Microsoft Surface Go 3 Review – Can This 2-in-1 Really Replace a Laptop in 2025?
The Surface Go 3 is one of Microsoft’s most compact and affordable 2-in-1s — marketed as both a tablet and a laptop replacement. But with more students, remote workers, and travelers seeking lightweight productivity devices in 2025, does the Surface Go 3 really deliver as a true laptop alternative?
We break down everything you need to know in this in-depth review.
Contents
🔧 Quick Specs – Surface Go 3 (2025)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 10.5” PixelSense touchscreen, 1920 x 1280 |
| Processor | Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y / Intel Core i3 |
| RAM & Storage | 4GB / 8GB RAM, 64GB eMMC or 128–256GB SSD |
| OS | Windows 11 Home in S Mode (upgradable) |
| Battery Life | Up to 11 hours |
| Ports | USB-C, headphone jack, Surface Connect |
| Weight | 1.2 lbs (tablet only) |
| Stylus Support | Yes – Surface Pen (sold separately) |
| Keyboard | Surface Type Cover (sold separately) |
🧑💻 Laptop-Like Experience? Yes, But with Limits
✅ What Works Great:
Portability: Weighs less than most laptops. Perfect for travel or tight spaces.
Touchscreen + Pen Support: Solid note-taking experience.
Windows Compatibility: Full Windows apps, not limited like Chrome OS or iPadOS.
❌ But Consider This:
Keyboard Not Included: The Type Cover feels laptop-like, but it’s an add-on.
Performance Ceiling: Light multitasking is fine, but don’t expect fast video editing or gaming.
Small Screen: Great for portability, but not ideal as a daily workhorse.
✍️ For Note-Takers & Students? Excellent Pick
When paired with the Surface Pen, it becomes a powerful digital notebook. Apps like OneNote, Evernote, or Journal work beautifully on the PixelSense display.
If you’re a college student who takes notes by hand but still needs Microsoft Office or Zoom, this is a fantastic middle ground.
🧠 Can It Replace a Laptop?
Here’s the verdict by category:
| Use Case | Verdict |
|---|---|
| Note-taking | ✅ Excellent |
| Web browsing, YouTube | ✅ Smooth |
| Microsoft Office apps | ✅ Handles well |
| Heavy multitasking | ⚠️ Limited |
| Coding or video editing | ❌ Not recommended |
So yes — for casual productivity, Surface Go 3 can replace a basic laptop. Just don’t expect MacBook-level performance.
💡 Who Should Buy the Surface Go 3?
Students in need of a digital notebook + Word/Excel
Travelers who prioritize weight and size
Professionals looking for a secondary productivity device
🔗 Internal Links
❓FAQ
Is the Surface Go 3 good enough for students?
Yes. For note-taking, web browsing, and Office apps, it works very well. Lightweight and portable too.
Can I use Surface Go 3 like a regular laptop?
With the Type Cover and external mouse, yes. But performance-wise, it’s better suited for light tasks.
Is the Surface Pen included?
No, the stylus and keyboard are sold separately.