Key points
- With the release of the Surface Go 3, the rivalry between the Go 2 and Go 3 has reached a fever pitch.
- For the additional cost, the Go 3 offers a range of significant improvements, including a better display, faster processor, more storage and memory options, and a more premium build quality.
- Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply someone looking for a portable device that won’t break the bank, the Surface Go 3 is the perfect choice.
When it comes to budget-friendly 2-in-1 devices, the Microsoft Surface Go series has consistently reigned supreme. With the release of the Surface Go 3, the rivalry between the Go 2 and Go 3 has reached a fever pitch. This blog post will delve into the heart of their differences, helping you make an informed choice between these two exceptional devices.
Design and Build Quality
The Surface Go 2 and Go 3 share a similar design language, featuring a sleek and compact form factor. However, the Go 3 has undergone some subtle refinements, resulting in a slightly thinner profile. Both devices boast a durable build quality, with the Go 3 featuring a more premium aluminum construction.
Display
The Surface Go 2 and Go 3 both sport 10.5-inch displays with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. However, the Go 3 offers a significant upgrade in terms of screen quality. It features a higher contrast ratio and improved color accuracy, making it ideal for content consumption and creative work.
Performance
At the heart of the Surface Go 2 lies the Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y processor, while the Go 3 is powered by the Intel Core i3-10100Y. While both devices offer adequate performance for basic tasks, the Go 3 provides a noticeably smoother experience when it comes to multitasking and running more resource-intensive applications.
Storage and Memory
The Surface Go 2 comes with 64GB or 128GB of eMMC storage, while the Go 3 offers 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB of faster NVMe storage. Both devices support microSD card expansion for additional storage. In terms of memory, the Go 2 is limited to 4GB or 8GB of RAM, whereas the Go 3 offers 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB of RAM, providing more flexibility for those who require more multitasking power.
Connectivity and Features
The Surface Go 2 and Go 3 offer a similar array of ports and features. Both devices include a USB-C port, a headphone jack, and a microSD card slot. The Go 3, however, adds a USB 3.2 Type-A port for greater versatility. Both devices support Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for fast and reliable wireless connections.
Camera and Audio
The Surface Go 2 and Go 3 both feature a 5MP front- facing camera and an 8MP rear- facing camera. While the image quality is comparable, the Go 3’s camera app offers more advanced features, including HDR support. In terms of audio, both devices provide decent sound quality, but the Go 3 has a slightly more powerful speaker setup.
Price and Value
The Surface Go 2 starts at $399, while the Go 3 starts at $449. For the additional cost, the Go 3 offers a range of significant improvements, including a better display, faster processor, more storage and memory options, and a more premium build quality.
Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the best choice between the Surface Go 2 and Go 3 depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize affordability and basic performance, the Go 2 remains a solid option. However, if you value a better display, faster performance, and a more premium experience, the Go 3 is worth the extra investment.
Final Verdict: The King of Budget-friendly 2-in-1s
Both the Surface Go 2 and Go 3 are exceptional devices in their own right. However, the Surface Go 3 emerges as the clear winner, offering a superior display, faster performance, and a more premium build quality. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply someone looking for a portable device that won’t break the bank, the Surface Go 3 is the perfect choice.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: How much RAM do the Surface Go 2 and Go 3 have?
A: The Surface Go 2 offers 4GB or 8GB of RAM, while the Go 3 offers 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB of RAM.
Q: What type of storage does the Surface Go 3 have?
A: The Surface Go 3 features faster NVMe storage, available in 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB options.
Q: Does the Surface Go 3 have a USB-A port?
A: Yes, the Surface Go 3 includes a USB 3.2 Type-A port for added versatility.
Q: Is the Surface Go 2 still worth buying?
A: The Surface Go 2 remains a solid option for those seeking an affordable and basic 2-in-1 device. However, the Surface Go 3 offers significant improvements in terms of display, performance, and build quality.
Q: Which device is better for students?
A: The Surface Go 3 is the better choice for students who require a device that can handle multitasking, note-taking, and media consumption.