What To Know
- However, the Surface 4 boasts a more premium build quality with a magnesium alloy body and a Gorilla Glass 4 screen.
- If you’re looking for a portable and affordable tablet for basic tasks such as browsing the web, watching videos, and checking email, the Surface 3 is a great option.
- The Surface 4 has a better camera than the Surface 3, with a 8MP rear-facing camera and a 5MP front-facing camera.
When it comes to portable computing, the Microsoft Surface 3 and Surface 4 stand out as two highly capable devices. However, choosing between these two tablets can be a daunting task, especially if you’re looking for the best fit for your needs. In this comprehensive comparison guide, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Surface 3 and Surface 4, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Surface 3 and Surface 4 share a sleek and modern design, but there are some subtle differences. The Surface 3 is slightly smaller and lighter, making it more portable. However, the Surface 4 boasts a more premium build quality with a magnesium alloy body and a Gorilla Glass 4 screen.
Display
The Surface 3 features a 10.8-inch ClearType Full HD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The Surface 4, on the other hand, has a larger 12-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824 pixels. The Surface 4’s display is brighter, more vibrant, and offers a wider color gamut.
Performance
Under the hood, the Surface 3 is powered by an Intel Atom x7 processor with 2GB or 4GB of RAM. The Surface 4, however, comes with a more powerful Intel Core m3 or Core i5 processor with 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB of RAM. This performance advantage makes the Surface 4 more suitable for demanding tasks such as video editing and gaming.
Battery Life
Battery life is an important consideration for portable devices. The Surface 3 offers up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge, while the Surface 4 can last for up to 9 hours. Both devices support fast charging, allowing you to quickly power them up when needed.
Accessories
One of the key advantages of the Surface line is its compatibility with a wide range of accessories. Both the Surface 3 and Surface 4 support the Surface Pen, which allows you to draw, write, and annotate documents. They also both have a built-in kickstand that lets you prop them up for typing or watching movies. However, the Surface 4 has a more versatile kickstand that offers a wider range of viewing angles.
Price
The Surface 3 is more affordable than the Surface 4, starting at $499 for the base model. The Surface 4, on the other hand, starts at $899 for the base model. The price difference reflects the Surface 4’s superior performance and features.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Surface 3 and Surface 4 ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget. If you’re looking for a portable and affordable tablet for basic tasks such as browsing the web, watching videos, and checking email, the Surface 3 is a great option. However, if you need a more powerful device for demanding tasks like video editing or gaming, the Surface 4 is the better choice.
Questions You May Have
Q: Which device has a better camera?
A: The Surface 4 has a better camera than the Surface 3, with a 8MP rear-facing camera and a 5MP front-facing camera.
Q: Does either device have a USB-C port?
A: No, neither the Surface 3 nor the Surface 4 has a USB-C port.
Q: Can I upgrade the RAM on either device?
A: The RAM on the Surface 3 cannot be upgraded, but the Surface 4 has models with 4GB, 8GB, and 16GB of RAM.
