Microsoft is now selling an Intel Core m3 SKU of the Surface Laptop with Windows 10 S that's priced at $799, a whole $200 cheaper than the original cheapest SKU with an Intel Core i5. The Intel Core m3 model appears to only be available in Platinum for now, and is US only at this time.
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This is Microsoft's new entry-level SKU for the Surface Laptop, which is available a much more affordable price for many. The Intel Core m3 spec is paired with 4GB of RAM and 128GB Storage. This is definitely not a high-end model of the Surface Laptop, but it's still a premium one, with the same Alcantara fabric and high-quality display found on other Surface Laptop SKUs.
Specifications for the Intel Core m3 Surface Laptop are as follows:
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 13.5-inch Pixel Sense display 10 point multi-touch |
| Display Resolution | 2256 x 1504, at 201ppi Aspect Ratio: 3:2 |
| Software | Windows 10 S |
| Processor | Intel Core m3-7Y30 Processor |
| Storage | 128GB |
| Memory | 4GB |
| Graphics | Intel HD graphics 615 |
| Rear Camera | None |
| Front Camera | 720p Windows Hello face-authentication |
| Speakers | Omnisonic Speakers with Dolby Audio Premium |
| Ports | One full-size USB 3.0, Mini DisplayPort, Headset jack, Surface Connect |
| Sensors | Ambient light sensor |
| Security | TPM chip for enterprise security |
| Weight | 2.76 lbs |
| Dimensions | 12.13 inches x 8.78 inches x 0.57 inches |
Microsoft offers an Intel Core m3 model of the Surface Pro priced at $799 also, however that SKU doesn't come bundled with a keyboard or pen. At least with the Surface Laptop, you're getting a keyboard and trackpad in the box, so perhaps the Intel Core m3 Laptop is going to be the better choice for many. If you're looking for a straight laptop by Microsoft, that is.
The Intel Core m3 model is a SKU that's aimed more at college students or those that only do a bit of web browsing and email checking. It's not a powerhouse by any means, and you may find that 4GB RAM to be quite limiting after a while. Still, if you've been holding out for a cheaper Surface Laptop, $799 is definitely a step in the right direction.
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