Lenovo is the latest PC maker to take advantage of Windows 8.1's improved support for smaller displays. After teasing an 8-inch Windows tablet at Computex earlier this year, Lenovo is launching its Miix 2 Windows 8.1 device later this month. It's one of the latest tablets to use Intel's quad-core Bay Trail processor, and the Miix 2 will also include an 8-inch 16:10 display running at 1280 x 800 resolution with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage.

While we've seen some attempts at 8-inch Windows 8.1 tablets, Lenovo's effort includes an optional stylus and a detachable cover that makes it look a lot like Apple's iPad mini at first glance. There's also a 5-megapixel camera at the rear and a 2-megapixel one at the front, and both can take advantage of the camera improvements in the Windows 8.1 update. Lenovo is even bundling in Microsoft Office Home & Student 2013. It's not perfect for an 8-inch display, but it may be useful for some.

Dell and Lenovo go head-to-head

Lenovo's Miix 2 weighs 350g and is 8.35mm thick so it compares well to its small Windows-based competitors. A 32GB version will debut for $299 and a 64GB will cost $349. The optional cover with stylus pen is expected to retail at $20. Between the Miix 2 and Dell's 8-inch Venue tablet, it looks there's going to be some reasonably priced small Windows tablets this holiday season.

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