Microsoft on Monday opened pre-orders for the Surface Power Cover, which is compatible with its lineup of tablets.

Boasting the speed and functionality of a classic laptop keyboard, the $199.99 cover also recharges the slate while in use, promising up to 70 percent more battery life.

Billed by Microsoft as the "battery you can type on," the Power Cover has the standard features of any QWERTY keyboard, including a full row of Function keys, Windows shortcut keys, media controls, and a trackpad.

Available in black, the 9.75mm, 0.55-pound cover doubles as a case for the Surface, protecting it from falls, bumps, scratches, and general clumsiness. It does not, however, have backlit keys, like the new Type 2 and Touch 2 covers.

Order online now to have your Surface Power Cover shipped on March 19.

Microsoft first revealed a number of upgraded Surface accessories—including the Power Cover—in September, about a month ahead of the $449 Surface 2 release.

But for those users who don't need need the promise of long-term battery usage, or don't want the extra bulk, Redmond also offers the Touch Cover 2 and Type Cover 2.

The spill-resistant $120 Touch Cover provides a "dual-purpose, pressure-sensitive keyboard and protective cover in one," as well as backlighting for typing in dark corners. Its Type Cover sibling is a bit more colorful, available for $130 in black, cyan, purple, or magenta.

Redmond also tipped the Power Cover's 30WHr battery and comfortable 10-plus hours of usage during an October Reddit Ask Me Anything (AMA) session.

For more, see PCMag's review of the Microsoft Surface Pro 2 and the slideshow above.