Microsoft hasn’t exactly made a dent in the tablet world with its Surface RT and Surface Pro tablets. Early on, Microsoft said that it would give Apple a run for its money and compete well against the iPad and various Android tablets on the market today. In reality, Microsoft hasn’t put a dent at all in the iPad or Android tablet sales figures.
However, Microsoft is trying a different tactic and offering iPad users a minimum of $200 via a gift card for the Microsoft store. Microsoft says that $200 gift card can be used to purchase a Surface RT or Surface Pro tablet and other products available in the store. This trade-in program is an attempt to lure iPad users into the Microsoft ecosystem by making the switch more financially appealing.
Details of the Trade-In Program
The Surface RT starts at $349 and the Surface Pro starts at $799. There are some caveats to this trade-in offer. You can only trade in iPad 2, 3, or 4 tablets. Additionally, the iPads can’t be password protected and must include the charging cable. The program is administered by CExchange, so presumably, the tablets will have to be in good working order as well. This means that any iPads with significant damage or operational issues may not qualify for the trade-in value.
Microsoft’s strategy here is clear: by offering a substantial trade-in value, they hope to reduce the financial barrier for users considering a switch from an iPad to a Surface tablet. This could be particularly appealing to users who have older iPad models and are looking to upgrade their devices.
Comparing Surface Tablets to iPads
When comparing the Surface RT and Surface Pro to the iPad, there are several factors to consider. The Surface RT is designed to be a more affordable, entry-level tablet, while the Surface Pro is aimed at users who need more power and functionality, akin to a laptop. The Surface Pro, for instance, runs a full version of Windows, allowing users to install and run traditional desktop applications, which is a significant advantage over the iPad’s mobile operating system.
Moreover, the Surface tablets come with a range of accessories that enhance their functionality. The Type Cover, for example, transforms the tablet into a more traditional laptop experience, complete with a physical keyboard and trackpad. This makes the Surface Pro particularly appealing to professionals and students who need a versatile device for both work and play.
On the other hand, iPads are known for their sleek design, ease of use, and a vast ecosystem of apps available through the Apple App Store. The iPad’s Retina display is also a significant selling point, offering high-resolution visuals that are ideal for media consumption, gaming, and creative work.
Despite these advantages, Microsoft believes that the Surface tablets offer a compelling alternative, especially for users who are already familiar with the Windows operating system. By offering a trade-in program, Microsoft is not only trying to increase its market share but also to build a loyal customer base that will continue to invest in its ecosystem of products and services.
In conclusion, while Microsoft has struggled to make a significant impact in the tablet market with its Surface RT and Surface Pro tablets, the company is not giving up. By offering a $200 trade-in value for iPad users, Microsoft is making a bold move to attract new customers. Whether this strategy will pay off in the long run remains to be seen, but it certainly adds an interesting dynamic to the ongoing competition between Microsoft, Apple, and Android tablet manufacturers.
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