How does the Microsoft Surface measure up against the iPad?

Microsoft has unveiled two versions of its new Surface device, which the computing giant hopes can become a rival to Apple’s dominant iPad in the tablet market.

There is a smaller, lighter version which runs on the Windows RT operating system and only displays the new tile-based Metro interface, and a larger alternative, with an increased memory, which carries Windows 8 Pro and can also run on the familiar start desktop format.

But if it is to make inroads into the iPad’s huge market share, the Surface has to offer something markedly different. And since the price is expected be roughly the same, what will make it stand apart?

Here we analyse some of the key differences, based on what few technical details has been revealed so far by Microsoft.

KEYBOARD

IPAD: Touch-screen - text input through the on-screen keyboard.

SURFACE: The physical, built-in keyboard is potentially the hallmark of the Surface. By folding under the tablet, the back cover becomes a super-thin QWERTY keyboard. This is a pitch by Microsoft to those who just can’t get used to touch-screen typing.

In addition, Microsoft also announced there would be an accessory called Touch Cover which senses keystrokes as gestures, promising faster typing speeds than an on-screen keyboard. As it’s held on by magnets, it’s comparable to the iPad’s SmartCover.

SOFTWARE

IPAD: The iPad’s strength lies in the fact that the Apple IOS5 system is a favourite with a legion of third party developers who build the thousands of apps which make the whole experience fun and informative.

SURFACE: While Microsoft hail the Surface as a stage for its forthcoming Windows 8 system, they will have to play catch-up on the development front. But that shouldn’t be too much of a mountain to climb, given that Windows 8 will allow app designers to reach both mobile and desktop units - a potential goldmine.

CAMERA

IPAD: The new iPad boats a 5-megapixel camera and shoots HD video in full 1080p.

SURFACE: The Surface has front and rear webcams. There is no detail yet on camera resolution.

SIZE

IPAD: The iPad measures 241.2 x 185.7 x 9.4 mm, and weighs 652g.

SURFACE: So far Microsoft have only said that the Windows RT version is 9.3mm thick and weighs 676g, while the Windows 8 version is 13.5mm thick and weighs 903g.

SCREEN

IPAD: The iPad has a 9.7-inch display, with its retina display technology.

SURFACE: Both versions have a slightly larger 10.6-inch display, with the Windows 8 Pro model offering full HD.

INPUT/OUTPUT

IPAD: The iPad, of course, does not offer USB connectivity or an SD slot.

SURFACE: The Surface will have microSD slots and a USB port - which could be a key advantage.

BATTERY

IPAD: 42.5 W-h rechargeable lithium-polymer battery

SURFACE: The smaller Windows RT will have a 31.5 W-h battery and the Windows 8 model will have 42 W-h.

• The Microsoft Surface is not expected to be available on the market until the autumn.