Quick notes
- Both the Surface 3 and Surface 5 offer a range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a USB port.
- The Surface 3 and Surface 5 are compatible with the Surface Pen and Surface Keyboard.
- The Surface 3 offers a budget-friendly option for basic tablet functionality, while the Surface 5 provides a more powerful and versatile experience.
The Microsoft Surface lineup has revolutionized the tablet market, bridging the gap between laptops and mobile devices. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the intricacies of the Microsoft Surface 3 and Surface 5, comparing their key features, performance, and overall value.
Design and Display
The Surface 3 boasts a compact 10.8-inch display, while the Surface 5 offers a slightly larger 12.3-inch screen. Both devices feature high-resolution displays with excellent color accuracy and viewing angles. However, the Surface 5’s larger screen size provides a more immersive experience for entertainment and productivity.
Processor and Performance
The Surface 3 is powered by an Intel Atom x7-Z8700 processor, while the Surface 5 is equipped with an Intel Core i5-7300U processor. The Surface 5’s more powerful processor delivers significantly faster performance for demanding tasks such as video editing and gaming.
Memory and Storage
The Surface 3 comes with 2GB or 4GB of RAM and 64GB or 128GB of storage. The Surface 5 offers more memory and storage options, with configurations ranging from 4GB to 8GB of RAM and 128GB to 256GB of storage.
Battery Life
The Surface 3’s battery life is rated at up to 9 hours, while the Surface 5’s battery life is rated at up to 13.5 hours. The Surface 5’s larger battery capacity provides longer usage time for extended work or play sessions.
Connectivity
Both the Surface 3 and Surface 5 offer a range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a USB port. However, the Surface 5 features an additional USB Type-C port, which provides faster data transfer speeds and charging capabilities.
Accessories
The Surface 3 and Surface 5 are compatible with the Surface Pen and Surface Keyboard. The Surface Pen enables precise writing and drawing, while the Surface Keyboard provides a comfortable typing experience.
Price and Value
The Surface 3 was released in 2015 and is now available at a significantly reduced price. The Surface 5, released in 2017, is still a premium device with a higher price tag. The Surface 3 offers a budget-friendly option for basic tablet functionality, while the Surface 5 provides a more powerful and versatile experience.
Wrap-Up: The Verdict
Choosing between the Microsoft Surface 3 and Surface 5 depends on your individual needs and budget. If you prioritize portability and affordability, the Surface 3 remains a solid choice. However, if you require a more powerful device with a larger display, longer battery life, and expanded connectivity options, the Surface 5 is the clear winner.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Which device is better for students?
The Surface 3 is a more budget-friendly option for students, while the Surface 5 offers more performance for demanding tasks.
2. Can I use the Surface 3 for gaming?
The Surface 3 can run some basic games, but its performance is limited by its weaker processor.
3. Which device has better battery life?
The Surface 5 has a longer battery life than the Surface 3, providing up to 13.5 hours of usage.
4. Can I upgrade the memory or storage on the Surface 3?
No, the Surface 3’s memory and storage are not upgradeable.
5. Does the Surface 5 come with a keyboard?
No, the Surface 5 does not come with a keyboard. You can purchase a separate Surface Keyboard or use a third-party keyboard.