Microsoft's budget-friendly Surface Go line of tablets is one of our favorites, being accessible to a much wider audience thanks to its low-cost of entry in a tiny package that makes it super portable and fun to use. With pricing starting at $399, it's hard to hate the Surface Go. So, here's everything you need to know about the latest Surface Go 3.
Surface Go 3: Pricing and availability
The Surface Go 3 is expected to start shipping on Oct. 5 in "many markets." The LTE models of Surface Go 3 will begin shipping in the December timeframe in the United States and Canada, and in early 2022 for other markets. U.S. pricing for each SKU is as follows:
Surface Go 3
| Category | Features |
|---|---|
| Intel Pentium GOLD 6500Y/4GB RAM/64GB eMMC/Wi-Fi | $399 |
| Intel Pentium GOLD 6500Y/4GB RAM/64GB eMMC/LTE | $499 |
| Intel Pentium GOLD 6500Y/8GB RAM/128GB SSD/Wi-Fi | $549 |
| Intel Core i3-10100Y/8GB RAM/128GB SSD/Wi-Fi | $629 |
| Intel Core i3-10100Y/8GB RAM/128GB SSD/LTE | $729 |
Surface Go 3: Specs
| Category | Surface Go 3 |
|---|---|
| OS | Windows 11 Home in S mode (consumer)Windows 11 Pro (commercial)Windows 10 Pro (commercial) |
| Processor | Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y10th Gen Intel Core i3-10100Y |
| RAM | 4GB, 8GB |
| Graphics | Intel UHD 615 |
| Storage | 64GB eMMC128GB SSD256GB SSD (commercial) |
| Display | 10.5 inches1920x1280220 PPI3:2 aspect ratioTouch |
| Ports | USB-CSurface Connect3.5mm audiomicroSD card readerNano SIM (LTE models) |
| Audio | Dual 2W stereo speakersDual far-field studio mics |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6Bluetooth 5Snapdragon X16 LTEeSIM supportNano SIM support |
| Camera | Front-facing 5MP (1080p)Rear-facing 8MP (1080p)IR camera |
| Keyboard | Type CoverNot included |
| Touchpad | Precision |
| Pen | MPP compatibleNot included |
| Security | IR cameraFirmware TPM (consumer)Hardware TPM 2.0 (commercial) |
| Battery | Up to 11 hours |
| Dimensions | 9.65 x 6.9 x 0.33 inches(245mm x 175mm x 8.3mm) |
| Weight | Wi-Fi: 1.2 pounds (544g)LTE: 1.22 pounds (533g) |
| Color | Platinum |
Surface Go 3: Features
Surface Go 3 is identical to the Surface Go 2 in every way except the processor department. That means there are no new features specific to the Surface Go 3, though you do now get more power for your money with the entry-level model, as it's now 60% more powerful than the entry-level Surface Go 2.
You can equip the Surface Go 3 with a microSD card, thanks to the built-in microSD card reader hidden under the kickstand. The 10.5-inch touchscreen can be used with your fingers or an optional Surface Pen. Surface Go 3 also supports the same Surface Go 2 and Surface Go 1 Type Covers, though Microsoft has updated the newest Surface Go Type Covers with the new Windows 11 logo on the Start button. Outside of that change, the Type Covers are identical.
The Surface Go 3 also uses the older Surface Pen design, not the Surface Slim Pen or Surface Slim Pen 2. The old Surface Pen can magnetically attach to the side of the Surface Go 3, though it will not wirelessly charge there, and the battery will need to be replaced around once a year.
Of course, the Surface Go 3 also has options for LTE, giving you access to the web from anywhere using a data plan. Those models won't be shipping until later, however.
Surface Go 3 for students
Microsoft says the Surface Go 3 is an excellent PC for students looking to complete schoolwork at home or at school. Its small size makes it a great PC for fitting into a backpack, and the optional Type Cover accessory gives the Surface Go 3 the versatility of turning into a laptop when required for writing essays or doing research.
With the optional Surface Pen, the Surface Go 3 becomes a great note-taking device. The 10.5-inch display is almost the same size as a piece of paper, so when paired with OneNote, writing with the Surface Pen feels totally natural.
You've also got a great webcam for video calls with classmates, and a headphone jack if you wish to plug in your headphones to listen to music or watch a video while you work.
Third time's the charm
If you want entry to the Surface family of devices for one of the lowest possible prices, the Surface Go 3 tablet is an option to consider. For now, it's a Wi-Fi device, though LTE options are on the way.
