The Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3 has been released with minimal changes compared to the Surface Laptop Go 2. The design remains nearly identical, featuring the same 3:2 screen aspect ratio and the recognizable Surface logo on the lid. The device’s dimensions and weight are also very similar. It retains its compact, lightweight, and portable form, appealing to budget-conscious shoppers, distinguishing it from Microsoft’s other Surface computers.
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3 Pricing Raises Concerns
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3, though a compact and visually appealing device, raises questions about its pricing. The base model starts at $799, while the reviewed unit, equipped with a Core i5-1235U processor, 16GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage, is priced at $999.
The pricing of the Surface Laptop Go 3 has been a source of contention since its introduction in 2022, given its limitations and issues at that price point. The new $999 configuration further exacerbates the problem. While the device has its merits, including a compact design, aesthetics, and quality speakers, its cost is hard to justify.
The prevailing sentiment is that there is a market for a product like the Surface Laptop Go 3, but not at the current price points of $800 or $1,000. Microsoft may need to reconsider the pricing strategy to better align with the device’s features and capabilities, as the current pricing has raised concerns among potential buyers.
Surface Laptop Go 3 Lacks Backlit Keyboard Despite the Price
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3, priced at a thousand dollars, curiously lacks a backlit keyboard. While the keyboard itself is praised for its clicky feel, comfortable texture, and convenient fingerprint sensor placement, the absence of backlighting raises concerns among users.
Inquiries about this design choice were posed to Microsoft during briefings, and the response was that a backlit keyboard was not a priority for the device’s intended audience. However, the price point of the Surface Laptop Go 3 is not aligned with this rationale, considering it is far from being categorized as a budget device.
Questions have been raised about the target audience for the Surface Laptop Go 3 and why backlighting was deemed non-essential at such a price point, especially when most similarly priced laptops on the market include this feature. The lack of backlighting is considered an odd and inconvenient choice for a laptop in this price range.
Microsoft’s Surface Laptop Go 3 Faces Criticism for Display Quality
The 12.4-inch screen size of Microsoft’s Surface Laptop Go 3 isn’t the primary issue, even though it might not be suitable for users with visual impairment. The 3:2 aspect ratio is well-received. However, the display’s resolution of 1536 x 1024 has been criticized for providing a grainy and pixelated experience in 2023, reminiscent of screens from decades past.
In contrast to this, modern laptops, including budget-friendly options, often feature 1080p displays. Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3 pricing is significantly higher than these alternatives, with the screen quality being a noteworthy drawback for the price.
The glare on the Surface Laptop Go 3’s display adds to the subpar user experience. The display is considered one of the key factors contributing to the overall lack of value for the device in its current pricing structure.
Limited Storage Options in Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3 offers only 256GB of storage in both of the models listed on the company’s website. While 256GB may be sufficient for some users, it’s not an ideal amount, especially for a laptop that is not user-upgradable. Gamers, in particular, may find this storage capacity inadequate.
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Comparing the Surface Laptop Go 3 to other laptops in a similar price range, alternatives offer more attractive storage options, such as the Acer Swift 3, which is priced at $899 and includes 512GB of storage and a higher-resolution, 14-inch OLED display. This discrepancy makes the Surface Laptop Go 3 less appealing in terms of storage capacity and overall value.
Microsoft Surface Go 3 Faces Processor Limitations
The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is powered by a 12th Gen Core i5 processor, placing it a generation behind the latest technology. What’s more, the 14th generation of the Core series is set to launch in December, meaning the Go 3 is not only one but soon to be two generations behind the curve.
To provide context, this laptop received lower scores on PugetBench for Premiere Pro than expected for 13-inch competitors in a similar price range. It even experienced freezing during attempts to complete a 4K export test. While the battery life is acceptable, averaging around seven and a half hours at 200 nits brightness, it fails to impress.
Microsoft’s assumption that its target audience may not be concerned about specific chip generations is questionable. The Surface Go 3 is priced in a range where adults seek primary productivity and work devices, and performance and battery life hold significance. Even if the audience doesn’t demand the latest hardware, it’s not a valid reason for Microsoft to charge premium prices for objectively outdated components. Some laptops featuring these chips have been on the market for over a year, making the Surface Go 3’s value proposition questionable.
Microsoft Surface Go 3’s Limitations and Compromises
The Microsoft Surface Go 3, while a solid device, comes with some limitations worth noting. For starters, it supports Wi-Fi 6 rather than the newer Wi-Fi 6E, and its webcam is only 720p.
In response to these criticisms, Microsoft argues that these compromises were made to enable other great features at a relatively affordable price point. However, what exactly are these features that make the Surface Go 3 stand out? Its primary strengths lie in its lightweight and portable design, aligning with the high standards of the Surface line, featuring a robust chassis, premium aesthetics, and an outstanding keyboard and touchpad. Additionally, the audio quality is a highlight, offering impressive volume and a surround sound experience.
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While some users may prioritize a premium build over features like keyboard backlighting or a more readable screen, it’s still challenging to recommend the Surface Go 3 at its $999 price point. You can easily find devices that offer a more comprehensive package within the same price range, making it crucial to weigh your priorities and preferences before making a purchase decision.
Microsoft Surface Go 3 vs. the Competition
If you’re in the market for a lightweight laptop with a premium build and a touchscreen in the $1,000 price range and don’t mind 12th-Gen chips, you have plenty of compelling options. A quick online search can lead you to laptops with brighter, higher-resolution screens, backlit keyboards, and ample storage.
For instance, the Dell XPS 13, available for as low as $949, offers a stunning FHD touchscreen, a more potent processor, and a 512GB SSD. If you appreciate Microsoft’s design aesthetics, you’re in for a treat when you explore the XPS line.
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The concept of the Laptop Go 3 is undoubtedly appealing, but this specific model involves numerous compromises. It’s not just about making a few trade-offs; it’s essentially a compromise from top to bottom. You might consider waiting until it’s on sale for a lower price or explore alternatives like the Dell XPS, which delivers an impressive package within the same budget range.
Pros and Cons of Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3
| No. | Pros | Cons |
| 1. | Compact and Portable Design: The laptop maintains its compact and lightweight design, making it highly portable and appealing to those seeking a convenient and stylish device. | Pricing Concerns: The laptop’s pricing, starting at $799 and going up to $999, has raised concerns due to its limitations and the availability of better alternatives in the same price range. |
| 2. | Quality Speakers: The laptop features quality speakers that deliver impressive audio performance. | Lack of Backlit Keyboard: Surprisingly, the laptop lacks a backlit keyboard, which is considered inconvenient at its price point. |
| 3. | Comfortable Keyboard and Touchpad: The keyboard offers a satisfying clicky feel and comfortable texture, while the touchpad is user-friendly. | Subpar Display: The 12.4-inch display with a resolution of 1536 x 1024 is considered grainy and pixelated, falling short of expectations for the price. |
| 4. | Fingerprint Sensor: The convenient placement of the fingerprint sensor enhances security and user experience. | Limited Storage: The laptop offers only 256GB of storage, which may not be sufficient for users who require more storage space, especially considering its non-upgradable nature. |
| 5. | Wi-Fi 6 Support: The laptop supports Wi-Fi 6, providing faster and more reliable wireless connectivity. | Outdated Processor: Equipped with a 12th Gen Core i5 processor, the laptop is one generation behind the latest technology, impacting its performance and value proposition. |
| 6. | Questionable Target Audience: The device’s features and pricing raise questions about its target audience and the reasoning behind certain design choices. | |
| 7. | Notable Competition: Several laptops in the same price range offer better value, including brighter screens, backlit keyboards, and higher-resolution displays, making it essential for potential buyers to explore alternatives thoroughly. |
Verdict
The Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3 retains its appealing design but raises concerns due to its pricing, which starts at $799 and goes up to $999 for a Core i5 model. Criticisms include the absence of a backlit keyboard, a subpar display, limited storage (256GB), and the use of an outdated 12th Gen Core i5 processor, impacting performance.
In a market with more compelling options, such as the Dell XPS 13, which offers better value and features at a similar price point, the Surface Laptop Go 3 may not be the best choice. It’s advisable for potential buyers to carefully consider their priorities and explore alternatives that offer a more well-rounded package.
