News Slideshow: Microsoft's Surface Tablet: 10 Features CIOs Will Love

Windows 8 Pro

One of the best things about the Surface for Windows 8 Pro is that it runs a full version of Microsoft's new enterprise operating system. How many tablets can say that? With so many products featuring mobile operating systems, it's nice for CIOs to find one that offers a full OS.

Look At the Ports

Microsoft saw an opening with the iPad to offer a slate that would deliver more ports beyond the earbud and Dock options found in Apple's tablet. Microsoft's Surface Pro tablet comes with USB 3.0 and a host of other important ports.

Corporate Design

Microsoft has made it abundantly clear that Surface is designed for corporate customers. The company -- rightfully so -- sees an opportunity in the enterprise left open by the iPad, and it wants to take advantage.

The "Cool" Factor

The bring-your-own-device (BYOD) trend continues unabated. The nice thing about the Surface -- unlike so many other enterprise-focused devices -- is that has the potential to simultaneously appeal to consumer tastes while offering the features that keep IT happy.

Its from Microsoft

CIOs want to use products from a company that can be trusted. The nice thing about the Surface is that it's made by Microsoft -- a company that enterprise users have trusted for years. Apple, on the other hand, hasn't always been so enterprise-friendly.

Ultrabook Replacement?

If you're thinking about deploying Ultrabooks, Microsoft intends the Surface to replace them. How? A combination of the kickstand and cover, which doubles as a multitouch keyboard, plus the full-fledged Windows 8 OS.

Notebooks Replacement?

The Surface tablet comes with the same (if not better) specs as many notebooks, and can offer touch functionality and a full keyboard. And the 10.6-inch display isn't that much smaller than some notebook displays.

Competitors

If you have your mind set on a Windows 8-based mobile device, it's hard not to choose the Surface. The vast majority of vendors have yet to prove that they truly support Microsoft's tablet efforts, and there is some concern that the Surface might negatively impact the software giant's relationships with other vendors. Until other vendors start lining up, the Surface is your best Windows 8 option.

The Quality Is There

A Gorilla Glass finish protects the screen from being dropped. The Surface boasts a well thought-out design and quality engineering. It's the kind of device CIOs will in the workplace.

Pro Versus Consumer

From the iPad to the Galaxy Tab, today's most popular tablets are built for consumers first. The Surface Pro, however, is ready for the enterprise.