Surface Showdown: Microsoft Surface 3 vs Go – Which is the Ultimate Value King?
What To Know
- The Surface Type Cover is an essential addition, transforming the device into a fully functional laptop with a physical keyboard.
- While the Surface Go excels in performance and storage, the Surface 3 stands out with its extended battery life and slightly lower price point.
- The Surface 3 offers a slightly larger display with higher resolution, while the Surface Go has a more compact and portable display.
With the ever-evolving landscape of technology, choosing the right device for your needs can be a daunting task. When it comes to 2-in-1 laptops, Microsoft’s Surface 3 and Go stand out as compelling options. However, determining which one is the ideal pick for you requires a careful examination of their features, capabilities, and price points. This comprehensive comparison guide delves into the intricacies of the Microsoft Surface 3 vs. Go, empowering you to make an informed decision.
Display: Clarity and Comfort
The Surface 3 boasts a 10.8-inch ClearType Full HD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels. Its PixelSense technology enhances touch responsiveness and provides vivid colors. In contrast, the Surface Go features a 10-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1800 x 1200 pixels. While the resolution is slightly lower, the Go’s display offers a compact and portable experience.
Performance: Power and Efficiency
The Surface 3 is powered by an Intel Atom x7-Z8700 processor, which delivers adequate performance for basic computing tasks, web browsing, and light multitasking. The Surface Go, on the other hand, comes with a choice of Intel Pentium Gold 4415Y or Intel Core m3-8100Y processors. These processors provide a noticeable boost in performance, enabling smoother multitasking and handling more demanding applications.
Storage: Capacity and Speed
Storage options vary between the Surface 3 and Go. The Surface 3 offers 64GB or 128GB of eMMC storage, while the Surface Go provides 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB of solid-state drive (SSD) storage. SSDs offer significantly faster read and write speeds compared to eMMC, resulting in quicker app loading and file transfers.
Battery Life: Endurance on the Go
Battery life is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a 2-in-1 laptop. The Surface 3 offers an impressive battery life of up to 10 hours, providing ample power for all-day use. The Surface Go’s battery life ranges from 8 to 10 hours, depending on the model and usage patterns. While both devices provide solid battery performance, the Surface 3 has a slight edge in this area.
Connectivity: Staying Connected
Both the Surface 3 and Go offer a comprehensive range of connectivity options. They feature Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 4.0, and a microSD card slot for expandable storage. However, the Surface Go includes an additional USB-C port, which provides faster data transfer speeds and charging capabilities.
Design: Form and Function
The Surface 3 features a sleek and lightweight design, weighing just 1.49 pounds. Its magnesium alloy chassis provides durability while maintaining portability. The Surface Go is even more compact and weighs a mere 1.15 pounds, making it ideal for those who prioritize portability. Both devices come with a built-in kickstand, allowing for flexible viewing and typing angles.
Accessories: Enhancing Functionality
Microsoft offers a range of accessories to complement both the Surface 3 and Go. These include the Surface Pen, which provides precise input for drawing, note-taking, and annotations. The Surface Type Cover is an essential addition, transforming the device into a fully functional laptop with a physical keyboard.
Which One is Right for You?
The decision between the Microsoft Surface 3 and Go ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance and storage capacity, the Surface Go is the better choice. However, if portability and extended battery life are your top concerns, the Surface 3 is the ideal pick.
Verdict: A Balanced Choice
Both the Microsoft Surface 3 and Go are exceptional 2-in-1 laptops that offer a unique blend of versatility, performance, and portability. While the Surface Go excels in performance and storage, the Surface 3 stands out with its extended battery life and slightly lower price point. By carefully considering your specific requirements, you can determine which device is the perfect fit for your lifestyle and budget.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which device has a better display?
A: The Surface 3 offers a slightly larger display with higher resolution, while the Surface Go has a more compact and portable display.
Q: What are the performance differences between the two devices?
A: The Surface Go provides faster performance thanks to its Intel Pentium Gold or Core m3 processors compared to the Surface 3’s Intel Atom processor.
Q: Which device has more storage capacity?
A: The Surface Go offers up to 256GB of SSD storage, while the Surface 3 has a maximum storage capacity of 128GB.
Q: What is the battery life difference between the Surface 3 and Go?
A: The Surface 3 offers slightly longer battery life, up to 10 hours, compared to the Surface Go’s 8-10 hours of battery life.
Q: Which device has better connectivity options?
A: The Surface Go includes an additional USB-C port for faster data transfer speeds and charging capabilities.
Q: Is the Surface 3 or Go more portable?
A: The Surface Go is more portable, weighing just 1.15 pounds compared to the Surface 3’s weight of 1.49 pounds.
Q: Which device is more durable?
A: Both devices feature durable magnesium alloy chassis, providing solid protection against bumps and scratches.
Q: What accessories are available for the Surface 3 and Go?
A: Both devices are compatible with the Surface Pen and Surface Type Cover, enhancing functionality and productivity.
