What To Know
- The Microsoft Surface Go 3 has a battery life of up to 10 hours on a single charge, which is sufficient for most users.
- The Microsoft Surface Go 3 runs on Windows 11 Home in S mode, which is a simplified version of Windows designed for security and performance.
- The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is an excellent choice for users who need a compact and portable device for basic tasks such as browsing the web, checking emails, and watching videos.
In the world of laptops, the Microsoft Surface Go 3 and the MacBook Air are two highly regarded options. Both devices offer a premium experience, but they cater to different user preferences and needs. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Microsoft Surface Go 3 and the MacBook Air, helping you make an informed decision about which device is the right choice for you.
Design and Build Quality
The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is a compact and portable device, weighing just 1.2 pounds. Its sleek design features a magnesium chassis and a kickstand that allows it to be used in various positions. The MacBook Air is also a lightweight and portable laptop, weighing 2.8 pounds. It boasts an aluminum unibody construction that gives it a premium feel and durability.
Display
The Microsoft Surface Go 3 features a 10.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels. The display offers good color accuracy and brightness, making it suitable for basic tasks such as browsing the web and watching videos. The MacBook Air, on the other hand, has a larger 13.3-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels. The Retina display provides stunning visuals with vibrant colors and sharp details, making it ideal for creative work and media consumption.
Performance
The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is powered by an Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y processor, which is a low-power CPU designed for basic tasks. It comes with 4GB or 8GB of RAM and 64GB or 128GB of eMMC storage. The MacBook Air, on the other hand, is equipped with Apple’s M1 chip, which offers significantly better performance than the Pentium Gold processor. It comes with 8GB or 16GB of RAM and 256GB or 512GB of SSD storage.
Battery Life
The Microsoft Surface Go 3 has a battery life of up to 10 hours on a single charge, which is sufficient for most users. The MacBook Air has a longer battery life of up to 18 hours, making it an excellent choice for those who need a laptop that can last all day.
Operating System
The Microsoft Surface Go 3 runs on Windows 11 Home in S mode, which is a simplified version of Windows designed for security and performance. The MacBook Air runs on macOS Monterey, which is known for its user-friendly interface and optimized performance for Apple’s hardware.
Connectivity
The Microsoft Surface Go 3 has a USB-C port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a microSD card slot. The MacBook Air has two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports, two USB-C ports, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Price
The Microsoft Surface Go 3 starts at $399 for the base model, while the MacBook Air starts at $999. The price difference can be significant depending on the configuration you choose.
Which Device is Right for You?
The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is an excellent choice for users who need a compact and portable device for basic tasks such as browsing the web, checking emails, and watching videos. It is also a good option for students and those on a budget. The MacBook Air is a more powerful and premium device that is ideal for creative professionals, students, and anyone who needs a laptop that can handle demanding tasks.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Which device has a better display?
A: The MacBook Air has a larger and higher-resolution display than the Microsoft Surface Go 3, providing a more immersive experience for creative work and media consumption.
Q: Which device has better performance?
A: The MacBook Air has significantly better performance than the Microsoft Surface Go 3, thanks to its Apple M1 chip.
Q: Which device has a longer battery life?
A: The MacBook Air has a longer battery life than the Microsoft Surface Go 3, lasting up to 18 hours on a single charge.
Q: Which device is more portable?
A: The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is more portable than the MacBook Air, weighing just 1.2 pounds compared to 2.8 pounds.
Q: Which device has more storage options?
A: The MacBook Air has more storage options than the Microsoft Surface Go 3, offering up to 512GB of SSD storage compared to 128GB of eMMC storage.
