Microsoft launches new, cheaper Core i7 Surface Pro 3

While we await news of the Surface Pro 4, Microsoft has revealed another model to the Surface Pro 3 lineup. The latest addition is a Core i7 model, bringing the total number of Surface Pro 3s featuring this version of Intel's processor to three.

In all there are now six Surface Pro 3 models to choose from, and the new Core i7 model makes it cheaper to jump into the higher end of the range. While the new model features the same processor and same 8GB of RAM as the very top of the Surface Pro 3 range, storage has been dropped to 128GB to help keep the price down.

Priced at $1,299, the 128GB/Intel Core i7 1.7GHz/8GB RAM Surface Pro 3 costs the same as the most expensive Core i5 version. There are now three very distinct bands to the Surface Pro three range. For those looking for a cheap entry point, the 64GB Core i3 and 128GB Core i5 at $799 and $999 respectively are a good starting point.

Anyone looking for a Core i7 model previously had to part with more than $1,500 for the 256GB/8GB RAM model ($1,549) or the 512GB/8GB model ($1,949). Nestling smack in the middle of the two extremes, are the two $1,299 systems. So for mid-range buyers, there is a simple question to answer -- do you want a Core i5 with more storage, or would you prefer the benefit of a Core i7 chip instead?

Head over to the Microsoft Store if you fancy placing an order.