What To Know
- 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC).
- After carefully comparing the Surface Laptop 3’s hardware specifications to the Windows 11 system requirements, it’s clear that the Surface Laptop 3 does support Windows 11.
- The Surface Laptop 3 is a compatible device for Windows 11, allowing you to enjoy the latest features and improvements from Microsoft.
With the release of Windows 11, many users are eager to know if their devices will be compatible with the latest operating system. One of the most popular devices in question is the Surface Laptop 3. If you’re a proud owner of this sleek and powerful laptop, you may be wondering if it meets the requirements for Windows 11.
Exploring the System Requirements
Microsoft has outlined specific system requirements for Windows 11. These requirements include:
- Processor: 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC)
- RAM: 4 gigabytes (GB) or greater
- Storage: 64 GB or larger storage device
- System firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable
- TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0
- Graphics card: DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0 driver
- Display: High definition (720p) display that is greater than 9″ diagonally, 8 bits per color channel
Surface Laptop 3: A Closer Look
The Surface Laptop 3 was released in October 2019, making it one of the older devices in Microsoft’s Surface lineup. Despite its age, the Surface Laptop 3 boasts impressive hardware specifications.
- Processor: 10th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processor
- RAM: 8 GB or 16 GB
- Storage: 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, or 1 TB SSD
- System firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable
- TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0
- Graphics card: Intel UHD Graphics or NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650
- Display: 13.5-inch or 15-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2256 x 1504
The Verdict: Compatibility Confirmed
After carefully comparing the Surface Laptop 3’s hardware specifications to the Windows 11 system requirements, it’s clear that the Surface Laptop 3 does support Windows 11. All of the essential requirements, including TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and a compatible processor, are present in the Surface Laptop 3.
Upgrading to Windows 11
If you’re eager to upgrade your Surface Laptop 3 to Windows 11, you can follow these steps:
1. Check for updates: Go to Settings > Windows Update and click on “Check for updates.” If Windows 11 is available for your device, it will appear as an optional update.
2. Download and install: Click on “Download and install” to begin the upgrade process. Your Surface Laptop 3 will restart several times during the installation.
3. Enjoy Windows 11: Once the installation is complete, you’ll be greeted with the fresh and redesigned Windows 11 interface.
Potential Issues and Solutions
While the Surface Laptop 3 is compatible with Windows 11, some users may encounter minor issues during the upgrade process. Here are a few common issues and their potential solutions:
- Slow performance: If you notice a significant performance drop after upgrading to Windows 11, try disabling any unnecessary startup programs or services. You can also use the Task Manager to monitor resource usage and identify any programs that are consuming excessive resources.
- Battery drain: Windows 11 may initially use more battery power than Windows 10. To improve battery life, adjust your power settings, reduce screen brightness, and close any unnecessary applications.
- Display issues: If you experience any display issues, such as flickering or screen tearing, try updating your graphics drivers. You can download the latest drivers from the Microsoft website or from your device manufacturer’s website.
Enhanced Features in Windows 11
Upgrading to Windows 11 brings several new features and improvements to your Surface Laptop 3:
- Redesigned interface: Windows 11 features a sleek and modern interface with a centered taskbar and rounded corners.
- Improved multitasking: Snap Layouts and Snap Groups make it easier to organize and manage multiple windows on your screen.
- Widgets: Widgets provide quick access to important information and updates, such as weather, news, and calendar appointments.
- Auto HDR: Auto HDR automatically enhances the color and contrast of non-HDR games and apps, providing a more immersive visual experience.
- DirectStorage: DirectStorage reduces loading times in games by optimizing the transfer of data from your storage device to your graphics card.
Final Note: Embracing the Future with Windows 11
The Surface Laptop 3 is a compatible device for Windows 11, allowing you to enjoy the latest features and improvements from Microsoft. With its powerful hardware and sleek design, the Surface Laptop 3 is an ideal companion for work, study, and entertainment. By upgrading to Windows 11, you can unlock a new level of productivity and creativity on your Surface Laptop 3.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Surface Laptop 3 guaranteed to receive Windows 11 updates?
A: Microsoft has stated that the Surface Laptop 3 will receive Windows 11 updates until at least October 2025.
Q: Will my Surface Laptop 3 run Windows 11 smoothly?
A: Yes, the Surface Laptop 3 has sufficient hardware to run Windows 11 smoothly. However, performance may vary depending on the specific configuration of your device.
Q: How can I check if my Surface Laptop 3 is eligible for the Windows 11 upgrade?
A: Go to Settings > Windows Update and click on “Check for updates.” If Windows 11 is available for your device, it will appear as an optional update.
