Hands on with Microsoft's Surface 3

Last week, Microsoft announced their new Surface 3, the follow up to the Surface 2 but this device uses an Intel Atom chip instead of an ARM based processor. The device, which starts at $499, is a lower priced option in the Surface family and we have one in our possession to provide you with a closer look at the new tablet.

If you have used or seen a Surface before, this device will look familiar. With its kickstand, type cover and support for a pen, this tablet has all the markings of Microsoft's modern computing stamp of approval.

In the box is the Surface, the new charger and a small user manual; the Surface 3 does not use the magnetic charger that every other Surface has used in favor of USB charging.

The build quality, as you would expect, is top notch from our initial impressions. The magnesium case feels competent and the kickstand fits snuggly into the back of the case. We will have more in our 'first impressions' post that will come later this week.

You can check out the device and the unboxing of the Surface 3 in the gallery below.

Over the next few weeks, we will be focusing on all of the new aspects of the Surface 3 ahead of our final review. The device goes on sale May 5th and pre-orders are open now. If you have any questions about the Surface 3, let me know in the comments below or you can ask me on Twitter.