What to know
- Both devices combine the power of a laptop with the convenience of a tablet, making them ideal for professionals on the go.
- However, the Laptop 3 has a more extensive selection of ports, including a USB-A port, a Mini DisplayPort, and a Surface Connect port.
- The Laptop 3 is the more powerful and versatile choice, while the Go 2 is the ultra-portable and budget-friendly option.
In the ever-evolving world of hybrid work, the demand for versatile and portable devices has skyrocketed. Microsoft has responded to this need with two exceptional offerings: the Surface Laptop 3 and the Surface Go 2. Both devices combine the power of a laptop with the convenience of a tablet, making them ideal for professionals on the go. But which one is the right choice for you? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Surface Laptop 3 and Go 2 boast premium designs that exude sophistication and durability. The Laptop 3 features an aluminum unibody construction, while the Go 2 has a magnesium alloy chassis. Both devices are lightweight and easy to carry around, with the Laptop 3 weighing slightly more at around 2.79 pounds compared to the Go 2’s 1.2 pounds.
The Laptop 3’s larger size (13.5 inches) provides ample screen real estate for multitasking and content creation. The Go 2, on the other hand, is more compact (10.5 inches), making it ideal for those who prioritize portability above all else.
Display
The Surface Laptop 3 and Go 2 offer different display options to cater to varying needs. The Laptop 3 features a 13.5-inch PixelSense touchscreen display with a resolution of 2256 x 1504 pixels. This high-resolution display delivers stunning visuals and vibrant colors, making it perfect for media consumption and graphic design.
The Go 2, on the other hand, has a smaller 10.5-inch PixelSense touchscreen display with a resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels. While the resolution is not as high as the Laptop 3, the Go 2’s display still provides excellent clarity and color accuracy.
Performance
The Surface Laptop 3 and Go 2 are powered by different processors, reflecting their intended usage scenarios. The Laptop 3 offers a range of options, including Intel Core i5 and i7 processors, while the Go 2 is equipped with Intel Core m3 or Pentium Gold processors.
The Laptop 3’s more powerful processors make it better suited for demanding tasks such as video editing, programming, and heavy multitasking. The Go 2, on the other hand, is ideal for basic productivity tasks, web browsing, and email.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial consideration for hybrid workers who need their devices to last throughout the day. The Surface Laptop 3 boasts an impressive battery life of up to 11.5 hours on a single charge. This extended battery life makes it a reliable companion for those who spend long hours away from an outlet.
The Go 2 has a slightly shorter battery life of up to 10 hours on a single charge. While this is still sufficient for most users, it may fall short for those who require extended battery life.
Connectivity
The Surface Laptop 3 and Go 2 offer a comprehensive range of connectivity options. Both devices feature Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, and a USB-C port. However, the Laptop 3 has a more extensive selection of ports, including a USB-A port, a Mini DisplayPort, and a Surface Connect port.
The Go 2’s smaller size limits its port selection, but it does include a microSD card slot for expandable storage.
Price
The Surface Laptop 3 and Go 2 come in different configurations with varying prices. The Laptop 3 starts at $999, while the Go 2 starts at $399. The price difference reflects the differences in performance, display size, and battery life.
Which One is Right for You?
The Surface Laptop 3 and Go 2 are both excellent devices, but the right choice for you depends on your specific needs and budget.
- If you prioritize performance, screen real estate, and battery life: The Surface Laptop 3 is the better choice.
- If you value portability, affordability, and basic productivity capabilities: The Surface Go 2 is the ideal option.
The Verdict
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 and Go 2 are both exceptional hybrid devices that cater to different user preferences. The Laptop 3 is the more powerful and versatile choice, while the Go 2 is the ultra-portable and budget-friendly option. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific requirements and preferences.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Which device has a better display?
A: The Surface Laptop 3 has a higher-resolution display with more vibrant colors.
Q: Which device is more powerful?
A: The Surface Laptop 3 offers more powerful processors for demanding tasks.
Q: Which device has longer battery life?
A: The Surface Laptop 3 has a slightly longer battery life of up to 11.5 hours.
Q: Which device is more portable?
A: The Surface Go 2 is more portable due to its smaller size and lighter weight.
Q: Which device is more affordable?
A: The Surface Go 2 has a lower starting price of $399 compared to the Laptop 3’s starting price of $999.