What To Know
- Both the Surface 2 and Surface 3 boast a sleek and modern design that’s synonymous with the Surface brand.
- The Surface 2 boasts up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge, while the Surface 3 can last up to 10.
- While both the Surface 2 and Surface 3 were groundbreaking devices in their time, the Surface 3 stands out as a significant leap forward.
Choosing the right tablet can feel like a daunting task, especially when you’re considering the Microsoft Surface lineup. The Microsoft Surface 2 vs 3 debate is a common one, as both devices offer compelling features and benefits. This blog post will delve into the key differences between these two Surface models, helping you make an informed decision about which one fits your needs and budget.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Surface 2 and Surface 3 boast a sleek and modern design that’s synonymous with the Surface brand. The Surface 2 features a silver magnesium alloy casing with a kickstand that can be adjusted to multiple angles. The Surface 3, on the other hand, offers a more vibrant color palette, with silver, blue, and black options. Both devices are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for on-the-go productivity.
Display
The display is a crucial aspect of any tablet, and the Surface 2 and Surface 3 don’t disappoint. The Surface 2 sports a 10.6-inch ClearType HD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, offering sharp visuals and vibrant colors. The Surface 3 ups the ante with a 10.8-inch PixelSense display, boasting a higher resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels for even greater clarity and detail. Both devices deliver excellent viewing experiences, making them perfect for web browsing, watching videos, and even enjoying creative tasks like photo editing.
Performance
Under the hood, the Surface 2 and Surface 3 pack different processors, impacting their overall performance. The Surface 2 is powered by a NVIDIA Tegra 4 processor, which provides solid performance for everyday tasks like browsing the web, checking emails, and light productivity. The Surface 3, however, leverages an Intel Atom processor, delivering significantly faster performance, especially for demanding tasks like multitasking and running resource-intensive applications.
Storage and Expandability
Both Surface models offer varying storage options to suit your needs. The Surface 2 comes in 32GB and 64GB storage variants, while the Surface 3 offers 64GB and 128GB options. Neither device features expandable storage via microSD card, so you’ll need to carefully consider your storage requirements before making a purchase.
Battery Life
Battery life is a critical factor for any mobile device, and both Surface models offer decent battery performance. The Surface 2 boasts up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge, while the Surface 3 can last up to 10.5 hours. Both devices provide ample battery life for a full day of use, even with moderate usage.
Operating System
Both the Surface 2 and Surface 3 run on Windows 8.1, offering a familiar and user-friendly experience. However, the Surface 3 can be upgraded to Windows 10, providing access to a wider range of applications and features. Windows 10 offers a more modern and intuitive interface, along with enhanced security and performance.
Price and Availability
The Surface 2 is no longer available for sale, but you can find used devices online. The Surface 3, while also discontinued, can be found at discounted prices from various retailers. When making your decision, consider the price difference between the two models and whether the additional features and performance of the Surface 3 justify the higher cost.
Which One Should You Choose?
So, which Surface model is right for you? Here’s a breakdown:
Choose the Surface 2 if:
- You’re on a tight budget.
- You need a lightweight and portable tablet for basic tasks.
- You’re comfortable with Windows 8.1.
Choose the Surface 3 if:
- You need a more powerful tablet for demanding tasks.
- You want a larger and higher-resolution display.
- You prefer a modern operating system like Windows 10.
- You’re willing to spend a bit more for enhanced features and performance.
The Surface 3: A Legacy of Innovation
While both the Surface 2 and Surface 3 were groundbreaking devices in their time, the Surface 3 stands out as a significant leap forward. It offered a compelling blend of performance, portability, and versatility, making it a popular choice for students, professionals, and creative individuals. Even though it’s no longer in production, the Surface 3 continues to be a solid option for those seeking a reliable and capable tablet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use a Surface Pen with the Surface 2 and Surface 3?
A: Yes, both the Surface 2 and Surface 3 are compatible with the Surface Pen, allowing for precise note-taking, drawing, and annotation.
Q2: Are there any accessories available for the Surface 2 and Surface 3?
A: Yes, a range of accessories is available for both devices, including keyboard covers, protective cases, and charging docks.
Q3: Can I upgrade the Surface 2 to Windows 10?
A: No, the Surface 2 is not eligible for a Windows 10 upgrade. It’s limited to Windows 8.1.
Q4: What is the difference between the Surface 2 and the Surface Pro 2?
A: The Surface 2 is a tablet-only device, while the Surface Pro 2 is a 2-in-1 device that can be used as a tablet or a laptop. The Surface Pro 2 offers more powerful hardware and a larger display.
Q5: Is the Surface 3 a good choice for gaming?
A: While the Surface 3 can handle casual games, it’s not ideal for demanding AAA titles. You’ll be better off with a dedicated gaming laptop or console for a more immersive gaming experience.
