Responsiveness is very acceptable.

Outlook is not currently shipping for RT. It is part of the 8.1 update. I do not recommend installing the preview as you can't go from preview directly to RTM. You have to roll back to pre-preview.

If you're doing lots of work, I recommend the type cover over the touch cover. I've used both. You can use the touch cover but it takes some getting used to.

It should work fine for travel.

>Hi Craig,
>
>What is the responsiveness like using word, excel and outlook?
>
>Is the keyboard cover a frustration free way of inputting data once you get used to it? I got a lot of lag and missed characters using the demo model in a local store. I had the same issue with the iPads when I first started using them.
>
>Is it a viable replacement for a notebook for someone when travelling that want's to keep in touch with their office via email and wants access to office functionality to update documents and powerpoint presentations if necessary?
>
>thanks,
>
>Andy