What to know
- In terms of memory, the Surface Pro 3 is available with 4GB or 8GB of RAM, while the Surface Pro 5 offers 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB of RAM.
- The Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 5 offer a similar set of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a USB 3.
- However, the Pro 5 has a significant advantage with the inclusion of a USB-C port, which supports faster data transfer speeds and can be used for charging.
Microsoft’s Surface Pro series has been a game-changer in the world of computing, blurring the lines between laptops and tablets. Two notable models in the lineup are the Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 5, each offering unique features and capabilities. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two devices to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Design and Build Quality
The Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 5 share a similar design philosophy, with sleek magnesium bodies and adjustable kickstands. However, the Pro 5 is slightly thinner and lighter, weighing in at just 1.7 pounds compared to the Pro 3’s 1.96 pounds. Both devices feature a 12.3-inch PixelSense display, but the Pro 5’s display is marginally brighter with a higher resolution of 2736×1824 pixels.
Performance and Hardware
The Surface Pro 3 was released in 2014, while the Surface Pro 5 came out in 2017. This difference in release dates is reflected in their hardware specifications. The Pro 3 is powered by a 4th-generation Intel Core processor, while the Pro 5 boasts a 7th-generation Intel Core processor. This generational gap translates to significant performance improvements, with the Pro 5 offering faster processing speeds and better graphics capabilities.
Storage and Memory
Both the Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 5 offer a range of storage and memory configurations. The Pro 3 is available with 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of solid-state storage, while the Pro 5 comes with 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB of storage. Both devices support expandable storage via microSD cards.
In terms of memory, the Surface Pro 3 is available with 4GB or 8GB of RAM, while the Surface Pro 5 offers 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB of RAM. More RAM allows for smoother multitasking and handling of demanding applications.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a portable device. The Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 5 have comparable battery life, with both models lasting around 9 hours on a single charge. However, the Pro 5’s improved power efficiency may provide a slight edge in certain usage scenarios.
Connectivity and Ports
The Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 5 offer a similar set of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a USB 3.0 port. However, the Pro 5 has a significant advantage with the inclusion of a USB-C port, which supports faster data transfer speeds and can be used for charging.
Operating System and Software
The Surface Pro 3 originally shipped with Windows 8.1, but it is now eligible for a free upgrade to Windows 10. The Surface Pro 5 comes pre-installed with Windows 10, which offers a more modern and user-friendly interface. Both devices are compatible with the latest Surface Pen and Surface Dial accessories.
Which One Should You Choose?
The Microsoft Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 5 are both excellent devices, but the Pro 5 offers several key advantages over its predecessor. These include improved performance, a higher-resolution display, a more compact design, and the addition of a USB-C port.
If you’re looking for the best overall experience, the Surface Pro 5 is the better choice. However, if you’re on a budget or prioritize battery life, the Surface Pro 3 is still a viable option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which device has a better camera?
A: Both the Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 5 have 5MP front-facing cameras and 8MP rear-facing cameras.
Q: Can I use the Surface Pen with both devices?
A: Yes, the Surface Pro 3 and Surface Pro 5 are both compatible with the Surface Pen.
Q: Which device is more durable?
A: Both devices have durable magnesium bodies, but the Surface Pro 5 is slightly thinner and lighter.
Q: Can I upgrade the RAM on the Surface Pro 3?
A: No, the Surface Pro 3’s RAM is soldered onto the motherboard and cannot be upgraded.
Q: Which device is better for gaming?
A: The Surface Pro 5 has a more powerful graphics processor, making it better for gaming than the Surface Pro 3.