraded.

The Surface Pro is Microsoft's flagship 2-in-1 laptop, spanning many generations, and it has now arrived at the latest Surface Pro 11. These PCs can stand alone as tablets, but they only get better when you add an attachable keyboard and touchpad for the full laptop experience. 

Beyond that, there are plenty of other great accessories that can complement the full line of Surface Pro devices. We've collected a bunch of the best accessories for the Surface Pro 9, Pro 10 for Business, and Pro 11 to start, following up with more useful accessories intended for use with older Surface Pro models.

Best accessories for the Surface Pro 9, Pro 10 for Business, and Pro 11

Best accessories for older Surface Pro models

The Surface Pro 9, Pro 10 for Business, and Surface Pro 11 are the latest models to hit the market, but many people are still making good use of the Pro 8, Pro X, Pro 7/7+, and even older models.

Most of the accessories listed above will also work very well with the Surface Pro 8, save the UAG Metropolis case due to how Microsoft shifted the volume/power controls and port location.

If you're looking for some great accessories for older Surface Pro models, we've included them below and noted compatibility for each item.

How to choose the best Surface Pro accessories for you

The Surface Pro is widely considered one of the best Windows laptops around, and the lineup spans many generations, ultimately arriving at the Surface Pro 11 that is now available. It's generally sold as a standalone tablet, and it can certainly live on its own thanks to the touch display.

However, part of the beauty of the Pro line is its detachable keyboard. This turns the Pro into a full-fledged laptop, able to stand up normally thanks to the built-in stand on the back of the tablet. Adding something like the Surface Pro Flex Keyboard, complete with Copilot button, is an easy recommendation for just about any user.

There's also the Surface Slim Pen 2 for inking purposes. It's the latest option from Microsoft, boasting tactile feedback, 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, and tilt support. Microsoft also offers keyboards with a built-in pen cradle, effectively keeping the pen nearby at all times while also charging the built-in battery.

UAG's Metropolis case is the best option if you want full-body protection for your Surface Pro 9 or Pro 10 for Business, but something like Tomtoc's 360 Protective Sleeve will also do a great job when you're en route. If there's one area where the Surface Pro falters, it's port selection. But that can be remedied with the Kensingston SD5780T Thunderbolt 4 dock.

What about accessories for older Surface Pro models?

Because of the lasting power of the Surface Pro, many users hold on to their older models even when there are multiple newer generations on the market. Not to fret if you have an older Surface Pro, as there are still a bunch of worthwhile accessories available.

I recommend checking out the Surface Pen and Surface Pro Signature Type Cover as starting options, as they'll round out your device quite nicely. There's also the Surface Dock 2 if you're using something like the Surface Pro 7 or Pro 8, which attaches using the proprietary Surface Connect port.

And if your Surface Pro has a microSD card reader, Samsung's EVO Select microSD card is an affordable way to add more storage.

Finally, DecalGirl skins are too good not to mention. There are skins for practically every Surface Pro model on the market, with too many options to count. If you'd like to add some style (or simply want some extra protection for the laptop's finish), I recommend checking out what's on offer at the DecalGirl website.

Many of the best Surface accessories are discounted right now through Best Buy. To take part in the deal, you have to bundle two accessories together. The Surface Slim Pen, Surface Earbuds, and several Surface mice are available to bundle. Surface accessories normally sell at premium prices, so any time you can get them at a discount is worth a look.

Getting the discount takes a few more clicks than you might expect. On any Best Buy listing for Surface accessories, you'll see the text "Hot offer save on 2 Select Surface Accessories." Clicking this directs you to a page of the highest-rated bundles. In my testing, all of the suggested bundles are for a pair of Surface Mobile mice. While you certainly could purchase mice in two colors, or a mouse for each hand, you can easily bundle other devices.

At the top of the page, there's an option labeled "Build my Package." This takes you to a page to freely choose which Surface accessories you'd like to bundle. The Surface Mobile Mouse drops down to $15 when bundled. The Surface Slim Pen is only $107 when included in a bundle. Note that the lower prices only appear after you've added them to your package. In my testing, all deals reduce your total by a combined $40.

Alternatively, if you just add two Surface accessories to your cart, the deal will activate automatically on checkout.

Getting the deal is more confusing than it should be, but it's a good way to get Surface accessories at a discount. If you're on the hunt for a keyboard, mouse, pen, or charger, it's worth playing around with the package creator.

Why you should get the keyboard

The Microsoft Designer Compact Keyboard is perfect for people who have a Surface device and want to use a traditional-style keyboard with it that is easy to travel with and comfortable to type on. With a thickness of just 0.35 inches and a weight of 10.16 oz, it's one of the lightest keyboards out there that you can pair with a Surface. Also, it uses wireless Bluetooth 5.0 instead of a cord to connect, meaning that you don't have to worry about cable management with it. Also, the lack of a number pad makes the keyboard's width smaller, allowing you to fit it into bags and backpacks more easily. If you need the functionality a number pad provides, Microsoft is selling a new one that goes excellently with the Designer Compact Keyboard. Finally, Microsoft boasts that the device's battery can last up to three years, so you won't need to worry about running out of power anytime soon.

In terms of the typing experience, the Designer Compact Keyboard is comfortable, accurate, and quick, thanks to the low profile keys. The keys are also spaced optimally for quick typing, so you'll likely see an increase to your words per minute (WPM) while using this keyboard. Additionally, there's also an "expressive input" key that allows you to use emoji, a nice touch. Overall, the Microsoft Designer Compact Keyboard is great, and its compactness makes it one of the best Surface Pro accessories.

It all depends on your productivity needs

Ultimately, whether you should buy the Microsoft Number Pad or not comes down entirely to what you need to get work and productivity tasks done effectively. If you're someone that works with numbers a lot, such as a computer scientist, engineer, or coder, having a number pad is a good idea because it's easier to rapidly punch in numbers with one than it is to use the horizontal line of numbers at the top of your keyboard. However, if you only need to type out numbers occasionally, you won't get much use out of a number pad since the keys on your keyboard will be sufficient.

The Microsoft Number Pad, in particular, is one of the best ones ever made, as it's incredibly thin and light at 0.36 inches and 2.75 oz, respectively. Additionally, it also has a small width and length of 3.22 x 4.36 inches, making it very easy to slip into a bag, briefcase, or backpack. Also, the keys on it are low profile and are placed for optimal typing speed, so you'll be able to enter in numbers quickly and comfortably.

The Microsoft Number Pad is marketed primarily as a companion accessory for Surface devices, and we think it's one of the best Surface Pro accessories in particular. However, the pad can also be used with other devices since it connects through Bluetooth 5.0.

What you need to know

• Microsoft has announced a refreshed Surface Pro X with SQ2 processor.
• It has also announced the 12.45-inch Surface Laptop Go at $549.
• A handful of Microsoft-branded accessories have also been announced today.

It's that time of year again. New Surface hardware is upon us, and while we're not getting the same amount of hardware as last year, we are getting some interested refreshes and new products ranging from a new Surface Laptop to a new Designer Keyboard. Here's all of today's hardware announcements from Microsoft, in one convenient place.

Video overview of new Surface Pro X, Laptop Go

Here is the official Microsoft announcement video from the Surface leadership team before we dive into more details. In this nine-minute video, you get to see what is new with Surface Pro X and the new Surface Laptop Go, including colors, features, and more.

Surface Pro X with Microsoft SQ2

The new Surface Pro X is much like the old one, with the only physical difference being that it's now available in Microsoft's staple Surface color, Platinum. The biggest upgrades are on the inside with Microsoft's new SQ2 processor that features a more powerful Adreno 690 GPU. Microsoft is also touting better battery life at 15 hours, which apparently also applies to the first Surface Pro X too.

Learn more about the new Surface Pro X

Interestingly, the original Surface Pro X with Microsoft SQ1 is sticking around and will now serve as the processor found in the two bottom-tier Surface Pro X SKUs. The new Microsoft SQ2 chip is available on models with 16GB RAM, meaning you'll be paying at least $1,499 if you want the newer processor. That said, it doesn't look like there's much of a difference between the SQ1 and SQ2 outside of a minor performance bump.

Also new for Surface Pro X are more Type Cover colors. Up until now, Surface Pro X has only had black accessories to match, but now that the product is available in Platinum, Microsoft is also introducing the usual premium Type Cover colors to go with it. Those colors include Platinum, Poppy Red, and Ice Blue. Unfortunately, the Surface Slim Pen is still black regardless of the Type Cover color.

Yesterday, Microsoft announced that Windows 10 on ARM is getting 64-bit emulation support next year, and it will enter preview in November. That's huge news for the Surface Pro X, which up until now has had an "app problem" due to it not being able to run x86 64-bit applications.

Surface Pro X with SQ2 is available for pre-order now, and goes on sale October 13.

Surface Laptop Go

Surface Laptop Go is the "new" device to join the Surface family this holiday, featuring the same great design as found on the Surface Laptop 3 but at half the price. It has a 12.45-inch display with rounded corners, an Intel Core i5 under the hood, and up to 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. The big news is that the Surface Laptop Go starts at just $549, making it a great entry-level laptop for students.

Learn more about the new Surface Laptop Go

Unlike the standard Surface Laptop 3, the Surface Laptop Go doesn't include Windows Hello facial recognition. Instead, it has a fingerprint reader built right into the power button. It's also using a combination of both aluminum and polycarbonate for the exterior chassis to help keep costs low. It's aluminum on the lid, and polycarbonate on the base. The 12.45-inch display is also a low 1536 x 1024 resolution.

But to achieve that $549 starting price, Microsoft had to make further cuts for the entry-level model. The $549 model doesn't include the fingerprint reader, meaning it has no Windows Hello bio-authentication at all. In addition, it also comes bundled with 4GB RAM and 64GB of eMMC storage. 4GB RAM is passable for some people, but eMMC storage is a tougher pill to swallow.

That said, there are higher tiers available, and the immediate step up to 8GB RAM and a 128GB SSD for $699 also includes the fingerprint reader, so we recommend checking that out if you're interested. All consumer models come with Windows 10 Home in S mode, but there is a commercial model available with Windows 10 Pro and up to 16GB RAM. All models come with an Intel Core i5.

Surface Laptop Go is available for pre-order now, and goes on sale October 13.

Microsoft Accessories

Microsoft is also announcing a handful of new PC accessories today, many of which pair very well with Microsoft's own Surface hardware. We've got a new Bluetooth keyboard, the Designer Compact Keyboard, and number pad, which feature contemporary designs and can pair with up to three devices to switch between easily. There's also a new Bluetooth ergonomic mouse that features the same shape as the Surface Precision Mouse, but at a cheaper price.

Elsewhere, Microsoft is updating its Wireless Display Adapter with a 4K model, meaning it can now stream 4K content to a TV or monitor of your choice. The Wireless Display Adapter is a great accessory for streaming your Windows 10 PC to a larger display. Finally, Microsoft is updating its Surface Mobile Mouse with a new Sandstone color which matches the Sandstone option on Surface Laptop 3 and Surface Laptop Go.

Learn more about the new accessories

Surface in more markets

Microsoft has announced that Surface is coming to more European markets to address global demand. Here's the list of new markets:

• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Czech Republic
• Estonia
• Greece
• Hungary
• Latvia
• Lithuania
• Romania
• Slovakia
• Slovenia

Learn more about Surface coming to more markets

And that's everything being announced today. What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments.

To Alcantara, or not to Alcantara? Is there even a question?

Microsoft offers only a couple different official Type Covers for the Surface Pro, Surface Pro X and Surface Go: the regular ol' plastic-y Surface Type Cover and the fancier (and pricier) Surface Pro Signature Edition Type Cover with Alcantara. I bought versions of both for my Pros and my Go, to see which ones I liked better. After using the different versions, these are my thoughts.

To be clear, the two Microsoft's Surface Signature and regular Type Covers for Surface Pro and Go are mostly the same, except for two things: that Alcantara and the price. The Alcantara version for the Pro starts at $132 on Amazon (considerably more if you buy through Microsoft) compared to the $90 regular ProType Cover. For the Go version, the Signature Type Cover with Alcantara starts at $95 on Amazon, while the regular Go Type Cover goes for $93. Both keyboards are solid.

The Surface Pro X Signature keyboard with Alcantara is a bit of a different story. It's only available in a bundle with the latest Surface Pro Slim Pen, which means it costs significantly more; it starts about $200 on Amazon. The keyboard is slightly more condensed than the regular Pro keyboard, too, with different key travel.

The Alcantara feels a lot like suede, but it's not made of any animal products, which I appreciate. For more details on this Italian-made fabric, read our post detailing everything you need to know about Alcantara.

The regular Type Cover is made of smooth, soft plastic. My palms tend to get a bit sweaty when I type for extended periods. And after a while, I found that my hands kept sticking to the material as if it was gripping them a bit. That's a turnoff for me.

The Alcantara feels great. It's soft, and my palms don't stick to it, even when they're all swampy. Of course, I've read numerous reports that suggest Alcantara does not hold up well at all over time. And after a year or so of use, my platinum Pro and Go keyboards definitely show signs of age. However, they are also relatively easy to clean, which can go a long way toward extending the lifespan. In my experience, the lighter color Alcantara accessories show more wear than the darker colors, so keep that in mind if you want to make a purchase.

So is the Alcantara Type Cover worth the extra cash?

Absolutely. The cost is relatively small if you buy through Amazon. It's an exceptionally slight difference when you consider that you'll probably be using your Surface PC for at least a couple of years.

How you feel about the way Alcantara looks is a personal preference. But I think most people will agree that it feels great, at least when it's new. The plastic on the regular Type Cover doesn't feel bad, but it also certainly doesn't feel good.

The Signature Edition Type Covers also come in three different and better-looking colors — platinum, cobalt blue, and burgundy — while the regular version is only available in black.

Ethernet connections provide reliable internet in buildings and areas where Wi-Fi signals can be weak. While the Surface Book 2 and Surface Book 3 don't have an Ethernet port, you can easily add one using a dock or dongle.

Products used in this guide

• Microsoft: New Surface Dock ($260)
• Microsoft: Original Surface Dock ($210)
• Startech: StarTech USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter ($37)
• Startech: Startech USB 3.0-A to Ethernet Adapter ($25)
• Amazon: Amazon Basics Cat-6 Ethernet cable ($7)

How to add Ethernet to the Surface Book 2 or Surface Book 3

1. Plug in dongle or dock into the appropriate port on the Surface Book 2 or Surface Book 3.
2. Connect an Ethernet cable to your router.
3. Plug the Ethernet cable into your dock or dongle.

Windows 10 handles any network setup when you physically connect your router to your Surface Book 2 or Surface Book 3 using an Ethernet cable and adapter. Unless your network has extra security features, it is plug-and-play.

Our top equipment picks

Because the Surface Book 2 and Surface Book 3 don't have an Ethernet port, you have to use a dock or dongle that allows you to connect an Ethernet cable to the device using the Surface connect port, USB-A port, or USB-C port.

This new and improved Surface Dock has new ports, faster speeds, and provides more power to your supported Surface devices. You'll have to wait a bit to order this new dock, though, since it was just announced and isn't available quite yet.

The older Surface Dock is outdone by its successor in just about every way, but if you have an older Surface device and want to use a Surface Dock, you have to go with the original.

You can use this dongle with your Surface Book 2 or 3's USB-C ports. It supports USB 3.1 and can transfer files with 10/100/1,000 Mbps network speeds.

While this dongle doesn't have as many ports as the Surface Docks, it has a dedicated Ethernet port that handles 10/100/1000mbps networks and is smaller and less expensive than either Surface Dock.

Additional Equipment

You can't have Ethernet without a cable, and a Cat-6 cable will handle just about any internet speed you throw at it.

Amazon Basics Cat-6 Ethernet cable ($7 at Amazon)

This cable can transfer up to 1Gbps more than most internet connections.

Headphones with added smarts and features.

The thing with the Surface Headphones 2 is that you're not just buying another pair of headphones. You're buying smart headphones with voice built right in, along with some other nifty features like touch controls on the sides and even a feature that can amplify external noise, as well as blocking it out entirely.

You're also promised up to 20 hours of battery life with noise cancellation turned on, which is more than enough for a full day's use or pretty much any long haul flight you might find yourself on. You also get a full recharge in less than two hours, and as the headphones utlilize USB-C, you can use the same charger as your phone, tablet or laptop may already be using.

Well equipped, sound great

The Surface Headphones 2 unmistakably fit within Microsoft's Surface range from a style and build quality perspective, and deliver a rich sound.

Importantly, the Surface Headphones 2 tick the spec boxes you'll be looking for: 20 – 20kHz frequency response, 30db active noise cancellation, a quick recharge time over USB-C, 40mm drivers, and a light 0.64lbs in weight so you can be comfy for longer. The Surface Headphones also work with any platform, be that Windows, Mac, iOS, or Android, so long as the device you want to connect to has Bluetooth.

Priced competitively among the competition

The Surface Headphones 2 are pricey, but the price is fair, especially compared to other headphones. For example, the gold standard for these types of headphones right now is the Bose QuietComfort 35 Series II which are very similar to the Surface Headphones in a number of ways and cost $300.

The Surface Headphones 2 have launched at a considerably lower initial price than the original model, and at $250, represent strong value in the high-end headphone space.

Surface Headphones are Bluetooth

The Surface Headphones 2 are fancy, but when it comes down to it, the wireless connection that helps you listen to your music is plain old Bluetooth.

That means beyond just an iPhone or iPad, the Surface Headphones can connect to any other mobile device or computer with Bluetooth that you want to listen to music from.

For the latest model, Microsoft did add Bluetooth 5 and aptX support, so you're getting the latest tech and the best quality wireless connection to give you great-sounding music.

The original Surface Headphones are also Bluetooth and enjoy just the same support on the iPhone and iPad.

Companion app available for iOS

Microsoft has also published an app called Surface Audio to the iOS App Store, allowing you to interact with your Surface Headphones or Surface Headphones 2. It's only designed for iPhone, so on iPad, you'll have to make do with a scaled-up phone app, but the features are there.

You're able to adjust several settings on your headphones, set an equalizer, give them a name, customize the built-in controls on the headphones, and ensure the latest firmware is installed.

The app is also available for Windows 10 and Android so you're able to keep your Surface Headphones in the best shape whichever device you're using.

What ports does the Surface Dock 2 offer?

We've been waiting for an updated Surface Dock for years, and it's finally here in the form of the Surface Dock 2. Most notably, it brings a modern selection of ports, better charging capabilities, a longer connection cable, and better external display support. It still uses the proprietary Surface Connect port to hook up to Surface devices, and it should have no issues working with the Surface Laptop 2.

The front of the dock has two USB-C 3.2 ports, each with 15W of charging power for connected accessories. The back holds the majority of ports, with Ethernet, dual USB-A 3.2 (10Gbps), dual USB-C 3.2, and 3.5mm audio. The side of the dock has a Kensington lock slot for increased security in an office environment.

The dual rear USB-C ports are meant to connect external displays, and the Dock 2 is capable of powering up to two 4K displays each at a 60Hz refresh rate or two 5K displays, each at a 30Hz refresh rate. If you want to turn your Surface Laptop 2 into a workstation with high-res monitors, you should have no issues.

What about charging and other compatibility?

The Surface Dock 2 can now offer up to 120W of charging back to a connected laptop, up from 90W in the original Surface Dock. That's more than enough to keep the Laptop 2 topped up, allowing you to simply unplug and hit the road without worrying about the battery's charge.

The Surface Dock 2 should work with any Surface products released 2017 or later, so along with the Surface Laptop 2, these devices make up the compatibility list:

• Surface Book 2
• Surface Book 3
• Surface Pro (2017)
• Surface Pro 6
• Surface Pro 7
• Surface Pro X
• Surface Go
• Surface Go 2
• Surface Laptop
• Surface Laptop 3
• Surface Studio 2

Get the Surface Dock 2 and add ports to your Surface Laptop 2

The Surface Dock 2 will allow you to use wired internet with your Surface Laptop 2, as well as connect dual external 4K displays at 60Hz for a truly powerful workstation. Your devices will charge while connected, as will your Surface Laptop 2.

What you need to know

• Microsoft updated its Mouse and Keyboard Center to support ARM64 PCs.
• The Mouse and Keyboard Center gives people more control over their Microsoft mice and keyboards.
• The update means that devices like the Surface Pro X can use the Mouse and Keyboard Center.

Microsoft recently updated its Mouse and Keyboard Center (via Neowin). The update brings support for ARM64 PCs such as the Surface Pro X. The update brings the utility to version 12 and gives ARM64 PC owners more control over their Microsoft mice and keyboards.

The utility allows you to customize certain aspects of Microsoft-made peripherals like the Surface Precision Mouse. You can use the utility to customize what certain mouse buttons do and control other functions.

The Microsoft Mouse and Keyboard Center doesn't work with Windows 10 PCs in S Mode and didn't work with Windows 10 PCs powered by ARM processors until this update. Now, more Windows 10 PC owners can customize their mouse and keyboard experience.

In addition to adding support for Windows 10 on ARM PCs, the latest update also adds support for the Microsoft Bluetooth Keyboard, Microsoft Bluetooth Mouse. Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard, Microsoft Ergonomic Mouse, Surface Pro X, and other Windows 10 ARM-based PCs.

You can grab the Mouse and Keyboard Center for free from Microsoft's website.

Slimming it down

The Surface Slim Pen is a redesigned stylus that works with Surface devices. It rolled out alongside the Surface Pro X, but it also works with the majority of the Surface line, including all Surface Book devices, all Surface Laptops, the Surface Go, all Surface Studio devices, and every Surface Pro since the Surface Pro 3.

The Surface Slim Pen features a flatter design than previous Surface Pens. Many compare it to a carpenter's pencil with its relatively flat body, though it has smooth and rounded sides. According to Microsoft support, the Surface Slim Pen gets an estimated battery life of 15 hours, though you shouldn't have to worry about its battery often thanks to its convenient charging options.

Charge it up

The Microsoft Surface Slim Pen doesn't require batteries, instead it can be charged wirelessly. It comes with a charging cradle or you can charge it inside the Surface Pro Signature Keyboard. Unfortunately, the only way to get the Signature Keyboard is to purchase the Surface Pro X Signature Keyboard with Slim Pen Bundle, which includes the Slim Pen and the Surface Pro X Signature Keyboard.

The Surface Pro X Signature Keyboard is the most convenient way to keep the Surface Slim Pen charged. You can pop the pen into the keyboard and keep the pen charged while you're on the go. A handy feature of the Signature Keyboard is that it makes sure your pen is always upright and ready to charge. It uses magnets to flip the Slim Pen over if you try to rest it inside the keyboard incorrectly.

If you don't want to purchase the Surface Pro Signature Keyboard or if you plan to use the Slim Pen with a different Surface device, you can charge the pen wirelessly inside the included charging cradle.

Great for heavy duty inking

Ultimately, whether you should grab a Surface Pen or not depends on whether or not you think you'll be using it. As a product, the Surface Pen is a great companion designed to perfectly complement the Pro 6.

The Surface Pro 6 has a co-processor built to reduce latency between the pen and the screen, producing a nearly-imperceptible amount of lag. The Surface Pen supports tilt shading and 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, which is great for digital art and heavy-duty note-taking alike.

The Surface Pen supports leading art programs like Clip Studio, Photoshop, Sketchable, and dozens more, with a reverse digital "rubber" for erasing, and additional configurable buttons for added functionality. If you're planning to use your Surface Pro 6 as a travel buddy for note-taking at university, a simple click of the eraser button can launch OneNote for fast-access to your digital notepad. It even has a magnetic strip down the side for storing against the edge of your Pro 6 (also compatible with the Surface Go, Surface Book 2, and Surface Studio 2).

If you're not a heavy note taker or a digital artist, the Surface Pen is a little harder to justify. At $100, if you're only planning to use the Surface Pro 6 screen for annotating documents occasionally, highlighting, or signing documents, you can probably just purchase a simple non-digital rubber-tip cell phone stylus (like the Amazon Basics model), or just use your finger to achieve the same results. If you can spare the cash though, adding a Surface Pen to your tool kit can add a personal touch to signatures and other quick notes.

Microsoft has confirmed compatibility

Besides a new color choice, all other changes to the Surface Pro 6 from its predecessor have taken place inside. On the outside, everything is the same size and location, as Microsoft has confirmed:

Bundle and save if buying new

If you need a Type Cover (and, honestly, to get the most from the Surface Pro 6, you need one) then one way to save a little is by building a bundle when you buy from Microsoft.

Currently, Microsoft has a bundle running to add a Type Cover to a Surface Pro 6 for $799, which is certainly worth springing for if you need to buy both.

Add fingerprint ID for extra security

If you're looking for a little added security on your Surface Pro 6, don't forget the Type Cover with built-in fingerprint scanner. It's available in black and costs a little more, but it's the most elegant way to use fingerprint-based security on your Surface Pro 6.

The Surface Pro 6 is one of the most versatile and portable PCs, but with that form factor comes some limitations, including ports. While Microsoft includes a USB Type-A, a legacy Mini DisplayPort, and a MicroSD slot, those who need more options must turn to an adapter.

The Juiced Systems Optix has been in my bag for a few months now. Adding more Type-A ports, a full SD slot, and HDMI and a few others make the Surface Pro much more powerful. But is it worth the $32 though? Let's find out.

What you'll love about the Juiced Systems Optix Adapter

While generic port expanders are plentiful these days, the Juiced Systems Optix Adapter is built for the Surface Pro line. It uses both the Mini DisplayPort and native Type-A port to connect. That dual connection gives the new ports enough power, while also adding stability.

Simply plugging it in give the Surface Pro 4, 5, or 6 many more port options, including:

• Mini Display Port 1.2: Extend your Surface Pro display by utilizing the HDMI input or Mini DP. (Only one screen at a time). Supports video resolutions of up to 3840 x 2160 pixels (4K) at a refresh rate of 60Hz.
• 4K HDMI 1.4: Supports up to one 4K (3840 x 2160) external display at 60Hz, or two screens at 30Hz.
• SD | microSD: Quickly transfer SD and Micro SD memory card data to and from your Surface Pro tablet. SD 3.0 enabled transfer speeds.
• USB 3.0 (x2): Add peripherals, and other USB enabled accessories. Connect USB thumb drives, mouse, and external hard drives with 5 Gbps transfer.

Adding HDMI is essential as it is the most common video-out option for many monitors or TVs, making this adapter very handy for travel. I often stream movies from my Surface Pro to a hotel TV on trips, and this adapter gets the job done.

Two USB Type-A ports are better than one. You can now use a wireless mouse dongle while still connecting a thumb drive without a hitch. That full SD card slot (in addition to the new micro SD) makes this an excellent tool for those who use their Surface Pro for photo or video editing.

Since this adapter is made from metal and it has a 2-year warranty, it should last a long time. There is a very slight rattle to the adapter with those metal parts (especially around the ports), but it's not anything significant or detrimental.

Because of the design and it is made for the Surface Pro, you can use this adapter without blocking the Surface Connect port for power and charging.

What you'll love less about Juiced Systems Optix Adapter

Due to the hardware limits of the Surface Pro itself, even though this adapter has both HDMI and Mini DisplayPort, you can't suddenly use them both — only one at a time. HDMI can also be finicky with performance dependent on having a suitable cable, or the device you are connecting to for the display.

While the two USB Type-A ports are great, they are quite close together. That makes them ideal for a small dongle or wireless mouse adapter and a thumb drive. But if you want to use two thumb drives, it will be tight (I still managed to get it to work, but one drive was slightly angled).

The Optix Adapter prioritizes video-out options, and as such, there's no room for an Ethernet port, which would have been useful too.

Should you buy the Juiced Systems Optix Adapter?

I consider the Optix Adapter one of my essential Surface Pro accessories. It's small enough to toss in a bag and comfortable enough to use wherever. While I don't recommend you leave it on during transport – it's a bit cumbersome and could snap – the overall design is quite good.

Functionally, this adapter is great for those who need HDMI on the Surface Pro, but would also like a few other ports. Adding a full SD slot is excellent and more Type-A ports are always welcomed.

While a Type-C port or Ethernet would have been welcomed, there is only so much bandwidth and power the Surface Pro can support

For those looking for a bit less the excellent Juiced Systems Surface Pro Multifunction Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, with two Type-A and full Ethernet is a solid choice. (Likewise, Surface Laptop users will want this CruzHub adapter).

Overall, the Optix Adapter for Surface Pro 4, 5 or 6 is a great accessory to make your Surface even more flexible. It's hard not to like that.

How does Surface Pen work with privacy screens?

If you're worried that you won't be able to utilize a Surface Pen with a privacy screen, don't be — every Surface device has special sensors built into the displays that allow the Surface Pen to work without problems, even through thin layers of glass or plastic. The latter is what privacy screens are made of, so you'll have full functionality when using these two accessories together.

That being said, you may not like the texture of the privacy screen and how it feels to write or draw on it when using the Surface Pen. In addition, artists in particular may be annoyed by the polarized surface of privacy screens as they can change what artwork looks like. If neither of these potential grievances bother you, though, then you should have no issue with using a Surface Pen and a privacy screen together.

Why use a Surface Pen?

If you don't own one for your Surface device already, the Surface Pen is an excellent accessory. Light, smooth, and comfortable to use, it's one of the best touch-screen pens in the tech world, hands-down. In addition, it supports 4,096 different points of pressure, and you can even flip the pen upside-down and use the back of it as an eraser, just like you can with a real pencil. All of this comes together to make the Surface Pen a fantastic tool for artists and writers alike.

Why use a privacy screen?

Privacy screens are a type of display filter that hides your activity from people near you. They accomplish this by utilizing a special type of polarization that prevents things on your screen from being visible outside of a centered viewing angle. In practice, this means that the user of the device will be able to see everything on the screen, but people to their sides and back will just see a darker surface. People that often have to open documents with sensitive information in them will find privacy screens useful, though anyone that simply wants to use their device in public without sacrificing privacy will also appreciate one.

If you're a Surface Go owner, then we recommend the Celicious Privacy Plus privacy screen. It's a bit on the pricey side, but you get what you pay for. Unlike most privacy screens, which have a viewing angle of 60 degrees, the Celicious has an angle of 45 degrees, which offers an even better amount of privacy to the user. In addition, the surface of the screen is glossy and smooth, which gives it an almost glass-like texture.

If you don't own a Surface Go, but still want a privacy screen for your device, we recommend going to Amazon and searching the name of your device plus "privacy screen" to find a screen that will suit your needs. If you own a Surface Book 2, we have suggestions for a good screen here.

Why use a screen protector?

Screen protectors are an incredibly valuable tool in any laptop owner's arsenal because they keep your device's display safe from things like scratches, smudges, and even keyboard prints. When your laptop also has a touchscreen, it's even more important to protect against fingerprint smudges. This is great because most modern laptops cost a pretty penny, and it would be unfortunate for yours to be damaged.

There are two different kinds of screen protectors: plastic and tempered glass. Plastic protectors can be scratched themselves and don't fully cover your screen, but they're cheaper. Tempered glass screen protectors are significantly more resistant to damage and can cover your display fully, but this extra quality also means a higher price. We still recommend tempered glass protectors over plastic ones since it's unlikely you'll ever need to replace them and also because they offer more protection.

How do screen protectors work with touchscreens?

If you're worried about a good screen protector impacting your ability to use the touchscreen on laptops like the Surface Book and Surface Book 2, don't be. While it's true that you won't get perfect functionality as you would without a protector, the decrease in sensitivity is so small that it's hardly noticeable. This is especially true if you're using a Surface Pen for inking.

What are some great Surface Book screen protectors?

If you own a Surface Book device and are curious about which screen protector to choose, our top picks are the MEGOO protector and the Spigen protector.

The MEGOO screen protector is an excellent product for Surface Book devices for multiple reasons. One of them is that it uses a special type of adhesive glue to attach to the screen that effectively pushes out air bubbles, which are annoyances that many screen protector customers struggle to deal with on their own. In addition, the tempered glass used with the MEGOO is of the 9H variety, which is the cream of the crop when it comes to protective capabilities. Lastly, the protector has cutouts for Surface Book's camera, microphone, and speakers, which ensures you won't lose any productivity by using it.

If you've mastered the art of manual air bubble removal, it may be worth it to save a few dollars and opt for the Spigen screen protector instead. The Spigen protector matches the MEGOO protector in most ways: both products use the same 9H glass, have similar cutouts, and fully cover the display of Surface Book devices, but the Spigen lacks the special type of adhesive that the MEGOO protector has and thus its more difficult to handle air bubbles when attaching the Spigen. If that's something you don't mind working around, though, there's no reason not to go with the Spigen protector.

Why use a privacy screen?

Privacy screens are essentially polarized plastic filters that you put over your computer screen in order to make seeing the information on them impossible from any angle other than a 60-degree viewing angle from the front — in other words, where you are. Outside of that cone, nobody will be able to peep on your web browsing or work projects.

This can be incredibly useful for pretty much anyone, but it's especially useful for traveling business managers or college students spending time on campus. While the 60-degree viewing angle still leaves sneaky spies an opening, you'll surely catch them in the act at that tight of a viewing cone. Additionally, the filter screen can double as protection against scratches as well, albeit a mediocre one. If display safeguarding is what you're after, you'd be better off getting a dedicated screen protector.

The rest of this article will suggest privacy screens for Surface Book 2 owners. If you have a different laptop, then we recommend searching the name of your computer and "privacy screen" on Amazon in order to find one that works for you.

What are some great privacy screens available?

If you own a Surface Book 2, then you're in luck: some truly excellent privacy screens are available on the market. One of them is the 13.5-inch GeckoCare Privacy Screen, which is a special privacy screen designed to be easily taken on and off of your device at will thanks to the special silicone seal that's used to attach the screen to your Surface Book 2 display. This makes the GeckoCare screen ideal for users who want to use a privacy screen sometimes, like when opening confidential documents, but not all the time.

Another great privacy screen is the 3M Privacy Filter. 3M has a well-earned reputation for being one of the best privacy screen developers in the tech world, and if you use its 15-inch Surface Book 2 filter, you'll see why. On top of effectively hiding your screen from others, the 3M filter is also designed with advanced microlouvre technology that keeps the things you see on-screen just as sharp and detailed as they'd be without a polarized filter.

Why buy a Kensington SD7000 Docking Station?

Before discussing where the best place to buy a Kensington SD7000 Surface Pro Docking Station is, it's important to go over what makes it worth buying in the first place. The thing that makes the SD7000 dock so great is that it has the capability to turn your Surface Pro 4, Surface Pro 5, and Surface Pro 6 into a modular media device that can connect to a variety of different types of displays, hard drives, and more. Here's the full list of different ports found on the dock:

• 1x USB Type-C (data only)
• 4x USB Type-A 3.0
• Gigabit Ethernet
• DisplayPort++ v1.2
• HDMI 2.0
• 3.5mm combo audio port

On top of essentially turning your Surface into a PC, the SD7000 dock is also well-built. Made out of a combination of hard plastic and solid metal, it will keep your Surface device safe and secure without a doubt. Lastly, it supports a wide range of movement, meaning that you can freely adjust your device to suit your preferred eye level.

Why is Amazon the best place to buy this dock?

The reason why Amazon is the best place to buy the Kensington SD7000 Surface Pro Docking Station is that it's by far the place you can get it the cheapest. Other retailers list the dock for anywhere between $420 to $500, but on Amazon, you can get it for just $400. This will allow you to save a significant amount of money, which is always a good thing.

Additionally, Amazon also has a well-deserved reputation for great shipping times, especially if you're a member of Amazon Prime. If you want to get your hands on your docking station fast, then Amazon is one of the best places to buy from.

Why get a Kensington SD7000 Docking Station?

The Kensington SD7000 Docking Station is an excellent dock that essentially transforms your Surface Pro 4, Surface Pro 5, or Surface Pro 6 into a desktop PC. Once you place your Surface device into the dock, a huge array of different ports found on it become usable, including:

• 1x USB Type-C (data only)
• 4x USB Type-A 3.0
• Gigabit Ethernet
• DisplayPort++ v1.2
• HDMI 2.0
• 3.5mm combo audio port

In addition, the dock itself is incredibly sturdy and well-built since it's made out of a combination of hard plastic and solid metal. It's also very adjustable, and this gives you the freedom to set it up on your desk at whatever angle is the most comfortable for you. For more details, check out our full review.

Is it worth using dual 4K monitors?

Thanks to the ports on the Kensington SD7000, it's possible to connect your Surface Pro to two different 4K monitors. However, there is a caveat: it won't work unless both monitors are being run at a 30Hz refresh rate.

Depending on what you're planning on using dual monitors for, this could either be a very big problem or not an issue at all. Watching movies will be fine since nearly all modern film runs at 24Hz and uses motion blur. Your experience with online video will vary based on whether or not the author recorded in 30 frames per second (FPS). When browsing the web or your desktop, the experience will feel clunky on a 30Hz monitor, but it's still alright. The area where being limited to 30Hz hurts the most is gaming, as it forces you to play at 30 FPS which is not great for most titles.

Overall, I think it's best to stick with just one monitor if you want to go 4K since using only one allows you to run it at 60Hz, which makes everything about the experience significantly more enjoyable and easy on the eyes. For more information on how refresh rate impacts your PC experience, check out our article on the subject.

Platinum Type Cover

The Platinum Type Cover is Microsoft's "default" Type Cover for the Surface Go — default meaning it's the color that matches the device color scheme and also follows along with the rest of the Surface color aesthetic, that being "gray." It's also a signature Type Cover, meaning it uses the more premium Alcantara fabric, which feels excellent on your wrists when typing out long emails or documents.

We think the Platinum Type Cover is the best Type Cover you can buy for the Surface Go, thanks to its matching color scheme and modern aesthetic. There are other great options to choose from, however.

Burgundy Type Cover

If you don't care about your Type Cover matching the rest of your Surface Go, you might be more interested in a bolder, redder Type Cover in the form of the Burgundy Type Cover. This is also a signature Type Cover, meaning it uses Alcantara fabric for a premium feel.

Cobalt Blue Type Cover

If red isn't to your liking, perhaps the Cobalt Blue signature Type Cover will better suite your wants. This one features a slightly lighter aesthetic, and also features Alcantara for its fabric of choice.

Black Type Cover

Finally, we have the Black Type Cover. This is your basic "I don't care about colors" choice, which is also the only one in our lineup to not be classed as a signature Type Cover from Microsoft. This means it doesn't feature the Alcantara fabric found on the others, instead opting for a somewhat cheaper feeling material instead. This does knock around $25 of the price, however, so keep that in mind if you're price conscious.

Microsoft has made keyboards for decades. You can't go wrong with either of these keyboards if you want an ergonomic setup. However, even though both of these devices look similar, there are some key differences that will determine which is best for you. If you had to pick one, I'd recommend the Surface Ergonomic Keyboard for its comfortable design, build materials, and the fact that it doesn't require a dongle to connect to your PC.

Break it down now

The Surface Ergonomic keyboard is an ergonomic keyboard with similar design cues to the newer products from the Surface line. It has metal keys, Alcantara fabric on the wrist rest, and sports a silver color. Ergonomic keyboards all take time to adjust to them if you're coming from a traditional keyboard, but the typing experience on the Surface Ergonomic keyboard is solid, which makes the transition easier.

The build quality of the Surface Ergonomic Keyboard is solid and the typing experience is smooth. Unfortunately, the Alcantara on the wrist rest isn't coated the same way that the Surface Laptop 2's Alcantara is. That means that it shows dirt and grime.

The Surface Ergonomic Keyboard is, in many ways, the successor to the Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic keyboard. There are some notable design improvements though.

One of the most notable differences is that the Surface Ergonomic Keyboard doesn't require a dongle to connect to your PC. It has built-in Bluetooth 4/4.1 Low Energy. This is in contrast the Microsoft Sculpt Keyboard, which requires a specific 2.4 GHz USB dongle that can't be replaced. The Surface Ergonomic Keyboard's connection to PCs wasn't as strong as the 2.4 GHz dongle in our testing, but is much more convenient since you don't need to deal with putting anything into ports.

The Microsoft Sculpt keyboard is also an impressive keyboard. It is the precursor to the Surface Ergonomic Keyboard and has a wedged design that makes typing easier on your wrists. The Microsoft Sculpt Keyboard is noticeably more plastic than its newer sibling, which doesn't feel as premium as newer devices that feature metal parts, but it doesn't show grime and get dirty.

The Microsoft Sculpt Keyboard has one major difference that goes in its favor: it comes with a mouse. The mouse that comes with the keyboard isn't a cheap giveaway device either — it sells on its own for $40 and is a quality product.

The Microsoft Sculpt Keyboard is an older device when compared to the Surface Ergonomic Keyboard, but is still a solid keyboard. Microsoft has earned its positive reputation when it comes to keyboards and while the Microsoft Sculpt Keyboard is more expensive than some competitors, it'll get the job done and then some.

The Microsoft Sculpt Keyboard comes with a dongle that is required to connect the keyboard to your PC. This is a bit more of a hassle because it means that you have to dedicate a USB port to your keyboard. Most devices have USB drives, but ports are at a premium on many devices and many modern keyboards have built-in Bluetooth connections. The benefit of the dongle is that it provides a solid connection.

In the end, if you want that mouse/keyboard combo and the added connection with the dongle, the Sculpt Keyboard might be your best bet. However, for most people, the Surface Ergonomic Keyboard is a better value.

Blink, and it's easy to confuse the Kensington SD7000 Docking Station with a miniaturized Surface Studio. The dock is arguably the most expensive accessory you can purchase for the Surface Pro, but it's also the most transformative. While the idea of expanding ports for various computers is not new, the Kensington SD7000 is so much more than that. It breathes new life into a mobile-only device letting it shine as a full desktop replacement.

Does the cost justify the Kensington SD7000? That depends. But I can say that it is the best accessory to date for the favorite 2-in-1. If you want to maximize your Surface Pro's usefulness here's why I think this dock is a good purchase.

Ports but more

Kensington SD7000: What is it?

Most people will look at the Kensington SD7000 and see it as a $400 port-expander. That's technically true due to the abundance of new input-output options available, including:

• 1x USB Type-C (data only)
• 4x USB Type-A 3.0
• Gigabit Ethernet
• DisplayPort++ v1.2
• HDMI 2.0
• 3.5mm combo audio port

I'd be also most remiss to point out that there's a prominent Kensington Security Slot to lock the whole contraption down.

What's missing (and a bit disappointing) is the lack of a slot for an SD card reader, which seems like an obvious choice for such a dock.

All those ports are powered by the Surface Connect port on the Surface Pro, which is impressive. That means you still get to use the Surface Pro's native USB Type-A port as well, bumping the total here to five.

Microsoft's aging Surface Dock, by comparison, has four USB Type-A ports, Gigabit Ethernet, and two Mini DisplayPorts. No Type-C for data, no HDMI, and no security lock.

Using the HDMI or DisplayPort for the Kensington SD7000 yields support for dual 4K displays at 30Hz or one 4K at 60Hz (multiple full HD displays run just fine too).

While the portion that holds the Surface Pro is good quality plastic, the hinges and parts of the base are metal. The plastic is necessary because the idea of sliding metal against the metal of the Surface Pro – especially the newer black variant – seems like a bad idea.

Screws are unfortunately visible from the rear. Some form of masking those screws or hiding them would have upped the craftsmanship here, but from the front, the entire setup looks fabulous.

Kensington uses the same Microsoft-branded 90-watt Surface Dock AC adapter, keeping within Microsoft recommended power limits.

Regular docks don't do this

Kensington SD7000 more than ports

Saying the Kensington SD7000 is just a port expander is like saying Surface Studio 2 is just an expensive desktop computer – you're missing the point.

Slotting in the Surface Pro 6 into the Kensington SD7000 you immediately experience how this hinged-mount changes everything. Now at eye-level, the Surface Pro now feels like a mini-Surface Studio.

To the right of the dock is the Surface Connect for data and power. The contraption is built within an ergonomic rounded grip letting users slide the connector in and out to release the Surface Pro. The design feels robust, sturdy and it should hold up for many years of repeated use.

The display of the Surface Pro now seemingly floats in the air and because the hinge is articulating you can angle it however you wish.

By adding a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse the Kensington SD7000 with Surface Pro turns into a beautiful, minimalist full desktop PC experience even without adding larger displays.

The hinges are polished and mirrored, and the overall look is strikingly like the Surface Studio. Even the platinum color here matches precisely that of the Surface Pro and similar accessories like the Surface Keyboard and Surface Mouse. It all feels very complimentary.

Because of the design, you can sit closer to the Surface Pro compared to a regular desktop PC without discomfort.

Slide the Surface Pro down to the draft board mode, and suddenly the Surface Pro is a rock solid, stable inking machine propped at a proper angle.

While the hinge is nowhere near as fluid as the Surface Studio's "zero gravity" effect, it at least has the look nailed. The hinge is stiff and requires some effort to move, but the entire station weighs a gobsmacking 7.31lbs (3.32kg) giving it significant heft that reduces shifting.

Kensington didn't forget about the Surface Pen, which cannot stick to the Surface Pro when mounted. Instead, to the left are a couple of modestly firm magnets. The magnets could be stronger, but overall, it's just great to have, and it worked without issue.

A stunning first attempt

Kensington SD7000 — so good Microsoft should have made it

Perhaps the most puzzling thing about the Kensington SD7000 is that Microsoft didn't make it themselves.

It's evident Kensington worked with Microsoft as the dock has earned the official "For Surface" endorsement on the box – something only a few manufacturers have achieved. The matching color scheme, mirrored hinge design, the overall look, even the Microsoft-branded power supply says that this is all a semi-official release.

That $400 price-tag is steep, but I can't stress this enough: Using the Kensington SD7000 has made me completely rethink the Surface Pro as an everyday all-the-time computer versus a portable one.

If you plopped down $1,700 for the Core i7 Surface Pro 6 (or $2,100 for the 1TB model) this extra $400 lets you stretch the Surface Pro to your full-time and only computer.

If I were a college student (with some money), or someone looking to build a clean, minimalist desktop experience, the Kensington SD7000 should be a strong consideration. The build quality is excellent, and I genuinely enjoyed using the Surface Pro at eye-level.

The dock works with Surface Pro 4, Surface Pro 2017 (5th gen), and the new Surface Pro 6. While older models are OK, I've argued that the new quad-core processor in the Surface Pro 6 gives a significant and important boost in performance. When combined with 16GB of RAM, 512GB (or more) of storage, the Core i7 CPU, and this dock, you get an outstanding desktop performer.

During my review, I had the Surface Pro with the Kensington SD7000 setup in my living room. I often found myself just gravitating towards it versus nearby laptops. It was instant-on and with a mouse and keyboard just so fun to use.

I do think the Kensington SD7000 also highlights some current limits of Surface Pro. Were Microsoft to offer a Thunderbolt 3 port, I can imagine something like the SD7000 but with a built-in GPU in that base — it'd be amazing. But that's not Kensington's fault, and considering the limits they had to work with they did an excellent job.

The port selection is solid but having two forward-looking USB-A ports would have been preferred instead of placing them all in the rear. The Type-C port is nice, but even for data, the speeds were abysmal when using a Type-C Samsung T5 SSD (speeds went back to normal when using the Type-A ports) - while Type-C is more future-proofing, I think an SD card slot may have worked better for the intended audience.

The use of plastic in certain areas is forgivable, but I'd like to see Kensington step up some of the quality of materials used for the area that holds Surface Pro. Alcantara here would could work well as an accent.

The consumer angle for this Kensington dock is clear. Those with money who have a lot invested in the Surface Pro line and wish to make it their only computer – a noble and desirable goal. For them, this is an excellent purchase that I highly recommend.

But there is also the business angle – those who want to use Surface Pro as a high-class, secured, public-facing computer for kiosks or front-desk workers. Even those who work in cubicles could use this instead of having two computers – one desktop, one laptop – not only saving space but money and being more efficient.

As to when you can get your hands on the Kensington SD7000 dock online retailers like Amazon and B&H Photo should be stocking it by January 2019.

For those just looking for a basic dock, or port expander, there is a myriad of lower-cost options. None will turn your Surface Pro into a mini-Surface Studio, but it will cost you a lot less. But if you see the photos here and think that is something you want for your home, office, or dorm then take the plunge as it's worth the investment. Let's hope Microsoft doesn't radically change the Surface Pro's design or Surface Connect port next year.

Dial "U" for Unintended

The Surface Dial is a nifty piece of kit that allows you to interact with your device in a new way, but only in certain scenarios. It's a puck-shaped Bluetooth device that can connect and work with any Windows 10 device, but its functionality is severely limited if you're not planning to use it with one of the 2-in-1 Surface devices, namely the Surface Pro, Surface Book, and Surface Studio.

The Surface Dial can detect presses, and rotational movement with touch-sensors beneath its exterior. It's a weighty device meant to sit on a desk, with a rubberized underside to prevent it from sliding off a glass screen when placed on a Surface 2-in-1 device.

When placed on the display, it can detect which app is in the foreground and dynamically change its functionality to match. When used with Photoshop, it gives you a range of additional controls that allow you to continue inking without reaching for a keyboard for shortcuts and other controls. Head here for more details from Adobe. You can get similar functionality out of other creative apps, including Sketchable and DJay Pro. We have a list of great Dial-capable apps right here.

Since you cannot lay the Surface Laptop 2's screen flat without literally tilting it and the keyboard onto its back, it becomes a little pointless. You can use the Dial for media controls in apps like Netflix and Spotify while it's placed on your desk, but it feels a little cost-prohibitive to be worthwhile.

Instead, if you're an arty-type and think the Surface Dial looks like a compelling tool for your arsenal of digital creativity, consider one of Microsoft's 2-in-1 Surface devices, which allow you to place the Surface Dial directly onto the display. Naturally, the bigger the screen, the better.

It's been just over one year since the Surface Pro for 2017 was announced and with it, the eventual release of a Surface Connect to USB-C adapter.

The omission of a Type-C port – even if not full Thunderbolt 3 – has been seen as a black-eye on the Surface Pro, but that is now being partially fixed with the new $79.99 adapter, which is now available.

I've been using the adapter for the last few hours and while I'll do a full review later this week here are my initial thoughts on it.

See at Microsoft Store

More of a mini-dock than a dongle

Much has been about the size of the Surface Connect to USB-C Adapter. It is rather large when compared to typical dongles or Type-C adapter, but this is more than that.

Weighing in at 91 grams this accessory is more of a mini-Surface Dock meant for a desk environment versus something you use in your lap. That's because the main idea behind the Surface Connect to USB-C Adapter is to let the Surface Laptop and Surface Pro connect to Type-C hubs, displays, and power sources rather than a simple USB-C thumb drive.

The size and weight let the Surface Connect to USB-C Adapter lend it to working better when stationary on an office desk, or permanent setup. Instead of sliding all around or stressing the Surface Connect port it rests on the desk without slipping.

Indeed, it does work well. So far, everything I have thrown at it has worked without issue, including:

• External USB-C display (Asus ZenScreen)
• USB-C docks with SD, Ethernet, USB-A, etc.
• USB-C external drives.
• USB-C power adapters (65W and 130W tested).
• USB-C portable battery/AC adapter (Dell hybrid power bank).

As expected, the Surface Connect to USB-C Adapter does not support Thunderbolt 3 so that pricey portable Dell SSD does not work.

This is for enterprise (not really consumers)

Another point of confusion is who should be buying the Surface Connect to USB-C Adapter. While consumers are certainly welcomed to drop $80 if they need this accessory, it is positioned for businesses who have invested in the latest Surface Pro or Surface Laptop and who also converted to Type-C accessories and hubs in the office.

That price tag may seem expensive, but if a business is buying in bulk, they presumably get a discount. It's common for companies to sell PC and laptop accessories at a premium price, e.g., Lenovo's $25 RJ-45 adapter or Dell's $60 Type-C dongle.

From that perspective, the Surface Connect to USB-C Adapter makes sense for companies who have invested in Surface Pro and Surface Laptop for the next few years.

As of now, the Surface Connect to USB-C Adapter does not work with the Surface Pro 4 or original Surface Book, but support may come later through a firmware update if it's possible. That would make the Surface Connect to USB-C Adapter an even better investment for companies who have those devices.

Update: Further testing so far has revealed that the adapter does work with Surface Pro 4.

First impressions are great

Putting aside some expectations that the Surface Connect to USB-C Adapter would be just a small device that changes the port design the adapter does work well.

The ability to use any USB-C power source is beneficial for those who have those AC adapters laying around. Being able to leverage smaller, more affordable Type-C hubs that support Ethernet, display out, power, USB and SD cards also makes the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop much more exciting and useful in the office.

The biggest win for me is the ability to use my Asus ZenScreen with the Surface Laptop or Surface Pro — that portable second screen is great for when I travel.

We'll do a full review of the Surface Connect to USB-C Adapter later this week to do some more testing. Let us know in comments below what you think and if you have any questions.

See at Microsoft Store

The Microsoft Surface Laptop is arguably one of the most beautiful PCs on the market today (though not the cheapest, or most powerful). All that flair though comes at a heavy price: it's prone to scratches.

I speak from experience, having scratched a burgundy Surface Laptop that Microsoft sent for review, and then recently denting my personal cobalt blue one. To put it mildly, you need to baby the Surface Laptop if you want it to remain pristine.

Luckily, Toast offers its famous wood covers for the entire Surface line to hide my shame. I last reviewed Toast in 2014 with a Surface Pro 3, but I wanted to see how it looks on the Surface Laptop.

Woody design

Toast makes covers for Surface Pro, Surface Laptop, and the entire Surface Book line (including the new 13- and 15-inch models). They also make the covers for the HP Spectre x360, Lenovo X1, Razer Blade, and even Dell's XPS line.

Ordering is simple. Pick one of four types of wood (walnut, ash, bamboo, or ebony) and then choose your options. Pricing starts around $50, but that's just for the top cover. Additional choices include the bottom half, around the display bezel, and the keyboard deck.

Toast uses lasers to etch on the covers too. For an extra $5 they will cut out the Microsoft logo to let the mirrored symbol shine through. The company also offers custom engraving on either half of the cover with four font choices and three text sizes.

Admittedly, the toughest part is picking the wood type to go with your PC. All four choices look tremendous, but they will contrast differently with your Surface's base color.

Maxing out a Toast wood cover with all the options can run well past $100. That's a lot of cash, but remember, this isn't just some vinyl sticker. Toast uses real wood precisely cut for your device.

Installing Toast

Toast is based out of Portland, Oregon. My custom Toast cover arrived about a week after I ordered it. Communication during the process was excellent with a dispatch notice keeping me aware of its status. The packaging was also excellent, keeping the cover protected during transit.

Applying the Toast wood cover is straightforward especially with the well-documented instructions included in the box. Dry run the pieces first and when ready peel off the 3M tape and apply to the Surface Laptop (wiping down with alcohol beforehand helps too).

Putting the Toast wood cover on the Surface Laptop felt very much like putting a LEGO kit together. Each corner, strip, or top fit together like blocks. The total installation took about thirty minutes and was relatively stress-free. If part of the kit was misapplied, it was easy to pull up and reapply as the 3M tape takes a few hours before it adheres.

Unlike applying a wet-skin like Skinomi, there was no need to let the Toast dry or settle overnight.

I opted not to install the Toast keyboard deck cover. Sticking 3M tape to the Alcantara Surface Laptop seemed odd to me, and more importantly, I didn't care for the look as I wanted to leave some of the Laptop's signature blue color remain.

I'd be remiss to also not mention the cover smells great.

Final thoughts

I was expecting to be impressed by the Toast cover. After all, the company has been around since 2012 and now make wood covers for tablets, laptops, and even phones. They've earned a lot of dedicated fans.

I love this Toast cover for the Surface Laptop. Setting aside that it hid my shameful dent in the lid, I adore the design, look, and color contrast with the cobalt blue.

I'm particularly impressed with how the Toast cover rounded the edges of the Surface Laptop. I also recommend doing the Surface logo cut out for that extra five bucks. Not only did it make aligning the cover during installation much more comfortable, but it looks fantastic when contrasted with the wood.

While it is a costly option to protect your Surface PC, I felt I got my money's worth with Toast. The ordering process was great, the item is custom made and shipped appropriately, and the end-result is outstanding.

Plus, I should be able to remove the cover if I ever change my mind (though I doubt I will).

If you're looking for a way to make your Surface or premium Windows laptop stand out while adding some class, I can recommend the Toast wood cover. I like it so much I just ordered one for the Surface Pro with LTE and Surface Book 2 15-inch.

See at Toast

Pros:

• High quality, custom made, real wood cover.
• Easy to apply and precisely cut.
• Many options.
• Helps protect from scratches or cover existing ones.

Cons:

• Expensive.
• Alcantara cover option seems weird.

When it comes to protecting or adding style to the Microsoft Surface Laptop, there is an increasing number of excellent options available. While the Toast wood cover (see my review) is a rather extreme makeover, XtremeSkins offers a unique twist to add some pizzazz and mild defense against scratches or nicks without breaking the bank.

For around $45 with tracked international shipping, XtremeSkins will send you a custom full skin kit for your Surface Laptop. I ordered one up and here are my results.

XtremeSkins – What you get

XtremeSkins uses high-quality adhesive-backed vinyl — these essentially big stickers. The vinyl decals use a special glue that won't leave a residue or damage the device if you choose to remove it later.

There are three optional main areas the XtremeSkins skin covers for Surface Laptop:

• Body (top lid and bottom of the laptop).
• Microsoft logo.
• Accent (sides of device, lid, and trackpad).

If you order the body skin, it'll set you back £16.50 ($23). You could also order only the side accents for £5 ($7) or even the Microsoft Logo for £2.50 ($3.50), which is neat - and if you order all three its £32.49 ($45) plus shipping.

For each area, users can choose from up to 44 color, texture, and style options including matte grey, ultra-marine gloss, driftwood, or red leather. That's an astounding number of color combinations (432 to be exact) and while I like a choice that is a lot to ponder!

I chose matte white for the body, matte green for the accent and classic for the Microsoft logo (incorrectly referred to as Windows on the website). Frankly, this is the same configuration they use in their promo ads for the Surface Laptop skin, and I thought it looked great.

Shipping only took a few days from the UK to the US. The item was packed well and includes a four-pack of alcohol wipes along with instructions for application.

Easy to install, looks great

I had no issue installing the skin for the Surface Laptop, although I'm not convinced XtremeSkins needed the cutouts for the wireless antennas on the sides. I mention this only because it's one area that could detach later and some other skin brands make the side piece solid (and easier to apply).

If you don't apply the skin correctly, XtremeSkins says the vinyl can be "re-lifted, repositioned and stretched with a hairdryer", which is great if you make a misalignment. Speaking of, I found the accuracy of the skins to be mostly spot on, although the Microsoft logo colors are just a smidge smaller requiring some careful positioning.

The vinyl skins are relatively thick too, and with a matte color option don't pick up fingerprints or scratch as easily.

There are no skins for the side of the display or top, which is odd. Though I prefer the look without the side skins for the lid, some other companies do offer those as well.

I'll admit the skins for the glossy Microsoft logo are an acquired taste, but I like the look with the classic Microsoft colors.

Interestingly, besides the traditional colors, the Surface Laptop skin comes with matte green accent logo stickers too, making the purchase a bit redundant (but it allows for more customization). Alternatively, I could leave the logo skins off and leave the default mirrored logo in all its glory.

The weirdest skin is no doubt for the giant Precision touchpad. I have seen other companies offer this before and it seems counterintuitive. I can say, however, that using the skin does not change how well the touchpad works, merely its texture and look. I'll leave the green one on for this build, but it's always up to the user.

Overall, I liked the XtremeSkins experience. The choice of color options is massive, and the ability to mix and match is something unique to this company's creations. The quality of the vinyl seems excellent, and the company's communication, shipping, and execution of the product leave me without any criticism. The company ships worldwide and the pricing seems fair for what you get.

Not everyone likes laptop skins, but if you are thinking of one for the Surface Laptop XtremeSkins should be on your list for consideration. Sadly, the company does not yet offer any skins for the Surface Pro or Surface Book.

See at XtremeSkins

Pros:

• High-quality vinyl skin that can be reapplied.
• Relatively easy to apply and precisely cut.
• Great color, texture, and finish options to choose from.
• Helps protect from scratches or cover existing ones.

Cons:

• No protection for side of display panel.
• Cutout for wireless antenna seems unnecessary.

Microsoft's Surface product line has grown over the years to meet the various demands of consumers. For those who own a Surface Pro 3, Pro 4, or new Surface Pro however, you may be interested in innovative ways to expand its form factor. Or maybe you just really want a Surface Book, but can't afford it now.

The Brydge 12.3 Bluetooth keyboard is one possible solution that turns your Surface Pro into more or a laptop. I was skeptical of such a device, but after spending a few weeks with it, I'm (mostly) impressed. Here is what I like, and what I don't.

See at Amazon

How it works

The Brydge 12.3 is a standalone Bluetooth 4.0 keyboard that has its own battery and costs $150. Micro USB charges it, and it should last around three months on a single charge. Obviously, that can vary, but the Brydge 12.3 should last at the very least weeks even with extreme usage.

You just pair the Brydge 12.3 to the Surface Pro 3 or 4 using Windows 10 and the Bluetooth configuration.

Next, you slip the Surface Pro into the shims at the edge. They are quite firm, and it requires pressure to slide in the Surface Pro. The good news is that means the Surface Pro will not slip out. The unwelcome news is this is not something you want to have to do repeatedly, so the setup presumes you'll leave the Surface Pro in the Brydge for extended durations. If you must separate them, you just tug.

Once paired the Brydge 12.3 acts just as a keyboard, and it makes the Surface Pro feel like a laptop.

Brydge 12.3 features and quality

Made from an all-aluminum chassis, the build quality is excellent on the Brydge 12.3.

Out of the box, the Brydge 12.3 is configured for the Surface Pro 4/Surface Pro, but there are extra shims in the box that fit the Surface Pro 3.

The Brydge 12.3 works with the all-new Surface Pro (2017), as well.

Everyone I showed it too was impressed with how durable and stable it feels. Part of that is the weight, which is 1.4 pounds (652 grams). That means you are effectively doubling the weight of your Surface Pro.

The reason for the weight is just physics. To prop the 1.7lb Surface Pro up into a laptop mode without the kickstand, you need similar weight to offset it. The Brydge 12.3 opens to a maximum of 160 degrees much like a "real" laptop.

The Brydge 12.3 is also the same diameter as the Surface Pro. It feels like squishing two Surface Pros together.

To be fair, it all feels very dense, robust, and even rugged. But your light Surface Pro becomes a heavy laptop weighing 3.41 pounds (1.55 kg). That's a significant tradeoff.

The Brydge 12.3 keys are chicklet-style with plenty of travel. I enjoy the way they depress and feel. They also support three-stage backlighting, which is a very nice touch. Part of the extra weight of the Brydge 12.3 goes to an internal battery for the Bluetooth and to also power the backlighting.

The Brydge trackpad is smaller than that of the Surface Type Cover. It's glass and while not Precision (so it doesn't support all Windows 10 gestures) it is better than average.

However, when you close the Surface Pro on to the Brydge, you need to hit the power button the Surface Pro to turn it off. There is no way for the Brydge to know your Surface is off because unlike the Type Cover, it is not physically connected.

If you open the Surface Pro and hit the power button, the Brydge automatically pairs again. The process is fluid and fast requiring no wait times so you can dive into work.

Unfortunately, you cannot use the Brydge 12.3 to charge the Surface Pro as an extended battery.

Overall, I was way more impressed with the Brydge 12.3 than I was expecting to be. The build quality is fantastic, the Bluetooth worked, the keyboard feels right, the backlighting is great, and the trackpad is OK.

Some issues with typing

My biggest complaint with the Brydge 12.3 is with typing. While it felt great, I often missed keystrokes. That may be related to how fast I type – average around 60 words per minute – because typing more slowly seemed fine.

The issue is likely to do with the Bluetooth, and the keyboard may be bad at keystroke-timing crossover so that the key needs to fully "clear" the movement before it registers. On average, it happened about every ten or twenty words, which while not awful, was enough to make me frustrated on occasion.

Brydge 12.3 Pro 128 adds optional SSD to your Surface Pro

In another oversion - Brydge 12.3 Pro 128 – you can get 128GB high-speed (600mbps) SSD storage built into the keyboard. That option will double the cost of the Brydge 12.3 to $299.

It connects via the micro USB port to the Surface Pro's USB Type-A one through an included mini-cable. While perhaps a bit clumsy, I must admit the idea is intriguing.

Conclusion: Almost worth it

I expected to dislike the Brydge 12.3 for Surface Pro but came away awestruck. The overall quality is fantastic, and Brydge gets a lot right with the device.

The added weight and size is something to note, but it at least feels good to carry and use.

The typing experience is great even though I missed a keystroke on occasion, which is the real bummer here. I think slower typists will be OK, but those who type like pros will get frustrated quickly. I also don't love the smaller trackpad.

The $150 price is a bit high, too. Considering, however, that a new Surface Type Cover (non-Alcantara) costs $129, I think Brydge is in the ballpark. At the very least, the packaging and build quality all make it feel premium and worth the money. Nothing feels cheap about the Brydge 12.3.

Brydge 12.3 is worth checking out if you want this setup, but you may want to wait until the next version. With a few refinements, this could be a killer accessory.

See at Amazon

Pros:

• Excellent build quality and design.
• Really nice keyboard response and feel.
• Backlit keys look great.
• Makes the Surface Pro more laptop-like.

Cons:

• Doubles the weight and size of Surface Pro.
• Occasional missed keystrokes when typing fast.
• Trackpad is a bit too small.

Protecting your Surface Book is of vital importance. It's your go-everywhere PC, and that steep price tag means dropping it is not an option.

Thankfully, UAG is here to help Surface owners. UAG's new rugged ICE case for the Surface Book and Surface Book Performance Base is not cheap, but it's worth the investment.

Here's my review of it and why someone like me, who technically doesn't really need such a rugged case, still prefers to leave it on all the time.

Features and design

The UAG case for Surface Book comes in two pieces, and both are very light. One piece is for the top of the Surface (the display half) and the other is for the keyboard and battery combo. Made from high impact resistant rubber, the edge of the UAG is well protected.

The same stiff rubber also completely covers the Surface Book's "Dynamic Fulcrum" hinge, which is vital. It flexes slightly allowing you to "peel" the cover around the edges of the Surface.

The back of the display and bottom of the Surface Book have a clear, hard acrylic plastic that counts as the "armor shell." Various faux cutouts look like gaps, but that's just the design. The clear acrylic covers 100 percent of the Surface top and bottom.

There are two flaps, what UAG calls "lock securely," that effortlessly keep your Surface Book from accidentally opening. They are rubber latches, but they require no work from the user to secure. Likewise, the bottom half has an elastic that goes around the Surface fulcrum hinge as an added safety measure.

There are vent cutouts on the sides to allow the thermal cooling of the Surface Book and for access to the headphone jack. The rear camera also has a cutout.

The UAG has no water protection, so all ports are still exposed, with no rubber flaps to latch.

You can still detach the Surface Clipboard from the dock (keyboard base) and use it as a tablet with the UAG intact. The only caveat is that placing it back into the base requires a little finesse with the rubber hinge guard, because it acts as protection for the dock's connectors. That means you need to push back the hinge guard and then place the Surface Clipboard in place. It's not a big deal but is a small tradeoff for not having the sensitive connectors of the dock exposed.

You can also reattach the Surface Clipboard to the Dock in so-called "drawing mode" (reversed) with the UAG case on. However, there will be a gap and some flex due to the case. While it works, it's not quite as flush as without the UAG case.

In my testing, I found no limitations in using the case with the Surface Book except in draw mode, as noted. Nothing was blocked, and no features are unavailable when using it. The only sacrifice – which is evident – is that you are making the Surface Book slightly thicker.

Overall, the design of the UAG case for Surface Book is impressive. Everything is aligned perfectly with the ports, camera and venting, with no apparent miscalculations during design.

No tools necessary for installation

Setup for the UAG Surface Book cover is very easy. There is a printed instruction sheet included, but it is relatively self-explanatory.

First, you detach the Surface Clipboard (top half) from the Surface Dock (lower half). The Clipboard then slips top-first into the cover. Make sure the top of the Surface Clipboard touches the top of the inside case to ensure port and vent alignment. Press down on the sides from top to bottom to lock into place.

Then you repeat the same for the Surface Dock.

It's a tight fit, so you'll want to install the case with the Surface components preferably on a table to give it some resistance.

Removing the UAG case is relatively easy. You just peel back the corners and wiggle it out. While you can occasionally take the case off, it's easier just to leave it in place. Frequently removing it can cause accidental scratches to the Surface due to the rigid plastic. And the more you take it off, the greater the chance you will begin to warp some of the tight-fitting molding, resulting in a looser fit over time.

My only advice is being aware that dust, hair and other bits can get between the Surface Book and the acrylic part of the UAG case. If you're not careful, the top of your Surface Book could have unsightly detritus visible and locked into place until you clean it. The more you take it on and off, the more likely such a situation will happen, which can bother some fastidious owners.

Nifty Surface Pen holder

Perhaps the most surprising addition to the UAG case for Surface Book is the clever Surface Pen holder.

The receptacle sits on top of the display, right in the middle. You just click the pen down into the pre-cut slot, and you are ready to go. Two rubber grips tightly hold it in place.

This was a very smart move by UAG. It tells me the company gets the Surface Book as a product, and I was pleasantly surprised by having it there.

MIL-SPEC tested

A recent trend in modern and premium technology, whether it's phones or laptops, is testing against MIL-STD 810G. That standard is a series of tests designed by the military for equipment, and it sets a baseline for development by companies who want to create rugged products.

The UAG case for Surface Book meets MIL-STD 810G 516.6, which is a "shock test" – the dropping kind, not the electric. I won't go into the 38 pages of 810G 516.6, but you can get a primer on it here if you're interested.

I purposefully did not drop my $3,200 Surface Book for this review, so I will have to take UAG's word that it will withstand such shock. The company has been around for years, and it makes nothing but these types of cases for premium hardware.

If you need a rugged Surface Book case, this is a must buy

Most of us probably envision a Surface Book being used in a fancy coffee shop or boardroom, but there is no reason why those "out in the field" cannot make use of its many features. The idea of taking such an expensive computer outside into a rock quarry, construction work area, or while camping likely gives most people pause. With the UAG case for Surface Book, however, most of that concern goes away.

While the cover is not a substitute for a Panasonic ToughBook, it is significantly cheaper at just $79 for the regular Surface Book cover and $89 for the Performance Base edition. (Both can also found for $10 less on Amazon). Spending less than $100 to protect a $3,000 laptop seems more than fair.

• Review: Microsoft Surface Book with Performance Base
• Best Accessories for the Microsoft Surface Book

I really like the UAG case a lot. Working from home or during the occasional travel, I don't need this case, but I just like having it. The Surface Book feels more resilient with it, and it's fun to grab because it now has more grip. I also think it looks great, giving the Surface Book a more "industrial" appearance.

With the UAG case on your Surface Book, you can now take your prized "ultimate laptop" to the rougher parts of the world, worry-free. That's well worth the price.

• See UAG rugged case for Surface Book
• See UAG rugged case for Surface Book with Performance Base

Pros:

• Meets military drop-test standards.
• Makes it easier to grip Surface Book.
• Simple to install.
• Quality Surface Pen holder.
• Looks nice.

Cons:

• Can trap dust and dirt.
• Its not meant to be taken off and on frequently.

The Surface Pro 3 is one of the most versatile devices to hit the personal computing scene in quite a while. And for the high number of students, office dwellers, and home users that own one, a laptop sleeve or portfolio cover is usually more than enough to keep theirs safe.

However, if you are someone who totes your Surface around to different job sites, out of your vehicle, or are just plain clumsy, you may find that you may require something more robust.

Whatever the reason may be, anyone looking for extra protection for their Surface Pro 3 should consider the Trident Cyclops case.

From head to toe, the Trident Cyclops case is designed for maximum protection for your Surface Pro 3. Its dual-layer design is comprised of a rigid polycarbonate shell to protect your device and a softer thermoplastic elastomer (TLE) to absorb impact and add flexibility for moving pieces.

Together the duo creates a lightweight armor that defends against drops, bumps, scratches, and even dust.

Installation

Applying the Trident Cyclops to your Surface Pro 3 consists of four simple steps:

1. Place the device face down into the front piece of the Cyclops case.
2. Place the back piece of the case over the back of the Surface, then press the two parts of the case together until the raised notches around the front piece click into the matching holes in the back piece.
3. Open the Surface kickstand and pop it into the notches of the Cyclops case to secure it into place
4. Snap on the keyboard port cover. This step is optional, as the cover does not get used when using a Surface Type Cover.

Design

The Cyclops case covers the entire back and sides of the tablet, including all buttons and ports. The volume rocker and power button have rubberized button covers over them, which allow you use them. The USB, mini DisplayPort, power, and headphone jacks are all kept sealed off by TLE plugs that open up when access is needed.

The plugs lock into place with a lip to keep out dust, debris, and most, if not all, liquid in the case of a spill. And when the optional keyboard port cover is attached, it provides the same protection for that port as well.

The back of the case is hinged, which lets you use the kickstand as intended. There is no interference from the case, so you get the same full range of motion that you would without a cover.

The front of the case forms a raised barrier over the front bezel of the Surface, with cutouts for the camera and Start button. This raised barrier makes it nearly impossible for the display to get damaged if it falls flat on its face.

Removing the keyboard port cover allows you to use a Surface Type Cover. The bottom front corners of the case even have metal plates, so the Type Cover can magnetically snap into its raised position.

Pros

The Trident Cyclops has a lot going for it, not least of which is how well it protects the Surface Pro 3. Not only does it meet military standards for protection, but it surpasses them when it comes to drop and vibration tests.

Despite the superior protection, the Trident Cyclops adds very little extra weight and minimal bulk to the Surface. The polycarbonate/TLE construction also gives the Surface a fair amount of grip without being overly tacky. This design makes it just as easy to hold on to as it is to slip in and out of a bag or sleeve.

Another huge plus about this case is that it is designed to maintain full use of every feature of the Surface. The kickstand retains its full range of motion while all buttons and ports are accessible, and the entire screen is visible. In addition, it gives you the option to use a Type Cover without hampering it in any way, an ability not found in many highly-protective covers.

Another characteristic that sets the Trident Cyclops apart from many of its brethren is that it is environmentally friendly. Its "bio-enhanced" materials are recyclable, compostable, and biodegradable.

Cons

There are really only a few minor annoyances that I have found with the Trident Cyclops case for the Surface Pro 3. The first is that the rubber button cover over the volume rocker makes it difficult to use. I had to apply quite a bit of pressure for it to register my touch. I did not experience the same issue with the power button, which was plenty responsive.

Another thing that bothered me was for all the thought Trident put into the design of the Cyclops case to allow the Surface to fully function, they neglected make it so the Type Cover magnetically stays closed. It would have been as simple as adding metal contacts to the top front corners of the bezel like they did in the bottom corners for the keyboard tilt function.

And lastly, there were a couple of instances where certain USB devices would not work because they were seemingly too large to fit in the space provided by the Trident case. One was a USB SD Card reader and one was a thumb drive. Anything with a USB cable will be okay, but there will be some devices that may require a short USB extender.

With the exception of those few things, the Trident Cyclops is pretty close to perfect for anyone looking for a protective case for their Surface. I have tried several rugged Surface cases and this is the only one I would consider using as my daily driver. There are some people who will surely call the $100.00 retail price a "con," but when you consider just how tough it is, while still giving you full use of your device, it really isn't that crazy.

Not to mention, you can save yourself ten bucks by getting it from the Windows Central Store{.nofollow} for only $89.95.

Related reading

• Surface Pro 3 case reviews

With the starting price of a Surface Pro 3 hovering around the $800.00 mark, it is important to do what you can to protect it. A screen protector is a good start and can be found for a fairly low price.

However, not all screen protectors are equal. They may do some things well, but create issues for you in other areas. The Tech Armor anti-glare screen protector for the Surface Pro 3 is a great example. Upon early investigation, it seemed like a real winner, only to end up having one fatal flaw.

Tech Armor's kit comes with two screen protectors, a cleaning cloth, dust removal stickers, and a bubble squeegee. It also includes basic instructions and online links to an instructional video.

Application

The application process consists of four easy steps:

1. Clean your Surface's display.
2. Remove the back film from the screen protector.
3. Line up the screen protector and apply it to the glass.
4. Smooth out any bubbles using the provided card.

The Pros

As a screen protector, Tech Armor's offering seems to be just as good as any other run of the mill product, preventing scuffs and scratches. But its real value comes in how well it reduces the glare from overhead and over-the-shoulder lighting.

Whereas the Surface's shiny glass often makes viewing it in bright areas difficult, the Tech Armor glare filter offers high visibility from just about any angle in the light. And though it does somewhat reduce the overall clarity of the display, it is negligible when compared with other screen protectors.

Using the screen with the Tech Armor filter is just about as good as using the bare Surface display. There is a minor bit of drag on your finger, but the accuracy and responsiveness are near perfect.

The other thing that will consumers will like is the price. The Tech Armor pack comes in at under ten bucks, which includes two reusable screen protectors, making it extremely budget-friendly.

The Cons

For the most part, the Tech Armor screen protector does everything well. However, there is one significant drawback, which is how it performs when using the Surface Pen.

The screen protector provides friction against the stylus, interrupting the flow of writing on the glass. And occasionally, the frictional also causes an awful sound, like the modern equivalent of nails on a chalkboard.

In addition, I noticed that the Tech Armor filter was getting marked up by the Surface Pen. To make things worse, the marks were not caused by the tip of the pen damaging the screen protector, but rather the screen protector wearing down the pen point, like a pencil eraser. Not only did it round down my stylus, but it left black marks on the screen. Needless to say, that was the end of my testing.

It's too bad because in every other respect this is a good product. But even if you use the Surface Pen sparingly like I do, I can't recommend the Tech Armor screen protector.

However, if you still want to try it out, you can get it on Amazon for $8.95, with free Prime shipping.

Related reading

• Review - BoxWave ClearTouch Ultra Anti-Glare screen protector for Surface Pro 3
• Review - JOTO Screen Protector Film Guard for Microsoft Surface Pro 3

These days most electronic devices, especially high-end ones like the Surface Pro 3, have durable, scratch-resistant glass screens. That makes screen protectors much more of a personal preference than a must-have accessory.

They can also serve other functions, such as glare filtering. Since I often work in a very well lit environment most of the day, I find having a glare filter can be beneficial, so I decided to try a few. Today I will be looking at the JOTO Screen Protector Film Guard for the Surface Pro 3.

JOTO's screen protector comes complete with everything you need, including three screen protectors, a cleaning cloth, a dust removal sticker, and a card for smoothing out air bubbles. It also comes with replacement tab stickers, so you can reuse each screen protector.

Application

Applying the JOTO screen protector is the same familiar process as most other products of its kind.

1. Clean your Surface's display.
2. Remove the back film from the screen protector.
3. Line up the screen protector and apply it to the glass.
4. Smooth out any bubbles using the provided card.
5. Use the pull tab on the front of the screen protector to remove the remaining protective film.

The Pros

Once applied, the JOTO film guard does an admirable job of eliminating the glare form the Surface Pro 3's highly-reflective glass. This makes it much easier to work in brightly-lit environments. I put the JOTO to the test, reclining my Surface in an office with several fluorescent ceiling lights, and I was able to view the display without any disruption or discomfort. There was also little to no distortion of color on the Surface's display, which is something I have run into with other anti-glare screen protectors.

Writing on the JOTO with the Surface Pen is actually pretty smooth. There is a slight bit of resistance when compared to writing on a bare screen, but it isn't too bad. And unlike my previous experience with a different screen protector, the JOTO does not get marked up by the stylus.

Another attractive attribute of JOTO's screen protector is its value. The budget-conscious consumer will appreciate that JOTO includes three of their screen protectors for the price you would normally pay for a single one.

In addition to that, these film guards are also theoretically reusable. The adhesive on the back does not wear out, even after a few applications, but good luck trying to reuse one without getting specs of dust all over it.

Which brings me to…

The Cons

The same adhesive that makes the JOTO screen protector reusable also makes it infuriating to apply. It isn't sticky enough to stay on the glass when you are pulling off the front protective layer. Every time I had a near-perfect application, it would get messed up when removing the last piece of film. When that happened, I would inevitably get a bunch of dust underneath, which doomed me to failure.

I blew through all three of the screen protectors before I got to point where things looked reasonably good. So just know that what initially looks like a three-for-one deal on screen protectors may result in just a single use.

For the challenging application alone, I would be apprehensive to recommend this screen protector. Still, if you can get through the install unscathed, the JOTO film guard is pretty solid.

Should you decide to roll the dice on the JOTO screen protector you can find it on Amazon for $10.99, almost $20.00 off its retail price of $29.99. It is also eligible for free two-day shipping with Amazon Prime.

Related reading

• Review - BoxWave ClearTouch Ultra Anti-Glare screen protector for Surface Pro 3

Recently we have been looking at Surface Pro 3 cases by San Francisco-based company WaterField Designs. Their Outback sleeve and Outback Solo bag are custom made to fit the Surface Pro 3.

But you don't have to have a Surface to experience the quality of their products. They make general purpose bags, as well. Case in point, the WaterField Designs Cargo laptop bag.

Options

The Cargo comes in small, medium, and large sizes to accommodate different devices and user needs. The former two have the same exact design, with a single primary compartment while the larger bag includes a divided interior pocket.

In addition to size, you can also customize what color flap you want. If you want to keep your costs down, you can select one of the available nylon options. At the time of review, only black and Celeste Indium were available. For an extra $30, you can opt for one of the leather trims that WaterField Designs has become known for. The one being reviewed here is the small Cargo in Cardinal leather.

Design

The Cargo laptop bag is constructed from sturdy ballistic nylon that will stand up to just about any everyday punishment. All of the main compartments are lined with gold diamond nylon, which is much softer.

Inside the primary pocket, you will find a sewn in flap with two large pockets, suitable for holding anything from a power brick to an external hard drive. Within those, there is also a business card holder and a long pocket for pens or styluses. Also stitched inside is a key-hook on a long tether, for easy access.

The front of the Cargo has a large zippered pocket, in which is another interior one. And lurking inconspicuously behind are two more open-topped pockets, lined with the same gold diamond nylon. This entire assembly gets covered by the bag's flap, secured by a very distinct looking paragliding buckle.

The flap itself also has a zippered compartment that runs the length of it.

One side of the bag has a cell phone pouch, large enough to comfortably accommodate my Lumia 1520.

Topping off the storage options is a Velcro magazine pocket on the back. In a brilliant design move, this pocket has a zipper on the bottom of it. So if you are wearing the Cargo over your shoulder, you can flip it upside down and access whatever is inside of it. Of course, somebody pointed out that it is more likely a luggage handle passthrough, so you can mount the Cargo on top of your carry-on when cruising through the airport.

Despite all of its holding capacity, the Cargo is still very compact when it comes to messenger bags. The adjustable shoulder strap and removable strap pad make it comfortable to wear either purse style or sash style. And the leather-clad handles are great for grabbing the Cargo off your car seat or just bringing it from room to room.

There are some people out there that may like to see a removable shoulder strap, but I disagree for this particular bag. Not only does the attached shoulder strap help keep the bag in place, but the one-piece design minimizes the number of parts that can wear out over time. And given the sturdy construction of the Cargo, you will have it for a long time.

The craftsmanship is of the highest quality, even down to the nylon and plastic zipper pulls. This is quite possibly the last laptop bag you will ever buy. And depending on which of the many color/style options you choose, it will likely never go out of fashion.

Using it

I am not quite sure where to start here, so I am just going to say that I love this bag. The thick nylon shell is incredibly durable, yet very light, so it doesn't bog you down. It is also still enough that you can stand the bag up on a flat surface to quickly pack or unpack it.

I like that the main compartment is not covered by the flap because I can quickly and effortlessly get to my most important stuff. I also like that it is not padded on the inside. It allows me to pack more things inside without added bulk.

The stiff material provides ample protection on its own, so I am not worried about damaging my device. Plus, I opted to keep my Surface and a couple of accessories in a sleeve within the Cargo, so I have a sort of travel bag for meetings, etc.

The myriad pockets offer plenty of space. In my "small" Cargo bag, I can easily fit: my Surface Pro 3 in a neoprene sleeve, Surface power brick and stylus, Microsoft Wedge mouse, eTauro mini USB dock, Canon EOS M camera, AT&T hotspot, 3.5-inch external hard drive, Jaybird headphones, plus various pens, thumb drives, cables, and packs of gum. And there are unused compartments.

Even with all of this stuff inside, the Cargo remains light and relatively slim. The adjustable shoulder strap allows me to wear this snug and to the back, like a bike messenger would, while rubberized pad keeps it in place while walking and moving around.

Conclusion

In addition to durability and usefulness, WaterField Designs' Cargo laptop bag just plain looks great. The high-end, black ballistic nylon suits any environment, be it for work or leisure. The wealth of trim options let you dictate how much or how little flare you want your bag to add.

The Cargo laptop bag has met, and exceeded, my expectations. Based on their other products that I have reviewed, I knew I would be getting a top-notch product. But truth be told, I was more than a little skeptical that any nylon bag could fully live up to a $229.00 price tag.

However, now that I have had a chance to experience the Cargo firsthand, I am pretty sure that it could have replaced and outlived the many laptop bags that I have owned over the years. When you take that into consideration, the price not only seems fair, but perhaps even a bargain.

As noted above, pricing for the Cargo starts at $229.00. The small bag with Cardinal leather trim that I reviewed goes for $259.00. You can choose the configuration that's right for you at WaterField Designs' website

Related reading

• Review – WaterField Designs Outback Sleeve for Surface Pro 3
• Review – WaterField Designs Outback Solo for Surface Pro 3

Last week, I reviewed WaterField Designs' Outback sleeve for the Microsoft Surface Pro 3 and was very impressed with both the quality and aesthetic.

Today, I'm taking a look at their Outback Solo for the Surface Pro 3, a hybrid sleeve/bag that has a few more features than the basic Outback sleeve.

Construction

The main body of the Outback Solo is much like that of the Outback sleeve, a waxed canvas shell with a neoprene-lined compartment for your Surface. But the Solo takes it further with the addition of a large secondary compartment on the back and two different sized pockets on the front.

The Surface pocket is protected by a beautiful leather flap that swings over the top of it and is secured with a magnetic snap. Rather than using D-rings on the sides of the bag, the optional adjustable shoulder strap connects through two slits in the back of the leather flap. This thoughtful design maintains the aesthetic of the rest of the bag and gives the Outback Solo an added "cool-factor" that is difficult to find in any other carrying case.

But the Solo doesn't get by on its amazing looks alone. The custom-fit sleeve compartment holds the Surface Pro 3 in a snug embrace, preventing it from being tossed around. And just like its smaller sibling, the Outback sleeve, the combination of rigged canvas and soft neoprene offer up superior protection against outside forces.

Using the Outback Solo

I gave the Outback sleeve high marks as a case that you can throw in your backpack or briefcase, or tote in-hand to a meeting. The Solo, however, is a self-contained, singular transport for your Surface and its accessories.

The larger of the two front pockets is the perfect size for holding your Surface power cord, stylus, and maybe even a small mouse, like the Microsoft Wedge mouse. You just need to be mindful how much you put in there and how you arrange it, as it can prevent the leather flap from securely clasping.

The small pocket on the front was clearly designed with a cell phone in mind, though it can just as easily be used for a wireless hotspot or even a small memo pad. The backside compartment spans the length of the Outback Solo. It is well-suited for holding a notepad or even a smaller tablet.

Be it for work or play, the rugged construction and extra storage space of the Outback Solo makes it a top-notch option for carting around your Surface and other essentials on the go. I recommend opting for the shoulder strap as well. It will free up your hands for carrying your coffee mug to your morning meeting or using a walking stick on your hiking trip.

The best way I can summarize my thoughts on the Outback Solo is that if Indiana Jones had a Surface Pro 3, then this is the bag he would use to carry it. It's clearly tough enough to accompany him on any quest, but it's handsome and intellectual design is also perfect for when he is lecturing in the classroom.

The Indiana Jones reference was the very first thing that came to mind when I took the Outback Solo out of the box two weeks ago, and I couldn't wait to use it in my review. Then today, I came across another review of the Solo that invoked his name as well. My heart sank, thinking I could no longer use the same reference.

However, at the risk of coming off as unoriginal, I decided to leave it in for one major reason. If two reviewers independently conjured up the same mental image after laying eyes on this bag, it must be the ultimate testament to its design.

The Outback Solo for the Surface Pro 3 can be purchased directly from WaterField Designs' website. Pricing starts at $109.00 without a shoulder strap, which will run you an extra $19.00.

Related reading

• Review – WaterField Designs Outback Sleeve for Surface Pro 3
• Review – Microsoft Wedge Touch Mouse

One the characteristics that set the Surface Pro 3 apart from other tablets is its versatility. It can do so many things well that, if you get the right one for your needs, it can be a laptop replacement and quickly become your primary computer.

A significant reason for this is the inclusion of video and USB ports, features that are missing from most other tablets. However, to be used as a real primary device, most Surface users would prefer an easy way to hook up to an external monitor and peripherals.

Microsoft has satiated this desire with their Surface Pro 3 docking station, but for those of you who may be looking for a more affordable (and portable) option, take a look at eTauro's USB dock for the Surface Pro 3.

If we want to split hairs, the eTauro USB dock is actually more of a port replicator than a docking station. It plugs into the Surface Pro 3's video, USB and power jacks all at once, providing four USB 3.0 jacks, a video pass-through, and a proprietary power jack.

Once plugged into the Surface, the dock has a power indicator light and another light to show when the tablet is turned on.

Pros

The eTauro dock has a lot going for it. First and foremost, it is versatile and could just as easily be used as your home docking station as it could be a travel dock. Sure, it doesn't look as cool sitting on your desk as the official Surface dock but gets the job done as a stationary quick-connector to power, a monitor, and USB devices.

In addition, the device itself is thin, so it can fit into the side pocket of most sleeves and be taken it on the road with you. The power adapter isn't much larger than the one that comes with the Surface and can be stashed in a laptop bag. And if you don't want or need the power adapter, the eTauro dock still works as a USB hub.

The price of the eTauro dock is also a plus. The dock and power supply, which are sold separately, come in at just under $80, which is less than half the price of the Surface Pro 3 dock from Microsoft. Granted, it does not provide all of the bells and whistles of the official dock, but it is an excellent alternative for the price.

Cons

For all of its likeable features, the eTauro USB dock isn't perfect. However, for the price, I have a hard time finding anything monumentally wrong with it.

For instance, it would have been great if it included an Ethernet jack. Not only is the plenty of room for one, but there is actually a symbol on the side between the power and a USB port that looks like an Ethernet port.

Occasionally, when plugging in the dock, the power input does not line up with the port on the Surface. This misalignment isn't a big deal in general, but I can envision this wearing out the power input over time. The rest is more nitpicking than finding fault. The creamy white color is reminiscent of a computer tower from the early 1990's. It would look much better in a shiny black or something else that would complement the Surface Pro 3.

Conclusion

The eTauro USB dock is a perfect example of a good bang for the buck. It will do about 85% of what the Microsoft Surface Pro 3 docking station will do, but for 50% of the price. It is also helpful as a travel accessory for your Surface.

Still, if you have a serious command center at home, like dual monitors and several peripherals, you would be better served going with the official Microsoft dock.

But if you need something a little more casual, eTauro's USB dock for the Surface Pro 3 is an excellent pickup.

You can get it on Amazon for $69.95. And remember, you must also buy the power adapter separately, for an extra $12.99.

There are a lot of cases and sleeves out there for the Surface pro 3 of varying grades. Many times, I just need something simple that I can throw my Surface in, so it doesn't get hurt if I drop it on my way to a meeting or get beat up in my laptop bag. That means I generally opt for a cheap neoprene sleeve.

However, if you are in the market for a sleeve that is more rugged, makes a statement, or just plain looks great, then you need to check out WaterField Designs' Outback Sleeve for the Surface Pro 3.

WaterField Designs is a San Francisco-based company that makes a slew of different bags, sleeves, cases and kits for countless devices and purposes. Many of their products come with a la carte customization options, including flaps, straps, orientation, trim, and accessories.

The Outback sleeve is custom-fitted for the Surface Pro 3. The one I am reviewing, in particular, is the horizontal sleeve with Grizzly leather trim and a top flap.

Construction

The Outback is an envelope-shaped sleeve constructed of thick pieces of waxed canvas that have all been stitched together to give it a handmade look. Weathered leather trim runs along the bottom, and a matching leather strap keeps the flap clasped shut. The result is a bag that looks like it came out of World War II and was passed down through generations.

The inside of the Outback couldn't be more different. Instead of a rugged, vintage aesthetic, you will find the plush, modern padding of neoprene.

Together the two provide a tough outer shell that protects against the elements and a soft cushion to absorb the blow of taking a fall. There's no doubt that this sleeve is tough and will last a long time.

Using the Outback

Being that the Outback sleeve is custom-designed for the Surface Pro 3 it fits like a glove. And when the top flap is snapped shut, your tablet is locked in with no room to jostle around. However, despite the snug fit, the neoprene lining helps the Surface slide in and out effortlessly.

This is a sleeve in the strictest sense of the word and has no external pockets. But it does have an attached loop on the back, which makes the Outback a proper vessel for your tablet and Surface Pen on your way to a meeting or packing with you on the plane. It is also perfect for protecting your Surface Pro 3 in your backpack or briefcase.

The Outback does do one thing that so many other laptop bags and accessories cannot, it fits in just about anywhere. The waxed canvas and leather construction gives it the fortitude to weather a week camping in the wilderness and the panache to accompany you to the shareholder's meeting. And its vintage aesthetic is fashionable whether you are in high school or grad school.

WaterField has crafted the highest-quality laptop sleeve that I have seen, and yet, it is incredibly lightweight. The Outback sleeve is an equal mix of beauty and brawn, and it's the perfect pocket to cradle your Surface Pro 3. But if you are looking for something that can accommodate lugging a few more accessories, you should opt for the available Piggyback pouch or check out some of the other styles of bags.

WaterField Designs' Outback sleeve starts at $59.00 for the sleeve with leather strap clasp. The configuration reviewed here is $79.00. You can find both, or design your own at Waterfield Designs' website.

The Surface Pro 3 is a magnificent device, but it is also a pretty hefty investment, regardless of which model you get. For that reason, you want to protect it as much as you can. A good case or sleeve will get you far. However, you may want to go that extra mile and get yourself a screen protector as well.

The BoxWave ClearTouch Ultra, anti-glare screen protector, has some admirable qualities, but it may not be for everyone.

Installation

The only way installing this screen protector could be easier is if someone from BoxWave came to your house and applied it for you. They have included everything you need:

• Screen protector
• Wet wipe
• Drywipe
• Microfiber cleaning cloth

The process is simple. First, you clean the screen with the wet wipe. Then use the dry cloth to get off any remaining fingerprints etc. Lastly, peel the plastic off the back of the screen protector and stick it to the Surface Pro 3. Make sure all of the cutouts line up and then make sure the edges are securely stuck to the device.

The ClearTouch Ultra is designed in such a way that there are no air bubbles to smooth out, so the application is quick and hassle-free.

What I like about it

I've had plenty of screen protectors that were a pain in the behind to apply because of air bubbles and plastic squeegees. The ClearTouch Ultra eliminates that issue, which is hugely appealing.

The adhesive that attaches the screen protector to the Surface is sticky enough to keep it on, but does not leave any residue when you remove it. If you decide you don't like it, then no harm done and no mess made. It can also be removed and re-applied at least once or twice without losing stickiness.

I also appreciate the anti-glare effect on this screen protector. I use my Surface in various environments and often find that it can be challenging working on the highly-reflective screen when there are bright lights around. The ClearTouch does a fantastic job of cutting down on the glare.

Using your finger on the touch screen is pretty fluid. And although fingerprints are not entirely eliminated with the ClearTouch, the amount of smudging on the screen is much less compared to a bare screen.

The not-so-good

As for writing with the Surface Pen goes, it isn't nearly as smooth as it is directly on the Surface Pro 3's glass. There is a little bit of friction, so if you press too hard, you either get hung up or it makes an unpleasant squeal. This effect got better as I got more used to it, but it will undoubtedly annoy some people.

The other thing, about writing on the screen, is that it marks up the ClearTouch. If you turn off your display, you will see lines, the equivalent to smudges, in some of the places you wrote. They can be wiped away with the microfiber cloth and a little bit of pressure.

One minor gripe is that the ClearTouch Ultra covers the Windows button on the bezel of the Surface Pro 3. While this does not hamper the operation of the button itself, there is no symbol to mark where the button is, so it is completely hidden from view.

Conclusion

Lastly, is not so much a complaint as a word of warning to those of you who are not familiar with anti-glare filters. The price you pay for the reduced glare is less vibrancy and clarity, and the BoxWave ClearTouch Ultra is no exception. I adjusted to it relatively quickly, but I know there are some people out there who will hate it.

If you are particular about your display and are only looking to protect your screen, you should steer clear of anti-glare screens, including this one.

Similarly, if you are a heavy user of the Surface Pen, there is a high likelihood that you will be annoyed by the ClearTouch.

However, if you want to take a chance, you can pick it up on Amazon for $18.95, 37% off the retail price of $29.95.

Laptop sleeves are a great solution for protecting your device and holding a few accessories without carrying around a bag or briefcase. However, they are also known for being fairly stripped down of compartments and options, which can be inconvenient at times.

Cassnova has bridged the gap between bag and sleeve with their 13-inch Denim Laptop Case. It offers up the thin design of a sleeve with enough storage and features to fill in as a laptop bag.

Design

The Cassnova sleeve is a very well-crafted case made of a durable blue-grey denim material with matching stitching. When you unzip the main compartment you will find a soft, white fleece lining inside that protects your device from lint and scuffs.

There is a zippered side compartment that contains pen loops and mini pockets for organizing whatever accessories you choose to bring along with you.

On either side of the main pouch are two denim handles for carrying your computer like a briefcase. If you prefer to rock the sleeve look, you can tuck the handles into two side pockets, which also double for extra storage.

Pros

The Cassnova feels like a high-quality laptop case. The sturdy construction gives me the impression that it will stand up to a lot of wear and tear over a long period of time. Think about how tough your favorite pair of jeans is and imagine making a laptop sleeve out of them.

The wealth of interior pockets and compartments makes the Cassnova Denim 13-inch Laptop Case feel like you are using a bigger bag than it actually is. And yet despite its durability and versatility, it is not too bulky, so you can slip it under your arm while walking, or even slide it into a larger bag when traveling.

Cons

For all its positive features, I find the lack of variety in available colors to be disappointing. The blue-grey denim is a novel aesthetic choice that will surely appeal to some. But I wish that there were other options for those of us who prefer the boring black cases of world. It would also open up the pool of potential buyers to more business-oriented folks who cannot walk into a meeting with a denim laptop sleeve.

That being said, it is a very well-designed case with a lot of positive features. For those of you who like the denim, this is a really great all-around sleeve for your Surface Pro 3 or laptop.

The Cassnova 13-inch Denim Laptop Case is a good buy at its regular $35.99 price tag, but it is a heck of a bargain for $19.99 on Amazon.

Everywhere you look tablets and Ultrabooks are becoming more and more prevalent. But when it comes to ultra-portable devices, the number of onboard USB ports is often greatly diminished in favor of a smaller footprint.

If you are fortunate enough to have any USB jacks at all, like on a Microsoft Surface, you likely only have one. That may be enough for most occasions, but it is helpful to have the option for more, if needed.

So today, I am checking out the Sabrent 4-port USB Rotatable Hub, a handy way to increase the number of ports on your device.

The Pros

The Sabrent Rotatable Hub is about as tall as your thumb and about twice as thick, making it easy to slip into the pocket of a bag or carrying case. It gets power from your device's USB jack and indicates that it is working with a blue LED light.

The USB hub can accommodate the designs of different devices and workspaces by rotating 180 degrees. The rotating turret clicks into place at 0, 90, and 180 degrees.

Another thing to like about Sabrent's hub is the price. Though it retails for $15.99, you can find it for as little as $5.99 USD (see the link at the end of this article). Therefore, even if you do not anticipate using it very often, you will not have to shell much money to give yourself the option to expand your USB capacity.

Ultimately, the best thing about this product is that it does the job you need it to do at a very reasonable price.

The Cons

My only real issue with the Sabrent hub arose when using it with my Surface Pro 3. Because of its cable-free design, it becomes a little ridiculous hanging on the side with a few devices plugged into it. It got the job done but at the expense of looking rather silly.

The biggest knock that people will find against the Sabrent 4-port USB Rotatable Hub is probably its lack of USB 3.0 support. It's a fair point, given that most laptops and tablets that are equipped with USB ports have version 3.0.

However, I contend that the majority of people who would use a device like this are using it primarily for peripherals, like a mouse, or for charging a smartphone. Even if you are connecting a thumb drive, it is more likely for documents, not large file transfers. This hub is more for convenience at a low cost, so steer clear if you are looking for high transfer speeds.

In summary

Like nearly every device I review, Sabrent's 4-port USB Rotatable Hub is not going to be all things to all people. It is a wallet-friendly USB hub that is lightweight and easy to carry. It's not pretty, but it gets the job done the majority of the time.

If you are looking for high-fashion or top-notch performance, you may want to look elsewhere. But if you're in search for a good hub that won't break the bank and will help you out on the occasions you need it, then you can get it cheap on Amazon for $5.99.

Do you know of a cool must-have accessory for the Surface Pro 3? Let us know in comments and we'll see about reviewing it!

The Logitech T630 mouse is essentially Logitech's version of the Microsoft Wedge Mouse. And like the Wedge, the T630 is a tiny, sleek-looking Bluetooth mouse.

Unlike its Microsoft counterpart, however, the T630 is rich in features that any laptop or tablet user on the go will love.

Design

The T630 mouse consists of a brushed metal base with a black plastic top and bottom core. The thickest part of it, the back, is about one-half inch, and it tapers down to about one-quarter inch in the front. It is small enough that nearly fits in the footprint of a Post-It Note, but that doesn't keep it from packing in the features.

The power switch and all of the other buttons and ports are neatly tucked underneath, leaving the T630 looking like a diminutive spaceship.

Getting connected

There is a lot to like about this mouse. Firstly, it is Bluetooth-enabled, so there is no dongle to mess with and setup is a piece of cake. Just fire it up, press the Connect button on the bottom, and look for it to show up on your discoverable Bluetooth items on your device.

Logitech took things a bit further and added a Bluetooth toggle switch, allowing you to pair it with two different devices and quickly switch between them. This switch is a great feature for those of us who use a desktop and laptop computer or may travel with a laptop and a tablet.

One-handed mastery

Don't be fooled by the lack of clearly-defined buttons on the T630. This mouse not only has the traditional left-click and right-click buttons where you would expect them to be, but also a middle-click spot located just underneath them in the middle of the body.

In addition, the T630 is fully equipped for Windows 8.1 gesture controls. Using a swipe of a finger or two, you can scroll in four directions, open the Charms or Apps Bar, or navigate back and forth between web pages.

Great on the go + Super fast charging

The Logitech T630 is a near-perfect travel mouse. Its small footprint and slim design make it slip easily in and out of laptop bags and tablet sleeves. The laser tracking is robust enough that it worked flawlessly on every surface I tried it on, with the exception of a window (purely for scientific purposes).

Another feature that makes this mouse a great travel companion is its charging ability. It has a rechargeable battery built into it and powers up using a MicroUSB port on the bottom. That is mighty convenient. Better yet, according to the manufacturer, a single minute of charging will give you about an hour of usage. So if you forget to charge it up ahead of time, it doesn't matter. You will be up and running in (almost literally) no time.

Impressions

Logitech pretty much nailed it when they designed the T630. It is compact, versatile and loaded with functionality. The gesture controls are handy to use with my Surface Pro 3. The fast charging is extremely useful when working away from home.

I only have two complaints about this mouse. The first is that the two-finger double-tap gesture, which is supposed to bring up the Start menu in Windows, did not work for me. Perhaps it was something I was doing wrong. It's a shame, because it is a feature I bet I would often use.

The only other gripe I have is that the T630 feels like a travel mouse. The narrowness of the body left me scrunching my hand to hold onto it, which is very odd because I did not have the same problem with the Microsoft Wedge mouse. I could easily use the Wedge as my everyday mouse.

However, this could just be a matter of having to get used to using the T630, which I am more than willing to do considering how much more it can do compared to the Wedge. If you are in the market for a travel mouse, the Logitech T630 Ultrathin Touch Mouse is a winner for sure.

You can get it at Amazon for $39.99 with Prime shipping. That is $30.00 off the $69.99 sticker price.

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• Review – Microsoft Wedge Touch Mouse

The versatility of the Surface Pro 3 is one of its strongest assets. And I not just talking about its functionality. I am also referring to its aesthetic versatility. The Surface has the ability to look at home in an art studio or an art gallery, a living room or a board room.

A big part of what image it gives off is the accessories that accompany it. The Exact Express Envelope sleeve case for the Surface Pro 3 is a plain and simple sleeve for business professionals.

Design

The Exact Express sleeve is constructed from stitched PU synthetic leather with a glossy pebble grain texture. It has a protective flap that folds over the top and is held closed magnetically. The expandable sides have openings that leave access to all of the Surface's ports and controls. On one side is a loop for holding the Surface Pen.

The main pocket of the Exact Express sleeve is lined with a soft suede-like material that offers a pleasant contrast, both in feel and color to the rest of the case. There is a smaller outside pocket on the back for quick access to documents.

Adorning the top-right corner is a silver ring, to which a leather lanyard clasps for carrying.

How is it?

The Exact Express sleeve covers all of the basics of shielding your device and carrying your stuff. It is stiff enough to protect your Surface, whether you are carrying it in-hand or in a briefcase. Though it was thoughtful to include a pen loop, the placement of it leaves the Surface pen dangling off the side, exposed to potential damage and looking a little awkward. I feel that it would have been better if it were sewn into the side panel, where it would be more tucked away.

The side pocket is an excellent addition as well. It may not be well-suited for carrying a mouse or other accessories, but that isn't what it is intended for anyway. Putting anything other than documents in there takes away from the look that the Exact Express is trying to achieve.

And that is really the point of this sleeve. It is a serviceable sleeve, but what it does well is look good. The Exact Express is meant to compliment the professional who is using it. This case's ideal partner is not a travel mouse, but a tie.

The beauty of it is that this sleeve gets the job done without breaking the bank. Sure, your average CEO is not going to run out and buy the Exact Express sleeve. Likewise, this case does fit in with my year-round cargo shorts and band T-shirts. However, a sensible businessperson could certainly find this to be a reliable solution for them.

You can pick on up in either black or brown on Amazon for $14.95, half its regular retail price.

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• Review - Inateck Felt Surface Sleeve for Surface Pro 3
• Review – Toast wood cover for Surface Pro 3

Tablet sleeves are a dime a dozen, and most of the ones you come across are pretty similar to each other. You know the ones I am talking about; the familiar zipper-top neoprene bag that may or may not have a side pocket. There's nothing wrong with them. In fact, I use one myself for my Surface Pro 3. They dutifully do their job, eliciting neither fanfare nor disappointment.

Inateck (www.inateck.com) set out to veer from the norm with their Felt Surface sleeve.

Construction

The main body of the Inateck sleeve is constructed of soft, yet durable, synthetic felt that gives off more of an appearance of a light wool. It measures 33cm x 23.5cm, which easily accommodates any generation of Microsoft Surface, among other devices.

Inside you will find a central pocket for your Surface, as well as a smaller pocket that can hold a book, accessories, or even a smaller tablet. Both pockets are lined with wear-resistant flannel to prevent scratching and scuffing of their contents.

Both compartments are covered and kept closed by a flap that folds over them and velcros to the body using vegan-friendly synthetic leather fasteners.

On the back side of the Inateck sleeve, you will two additional pockets. These two are smaller and can be used to hold your headphones, wallet or mobile phone.

And if that weren't enough, Inateck also includes a separate small bag that you can use for a mouse.

How is it?

From a utilitarian standpoint, Inateck's Surface sleeve does exactly what you would expect any sleeve to do. The felt exterior seems to be padded enough to absorb a bump or a drop, just like any of its neoprene brethren.

The additional pockets allow you to take just about anything you need with you whether you are heading to a meeting or a coffee shop.

The Inateck sleeve has a classic, unisex aesthetic that can fit a variety of styles. It could also just as easily be found in a briefcase as it could in a backpack. It is a versatile sleeve that offers an alternative to the everyday laptop sleeve.

You can pick one up at Amazon for $16.99, which is 56% off the regular retail price of $38.99.

What do you think? Be sure to chime in below in the comments and check out our other Surface Pro 3 case reviews!

Often times it can be difficult for laptop and tablet users to adjust from working with their home setup to doing work on the road. Moving from a full-size external keyboard and mouse to the device's smaller keyboard and touchpad or a travel-size mouse can be uncomfortable.

As someone who works this way fairly often, I feel it is important to point out when I come across something that helps create a consistent computing experience whether I am at home using my Surface Pro 3 on its dock or working remotely at a coffee shop.

Microsoft's Wedge Touch Mouse is just such a device, though you wouldn't necessarily think so based on its design.

Half the mouse, all the comfort

The Wedge Touch mouse is an interesting creature. It looks like someone cut off the front half of a traditional wireless mouse and rounded off the back of it. The result is a small electronic wedge that you hold between your thumb and pinky and/or ring finger, using your other two fingers for clicking and scrolling.

When I first laid eyes on the Wedge mouse, I thought that there was no way it would be comfortable to use. And though it took a little bit of getting used to, I was wrong. Not having the palm rest actually makes movement feel more natural because you don't need to raise your wrist off the surface you are working on. You can also move it around quite a bit using just your fingers if you want, allowing you to get a lot of range in a small amount of space.

One concern I had about this design was that the lack of palm support may lead to fatigue or hand pain. After several hours of use, I can report that that has not been the case. I could just as easily use this mouse as my primary at home, as well as for traveling.

Form and functionality

It's often said that big things come in small packages. This certainly rings true for the Wedge. In addition to the typical right and left buttons, the Wedge has gesture recognition for scrolling up/down and left/right. There is also a "flick" function for fast scrolling in any direction.

Using the Microsoft Mouse and Keyboard Center, which you should install when connecting the mouse for the first time, you can tweak these settings. You can adjust the scrolling speed, inverse the scrolling direction and turn off any of the gesture controls.

The tracking on this mouse is fantastic. It uses Microsoft's BlueTrack Technology, which tracks on just about any surface. I tried it on directly on my glass desk and it worked almost flawlessly.

And to top it all off, the mouse is Bluetooth-enabled, so there is no USB dongle to keep track of. You just turn it on and you are ready to roll. Even better, the Wedge works across platforms, be it Windows, Mac, or many Android tablets.

I found it a perfect complement to my Surface Pro 3

Easy setup

Getting up and running with the Wedge Touch Mouse is a breeze. There is a single AA battery to insert, then once powered on, the Wedge immediately starts up in pairing mode. Navigate to your Bluetooth settings and add it as a device.

I also recommend installing the Microsoft Mouse and Keyboard Center, as noted above, so you can take full advantage of its features.

In conclusion

Microsoft's Wedge Touch Mouse is fantastic. It is compact enough to easily tote around, yet comfortable enough to use as your main mouse. If it had forward/back buttons, I would say it was perfect. But, that is just a matter of preference.

The Wedge retails for $70. I think that is pricey for just about any mouse unless it is a high-end gaming device. Thankfully, I found it on Amazon for about $37.00. As far as I am concerned, it was money very well spent.

Do you have any accessories that you love and would recommend? Let us know in the comments below.

When you spend $800 or more on a Surface Pro 3, you want take measures to protect it from harm. But often, a cover makes it heavier, reduces certain functionality or just takes away from the aesthetics of the beautifully-crafted device.

The Toast wood cover for the Surface Pro 3 does nothing of such. Not only does it protect the body while keeping it light and slim, but it also enhances the Surface's form by adding a skin of natural wood.

The case against this 'case'

It is important to start by pointing out that the Toast cover is not a case; it is a stick-on skin constructed of several pieces of real wood. Each panel is laser-cut to fit perfectly over the back, sides, and even the buttons of the tablet to provide a layer of protection from bumps and scratches.

The application of the Toast cover is easy but takes a careful hand. After cleaning the body of the Surface using the included alcohol pad, you simply peel the film from the adhesive backing of the wood and stick it to the corresponding panels of the device.

Though easy in principle, you must be sure to line it up correctly before applying pressure. Once stuck on, it is incredibly difficult to pull off without damaging the thin layer of wood. I slightly misaligned the piece around the audio jack, which then broke when pulling it up to readjust it. Thankfully, it is barely noticeable.

The cover for the back of the Surface is made of two pieces, one for the top and one for the back of the kickstand. This separation allows for the stand to be used through its entire range of motion without interference. There are single panels for the top and left side of the Surface and a two-piece section for the right side. Toast even includes covers for the power and volume buttons.

The result is a fine wood finish over the body of the Surface framed by the thin metallic lines of detail showing through from underneath. The wood and metal combo is reminiscent of a vintage Hi-Fi stereo cabinet or the interior of an antique car.

It has the looks but...

Not only is a Toast-skinned Surface great to look at, but it is very nice to hold. The wooden cover gives the device some added grip and comfortable warmth in hand.

The beauty of the Toast case is undeniable. What is debatable is its effectiveness against damage, but the company itself markets their covers as artistic additions and not protective cases. Still, the wood is durable enough to guard against scratching. If you want anything beyond that, you will be better served looking elsewhere for protection.

Make it yours

To top it all off, Toast also offers custom-engraving on their covers for a negligible $5. You can choose from four locations on the back of the Surface, along with three different sizes of text. It was a no-brainer for me to spring for the custom text.

You can take the personalization even further by contacting them for a custom case based on your own design.

The takeaway

Toast makes a beautiful cover that compliments the Surface Pro 3 mightily. If you are looking for a unique way to dress up your Surface, you just found it. I cannot recommend this cover highly enough, especially for the price.

The Toast wood cover comes in four flavors: Walnut (pictured), Ash, Bamboo, and Ebony. It goes for $44.00 or $49.00 with the personalized custom text. You can get it directly from Toast's website.

The Incipio Feather case for the Surface Pro 3 is a tale of two cases. For the most part, it lives up to what you would expect from an Incipio product. Overall, it looks great and is very comfortable to hold.

On the other hand, there are a few uncharacteristic things that make you scratch your head.

Design

The Incipio Feather is a two-piece case that the Surface Pro 3 slides into. It comes around the back of the tablet and extends around the sides, giving you full protection, even on the front bezel. The polycarbonate shell appears to be tough enough to prevent damage from most everyday use and occasional drops. However, I wasn't about to test this theory out.

Much like the Incipio smartphone cases you are used to seeing, the Feather for the Surface is very lightweight and does not add a lot to the size of it. There are cutouts in all the right places. The main body of the case is just as sleek as their phone cases, making a complimentary addition to the work of art that is the Surface Pro 3.

The back of the Feather case is both hinged and magnetic. You can easily manipulate the kickstand and have it feel like it is one cohesive piece. It is made of synthetic vegan leather, which is great for those of us who don't buy real leather, but is a mismatch with the rest of the case. Unlike the main housing, the back feels more like coated cardboard, and frankly, rather cheap. It also can be easily marred by a pen or fingernail.

The biggest knocks against this Surface case mostly stem from the same root: it was designed more for a straight-up tablet and not a device with the unique features that the Surface Pro 3 has.

Using the Incipio Feather case with a Type Cover only works well if your Surface keyboard is flat on a table or desk. The magnetic keyboard hinge cannot stick to the bezel, so you cannot go into the tilted position, which is ideal for using it on your lap.

The case is also thick enough that it prevents the Type Cover from closing completely flush to the screen. Therefore, you get a keyboard that will flop around if you are not holding it to the body of the tablet. Folding the keyboard behind the Surface for tablet-mode is still pretty comfortable.

My last complaint is that there is no home for the Surface pen. I know, I initially missed the stylus holder on the MoKo Smart Shell, but if there is one on the Feather case I sure as heck couldn't find it. The magnet on the side of the Surface is still accessible, but I wouldn't trust it to hold the pen securely.

Conclusion

It's a hung jury on this one, folks. When I am looking at the Incipio Feather or holding my Surface as a tablet, I love it. But when I try to use my Surface as a laptop, I am bewildered at some of the design choices that were made.

It is almost as if whoever created the case had no idea that the Surface had an optional keyboard or came with a pen. If the Incipio Feather were a case for a full-on tablet, like the Dell Venue 8 Pro, it would be near perfect. However, given the versatility of the Surface Pro 3, I feel that Incipio missed an opportunity for greatness.

The Feather case comes in a decent array of colors. You can choose from dark blue, cyan, red, dark purple, and black. It appears to be a relatively new item and not readily available around the web. I got mine from Incipio directly{.nofollow} for $44.99.

Got a phone or tablet case you want to see reviewed? Let us know in the comments.

The Surface Pro 3 is hands down one of the best personal computing devices out there, Windows-based or otherwise. But even the low-end models can be costly, so you want to make sure you do what you can to protect your investment.

MoKo makes a variety of cases for the Surface Pro 3. Today we take a look at the MoKo Smart Shell cover, protective and stylish case.

The MoKo Smart Shell attaches by clipping onto the back of the Surface. It is made of rigid plastic that could seemingly take its fair share of abuse. The plastic backing is hinged in the middle to allow it to bend when using the Surface's kickstand. The shell clips onto both the body and kickstand. Opening and adjusting Surface's standing position is a breeze.

As expected, the snap-on shell has cutouts for all of the jacks and buttons. There is ample space around the USB port to fit most devices that you would plug in.

The Smart Shell also has a flip cover attached to it that covers the screen when not in use. In a fine point of detail, the two sides of the case are magnetized, so it stays closed. Unfortunately, this feature doesn't work when you have a Type Cover attached to your Surface. Sadder still, MoKo failed to include an elastic band on the cover, like they do on their other cases, to keep it closed when a keyboard is attached.

So while the MoKo Smart Shell could likely save your Surface from a fall while closed, it could quickly fly open on its way down to the ground, leaving it exposed to possible damage.

Initially, I criticized this case for not having a pen holder. It turns out that it is just neatly tucked away in the top corner. There is a slot in the top right of the case, where you can slip the clip of the pen.

Flaws aside, there is a lot to like about the MoKo Smart Shell. It is thin and light, so it won't add much extra to your Surface Pro 3. It also has a faux leather skin that both looks good and adds traction in your hand.

The Smart Shell also comes in nearly thirty different colors and designs, ranging from flashy to business casual. You can choose from flashy colors to basic black or brown. There are also floral patterns and carbon fiber to add some zing.

The MoKo Smart Shell is a decent balance between function and form. It will give you satisfactory protection and aesthetic appeal. If it weren't for some oversights, like the lack of an elastic strap, it could have been a home run.

The case retails for about $50.00, which is rather steep for what it is. We found it on Amazon for just under $23.00. That makes the MoKo Smart Shell much more appealing.

Urban Armor Gear, which released a military grade rugged case for Microsoft's 10.1-inch Surface Pro and Surface Pro 2 tablets earlier this year, will now do the same for the 12-inch Surface Pro 3 later this month.

The Rogue case, which cost $69.90, is currently available for pre-order and will ship on September 24. The case, which comes in red or black, is designed to work with Microsoft's Type Cover keyboard accessory. Like the earlier cases the company made for the Surface Pro and Pro 2, this new one has been tested to make sure it meets the MIL-STD 810G-516.6 standard for drop and shock when it is used in combination with the Type Cover.

Do you think you will need this new Rogue case for your Surface Pro 3 tablet?

Source: Urban Armor Gear