The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is Microsoft’s compact and affordable 2-in-1 device aimed at students, casual users, and professionals on the go. It combines the versatility of a tablet with the power of Windows 11, offering the productivity of a laptop in a portable package. But how does it stack up against other budget tablets like the iPad and Lenovo Duet? Let’s dive into a detailed review of the Surface Go 3, its features, and its performance compared to the competition.
Key Features of the Microsoft Surface Go 3
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Compact and Portable Design
The Surface Go 3 is designed for portability, weighing just over 1.1 pounds (544 grams) and featuring a 10.5-inch PixelSense display. Its slim form factor makes it easy to carry, whether you’re commuting to work or taking it to class. The 1920 x 1280 resolution provides sharp visuals and vibrant colors, ideal for media consumption and light productivity tasks. Compared to the larger Surface Pro 9, the Go 3 offers the perfect balance of size and usability for those who prioritize portability.
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Windows 11 Experience
One of the biggest advantages of the Surface Go 3 over tablets like the iPad is its full Windows 11 operating system. This means you can run desktop applications like Microsoft Office, Photoshop, and other productivity tools that aren’t available on iOS or Android. The tablet also supports Windows Hello for secure login through facial recognition.
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Performance with Intel Processors
The Surface Go 3 is powered by either an Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y processor or an Intel Core i3 processor, paired with up to 8GB of RAM. While it’s not built for heavy multitasking or high-end gaming, it handles everyday tasks like web browsing, streaming, and word processing with ease. For students or users who need a secondary device for basic tasks, this level of performance is more than adequate. However, it falls short when compared to the iPad Air’s A14 Bionic chip, which offers better speed and efficiency for intensive apps.
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Battery Life
The Surface Go 3 offers up to 10 hours of battery life, depending on usage. While this is sufficient for most users, it falls short of the iPad’s 12-hour battery life and the Lenovo Duet’s impressive 15-hour lifespan. If battery longevity is a key concern, the Surface Go 3 may not be the top choice, but its fast-charging capability helps mitigate this drawback.
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Keyboard and Accessories
The optional Surface Type Cover transforms the Go 3 into a laptop-like experience, with a full QWERTY keyboard and trackpad. The Type Cover is well-built but sold separately, which adds to the overall cost. The device also supports the Surface Pen for note-taking, drawing, and sketching, making it a great option for students or creatives. The versatility of adding these accessories makes the Go 3 a flexible tool for different needs, though the iPad’s Magic Keyboard offers a more premium typing experience.
How the Microsoft Surface Go 3 Stands Against Competitors
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Surface Go 3 vs. iPad (9th Generation)
The iPad remains a strong contender in the budget tablet space, offering excellent performance with the A13 Bionic chip and a seamless iOS experience. However, the Surface Go 3 stands out by offering full Windows 11, making it more suited for users who need a desktop-class experience in a portable form. The iPad, on the other hand, excels in performance, multimedia apps, and battery life, making it a better choice for entertainment-focused users.
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Surface Go 3 vs. Lenovo Chromebook Duet
The Lenovo Duet is another budget-friendly 2-in-1 option, offering excellent value with ChromeOS and a 10-hour battery life. While the Surface Go 3 provides more versatility with Windows 11, the Duet’s price point and free keyboard accessory make it a more affordable alternative for users on a tight budget. The Lenovo Duet is ideal for web-based tasks, while the Surface Go 3’s Windows environment makes it a better choice for those who need desktop applications.
Expert Commentary: Is the Surface Go 3 Worth It?
The Microsoft Surface Go 3 offers a compelling mix of portability, productivity, and affordability. While it’s not designed for heavy workloads, it’s an ideal device for students, travelers, and users who need a secondary device for light computing. Its full Windows 11 experience sets it apart from competitors in the same price range, offering more versatility than iOS or ChromeOS devices.
That said, if you need more power or battery life, alternatives like the iPad or Lenovo Duet may be better suited to your needs. The Surface Go 3 shines for users who prioritize a Windows environment in a tablet form factor, especially with the flexibility of optional accessories like the Type Cover and Surface Pen
Should You Buy the Microsoft Surface Go 3?
If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly 2-in-1 device with the full power of Windows 11, the Microsoft Surface Go 3 is a great option. Its compact design, solid performance for basic tasks, and flexibility with accessories make it a versatile choice for both casual users and professionals. However, if you’re looking for more performance or a longer battery life, it’s worth considering the iPad or Lenovo Duet as alternatives.
For anyone who needs a lightweight, portable device that bridges the gap between tablet and laptop, the Surface Go 3 is an excellent option at its price point.
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1 Comment
Kalim Gahour
Microsoft surface is the best for professionals.