Microsoft Surface Pro 6 vs Go 3: Which One Reigns Supreme? Find Out Now!
What To Know
- The Surface Pro 6 offers up to 9 hours of battery life on a single charge, which is sufficient for a full workday.
- The Surface Pro 6 is compatible with the Surface Pro Signature Type Cover, a premium keyboard with a trackpad, and the Surface Pen, a pressure-sensitive stylus for taking notes and drawing.
- The Surface Go 3 also supports the Surface Go Signature Type Cover and the Surface Pen, offering similar productivity and creative capabilities.
The Microsoft Surface line of devices has become a popular choice for many users, offering a blend of portability and performance. But with so many options available, choosing the right Surface can be a challenge. Two popular contenders are the Microsoft Surface Pro 6 and the **Microsoft Surface Go 3**.
This guide will delve into the key differences between these two devices, helping you determine which one best suits your needs and budget.
Design and Portability
Both the Surface Pro 6 and Surface Go 3 are designed for portability, but they differ in size and weight.
- Surface Pro 6: With its 12.3-inch display, the Surface Pro 6 is a larger device, weighing in at 1.7 pounds. It’s still relatively light and portable, but it might feel a bit bulky compared to the Go 3.
- Surface Go 3: The Surface Go 3 boasts a smaller 10.5-inch display and a lightweight design, weighing just 1.1 pounds. This makes it ideal for users who prioritize portability and want a device that’s easy to carry around.
Display and Visuals
The display is a crucial factor when choosing a device for work, entertainment, and creativity.
- Surface Pro 6: The Surface Pro 6 features a 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824 pixels. This high-resolution display delivers sharp, vibrant visuals, making it perfect for creative tasks and multimedia consumption.
- Surface Go 3: The Surface Go 3 comes with a 10.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels. While the resolution is lower than the Pro 6, it still offers a crisp and clear viewing experience.
Performance and Power
The power and performance of a device are essential for smooth multitasking and demanding applications.
- Surface Pro 6: The Surface Pro 6 is powered by Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, offering robust performance for demanding tasks like video editing, graphic design, and gaming.
- Surface Go 3: The Surface Go 3 is powered by Intel Pentium Gold or Core i3 processors. While it’s not as powerful as the Pro 6, it’s still capable of handling everyday tasks like browsing, email, and light productivity.
Battery Life
A long-lasting battery is essential for a portable device, allowing you to work or play without worrying about power outages.
- Surface Pro 6: The Surface Pro 6 offers up to 9 hours of battery life on a single charge, which is sufficient for a full workday.
- Surface Go 3: The Surface Go 3 boasts an impressive battery life of up to 11 hours, providing ample power for extended use.
Storage and Expandability
The amount of storage space and expandability options are important considerations for storing your files, applications, and data.
- Surface Pro 6: The Surface Pro 6 offers a range of storage options, from 128GB to 1TB, and allows for expandable storage via microSD card.
- Surface Go 3: The Surface Go 3 comes with storage options ranging from 64GB to 128GB. It also supports microSD card expansion for additional storage.
Keyboard and Stylus Support
Both the Surface Pro 6 and Surface Go 3 offer optional keyboard and stylus support, enhancing productivity and creativity.
- Surface Pro 6: The Surface Pro 6 is compatible with the Surface Pro Signature Type Cover, a premium keyboard with a trackpad, and the Surface Pen, a pressure-sensitive stylus for taking notes and drawing.
- Surface Go 3: The Surface Go 3 also supports the Surface Go Signature Type Cover and the Surface Pen, offering similar productivity and creative capabilities.
Price and Availability
The price is a significant factor for many users.
- Surface Pro 6: The Surface Pro 6 is a more expensive option, starting at around $800 for the base model.
- Surface Go 3: The Surface Go 3 is more budget-friendly, starting at around $400 for the base model.
Choosing the Right Surface for You
Ultimately, choosing between the Surface Pro 6 and Surface Go 3 depends on your individual needs and budget.
Choose the Surface Pro 6 if you:
- Need a powerful device for demanding tasks.
- Prefer a larger display for creative work.
- Value a premium design and build quality.
- Are willing to spend more for a high-performance device.
Choose the Surface Go 3 if you:
- Primarily use your device for everyday tasks.
- Prioritize portability and lightweight design.
- Have a limited budget.
- Value a long battery life.
The Verdict: Beyond the Surface
Both the Surface Pro 6 and Surface Go 3 offer unique advantages, depending on your specific needs. The Surface Pro 6 is a powerful machine for demanding tasks, while the Surface Go 3 is a portable and budget-friendly option.
Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual priorities. Consider your budget, the tasks you’ll be performing, and the features that are most important to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I upgrade the RAM or storage on the Surface Pro 6 or Go 3?
A: The RAM and storage are soldered onto the motherboard, so they cannot be upgraded.
Q: Which Surface is better for gaming?
A: The Surface Pro 6 offers a more powerful processor and better graphics capabilities, making it a better choice for gaming.
Q: Can I use the Surface Pen with both devices?
A: Yes, the Surface Pen is compatible with both the Surface Pro 6 and Surface Go 3.
Q: What is the difference between the Surface Go 3 and the Surface Go 3 Plus?
A: The Surface Go 3 Plus features a slightly better processor and a larger storage capacity compared to the standard Surface Go 3.
Q: Is the Surface Pro 6 still a good choice in 2023?
A: While the Surface Pro 6 is a capable device, newer models like the Surface Pro 8 offer significant performance and feature improvements. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option, the Surface Pro 6 might still be a good choice.