Budget Battle: Microsoft Surface Go 2 vs Surface 3 – Pros, Cons, and Verdict

The world of 2-in-1 devices has witnessed a remarkable evolution, with Microsoft’s Surface lineup leading the charge. The Surface Go 2 and Surface 3 stand out as two exceptional offerings, each boasting its own strengths and suitability for different user needs. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of these devices, helping you make an informed decision between the Microsoft Surface Go 2 vs Microsoft Surface 3.

Design and Build Quality

The Surface Go 2 and Surface 3 share a sleek and portable design, crafted from durable magnesium alloy. Both devices feature a 10.5-inch PixelSense display, offering vibrant colors and sharp details. The Surface Go 2, however, boasts a slightly higher resolution of 1920 x 1280 compared to the Surface 3’s 1800 x 1200.

Performance and Hardware

The Surface Go 2 reigns supreme in terms of performance, powered by Intel’s 8th-generation Core m3 processor. This provides a significant boost in speed and efficiency over the Surface 3’s Intel Atom x7 processor. The Surface Go 2 also offers up to 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, while the Surface 3 maxes out at 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage.

Battery Life and Connectivity

Battery life is a crucial factor for any portable device. The Surface Go 2 boasts an impressive battery life of up to 10 hours, while the Surface 3 offers a more modest 8 hours. Both devices support Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.1, but the Surface Go 2 additionally features USB-C connectivity, providing faster data transfer speeds and charging capabilities.

Operating System and Software

The Surface Go 2 comes pre-installed with Windows 10 Home, while the Surface 3 runs on Windows 10 Pro. Both devices offer access to the Microsoft Store, where you can download a wide range of apps and games. However, the Surface Go 2 supports Windows Hello facial recognition, providing a more secure and convenient login experience.

Accessories and Expandability

The Surface Go 2 and Surface 3 offer a range of accessories to enhance their functionality. The Surface Pen is an excellent option for note-taking and drawing, while the Type Cover transforms these devices into miniature laptops. Both devices feature a microSD card slot for expandable storage, but the Surface Go 2 also has a USB-C port that can be used for connecting external devices.

Price and Value

The Microsoft Surface Go 2 is generally priced higher than the Surface 3, due to its superior performance and features. However, both devices offer excellent value for money within their respective price ranges. The Surface Go 2 is ideal for users who prioritize performance and versatility, while the Surface 3 is a more budget-friendly option for basic computing tasks.

Final Thoughts: The Verdict

The Microsoft Surface Go 2 and Surface 3 are both exceptional 2-in-1 devices, but they cater to different user needs and budgets. The Surface Go 2 is the clear winner in terms of performance, battery life, and connectivity, making it the better choice for demanding users. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option with solid performance and a compact design, the Surface 3 is a great choice.

FAQs

Q: Which device has a better display?
A: The Surface Go 2 has a slightly higher display resolution (1920 x 1280) compared to the Surface 3 (1800 x 1200).

Q: How much RAM can each device support?
A: The Surface Go 2 supports up to 8GB of RAM, while the Surface 3 maxes out at 4GB of RAM.

Q: Which device has a longer battery life?
A: The Surface Go 2 has an impressive battery life of up to 10 hours, while the Surface 3 offers a more modest 8 hours.