Come next week, Microsoft is expected to reveal a Surface Mini device in New York City. I’ll be there to cover the event along with Mark Guim, but if there were one other ‘mini’ tablet to challenge a smaller Surface it’d be the ThinkPad 8 from Lenovo. Packed with an 8.3 inch Full HD IPS (1200 x 1920) display, Intel Atom processor up to 2.4 GHz and 64 GB of storage, the ThinkPad 8 runs full Windows in a well packed machine.
Normally, the ThinkPad 8 runs for a pricey $449 but Microsoft Stores have it discounted by $50 (as well as other products). That brings the price down to “just” $399, which is about $150 more than a Dell Venue 8 Pro (which is now $249). Considering the spec differences between the two tablets that $150 difference may very well be worth it for your needs.
Ironically, my replacement unit just arrived from the Microsoft Store (they were kind enough to pro-rate the $50 discount) due to an overheating audio component. Lenovo themselves have either run out of this device, or halted shipments. This second unit is working much better, and I have to say, it’s an interesting device and kind of fun to use. Having said that, you absolutely must get the Quickshot Cover ($34.99; not included), as it makes the device more portable and the 'flip corner to unlock the camera' is truly awesome.
As many of you know, I consider the Surface 2 with LTE to be my favorite tablet. It’ll be interesting to see if Microsoft can outdo Lenovo in the smaller tablet arena, especially with promises of a clickable pen designed around OneNote. Regardless, if you’ve already set your mind on the ThinkPad 8, best to scoop it up from a Microsoft Store for that lower price and Windows Signature experience.
Do you ave any questions about the ThinkPad 8? Leave them in comments, and I’ll try to answer.
Source: Microsoft Store
