Sexy. Imposing. Professional. No matter how you describe it, the Surface Pro 3 undoubtedly makes a statement. Although Microsoft has dropped the VaporMg branding, it still boasts the same sturdy magnesium casing as its predecessors, and not a hint of flex exists anywhere on the unit as a result. At 810 grams (versus the SP2’s 915 grams), it’s weighty enough to feel high-end from the very first moment of holding it in the hand, and the workmanship is absolutely flawless. From the subtle slotted exhaust trench lining the perimeter of the device to the precision-chiseled ports and buttons, it’s one of the most striking devices in its class.

Although it’s certainly more portable than the Surface Pro 2, the dimensions might surprise you at first. Whereas the SP2 featured a 10.6-inch 16:9 display, the SP3 actually packs a larger 12-inch 3:2 display. This implies a larger case, too—but only in terms of surface area (no pun intended). The SP3 bumps the H x W dimensions to 292.1 x 201.5 mm (SP2: 275 x 173 mm), but the thickness has been reduced substantially (by 35%) to just 9.1 mm (SP2: 14 mm). All in all, that boils down to 19.5% less volume even in spite of the larger screen. Microsoft trumpets this accomplishment by calling the tablet the “thinnest Core product ever created.” Impressive.

The case has been completely redesigned to accommodate these dimensional revisions, and the first major difference is the exchange of the black metal color for a silvery grey that more closely resembles that of the iPad. We’re also treated to a new kickstand design which is far more versatile than previously. Whereas the Surface Pro and SP2 kickstands only supported a couple of different positions, the Surface Pro 3’s can operate at any angle from around 35 degrees to roughly 145 degrees. It accomplishes this via an extremely rigid set of hinges which—upon first assessment—almost seem too rigid, as though the device isn’t meant to be opened so far. But rest assured, it’s by design, and the kickstand feels every bit as durable as the rest of the unit. A small strip of reinforced metal extending across and down to both ends of the kickstand’s base provides additional stability and protection for the metal edge, while well-positioned magnets hold it securely in place when closed. Everything is a constant reminder of the careful engineering which produced this impressive morsel of modern technology.

If there’s one area which suffers under the oppression of the ultraportable movement, it’s maintenance. The Surface Pro 3 hasn’t made (or even attempted to make) any progress here; it’s just as implausible to ever consider repairing or upgrading as was its predecessor. In fact, iFixit.com rated it a petrifying 1/10 in this regard (the same as the SP2), and their technician even managed to break the device while opening it.

And there’s one other caveat of the design which still haunts the overall concept: lap-based operation. The aforementioned metal strip works well when positioning the tablet on a flat surface, but on the lap, it only manages to dig into your legs. Opening the kickstand further does rectify this, but the angle then quickly becomes impractical for typical use. You can’t have it all, we suppose.