While it is expected that Apple will try and challenge Microsoft's Surface Pro 3 in the enterprise arena, many were a bit surprised when Lenovo announced a new tablet/laptop hybrid in the form of the Lenovo Ideapad Miix 700.

But as soon as it was released, the Miix 700, was already billed as one of the top competitors of the Surface Pro 3 and many were quick to point out the multiple similarities between the two.

Describing the Miix 700 as a "clone" of the device from Microsoft, The Verge states that in spite of Lenovo labeling it as "recognizably different," it is quite apparent that the Chinese manufacturer got most of their inspiration from the Surface Pro 3.

As for the Miix 700, it comes with a kickstand, which allows it to be converted into a laptop once the detachable keyboard is used along with it. However, just like the device from Microsoft, this keyboard employs magnets to snap into place. Once attached, it allows the device to be used for typing on a variety of surfaces.

The Miix 700 also has a stylus and it can be slotted into the spare USB port available. As for the hardware of the device, it consists of the 6^th generation Skylake processor from Intel and users can choose from a number of versions available including the Core m7 model. It has 8 GB of RAM onboard and its screen is a 12-inch version with a resolution of 2160 x 1440 pixels. The starting model weighs 780 grams, which makes it a bit lighter than the Surface Pro 3.

As for storage, there is 256 GB onboard and users can choose to outfit the device with LTE. They can also opt for the RealSense 3D camera, located at the rear, if they want to take better quality photos with the device. As for the release date, Lenovo will make the device available in November of this year, just in time for the holiday shopping season. The starting model will have a price tag of $699.