What To Know
- The Surface Pro X has a claimed battery life of up to 15 hours, while the Surface Go 3 can last up to 11 hours.
- However, if you need a more powerful device with a larger screen and a more traditional x86 architecture, the Surface Go 3 is a better option.
- Can I upgrade the RAM or storage on the Surface Pro X or Go 3.
Microsoft’s Surface lineup has consistently impressed with its cutting-edge devices, and the Surface Pro X and Go 3 are no exception. These 2-in-1 laptops offer a unique blend of portability, versatility, and performance. But which one is the right choice for you? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build
The Surface Pro X boasts a sleek and ultra-thin design, weighing a mere 1.68 pounds. Its magnesium alloy chassis exudes durability and a premium feel. The Surface Go 3, on the other hand, is slightly heavier at 2.45 pounds but still offers a compact and portable form factor. Its polycarbonate construction provides a good balance of durability and affordability.
Display
The Surface Pro X features a stunning 13-inch PixelSense Flow display with a resolution of 2880 x 1920. It supports touch input and the Surface Pen, offering an immersive and responsive experience. The Surface Go 3 has a smaller 10.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1920 x 1280. While it doesn’t match the Pro X in terms of screen size and resolution, it still provides a decent viewing experience.
Performance
The Surface Pro X is powered by Microsoft’s SQ1 or SQ2 processor, which is an ARM-based chip designed for low power consumption and fanless operation. While it offers solid performance for everyday tasks, it may not be suitable for demanding applications or heavy multitasking. The Surface Go 3 comes with an Intel Core m3, Pentium Gold, or Core i3 processor, which provides a more traditional x86 architecture. This gives it a performance edge over the Pro X, especially in applications that are not optimized for ARM.
Battery Life
The Surface Pro X has a claimed battery life of up to 15 hours, while the Surface Go 3 can last up to 11 hours. In real-world usage, both devices offer impressive battery life, allowing you to work or play for extended periods without needing to plug in.
Connectivity
The Surface Pro X includes two USB-C ports, a Surface Connect port, and a microSD card reader. The Surface Go 3 has a single USB-C port, a microSD card reader, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. Both devices support Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity.
Operating System
The Surface Pro X runs on Windows 11 Pro, while the Surface Go 3 comes with Windows 11 Home. Windows 11 Pro offers some additional features and security enhancements, such as BitLocker encryption and the ability to join a domain. However, for most users, Windows 11 Home will provide a satisfactory experience.
Accessories
The Surface Pro X and Go 3 are compatible with various accessories, including the Surface Pen, Surface Keyboard, and Surface Mouse. These accessories can enhance your productivity and improve the overall user experience.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Microsoft Surface Pro X and Go 3 depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize thinness, portability, and fanless operation, the Surface Pro X is an excellent choice. However, if you need a more powerful device with a larger screen and a more traditional x86 architecture, the Surface Go 3 is a better option.
Beyond the Comparison: Making the Right Choice
To make the best decision, consider the following factors:
- Mobility: The Surface Go 3 is more portable due to its smaller size and lighter weight.
- Performance: The Surface Pro X is better suited for demanding applications and multitasking.
- Screen: The Surface Pro X has a larger and higher-resolution display.
- Battery Life: Both devices offer impressive battery life, but the Surface Pro X has a slight edge.
- Accessories: The Surface Pro X is compatible with a wider range of accessories.
- Budget: The Surface Go 3 is more affordable than the Surface Pro X.
Top Questions Asked
- Can I use the Surface Pen with both the Pro X and Go 3?
Yes, both devices support the Surface Pen.
- Which device has better audio quality?
The Surface Pro X has a better audio system with dual microphones and Dolby Atmos support.
- Can I upgrade the RAM or storage on the Surface Pro X or Go 3?
No, the RAM and storage on both devices are not user-upgradable.
- Does the Surface Pro X support LTE connectivity?
Yes, the Surface Pro X has an optional LTE model.
- Which device is more suitable for students?
The Surface Go 3 is a more affordable and portable option for students.
- Can I connect an external monitor to both devices?
Yes, both the Surface Pro X and Go 3 support external monitor connectivity via USB-C.
- Which device has a better keyboard?
The Surface Pro X’s Surface Keyboard is generally considered to be a better typing experience than the Surface Go 3’s Type Cover.
- Can I use both devices for gaming?
While both devices are not designed for gaming, they can handle casual games and light gaming.
- Which device has a better front-facing camera?
The Surface Pro X has a higher-resolution front-facing camera (5MP) than the Surface Go 3 (2MP).
- Can I charge both devices using a USB-C charger?
Yes, both the Surface Pro X and Go 3 can be charged using a USB-C charger.
