Microsoft Surface 2 review, specs: Windows RT powered and updated with higher resolution and a better chipset, these are some of the pluses of the Microsoft Surface 2. But though the second iteration of this Microsoft flagship tablet bears a great design, its generally unspectacular according to one reviewer.

According to CNET the Microsoft Surface 2 has a sturdy build and high-quality camera. It also comes with a free Office 2013 ($139 value) and is easier to use than before. The tablet has built-in photo-editing tools and Xbox Music are fantastic features.

Though it has some great specs, Trusted Reviews said that the “Surface 2 is a solid but unspectacular tablet.” The tech review site noted that the screen is good but the speakers are dire and though the design is nice, it’s bulky and less refined than the iPad Air.

According to Trusted Reviews, there are many faults why the Surface 2 is not getting an outright recommendation. A key reason are the numerous alternatives available. TR says that the Asus Transformer Book T100 offers the same performance and battery life for less than $200 and offers full Windows 8.1

Phone Arena cites that the camera lacks flash and it has a low pixel density screen and also lacks a global positioning system.

CNET notes that the app support still lags behind competitors and Windows RT is still incompatible with legacy programs. It’s also too easy to mistakenly push the tablet into its lower stance, and the touch on the Type Cover 2 isn’t as comfortable as its predecessor model.

Nonetheless though, both CNET and Trusted Reviews says that the unit is basically a decent buy.
“The Microsoft Surface 2 is great for getting work done,” notes CNET. Trusted Reviews writes that the “Surface 2 is good tablet if you must have full Office experience on the go, but for anyone else there are better options out there.”

The Surface 2 version of 32GB is priced at $449 and the 64GB is available for $549.