At the mystery LA-based conference Microsoft unveiled two tablets called "Surface" (and not the ill-fated Courier). Surface is a 10-inch tablet that comes in two versions, for Windows Pro and Windows RT, and here are the best bits of the device.

Design

Surface has a 10.6-inch screen; the Windows RT version measures 9.3mm thick and weighs 1.5 pounds, while the Windows Pro version measures 13.5mm thick and weighs almost 2 pounds. Look at the device and it's easy to see how thin the tablet is, something only the iPad offered before the announcement.

The Windows RT version offers 32GB or 64GB of internal storage, USB 2.0, microSD support and what Microsoft describes as a "HD" display. The Pro version offers a "full HD" resolution, microSDXC, USB 3.0, between 64GB and 128GB of storage and a Mini DisplayPort

There's also a 31.5Wh battery in the Windows RT version, while the Pro Surface includes a 42Wh battery.

Physical Keyboard

A small addition, but with Windows 8 supporting traditional keyboard and mouse input, Microsoft announced two keyboard accessories: the Touch Cover, and Touch Case. The inclusion of the desktop and Metro sides of Windows 8 means the touch screen can be used in Metro, and a keyboard and mouse/trackpad in the desktop side, or vice versa. Microsoft has shared no word on how much the Touch Cover or Type Cover will cost, or if they are bundled in, but promises the Touch Cover will bring gesture-based typing and increase productivity.

Connectivity

The iPad is a great device, but when it comes to transferring files from a USB and using a microSD card for additional storage then there's no option. Microsoft includes both features in the Surface, and positions the tablet as a productivity device. Combined with the slim hardware, Surface could be a true rival to the iPad in form and function.

Display

The aforementioned "HD" and "full HD" displays sound promising, but it's yet to be seen how they compare to the new iPad's 2048x1536 Retina display. If Microsoft wants the tablet to be used continually over multiple hours, then a high resolution screen that makes reading text strain-free is essential. A SlashGear preview showed wide viewing angles and widescreen support.

Kickstand

Talking of extended work sessions, on the back of the Surface tablets lurks a kickstand - another feature the iPad is missing, unless the Smart Cover/Case is bought - which should be helpful when typing. Using the device for a long period of time means a device falling over would be counterproductive, so hopefully the kickstand will offer long-term stability.