Microsoft Surface tablet priced at $499

The long-awaited pricing of Microsoft’s Surface tablet has finally been revealed -- four months after the product was first announced.

Microsoft said Tuesday it was taking pre-orders for its tablet, which starts at $499 for the 32 GB model that runs Windows RT, a lighter version of Windows 8 built for tablets.

Prices go up to $599 for a 32 GB model that includes a cover with a built-in keyboard, and up to $699 for a 64 GB version with the keyboard cover, according to the pricing page.

Additionally, covers can be purchased separately starting at $119.99 for a touch keyboard cover, $129.99 for a type cover. The type cover includes real keys and is built for quicker typing, while the touch cover comes in five color options.

The Redmond, Wash., company announced the pricing of the Surface on the same day that Apple sent invitations to an Oct. 23 event where it is widely expected to announce an iPad mini tablet.

When Microsoft revealed the Surface, the company promised it would sell the tablet at competitive prices, and the tech giant has delivered. By comparison, the 9.7-inch Apple iPad also starts at $499, albeit for a 16 GB model. A 32 GB model costs $599, and that’s without a cover or keyboard.

As for the Surface’s specs, the tablet features a 10.6-inch display with a 1,366 by 768 resolution. The tablet features two 720p HD cameras. The body is 9.3-mm thick and comes with a kickstand. The Surface also features two microphones and includes ports for microSD cards, USB and HD video out.

The Surface will go on sale alongside Windows 8 on Oct. 26.
Besides unveiling prices, Microsoft also uploaded its first commercial for the tablet to YouTube on Monday night, which you can see above.

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