The Ultimate Showdown: Surface Pro 3 vs 5 – Which Reigns Supreme?
What To Know
- Under the hood, the Surface Pro 3 is powered by a 4th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processor, while the Surface Pro 5 features a 7th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processor.
- The Surface Pro 3 has a battery life of up to 9 hours, while the Surface Pro 5 offers up to 13.
- The Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 5 are compatible with a variety of accessories, including the Surface Pen and Surface Type Cover.
The Microsoft Surface Pro series has revolutionized the world of computing, offering a unique blend of tablet and laptop functionality. In this detailed comparison, we will pit two of the most popular models, the Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 5, against each other to determine which one reigns supreme.
Design and Build Quality
The Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 5 share a similar design aesthetic, with magnesium casings and sleek profiles. However, the Pro 5 is slightly thinner and lighter, weighing in at 1.7 pounds compared to the Pro 3’s 2 pounds. Both devices feature built-in kickstands for convenient use on a variety of surfaces.
Display
The Surface Pro 3 boasts a 12-inch ClearType Full HD display with a resolution of 2160 x 1440 pixels. The Surface Pro 5 offers a slightly larger 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824 pixels. Both displays are vibrant and offer excellent color accuracy, making them ideal for both work and play.
Performance
Under the hood, the Surface Pro 3 is powered by a 4th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processor, while the Surface Pro 5 features a 7th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processor. The Pro 5’s newer processor provides a significant performance boost, resulting in faster app loading times and smoother multitasking.
Battery Life
The Surface Pro 3 has a battery life of up to 9 hours, while the Surface Pro 5 offers up to 13.5 hours of battery life. Both devices support fast charging, allowing you to quickly power them up when needed.
Connectivity
Both the Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 5 offer a wide range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB ports. However, the Pro 5 introduces the addition of a USB-C port, providing faster data transfer speeds and charging capabilities.
Accessories
The Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 5 are compatible with a variety of accessories, including the Surface Pen and Surface Type Cover. The Pen offers precise writing and drawing capabilities, while the Type Cover transforms the devices into fully functional laptops.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 5 ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget. If you prioritize performance and battery life, the Surface Pro 5 is the better option. However, if you are looking for a more affordable device that still offers solid performance, the Surface Pro 3 remains a viable choice.
Verdict
Both the Microsoft Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 5 are excellent devices that offer a unique blend of portability and functionality. While the Surface Pro 5 offers superior performance and battery life, the Surface Pro 3 provides a more budget-friendly option with decent capabilities. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific requirements and preferences.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which device has a better display?
A: The Surface Pro 5 has a slightly larger and higher-resolution display than the Surface Pro 3.
Q: Is the Surface Pro 3 still a good option?
A: Yes, the Surface Pro 3 remains a viable choice for those looking for a more affordable device with solid performance.
Q: Can I use the Surface Pen with both devices?
A: Yes, both the Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 5 are compatible with the Surface Pen.
Q: Which device has a longer battery life?
A: The Surface Pro 5 offers up to 13.5 hours of battery life, compared to 9 hours for the Surface Pro 3.
Q: Does the Surface Pro 5 support USB-C?
A: Yes, the Surface Pro 5 features a USB-C port for faster data transfer and charging.
