Microsoft Surface 3 vs. Pro 2: Which device is the better choice?

When it comes to choosing between two highly advanced devices, it can be quite challenging to determine which one is more suitable for your needs. This is the case when you are deciding between the Microsoft Surface 3 and the Pro 2. Both devices come with a plethora of features and capabilities that make them stand out from the competition, but there are some key differences that set them apart from each other. In this article, we will be exploring the differences between the Microsoft Surface 3 and the Pro 2, and what makes them unique.

Firstly, let's talk about the design. The Microsoft Surface 3 is a sleek and modern-looking device that is perfect for both work and play. It comes in a slim and lightweight design that makes it easy to carry around with you wherever you go. On the other hand, the Pro 2 is a bit bulkier and heavier, but it makes up for it in terms of its productivity features. It comes with a kickstand that allows you to prop it up on any surface and use it as a laptop, making it ideal for working on the go.

Next, let's discuss the display. The Microsoft Surface 3 comes with a 10.8-inch full HD display, which is great for watching movies or browsing the web. The Pro 2, on the other hand, comes with a 10.6-inch display that is also full HD, but it has a higher resolution than the Surface 3. This means that you get sharper images and more vibrant colors when using the Pro 2.

Now, let's move on to the performance. The Microsoft Surface 3 is powered by an Intel Atom processor, which is great for basic computing tasks such as web browsing, emailing, and document editing. However, if you need more power, then the Pro 2 is the better option. It comes with an Intel Core i5 processor, which is powerful enough to handle more demanding tasks such as video editing and gaming.

When it comes to storage, both devices come with a range of options. The Surface 3 comes with 64GB or 128GB of storage, while the Pro 2 offers 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of storage. This means that if you need more storage space, then the Pro 2 is the better option.

In terms of connectivity, both devices come with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. However, the Pro 2 also comes with a USB 3.0 port, which allows you to connect external devices such as a mouse or keyboard. This makes it ideal for those who need to work on the go.

Another key difference between the two devices is the battery life. The Microsoft Surface 3 has a battery life of up to 10 hours, while the Pro 2 can last for up to 8 hours. This means that if you need the device to last longer, then the Surface 3 is the better option.

When it comes to accessories, both devices come with a stylus pen that allows you to draw or take notes directly on the screen. However, the Pro 2 also comes with a detachable keyboard cover, which turns the device into a laptop-like experience. This makes it ideal for those who need to type for extended periods.

Finally, let's talk about the price. The Microsoft Surface 3 is the more affordable option, with prices starting at around $400. On the other hand, the Pro 2 is more expensive, with prices starting at around $800. This means that if you are on a tight budget, then the Surface 3 is the better option.

In conclusion, both the Microsoft Surface 3 and the Pro 2 are great devices that offer a range of features and capabilities. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you need a device for basic computing tasks and are on a tight budget, then the Surface 3 is the better option. However, if you need more power and productivity features, then the Pro 2 is the way to go.

The Surface Pro 2 starts at $799 for the 4GB RAM/64GB storage model and goes up to $1,799 for the 8GB RAM/512GB storage model.

The Surface 3 wins this round because it is more affordable than the Surface Pro 2.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Microsoft Surface 3 and Pro 2 are great devices with their unique features. The Surface 3 is more portable, affordable, and suitable for light tasks, while the Surface Pro 2 is more powerful, has more storage options, and suitable for heavy tasks. Therefore, it all depends on what you need the device for and your budget.

Introduction

Microsoft's Surface series of tablets has been highly popular among users who need a portable device for work or entertainment. Two of the most well-known models are the Surface Pro 2 and Surface 3, similarly designed but with significant differences in power and performance.

Display

One of the most noticeable differences between the Surface 3 and Surface Pro 2 is the display. The Surface 3 has a 10.8-inch screen with a resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels, while the Surface Pro 2 has a larger 10.6-inch display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The Surface 3's higher screen resolution means that it can display more detailed images and text, making it ideal for tasks such as reading or working on documents.

Processor

The Surface 3 comes equipped with an Intel Atom x7-Z8700 processor, which is designed for efficiency and can deliver up to 2.4 GHz of processing power. This processor is powerful enough to handle everyday tasks such as web browsing, email, and document editing. On the other hand, the Surface Pro 2 features an Intel Core i5 processor, which is more powerful and can handle heavier tasks with ease. This makes the Surface Pro 2 a better choice for users who need to run demanding applications such as video editing software or 3D modeling programs.

Storage

The Surface Pro 2 comes with a choice of 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of storage, making it ideal for those who need to store large amounts of data. In contrast, the Surface 3 is available with 64GB or 128GB of storage, which may be sufficient for most users. However, users who need to store large files such as high-resolution images or videos may find the Surface Pro 2's larger storage options more useful.

RAM

The Surface Pro 2 features 4GB or 8GB of RAM, depending on the configuration. The Surface 3, on the other hand, has 2GB or 4GB of RAM. The larger amounts of RAM ensure a smoother and more reliable performance, especially when running multiple apps at once. This makes the Surface Pro 2 a better choice for users who need to multitask or run demanding applications.

Battery Life

The Surface 3 can last up to 10 hours on a single charge, making it one of the longest-lasting tablets on the market. This makes it ideal for users who need to use their device for extended periods of time without access to a power source. The Surface Pro 2, however, has a more modest battery life of around 7-8 hours, which may not be sufficient for some users.

Ports

Both tablets come with a variety of ports, but the Surface Pro 2 has more options. It features a full-size USB 3.0 port, a mini DisplayPort, and a microSDXC card reader. The Surface 3 has a USB 3.0 port, a mini DisplayPort, and a microSD card reader. These ports allow users to connect external devices such as monitors, keyboards, and mice, making them more versatile and useful for work or entertainment.

Design

The Surface 3 is slimmer and lighter than the Surface Pro 2, making it more comfortable to carry around. It also has a built-in kickstand that can be adjusted to multiple angles, while the Surface Pro 2's kickstand only has two angles. This makes the Surface 3 a better choice for users who need a device that is easy to use on the go.

Price

The Surface 3 is more affordable than the Surface Pro 2, with prices starting at around $400 for the base model. In contrast, the Surface Pro 2 can cost anywhere from $600 to $1600, depending on the configuration. This makes the Surface 3 a better choice for budget-conscious users who still want a high-quality tablet.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between the Surface 3 and Surface Pro 2 depends on individual needs and preferences. The Surface Pro 2 offers more power and advanced features, but comes with a higher price tag. The Surface 3 may be sufficient for most users, and its affordable price makes it a popular choice. The Surface 3's longer battery life and more versatile design make it a better choice for users who need a device that is easy to use on the go, while the Surface Pro 2's larger storage options and more powerful processor make it a better choice for users who need to run demanding applications.

Microsoft Surface 3 Vs Pro 2: A Tale of Two Tablets

The Battle Begins

When it comes to tablets, Microsoft has been a major player in the game for years. With the release of the Microsoft Surface 3 and Pro 2, the competition between the two devices has been fierce. While they have many similarities, there are some key differences that set them apart from one another.

The Surface 3: A Solid Choice for Casual Users

For those who are looking for a tablet that can handle casual use, the Microsoft Surface 3 is a great option. It's lightweight, portable, and comes with a variety of features that make it a solid choice for everyday use. Here are some of the key features of the Surface 3:

10.8-inch display
Intel Atom x7 processor
64GB or 128GB storage options
Windows 10 operating system
8MP rear-facing camera and 3.5MP front-facing camera
Up to 10 hours of battery life

The Pro 2: A Powerhouse for Professionals

On the other hand, if you're a professional who needs a tablet that can handle heavy use, the Microsoft Surface Pro 2 is the better choice. It's more powerful than the Surface 3 and comes with additional features that make it a great choice for those who need to work on-the-go. Here are some of the key features of the Pro 2:

10.6-inch display
Intel Core i5 processor
128GB or 256GB storage options
Windows 8.1 operating system (upgradeable to Windows 10)
5MP rear-facing camera and 3.5MP front-facing camera
Up to 7 hours of battery life

The Verdict

So which tablet is right for you? It really depends on what you're looking for in a device. If you're a casual user who just needs a tablet for browsing the web, streaming videos, and checking email, the Surface 3 is a great choice. However, if you're a professional who needs a tablet that can handle heavy use, the Pro 2 is definitely the better option.

Ultimately, both the Microsoft Surface 3 and Pro 2 are great devices that offer a lot of value for their respective price points. Whether you're a casual user or a professional, there's a Microsoft Surface tablet out there that's perfect for you.

Microsoft Surface 3	Microsoft Surface Pro 2
10.8-inch display	10.6-inch display
Intel Atom x7 processor	Intel Core i5 processor
64GB or 128GB storage options	128GB or 256GB storage options
Windows 10 operating system	Windows 8.1 operating system (upgradeable to Windows 10)
8MP rear-facing camera and 3.5MP front-facing camera	5MP rear-facing camera and 3.5MP front-facing camera
Up to 10 hours of battery life	Up to 7 hours of battery life

Closing Message: Choosing Between Microsoft Surface 3 and Pro 2

Thank you for taking the time to read our detailed comparison between Microsoft Surface 3 and Pro 2. We hope that we have provided you with valuable insights on each device's key features, strengths, and weaknesses. As you may have gathered, both Surface models are excellent devices with unique selling points that cater to different needs and preferences.

If you are looking for a more affordable, lightweight, and portable device for basic computing tasks such as web browsing, email, document editing, and media consumption, then Microsoft Surface 3 would be an ideal choice. Its fanless design, long battery life, and LTE connectivity options make it a great companion for students, professionals, and travelers who value convenience and versatility.

On the other hand, if you require a more powerful, versatile, and productivity-oriented device that can handle demanding software and multitasking, then Microsoft Surface Pro 2 would be a better match. Its fourth-generation Intel Core i5 processor, up to 8GB of RAM, and Windows 10 Pro operating system provide a desktop-class performance in a tablet form factor. Moreover, its stylus support, full-size USB ports, and docking station options enable you to unleash your creativity and efficiency on a larger screen and keyboard setup.

Of course, choosing between Surface 3 and Pro 2 depends on your budget, usage scenario, and personal preferences. While Surface 3 starts at $499 and Pro 2 at $799, you may need to invest in additional accessories such as a keyboard cover, stylus, and docking station to maximize their potential. Therefore, it is essential to weigh the pros and cons of each option and determine which one aligns with your priorities and goals.

Another factor to consider is the age and availability of each device. Microsoft Surface 3 was released in 2015 and has since been discontinued, which means that you may have limited options to buy it new or refurbished. On the other hand, Microsoft Surface Pro 2 was launched in 2013 and has been succeeded by newer models such as Surface Pro 7 and Surface Pro X. However, you can still find it online or in second-hand markets at a reasonable price and decent condition.

Lastly, we would like to remind you that Microsoft Surface 3 and Pro 2 are not the only options in the Surface lineup or the tablet market. Microsoft offers a wide range of Surface devices with different specs, sizes, and price points, including Surface Go, Surface Book, Surface Laptop, and Surface Studio. Additionally, other brands such as Apple, Samsung, Lenovo, and HP offer competitive tablet and laptop models that may suit your needs and preferences better.

We hope that this article has helped you make an informed decision on whether to choose Microsoft Surface 3 or Pro 2 for your computing needs. We appreciate your attention and feedback and invite you to share your experience and thoughts in the comments section below. As always, stay tuned for more informative and engaging content from our blog.

Introduction

Design and Build Quality