A Closer Look

Looking at the screen, it has a large black bezel around its edges with a web camera front and center at the top. Flipping the unit over, we can see the Chuwi logo and rear-facing camera. At the bottom of the tablet are a couple of ports for the keyboard to dock with.


Along the top-right of the unit are the volume and power buttons for the SurBook. Meanwhile, in the same region, but on the side are two USB 2.0/3.0 ports, a 3.5 mm headphone jack, and the USB Type C port used for charging, video, etc.


The bottom of the unit features a 125° kickstand that also hides a micro SD card slot for expanded storage. In general, the system feels strong and sturdy due in part to its aluminum shell which, while not only rigid, has a premium feel to it you usually find only with Apple or similarly styled products. The use of aluminum is a very nice touch overall. While it certainly adds to the cost, it certainly delivers for those wanting a durable device.


The keyboard with a built-in trackpad is a separate purchase, but will also be available as an optional bundle. The chicklet-style keyboard was expected, but the inclusion of backlighting was not. Its legends are easily readable even in dark environments. A small LED indicator on the right side is visible when the unit first boots up.

As for how it all works, the unit has a magnetized mount that slides into the tablet and honestly feels quite good. The magnets have enough force to pull the two together and hold them there securely. Another set of magnets hidden in the cloth covering further secures the keyboard to the tablet and holds it at an angle for a more comfortable typing experience. The fabric covering, however, easily attracts dust or pet hair, for instance, and is not to my liking considering how clean the tablet and its aluminum shell are.


Finally, there is the HiPen stylus, which is available separately or as part of a bundle. It matches the Chuwi SurBook with its silver color and generally solid feel. The inclusion of a battery is a nice touch and allows for its immediate use. It feels a bit better than the keyboard and trackpad in terms of build quality, offers 1024 levels of pressure sensitivity, and supports Windows Ink and Manga Studio, which are prominently featured by the manufacturer. I will be testing it with Photoshop.