Microsoft's first tablet computer, the Surface, will start at $519 in Canada when it goes on sale Oct. 26.
The price matches that of Apple Inc.'s iPad, the most popular tablet computer, but the base model of the Surface has twice as much storage memory: 32 gigabytes. The screen is also slightly larger.
The signature hardware feature of the tablet, a cover that doubles as a keyboard, will cost another $130 to $140, Microsoft Corp. said Tuesday.
A 32-gigabyte model that is sold with a keyboard cover included will be $619, and a 64-gigabyte version with cover will be $719.
The launch of the Surface is an unusual move for Microsoft, which usually sells software to computer makers instead of making computers itself.
It coincides with the launch of Windows 8, which is designed to work on touch-screen computers and tablets.
Microsoft will sell the tablet in its stores in the U.S. and Canada and online in those countries, plus Australia, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong and the U.K.
The Touch Cover has a keyboard on its inside surface, but the "keys" don't move when pushed. Microsoft will sell a separate Type Cover with keys that move for $140.
The first version of the Surface won't run regular PC software, but it does include a version of the Office suite.
Microsoft plans to release another version of the Surface some months later with the ability to run regular Windows programs.
It did not disclose prices for that model.
