Microsoft takes on Apple with first-ever laptop

Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT)'s Surface devices have been on the scene awhile, but the tech giant is making waves with its new laptop-tablet hybrid.

Microsoft unveiled the Surface Book at a New York City event on Tuesday, showing the world a $1,499 device that can be used as either a laptop or tablet. Wired magazine called the device the "ultimate hybrid PC" and "the most compelling device the company has ever made."

It's also Microsoft's first-ever laptop.

It's more expensive than Apple's 13-inch MacBook Pro with retina display, and it's also slightly lighter. The Surface Book weighs 3.34 pounds with the keyboard attached, according to Microsoft. The 13-inch MacBook Pro with retina display costs $1,299 and weighs 3.48 pounds, according to Apple.

Read More Apple's latest OS: What you need to know

During its event, Microsoft claimed the Surface Book was twice as fast as the MacBook Pro.

The Surface Book adjusts three different ways. It could be used as a laptop with a full sized back-lit keyboard. Without the keyboard, the Surface Book functions as a tablet. And with a malleable keyboard, users can also turn it into a clipboard.

Microsoft is taking pre-orders and will ship products out Oct. 26.

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