What to know
- The Surface Pro 3 offers a battery life of up to 9 hours, while the Surface Pro 7 offers a battery life of up to 10.
- The Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 7 are compatible with a wide range of accessories, including the Surface Pen and Surface Type Cover.
- The Surface Pro 3 is a reliable and affordable option, while the Surface Pro 7 offers superior performance, a sharper display, and a more comprehensive range of features.
In the realm of 2-in-1 devices, the Microsoft Surface Pro series has consistently raised the bar, offering a seamless blend of tablet and laptop functionality. Two notable iterations within this line are the Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 7. Both devices boast impressive features, but they also have distinct characteristics that cater to different user profiles. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key differences between these two devices, empowering you to make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
Design and Build
The Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 7 share a similar design aesthetic, featuring a sleek and minimalistic profile. However, there are subtle differences in their dimensions and weight. The Surface Pro 3 measures 11.5 x 7.9 x 0.36 inches and weighs 1.76 pounds, while the Surface Pro 7 is slightly larger at 11.5 x 7.9 x 0.33 inches and weighs 1.70 pounds. The Surface Pro 7’s slimmer profile and lighter weight make it more portable and suitable for extended use on the go.
Display
Both the Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 7 feature 12.3-inch PixelSense displays. However, the Surface Pro 7’s display has a higher resolution of 2736 x 1824 pixels compared to the Surface Pro 3’s 1920 x 1080 pixels. This results in a sharper and more detailed viewing experience on the Surface Pro 7, especially for tasks such as photo editing or watching movies.
Performance
The Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 7 offer a range of performance options to suit different user requirements. The Surface Pro 3 is powered by Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 processors, while the Surface Pro 7 features Intel Core i3, i5, i7, or i9 processors. The Surface Pro 7’s latest-generation processors provide a significant performance boost over the Surface Pro 3, making it more suitable for demanding tasks such as video editing or multitasking.
Storage and Memory
The Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 7 both come with a variety of storage and memory configurations. The Surface Pro 3 offers storage options ranging from 64GB to 512GB, while the Surface Pro 7 offers storage options ranging from 128GB to 1TB. Both devices offer memory options of 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB. The larger storage and memory options on the Surface Pro 7 provide ample space for storing files, applications, and games.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial consideration for any portable device. The Surface Pro 3 offers a battery life of up to 9 hours, while the Surface Pro 7 offers a battery life of up to 10.5 hours. The Surface Pro 7’s longer battery life makes it more suitable for extended use away from a power outlet, such as during long flights or presentations.
Connectivity
Both the Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 7 offer a range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB ports. However, the Surface Pro 7 has a more comprehensive selection of ports, including a USB-C port, a full-size USB port, and a microSD card slot. The Surface Pro 7’s expanded connectivity options provide greater flexibility for connecting external devices and peripherals.
Accessories
The Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 7 are compatible with a wide range of accessories, including the Surface Pen and Surface Type Cover. The Surface Pen allows for precise handwriting and drawing, while the Surface Type Cover provides a comfortable typing experience and protects the device’s screen. Both devices also support the Surface Dock, which provides additional connectivity options and ports for external monitors, keyboards, and mice.
Summary
The Microsoft Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 7 are both excellent 2-in-1 devices that offer a versatile and powerful computing experience. The Surface Pro 3 is a reliable and affordable option, while the Surface Pro 7 offers superior performance, a sharper display, and a more comprehensive range of features. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and budget.
The Right Choice for You
If you prioritize portability, performance, and a wide range of connectivity options, the Surface Pro 7 is the ideal choice for you. However, if you are looking for a more affordable option with solid performance and a reliable battery life, the Surface Pro 3 is a great value.
Questions You May Have
Q: Which device has a better display?
A: The Surface Pro 7 has a higher-resolution display with a sharper and more detailed viewing experience.
Q: Which device offers better performance?
A: The Surface Pro 7 features latest-generation processors that provide a significant performance boost over the Surface Pro 3.
Q: Which device has a longer battery life?
A: The Surface Pro 7 offers a longer battery life of up to 10.5 hours compared to the Surface Pro 3’s 9 hours.
Q: Which device has more connectivity options?
A: The Surface Pro 7 has a more comprehensive selection of ports, including a USB-C port, a full-size USB port, and a microSD card slot.
Q: Which device is more affordable?
A: The Surface Pro 3 is a more affordable option compared to the Surface Pro 7.