Quick summary
- In terms of storage, the Surface 3 offers 64GB or 128GB of eMMC storage, while the Surface Go comes with 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB of SSD storage.
- One of the key advantages of the Surface 3 and Surface Go is their compatibility with a wide range of accessories.
- The Surface Go offers a wider range of storage options, including 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB SSD storage, while the Surface 3 only has 64GB or 128GB of eMMC storage.
The Microsoft Surface 3 and Surface Go are two incredibly versatile tablets that have gained immense popularity in the tech market. With their sleek designs, powerful capabilities, and seamless integration with the Windows ecosystem, these devices cater to a wide range of users. However, choosing between the Surface 3 and Surface Go can be a daunting task, as both offer unique advantages and drawbacks. To help you make an informed decision, we present a comprehensive comparison of these two exceptional tablets.
Design and Display
The Surface 3 boasts a larger 10.8-inch ClearType HD display with a 1920×1280 resolution, providing ample screen real estate for work and entertainment. Its magnesium alloy casing exudes durability and a premium feel. The Surface Go, on the other hand, features a more compact 10-inch PixelSense display with a 1800×1200 resolution. Its smaller size makes it incredibly portable and easy to carry around. Both tablets come with adjustable kickstands, allowing you to find the perfect viewing angle for any situation.
Performance and Storage
The Surface 3 is powered by an Intel Atom x7-Z8700 processor, paired with either 2GB or 4GB of RAM. This provides sufficient performance for basic tasks such as web browsing, email, and light productivity. The Surface Go offers a more robust processor, the Intel Pentium Gold 4415Y, coupled with 4GB or 8GB of RAM. This combination delivers a noticeable performance boost, making it suitable for more demanding tasks like video editing and multitasking. In terms of storage, the Surface 3 offers 64GB or 128GB of eMMC storage, while the Surface Go comes with 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB of SSD storage. SSDs offer significantly faster read and write speeds compared to eMMC, resulting in improved app loading times and overall responsiveness.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a tablet. The Surface 3 boasts a larger 28.5Wh battery, providing up to 10 hours of video playback on a single charge. The Surface Go, with its smaller 27Wh battery, offers slightly less battery life, with an estimated 9 hours of video playback. However, the Surface Go’s compact size and lighter weight make it more convenient to carry around for extended periods.
Connectivity and Ports
The Surface 3 and Surface Go offer a comprehensive range of connectivity options. Both tablets feature Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, a microSD card slot, and a headphone jack. The Surface 3 additionally includes a USB 3.0 port, while the Surface Go has a USB-C port. The USB-C port on the Surface Go allows for faster data transfer speeds and can be used for charging.
Accessories and Expandability
One of the key advantages of the Surface 3 and Surface Go is their compatibility with a wide range of accessories. Both tablets can be paired with the Surface Pen, which enables precise note-taking, sketching, and digital inking. Additionally, the Surface Type Cover (for Surface 3) and Surface Go Signature Type Cover (for Surface Go) provide a full keyboard and trackpad, transforming these tablets into versatile laptops.
Recommendations: Choosing the Perfect Tablet
Ultimately, the choice between the Microsoft Surface 3 and Surface Go depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a larger display, longer battery life, and the versatility of a USB 3.0 port, the Surface 3 may be the ideal choice. However, if portability, performance, and the convenience of USB-C connectivity are your top priorities, the Surface Go is the superior option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Which tablet has a better processor?
A1. The Surface Go has a more powerful processor, the Intel Pentium Gold 4415Y, compared to the Surface 3’s Intel Atom x7-Z8700.
Q2. Which tablet has more storage space?
A2. The Surface Go offers a wider range of storage options, including 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB SSD storage, while the Surface 3 only has 64GB or 128GB of eMMC storage.
Q3. Which tablet is more portable?
A3. The Surface Go is more portable due to its smaller size and lighter weight, making it easier to carry around for extended periods.