Acer announces Iconia W700 PC tablet availability and pricing

Acer Iconia W700
Lean, mean, W8-running machine

Acer wasn't going to let this week slip away without another Windows 8-related announcement.

The manufacturer brought forth new details for its Iconia W700, Acer's first Windows 8 tab PC on the U.S. market, the company said in a press release.

"[The] Iconia W700 features a versatile, portable design that delivers a first-rate touch and typing experience for productivity-focused PC users," the release touted.

TechRadar spent some quality time with the W700 at IFA 2012, and our hands on review is here, however what we didn't know then were pricing details or a release date.

That's all changed, as Acer announced Thursday the W8 tab will launch in the U.S. Oct. 26 and retail for between $799 and $999.

What's what with the W700

Based on Microsoft's up-coming OS, the W700 counts an 11.6-inch, full HD display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution among its boast-worthy features.

Acer's launching two iterations of its new tablet, the W700-6465 and W700-6607.

The first runs a third-generation Intel Core i5 1.7GHz processor. Turbo Boost Technology knocks it up to 2.6GHz.

The 6607 takes on the third-generation Intel Core i3 1.8GHz processor.

Both are so capable, Acer's billing the product as a "main PC," one that can be used for everyday computing as well as business needs.

The tab's got up to up to eight hours of battery life and an Intel HD Graphics 4000 brings high resolution to photos and videos.

A 10-point touch system and a Bluetooth keyboard are set-up for input on an aluminum unibody design.

Weighing only 2.3 pounds and measuring a half-inch thick, the W700's got 802.11a/b/g Wi-Fi and built-in a G-Sensor, E-Compass, and Gyro-Meter for location-based and travel apps.

It'll come with either a128GB (6465) or 64GB (6607) SSD and a HD 5MP rear camera that captures full HD 1080p video.

A front-facing 720p camera's also included while Dolby Home Theater v4 boosts sound for headphones while built-in speakers take care of the W700's audio.

The tablet PC comes with a microHDMI to VGA adapter plus a protective case since "customers will want to take it everywhere."

Cradle me softly

Acer's paired the PC tab with a multipurpose cradle that can tilt, secure, and keep the device in a vertical position for browsing and reading.

Its range is up to 70 degrees for landscape use and it rests comfortably at 20 degrees for touch.

Iconia W700 cradle

A cradle comes with the PC tab

According to the release, the cradle, which acts as a docking station, comes with the device.

"The Acer Iconia W700 brings the performance and productivity of a high-end PC to the tablet category," said Sumit Agnihotry, vice president of product marketing, Acer America.

One last detail: Acer corporate customers can get the W700 with a two-year warranty and Windows 8 Pro for $1,049.

Michelle Fitzsimmons

Michelle was previously a news editor at TechRadar, leading consumer tech news and reviews. Michelle is now a Content Strategist at Facebook.  A versatile, highly effective content writer and skilled editor with a keen eye for detail, Michelle is a collaborative problem solver and covered everything from smartwatches and microprocessors to VR and self-driving cars.