Microsoft Surface Go vs. Surface 3: Which Budget Tablet Reigns Supreme?
What To Know
- Both the Surface Go and Surface 3 offer a range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a USB-C port.
- Additionally, the Surface Go supports the Surface Pen, enabling you to take notes, draw, and interact with the device in a more intuitive way.
- The Surface Go has a slightly larger and higher-resolution display compared to the Surface 3, resulting in a more immersive viewing experience.
When it comes to budget-friendly tablets, Microsoft’s Surface Go and Surface 3 stand out as compelling options. Both devices offer a balance of portability, performance, and affordability, making them ideal for students, casual users, and anyone looking for a versatile computing companion. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Surface Go and Surface 3 to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Display
The Surface Go and Surface 3 sport similar designs, featuring sleek magnesium bodies and kickstands for versatile usage. However, the Surface Go has a slightly larger 10.5-inch PixelSense display compared to the Surface 3’s 10.8-inch display. Both displays offer sharp and vibrant colors, but the Surface Go’s display has a slightly higher resolution, resulting in a more immersive viewing experience.
Performance
Under the hood, the Surface Go and Surface 3 differ significantly in terms of performance. The Surface Go is powered by an Intel Pentium Gold 4415Y processor, while the Surface 3 features an Intel Atom x7-Z8700 processor. The Pentium Gold processor in the Surface Go provides a noticeable performance boost, making it more capable of handling multitasking and light productivity tasks.
Storage and Memory
The Surface Go offers a wider range of storage and memory options compared to the Surface 3. It comes with either 64GB or 128GB of eMMC storage and 4GB or 8GB of RAM. The Surface 3, on the other hand, only offers 64GB of eMMC storage and 2GB of RAM. The additional storage and memory on the Surface Go allow you to store more files, apps, and data, ensuring smoother performance.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial consideration for any portable device. The Surface Go boasts a longer battery life than the Surface 3. It can last up to 9 hours of continuous video playback, while the Surface 3 can only manage around 6 hours. This extended battery life makes the Surface Go a better choice for those who need their tablet to last throughout the day.
Connectivity
Both the Surface Go and Surface 3 offer a range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a USB-C port. However, the Surface Go has an advantage in terms of versatility. It features a microSD card slot for expandable storage, while the Surface 3 does not. Additionally, the Surface Go’s USB-C port supports Power Delivery, allowing you to charge the device and connect peripherals using a single cable.
Accessories
One of the strengths of the Surface line is its ecosystem of accessories. Both the Surface Go and Surface 3 are compatible with the Type Cover, which transforms them into a fully functional laptop. Additionally, the Surface Go supports the Surface Pen, enabling you to take notes, draw, and interact with the device in a more intuitive way.
Recommendations: The Verdict
The choice between the Microsoft Surface Go and Surface 3 ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize performance, storage, and battery life, the Surface Go is the clear winner. It offers a more powerful processor, more storage and memory options, and a longer battery life. However, if you are on a tighter budget and prioritize portability and affordability, the Surface 3 remains a solid choice. It provides a decent performance, adequate storage, and a compact design.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which device is better for students?
A: The Surface Go is a better choice for students due to its improved performance, extended battery life, and support for the Surface Pen.
Q: Can I use the Surface Pen with both devices?
A: Yes, the Surface Pen is compatible with both the Surface Go and Surface 3.
Q: Which device has the better display?
A: The Surface Go has a slightly larger and higher-resolution display compared to the Surface 3, resulting in a more immersive viewing experience.
Q: Can I expand the storage on the Surface 3?
A: No, the Surface 3 does not have a microSD card slot for expandable storage.
Q: Which device is more portable?
A: The Surface 3 is slightly more compact and lightweight than the Surface Go, making it more portable for on-the-go use.
