Lenovo ideapad MIIX 700 is a Skylake-powered, Surface-like, Windows 10 tablet

Microsoft's Surface computers are very innovative, mixing some of the the best aspects of both laptops and tablets into one device. Heck, with the docking station, the hybrid computers can serve as solid desktops too. Unfortunately, many manufacturers have largely failed to capture the magic of the Surface line. The HP Spectre x360 is the only machine to meet, and in many ways, exceed Microsoft's tablet for a high-quality Windows experience.

Today, however, this may change. Lenovo announces the MIIX 700, with integrated kickstand and optional keyboard cover. It is largely a Surface clone, and that is a good thing. The tablet features all-new Intel Skylake Core M processors, which should make it very attractive to consumers. Besides being offered solely in black, a beautiful gold version is available too.

"A new addition to the tablet family, the new ideapad MIIX 700 12-inch tablet with keyboard folio is designed to stand out. Recognizably different, the 2-in-1 tablet is powered by up to a new 6th Gen Intel Core m7 processor and features dual watchband hinges, opening the door for new and disruptive ways to work and play with seamless transition between laptop, stand and tablet mode -- ideal for those who value stylish and progressive design", says Lenovo.

The hinges are very attractive, and look to be similar to the ones found on the Yoga 3 Pro. This should allow the integrated kickstand to have a good range of movement. This is important, as it will allow the user to achieve the optimal angle for various scenarios.

I really love that Lenovo has equipped the MIIX 700 with an Intel RealSense 3D camera, but unfortunately, it is on the back. While this is good for some 3D applications, it sort of kills the potential of using it for Windows Hello. Maybe you can flip around the computer and gaze at the rear, but that is not ideal. In other words, I would prefer to see it on the front of the tablet, but this is better than not having such cool technology at all.

Based on pictures, Lenovo's keyboard accessory looks superior to Microsoft's from a usability standpoint. Of course, this potentially better keyboard will likely be heavier.

The Surface Pro 3 has never received LTE support, which is reserved for the less-powerful Surface 3. The MIIX 700, which should fit between Microsoft's tablets from a performance standpoint, can be configured with LTE. While carriers are not official, I would suspect Verizon to be a partner based on branding found in Lenovo press materials.

The major questions, of course, are how much will it cost, and when can we buy it? There is good news and bad news. The good news, is that pricing starts at a very reasonable $699. The bad news? It will not be released until November. Good things come to those that wait, however.

Will you be buying a MIIX 700? Check out the specs below and tell me in the comments.