Chime in: Is Microsoft's Surface Dial only for artists?

Ever since I converted to the Surface Pro earlier this year, I've been slowly accumulating accessories for use with my Microsoft 2-in-1 PC. Today I use a Surface Arc mouse, a Surface Ergonomic keyboard, Surface Pen and Signature Type Cover if I'm working away from my home office. I've had my eye on the Surface Dial, a circular gadget that lets you twist, click and press and hold it to perform certain common functions within apps that support it.

It looks really cool, but after doing some initial research, I'm still not clear on the value of such a device for an editor like me. I use Photoshop to edit images but that's about the extent of my "creative" work, not including my writing for Windows Central and Mobile Nations.

I do enjoy new toys, however, and the Surface Dial is one of the few official Microsoft Surface accessories I haven't played with. So I started a thread in our forums, asking people who have experience with the Surface Dial for potential uses I haven't considered.

Hi all. I'm a newcomer to the Surface world, but starting a few months ago, I took the plunge and I've gone all-in. Today I'm using a new Surface Pro, along with either a Signature Type Cover (Alcantara and all) or a Surface Ergonomic Keyboard depending on whether I'm working at my desk or on the go, a Surface Arc Mouse, Surface Pen (though I rarely use it), and a Surface Dock to connect my...

Al Sacco

I know that the Surface Dial works with some apps that aren't specifically designed for artists, and you can do things like paste text into documents using one of the Dial's functions. But its value still seems limited to someone like me, and I'm already pretty quick with my Windows keyboard shortcuts. Logitech's cool new Craft keyboard has a Surface-Dial-like control built right in, and I'm intrigued by that, as well.

Do you have a Surface Dial? If so, do you find it valuable? Why or why not? Also, do you recommend it to people who aren't artists or "creators?" Hit the link below and let our community (and me) know.

From the forums: Should I buy the Surface Dial?

Al Sacco

Al Sacco is content director of Future PLC's Mobile Technology Vertical, which includes AndroidCentral.com, iMore.com and WindowsCentral.com. He is a veteran reporter, writer, reviewer and editor who has professionally covered and evaluated IT and mobile technology, and countless associated gadgets and accessories, for more than a decade. You can keep up with Al on Twitter and Instagram.