We’re reviewing the premium Go 3 here, which also comes with 8GB of memory and a 128GB SSD.

A CPU bump from an Intel Core m3 in the top-end Surface Go 2 to an Intel Core i3 in the uppermost Surface Go 3 configuration doesn’t help the Go 3 perform meaningfully better than its predecessor, let alone match the power of the Apple A14 silicon in the iPad Air. But the Surface Go 3’s uninspired computing experience robs it of some of the advantages of the more expensive Pro 8 flagship. This unique combination is what makes the Surface Pro 8 (and other premium tablets like it) such a compelling do-it-all device. While it’s true that Chromebook tablets and the iPad can also be attached to external keyboards, the Surface Go 3’s advantage is that it runs a full version of Windows 11, not the internet- and app-centric iPadOS or Chrome OS. Like the more expensive Microsoft Surface Pro 8 tablet, the Surface Go 3’s functionality skyrockets when you magnetically attach the optional Surface Type Cover, which adds a keyboard and touchpad to transform the tablet into something that can pass for a laptop. That distinguishes it from most other 2-in-1 convertible laptops, which typically weigh at least twice as much and have permanently-attached keyboards that make them less natural to use as true tablets. Weighing just 1.2 pounds and measuring 0.33 by 9.7 by 6.9 inches (HWD), it’s equally at home in your hands or propped up on a table. It’s a rectangular touch-screen tablet with an integrated kickstand. The Surface Go 3 follows a familiar design formula. Plus, our Core i3-based tester comes in at $629.99, and that's without Microsoft's compatible keyboard accessory, which adds at least another Benjamin. But with few improvements over its predecessor and computing performance that remains lackluster, the Surface Go 3 is also a slightly disappointing third-generation revision to Microsoft’s most affordable tablet, given the advances we're seeing on other platforms. A compelling starting price of $399.99, coupled with the refined styling and high-quality construction we’ve come to expect from the Surface product family, make this the best inexpensive Windows-powered 2-in-1 tablet you can buy. Best Hosted Endpoint Protection and Security SoftwareĪlthough it runs Windows 11 and can be used with an optional keyboard, the Microsoft Surface Go 3 is a tablet designed to compete with Chromebooks and the Apple iPad, not traditional laptops.

Surface book go 3