What To Know
- The Surface Go 3 i3 comes with 4GB of LPDDR3 RAM and 64GB of eMMC storage, while the Pentium model offers 8GB of LPDDR3 RAM and 128GB of eMMC storage.
- If you need a device for basic tasks such as web browsing, email, and multimedia consumption, the Pentium model offers a good balance of performance and affordability.
- However, if you plan on using the Surface Go 3 for more demanding applications, such as multitasking, video editing, or light gaming, the i3 model is a better choice.
In the competitive landscape of budget-friendly laptops, the Microsoft Surface Go 3 stands out with its versatility and affordability. Powered by either an Intel Core i3 or Pentium processor, this 2-in-1 device offers a range of options to meet different needs and budgets. This article will delve into the key differences between the Surface Go 3 i3 and Pentium variants, helping you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Processor Performance
The most significant difference between the Surface Go 3 i3 and Pentium models lies in their processors. The i3-10100Y is a dual-core, quad-thread processor with a base clock speed of 1.3 GHz and a turbo boost speed of 3.9 GHz. The Pentium Gold 6500Y, on the other hand, is a dual-core, quad-thread processor with a base clock speed of 1.1 GHz and a turbo boost speed of 3.4 GHz.
In terms of performance, the i3-10100Y offers a slight edge over the Pentium Gold 6500Y, particularly in multi-threaded applications. This is due to the i3’s higher clock speeds and larger cache memory.
Graphics and Multimedia
Both the Surface Go 3 i3 and Pentium models feature integrated Intel UHD Graphics. While they are not designed for demanding gaming or video editing, they are capable of handling basic graphics and multimedia tasks. You can expect smooth video playback, web browsing, and light image editing on both devices.
Memory and Storage
The Surface Go 3 i3 comes with 4GB of LPDDR3 RAM and 64GB of eMMC storage, while the Pentium model offers 8GB of LPDDR3 RAM and 128GB of eMMC storage. The additional RAM in the Pentium model can provide a noticeable performance boost in multitasking and memory-intensive applications.
Display and Input
Both the Surface Go 3 i3 and Pentium models feature a 10.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1920 x 1280. The display offers good color accuracy and brightness, making it suitable for everyday use and content consumption.
As for input, both devices come with a built-in Surface Pen, which allows for precise drawing and note-taking. The Surface Go 3 also supports the optional Surface Keyboard, which provides a comfortable typing experience.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial consideration for any portable device. The Surface Go 3 i3 and Pentium models are rated for up to 11 hours of battery life. However, real-world battery life may vary depending on usage patterns and settings.
Portability and Design
The Surface Go 3 is an incredibly portable device, weighing in at just 1.2 pounds. Its compact size and slim profile make it easy to carry around all day. Both the i3 and Pentium models come in a sleek platinum finish, giving them a premium look.
Price and Availability
The Surface Go 3 i3 with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage is priced at $399, while the Pentium model with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage costs $499. Both devices are widely available through Microsoft and authorized retailers.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Surface Go 3 i3 and Pentium models ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you need a device for basic tasks such as web browsing, email, and multimedia consumption, the Pentium model offers a good balance of performance and affordability.
However, if you plan on using the Surface Go 3 for more demanding applications, such as multitasking, video editing, or light gaming, the i3 model is a better choice. The additional performance and memory will provide a noticeable improvement in these scenarios.
Alternatives to Consider
If you are looking for alternatives to the Surface Go 3 i3 and Pentium models, here are a few options to consider:
- Acer Swift 1: A budget-friendly laptop with a 14-inch display and a variety of processor options.
- Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 Chromebook: A convertible Chromebook with a 13-inch display and a long battery life.
- HP Pavilion x360: A 2-in-1 laptop with a 14-inch display and a variety of configuration options.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: What is the difference between the Surface Go 3 i3 and Pentium processors?
A: The i3-10100Y offers slightly better performance than the Pentium Gold 6500Y, particularly in multi-threaded applications.
Q: Which model has more RAM and storage?
A: The Pentium model has 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, while the i3 model has 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage.
Q: Is the Surface Go 3 suitable for gaming?
A: Both the i3 and Pentium models can handle casual gaming, but they are not suitable for demanding titles.
