Design and Build
The Surface Laptop Go 3 continues the clean, minimalist aesthetic that Microsoft is known for. With its 12.4-inch PixelSense touchscreen, the device is compact and lightweight, weighing just 2.49 lbs (1.13 kg). This makes it one of the lightest laptops in the Surface family, ideal for people who are constantly on the go. The laptop’s slim profile and sturdy aluminum body contribute to its high-quality feel, and it is available in a variety of color options, including Ice Blue, Sandstone, and Platinum.
The keyboard is one of the key highlights of the device, offering a comfortable typing experience. The keys are well-spaced and responsive, while the precision touchpad ensures smooth navigation. While the keyboard does not offer a backlight like more premium models, its tactile feedback remains strong for a device in this price range【7】【8】.
Display
The 12.4-inch PixelSense touchscreen on the Surface Laptop Go 3 provides 1536 x 1024 resolution, offering vibrant and sharp visuals despite its relatively modest size. It supports 10-point multi-touch, making it an excellent choice for drawing, taking notes, or interacting with Windows 11’s inking features. Though the resolution might not match that of higher-end Surface models like the Surface Laptop 14 or Studio, it still offers a crisp, bright display for daily tasks, media consumption, and productivity.
The screen is bright enough for indoor use, though users working in very bright environments might find it slightly lacking compared to more expensive models. Still, for everyday use, the display offers great value and usability【7】【8】.
Performance
The Surface Laptop Go 3 is powered by Intel’s 12th Gen Core i5 processor, supported by 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of SSD storage in its base configuration. This provides a good balance between power and efficiency, handling day-to-day tasks such as word processing, web browsing, media streaming, and light photo editing with ease. The device is ideal for students and professionals who primarily use office apps, web-based tools, and video conferencing software.
While the Core i5 processor provides strong performance for most everyday tasks, it isn’t built for intensive workloads such as gaming, heavy video editing, or 3D rendering. However, this isn’t the target audience for the Surface Laptop Go 3. Those in need of a workhorse for high-performance applications will want to consider more powerful devices, like the Surface Laptop Studio or higher-end Surface Laptop models【7】.
Battery Life
The Surface Laptop Go 3 offers impressive battery life, especially considering its size. Microsoft claims up to 15 hours of battery life on a single charge, which is more than enough for a full workday of web browsing, media consumption, and light productivity. In real-world use, users can expect to get around 10-12 hours depending on workload and screen brightness. This extended battery life makes the Surface Laptop Go 3 a great option for those who need an all-day device without worrying about frequent charging【8】.
Connectivity and Ports
Despite its compact size, the Surface Laptop Go 3 is equipped with a good selection of ports, including:
- 1 USB-C port with Power Delivery
- 1 USB-A port for legacy peripherals
- 1 headphone jack
- 1 Surface Connect port for charging
- 1 Windows Hello-compatible 720p front-facing camera
Additionally, the device supports Wi-Fi 6 for fast, reliable wireless connectivity, making it a solid choice for users working from home or in shared office environments. While the lack of Thunderbolt 4 support may limit its ability to connect to high-speed peripherals or external GPUs, the provided ports should be more than sufficient for most users.
The inclusion of Windows Hello facial recognition also adds a layer of convenience and security for unlocking the laptop without needing a password【7】.
Sustainability
Microsoft has continued its focus on sustainability with the Surface Laptop Go 3. The device is designed with eco-friendly materials, including recycled aluminum and low-carbon components. The company has committed to using more sustainable manufacturing processes across its product line, which should appeal to environmentally conscious buyers【8】.
Price and Value
The Surface Laptop Go 3 is priced starting at around $799, making it one of the most affordable models in the Surface lineup. While it’s not as powerful as the premium Surface Laptop models or Surface Studio, it offers excellent value for users seeking a balance of style, portability, and performance without the high price tag. This makes it an ideal option for budget-conscious buyers, students, and professionals who don’t need the horsepower of a flagship device.
In terms of value, the Surface Laptop Go 3’s price, combined with its design, battery life, and overall performance, makes it a compelling option in the entry-level laptop market. While it lacks some of the high-end features of its more expensive counterparts, it still provides a premium user experience at a more accessible price【7】【8】.
Conclusion
The Surface Laptop Go 3 is an excellent entry-level ultrabook that offers portability, solid performance, and an attractive design at an affordable price. It excels in areas such as battery life, portability, and overall usability for everyday tasks. However, its limited performance in more demanding tasks and lack of higher-end features may deter users who need a device for intensive workloads.
For those who primarily need a reliable, lightweight laptop for school, work, and entertainment, the Surface Laptop Go 3 provides excellent value and performance without the premium price tag.