Microsoft's Windows 8-powered Surface Pro 3 tablet is the company's answer to the perceived limitations of Apple's iPad, a device some consider to be an oversized iPhone without the call function.

But can the Surface Pro 3, a device that comes stock with a keyboard making it feel like a laptop, live up to its own hype now that it's going to get a newer and more 'portly' docking station?

Microsoft will launch the new docking station in the US come mid August, and is taking orders in the UK.

The docking station will add three USB 3.0 ports to the one already provided on the Pro. It will add another two 2.0 ports to the three already onboard. It also adds an Ethernet connection, an extra mini display port and a security lock.

The docking station's footprint is 12.9 x 3.8 x 4.4-inches. Users will be able to add peripherals like keyboards, external mouse, speakers and other gadgets.

According to reports, the accessory will cost around $200. In the UK, it won't be available until September 12.

This is the second dock offered to users.. The first one went on sale last October. According to one source, the new docking station looks nearly identical to the last version but improves upon the display port by adding high definition capability.

Some are already questioning the specs of the Surface Pro 3 in relation to its near $800 price tag. Is this so-called tablet that can "replace" your laptop really worth it? It comes with two cameras (front and back), is thinner and lighter than previously, comes with a stylus and can run various programs (like MS Office) with relative ease. The resolution and media/video capabilities as well as the GUI layout seem like vast improvements as well. The device might well be worth the price, if comparing the same product to what is currently available on iPads that carry similar price tags.