Key points
- The Surface Pro 9, on the other hand, is larger and heavier, with a 13-inch display and a weight of 1.
- The Surface Pro 9 boasts a longer battery life of up to 15 hours, making it ideal for extended use and travel.
- The Surface Go 3 does not come with a keyboard, while the Surface Pro 9 includes a detachable Signature Keyboard.
In the realm of 2-in-1 devices, Microsoft’s Surface lineup stands tall, offering a diverse range of options. The Surface Go 3 and the Surface Pro 9 are two popular choices, each catering to different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two devices, empowering you to make an informed decision.
Form Factor and Design
The Surface Go 3 is a compact and portable device, measuring in at 10.5 inches and weighing just 1.2 pounds. Its slim profile and detachable keyboard make it ideal for on-the-go use. The Surface Pro 9, on the other hand, is larger and heavier, with a 13-inch display and a weight of 1.9 pounds. Its 2-in-1 design allows for multiple modes of use, including tablet, laptop, and studio modes.
Display
The Surface Go 3 features a 10.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels. It offers a vibrant and crisp viewing experience, suitable for basic tasks, web browsing, and video streaming. The Surface Pro 9 boasts a larger 13-inch PixelSense Flow display with a higher resolution of 2880 x 1920 pixels. Its stunning display is ideal for creative professionals, designers, and anyone who values visual clarity.
Performance
The Surface Go 3 is powered by an Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y or Core i3-10100Y processor, paired with 4GB or 8GB of RAM. It provides decent performance for everyday tasks, but may struggle with demanding applications. The Surface Pro 9 offers a wide range of processor options, including Intel Core i5-1235U, i7-1255U, and i7-1265U. With up to 32GB of RAM, it delivers exceptional performance for multitasking, content creation, and gaming.
Storage
The Surface Go 3 comes with 64GB or 128GB of eMMC storage, which is relatively limited for storing large files and applications. The Surface Pro 9 offers more storage options, including 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB of SSD storage. Its faster SSD technology ensures quicker loading times and smoother performance.
Battery Life
The Surface Go 3 has a battery life of up to 10 hours, which is sufficient for most users. The Surface Pro 9 boasts a longer battery life of up to 15 hours, making it ideal for extended use and travel.
Connectivity
Both the Surface Go 3 and Surface Pro 9 support Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless connectivity. The Surface Pro 9 also includes Thunderbolt 4 ports for high-speed data transfer and charging.
Price
The Surface Go 3 starts at $399 for the base model, while the Surface Pro 9 starts at $999. The price varies depending on the configuration and storage options.
Which Device is Right for You?
The Surface Go 3 is an excellent choice for students, casual users, and those who prioritize portability. Its compact size and affordable price make it a great option for basic tasks, web browsing, and entertainment.
The Surface Pro 9 is ideal for professionals, creative individuals, and anyone who demands high performance and versatility. Its larger display, powerful processor, and ample storage make it a suitable replacement for a traditional laptop.
FAQs
Q: Which device has a better camera?
A: Both devices have a 5MP front-facing camera and an 8MP rear-facing camera.
Q: Can I use a stylus with both devices?
A: Yes, both devices support Microsoft Surface Pen input.
Q: Which device comes with a keyboard?
A: The Surface Go 3 does not come with a keyboard, while the Surface Pro 9 includes a detachable Signature Keyboard.
Q: Can I upgrade the storage on the Surface Go 3?
A: No, the Surface Go 3’s storage is not expandable.
Q: Which device has a better sound system?
A: The Surface Pro 9 has a superior sound system with Dolby Atmos support.