Microsoft Surface Review Roundup: Customer vs. Consumers' Opinions

Now that the Microsoft Surface RT has been in consumers' hands for nearly 2 months, early adopters have made their verdict. Microsoft's tablet-laptop hybrid promised a balance between productivity and play, an adaptable piece of hardware to fit any need. But can the Surface overcome its underdeveloped app market and win over tech users' hearts? Let's take a look.

Critics

CNET likens the Windows App Store to a "ghost town after the apocalypse" and adds that "the overall sluggishness and buginess in the interface, especially when using IE10, are disappointing. Flash support for IE10 is currently lackluster. Also, more pointedly, IE10 isn't yet compatible with CNET's content management system (the tool we use to publish articles.) There aren't nearly enough apps to support my entertainment social-networking needs when I'm not actually working."

PC World simply states, "We think it's worth considering if you don't already have a tablet, if you don't mind that it can't run regular laptop and desktop apps, and if you want something with a semi-familiar interface rather than joining the iOS or Android camps."

BGR praises the device as a "remarkably versatile tablet that promotes productivity while remaining portable and affordable," while echoing the common criticism that the Surface "has a serious app problem that Microsoft is all too familiar with."

The Verge explains, "It does the job of a tablet and the job of a laptop half as well as other devices on the market, and it often makes that job harder, not easier. Instead of being a no-compromise device, it often feels like a more-compromise one. "

Consumers (CNET Reviewers)

Misterindie labels the device as "the perfect coffee table tablet. It can also be used by students or home users for tasks involving Microsoft Office. If you are looking to run older applications that were written for Windows 7 you should look for a full Windows 8 tablet."

James_U calls the Surface "fun, sexy, smooth and innovative," but adds that "Microsoft has to catch up on apps."

Mnachtrab420 is looking forward to the "Pro version to see how well it integrates with a Domain like a regular windows desktop. Overall, I find the Surface much more productive and useful than the iPad for productive users."

Ryorklive suggests that there is "reason to buy the Surface and the iPad. The Surface is both high productivity and fun. The iPad is just fun with significantly more apps for now."