Microsoft reveals new Surface Book SKU with discreet GPU

Brad Stephenson

surface-book-hinge

Several Twitter users have been Tweeting recently about a new version of the Surface Book that’s appeared on the Microsoft Store website. This new SKU is an alternate version of the US$1,499 128GB Surface Book with Core Intel i5 processor that is identical in almost every way but boasts a discreet GPU which pushes its price up to US$1,699.
There are several other versions of the Surface Book currently offered to consumers; Three 256 GB models (one with an Intel Core i5 processor, one with and Intel Core i5 processor and a discreet GPU, and one with an Intel Core i7 processor), one 512 GB model with an Intel Core i7 processor and a discreet GPU, and a massive 1T model with an Intel Core i7 processor and discreet GPU.
Discreet GPUs (graphic processor units) differ from regular integrated GPUs in that they delegate all of the graphic processing work to a dedicated GPU which releases strain on the CPU which is forced to carry out some of the graphic processing in devices with cheaper integrated GPUs. Discreet GPUs (or “dGPUs”) may be more expensive but are often used by those who prefer to play graphic intensive games or who work on high level media production projects.
Microsoft announced the new Surface Book line of hardware during a recent event where they also unveiled the Surface Pro 4, the next generation Microsoft Band, and the latest developments in their HoloLens augmented-reality headset which creates the illusion of three-dimensional holograms in a real space (not actual holograms) and can be used for gaming and presentations. Orders of the Surface Book will begin shipping on the 26th of October 2015 and pre-orders are now being taken both online and in stores.
Have you ordered a Surface Book yet? Which version will you be getting? Share your thoughts with the WinBeta community in the comments below.