The third installment in Microsoft’s affordable 2-in-1 Windows devices finally hit the global stage. The Surface Go 3 displays Microsoft’s recent attempt to feature a promising device that efficiently serves the audience’s needs without breaking the budget.
But is it successful in justifying the cause? Well, the article holds down the answers to every query that might be crossing your minds right now. Find out what’s new in this tablet compared to its predecessor Microsoft Surface Go 2. Let’s dive deeper.
What’s New?
With the introduction of the new generation 2 in 1 tablet, the first thing that we intend to look for is evidently the changes. Well, sadly, there aren’t many. CPU, Processor, and OS are the only sections that see a notable upgrade. A 10th Gen i3 processor has replaced the previously available 8th Gen Inter m3 chipset. Which has made the tablet significantly faster. Also, with Microsoft Surface Go 3, you’ll get the latest Windows 11 S OS. The new operating system gives a new look and feels like you’re using a completely different tablet compared to the predecessor.
In addition to the performance capsule, the camera is one thing about the Microsoft Surface Go 3 that needs to have your attention. It is clear, this time around, the company has put in efforts to enhance the video calling experience by bringing a truly amazing webcam.
Product Specifications Compared to Microsoft Surface Go 2
|
Device |
Microsoft Surface Go 3 |
Microsoft Surface Go 2 |
|
Dimensions |
9.65 x 6.9 x 0.33 inches |
9.65 x 6.9 x 0.33 inches |
|
Weight |
1.2 pounds (544g) |
1.2 pounds (544g) |
|
Screen |
10.5 inches |
10.5 inches |
|
Operating System |
Windows 11 S |
Windows 10 S |
|
Cameras |
Rear: 8MP |
Rear: 8MP |
|
Battery |
Up to 5-6 Hours |
Up to 5-6 Hours |
|
RAM |
4GB/8GB |
4GB/8GB |
|
Storage |
64/128 GB |
64/128 GB |
| Processor | 10th gen Intel Core i3-10100Y | 8th Intel Core m3-8100Y |
Microsoft Surface Go 3 Vs. Microsoft Surface Go 2
Design
To start off the head-to-head comparison between the recently launched Microsoft Surface Go 3 with the predecessor Surface Go 2, let’s walk through the overall design. From dimensions to weight, there is hardly anything that sets both devices apart. No matter if we consider the Surface Go 2 or the Surface Go 3, both weigh somewhere around 544gms, and talking about dimensions, both bear the same numbers, i.e., 245 x 175 x 8.3 mm.
Display
Just like design, the display hasn’t seen changes either with the upgrade in generations. The Surface Go 3 or the Surface Go 2 feature a 10.5-inch Pixel Sense display operating at 1920 x 1280 pixel resolution. Moreover, the devices are identical with 220 PPI and the support for 10 point multitouch.
OS and Software
The availability of Windows 11 in the Microsoft Surface Go 3 was pretty evident from the time it was announced. While the predecessor is still operating on Windows 10 alongside the stripped-back S mode, the new 2-in-1 device ships in Windows 11, offering a brand-new look and feel from the inside. The upgraded OS also makes room for a number of features that include Xbox Cloud Gaming and more.
Hardware
CPU is one of the few areas where Microsoft has really worked on this year before releasing the Surface Go 3. Speaking of the Microsoft Surface Go 2, the devices were powered by an 8th Gen Intel Core m3 processor. Luckily, Go 3 sees enhancement of some sort. The device bags a dual-core 10th Gen Intel i3 processor, promising to offer better performance than ever before.
Apart from that, the RAM and ROM options are pretty much identical. Both the device lets users choose from a 4GB or 8GB variant. The number for internal memory is 64GB and 128GB.
Ports and Connectivity
Both Surface Go 3 and Surface Go 2 bag’s similar sets of ports. From one USB C to a 3.5mm headphone jack, from the Surface connect port to the surface type cover port and MicroSDXC card reader, connectivity in both the devices sit under the same roof.
To put it in simple words, the Microsoft Surface Go 3 feels like a standard upgraded version of the predecessor, Go2. The former shelters less radical revises that can actually serve as a deal-breaker. Apart from the 10th Gen chipset and the introduction of the Windows 11 operating system, both the Surface Go2 and the Surface Go 3 are alike in every dimension.
Continue Reading: Our full Surface Go 2 vs 3 comparison
Pros of Surface Go 3
- Promising Windows Hello Webcam with support for 1080p video shooting
- Amazing pair of speakers
- Lightweight and portable
- Excellent build and design
- Good display
- Cloud Gaming (Allows you to play Xbox games)
Cons of Surface Go 3
- Although budget-friendly, with all the accessories the overall package can get really expensive
- Weak Battery
Is Microsoft Surface Go 3 For You?
Are you confused over the decision to buy the Microsoft Surface Go 3 or not? In that case, the following scenarios will help you end the trouble with the appropriate settlement. We always encourage our readers to make a list of the things you want to use your tablet for, so it’s easier to find the best fit.
Buy If
- For Kids and Families
With the new Windows 11 safety limits the kids have the freedom the explore online oceans while parents have a piece of mind. There’s a family safety widget on the tablet that allows you to monitor activity on the tablets, time usage, etc. It’s not recommended for the kids to use tablets for more than an hour a day. It also has kids mode, so they can browse the web securely. The screen is bright and colorful and you can enjoy a movie together with your family on Microsoft Surface Go 3.
- Entertainment & lightweight gaming
Right from the offset, the Microsoft Surface Go 3 is an affordable device and quite capable. You can do some gaming, you won’t be able to enjoy the high-performing games on the best possible specs, but you can definitely enjoy some lightweight games. Let’s not forget about cloud gaming. You can connect your Xbox to your tablet and stream games to it.
- Lightweight Tasks is Your Every Day Need
Let’s get it straight; the device doesn’t hold the shape to render heavy tasks. But at the same time, there is no denying the fact that the overall build can let you deal with lightweight everyday activities effortlessly.
- You Need to Do Tons of Video Calls
One of the best things about the Microsoft Surface Go 3 is the available webcam and microphone. Specifically keeping the price under consideration, the quality is unparalleled. Having said that, if you need a device that can let your video calls look and sound great, look for further.
- School & College
More and more students choose tablets as their primary device for school because they are more portable and they can fill all the functions a laptop can. It’s an excellent device for note-taking with a keyboard & stylus, whichever you prefer. You can do your research, you can connect with other students, attend video calls, etc. We wouldn’t recommend this specific tablet if you’re planning to edit videos, photos, or any other tasks that require high processing power.
Don’t Buy If
- You’re After Heavy Performance
The 10th Gen i3 chipset is a fairly old processor. It is pretty much evident for you to be aware that the Microsoft Go 3 is in no manner designed to perform activities like high-end video editing, next-level gaming, or anything similar. Thus, if you’re planning to get a device that can actually serve the needs of heavy-duty rendering, it is recommended to look for other options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Play Games on Microsoft Surface Go 3?
Absolutely, you can enjoy games on Microsoft Surface Go 3. There’s also cloud gaming available on Microsoft Tablets, which allows you to connect with your Xbox and stream games to your tablet. This feature comes in handy if you travel a lot and can’t live without your Xbox that long. Overall, it’s a good device for lightweight games, but in order to play some high-demanding games on the best specs, you would need to look for another tablet with better processing powers.
Can I call from Microsoft Surface Go 3?
It is not possible to use the Microsoft Surface Go 3 and make calls like regular smartphones. But of course, you can facetime your friends & family through Messenger, WhatsApp, Skype, Zoom, Google Hangouts, etc. The camera is great, the display is great and the sound as well, so the calls are enjoyable.
Is Microsoft Surface Go 3 a laptop?
It’s more like a 2-in-1 hybrid laptop. You can turn the device into a laptop and you can also turn the device into a tablet. You have an attachable keyboard that pretty much turns your device into a laptop, it has all the functionality of a laptop. You don’t have to worry it won’t be able to do something. It’s designed for people that don’t want a conventional laptop. Just a tablet with a keyboard and a stylus pen, that can get the job done.
Verdict
The refreshing new look and feel of Windows 11 alongside a brilliant HD webcam are among the few positives that might make you turn your head towards the newly launched Microsoft Surface 3. Sadly, there is nothing more to pleasantly shout about. Yes, Microsoft has tried reflecting its attempt to fit in a premium device within a tight budget, but no real improvements from its predecessor don’t help conclude a profitable deal. Still, if you’ve been picturing yourself with a 2-in-1 portable solution from Microsoft without breaking the budget, choosing the Surface Go 3 might be a suitable choice.
Overall it’s a good tablet, that can be used for many purposes – school, kids, movies, video calls, gaming, writing, etc. The new Windows 11 gave the device a fresh look. Maybe not much has changed from the outside and also, not that much on the inside, but the updated OS made the tablet refreshing.
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