Key points
- The Surface Go is powered by an Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y processor, while the Go 3 offers a choice between a Pentium Gold 6500Y or Core i3-10100Y processor.
- The Surface Go 3, on the other hand, represents a significant upgrade with its improved performance, display, and storage options, making it the ideal choice for users seeking a more versatile and capable device.
- The Surface Go is an excellent choice for students due to its affordability and portability, while the Surface Go 3 offers more performance for demanding coursework.
Microsoft’s Surface Go lineup has revolutionized the portable computing landscape, offering a blend of affordability, versatility, and performance. With the Surface Go 3 as the latest addition to the series, it’s time to dive into an in-depth comparison to determine which device reigns supreme for value-conscious users.
Design and Form Factor
Both the Surface Go and Go 3 share a sleek and compact design, featuring a 10.5-inch PixelSense display with a 3:2 aspect ratio. However, the Go 3 boasts a slightly slimmer profile and lighter weight, making it even more portable.
Display: Visual Clarity and Responsiveness
The Surface Go and Go 3 both offer vibrant and sharp displays with a resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels. However, the Go 3 introduces a significant upgrade with its 60Hz refresh rate, providing a smoother and more responsive experience for scrolling, gaming, and video playback.
Performance and Storage
The Surface Go is powered by an Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y processor, while the Go 3 offers a choice between a Pentium Gold 6500Y or Core i3-10100Y processor. The Core i3 model provides a noticeable performance boost, especially for multitasking and demanding applications.
In terms of storage, both devices come with 64GB or 128GB of eMMC storage as standard, with the option to upgrade to 256GB SSD on the Go 3.
Battery Life and Charging
The Surface Go and Go 3 both offer impressive battery life, lasting up to 10 hours on a single charge. However, the Go 3 features a slightly larger battery capacity, which may provide an additional hour or so of usage.
Both devices support fast charging, allowing you to quickly power them up when needed.
Connectivity and Expandability
The Surface Go and Go 3 offer a similar range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, and a USB-C port. However, the Go 3 adds a dedicated microSD card slot, providing additional storage expansion options.
Accessories and Compatibility
Both devices are compatible with the Surface Pen and Type Cover, expanding their functionality for note-taking, drawing, and typing. The Go 3 also supports the Surface Dock 2, providing a wide range of connectivity and expansion options for a desktop-like experience.
Which Device is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best choice between the Surface Go and Go 3 depends on your specific needs and budget.
- Value and Portability: If you prioritize affordability and extreme portability, the Surface Go is an excellent option.
- Performance and Responsiveness: For users who require more power and a smoother experience, the Surface Go 3 with the Core i3 processor is highly recommended.
- Storage and Expansion: If you need additional storage capacity and the flexibility of a microSD card slot, the Surface Go 3 is the clear choice.
- Accessories and Connectivity: For users who frequently use accessories like the Surface Pen and Dock, the Surface Go 3 provides a more comprehensive experience.
The Verdict: Value vs. Enhanced Experience
Both the Surface Go and Go 3 are excellent value-driven devices that cater to different user needs. The Surface Go remains the most affordable option, offering a solid experience for basic computing tasks and portability. The Surface Go 3, on the other hand, represents a significant upgrade with its improved performance, display, and storage options, making it the ideal choice for users seeking a more versatile and capable device.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which device has a better camera?
A: Both the Surface Go and Go 3 have a 5MP front-facing camera and an 8MP rear-facing camera.
Q: Is the Surface Go 3 waterproof?
A: No, neither the Surface Go nor Go 3 are waterproof.
Q: Can I use the Surface Go as a laptop replacement?
A: With the optional Type Cover, both devices can be used for basic laptop tasks, but they may not be suitable for heavy-duty applications.
Q: Which device is better for students?
A: The Surface Go is an excellent choice for students due to its affordability and portability, while the Surface Go 3 offers more performance for demanding coursework.
Q: Can I upgrade the RAM on either device?
A: No, both the Surface Go and Go 3 have soldered-on RAM and cannot be upgraded.