<p>I am enrolling in Lehigh university this year for Mechanical Engineering. I already have a laptop that I am 100% sure will be able to run MatLab/AutoCAD software well (560m gfx card, 12gb RAM, 1TB storage) but it is heavy as hell. I plan to bring this and my external 27 inch monitor to school with me (monitor can also be used as TV) and leave them in my dorm.</p>
<p>I was looking into other options for something that I would be able to carry around campus and use as a portable machine. This would not be for any resource-heavy applications, just general web browsing and note taking. </p>
<p>I asked a few guys in IT what they think would fit this bill and they suggested the Microsoft Surface Pro. It runs for about $1200, which is about the price of a Macbook Air that is my other option.</p>
<p>So, does anyone know someone that uses a Microsoft surface for general computing needs in college? Is it worth the price, or would I be better off going for a Macbook Air for my freshman year.</p>
<p>Thanks! Ask any questions if needed.</p>