Microsoft Surface 2 vs. Asus Transformer Book T100

Microsoft Surface 2 vs. Asus Transformer Book T100: Tablet Comparison

The Microsoft Surface 2 and Asus Transformer Book T100 are two versatile devices aimed at users who want the functionality of a laptop in a portable form factor. Here’s a concise comparison of their features:

Design & Build

  • Microsoft Surface 2:
    • Sleek Design: Features a sturdy magnesium body with a kickstand for adjustable viewing angles.
    • Weight: Approximately 1.5 pounds (tablet only), making it lightweight and portable.
  • Asus Transformer Book T100:
    • 2-in-1 Design: Detachable keyboard that allows for use as both a laptop and tablet.
    • Weight: Around 2.4 pounds with the keyboard, slightly heavier but still portable.

Winner: Microsoft Surface 2 for its lighter weight and kickstand design.

Display

  • Microsoft Surface 2:
    • 10.6-inch Full HD display with a resolution of 1920×1080 pixels (208 ppi), offering vibrant colors and sharp visuals.
  • Asus Transformer Book T100:
    • 10.1-inch HD display with a resolution of 1366×768 pixels (155 ppi), adequate for everyday tasks but less sharp than the Surface 2.

Winner: Microsoft Surface 2 for its higher resolution display.

Performance

  • Microsoft Surface 2:
    • Powered by an NVIDIA Tegra 4 processor with 2GB of RAM, suitable for casual use and light multitasking.
  • Asus Transformer Book T100:
    • Features an Intel Atom Z3740 processor with 2GB of RAM, offering decent performance for basic tasks but may struggle with more demanding applications.

Winner: Microsoft Surface 2 for slightly better performance with the Tegra 4.

Battery Life

  • Microsoft Surface 2:
    • Up to 10 hours of usage, providing excellent longevity for all-day use.
  • Asus Transformer Book T100:
    • Similar battery life, lasting up to 10 hours as well.

Winner: Tie for comparable battery life.

Storage

  • Microsoft Surface 2:
    • Available in 32GB or 64GB storage options, with no expandable storage.
  • Asus Transformer Book T100:
    • Comes with 32GB or 64GB eMMC storage, but supports microSD expansion, allowing for additional storage.

Winner: Asus Transformer Book T100 for its expandable storage option.

Software

  • Microsoft Surface 2:
    • Runs on Windows RT, limiting the installation of traditional desktop applications but providing a touch-friendly interface with access to the Windows Store.
  • Asus Transformer Book T100:
    • Runs on Windows 8.1, allowing for full desktop application support, offering more flexibility in software use.

Winner: Asus Transformer Book T100 for its ability to run full Windows applications.

Conclusion

  • Microsoft Surface 2: Best for users who prioritize a lightweight tablet with a high-resolution display and a sleek design for media consumption and casual tasks.
  • Asus Transformer Book T100: Ideal for users looking for a versatile 2-in-1 device with the ability to run full Windows applications and expandable storage.

Both devices have their strengths, but your choice depends on whether you prefer the Surface 2’s display and design or the Transformer Book T100’s versatility and software capabilities.