Our display and performance results are only valid for the configuration we tested.

128GB PCIe NVMe SSD (8GB RAM model only).

64GB eMMC (Pentium Gold with 4GB RAM model only).

4GB LP-DDR3 1866MHz (Pentium Gold model only).

Intel UHD Graphics 615 (integrated, Core i3-10100Y, 24 execution units).

Intel UHD Graphics 615 (integrated, Pentium Gold 6500Y, 23 execution units).

Intel Core i3-10100Y (2 cores/4 threads, up to 3.90GHz).

Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y (2 cores/4 threads, up to 3.4GHz).

The CPU, memory, and storage are configurable you can see the available options in the table below. We tested the Microsoft Surface Go 3 with an Intel Core i3-10100Y CPU, integrated Intel UHD Graphics 615, 8GB of memory, and 128GB of storage. You can get a model with LTE support for on-the-go connectivity, but only on a Core i3 model with 8GB of RAM. There's a Pentium Gold model with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of eMMC storage however, it won't perform as well because 4GB of memory may cause slowdowns or stutters, and the eMMC storage is significantly slower than the 128GB SSD, causing the computer to boot up and launch apps more slowly.

You can get a model with an Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y, but it's slower than the Core i3-10100Y, so unless your workload is extremely light, it's best to get the Core i3 model for the smoothest experience. Our Microsoft Surface Go 3 has an Intel Core i3-10100Y CPU, integrated Intel UHD Graphics 615, 8GB of memory, and 128GB of storage. Unfortunately, the battery provides less than eight hours of light productivity, and its port selection is terrible as it only has a single USB-C port for wired peripherals, so you'll likely need a dock or dongles. Its Intel CPU and integrated graphics can only handle simple tasks like web browsing and video playback, so it isn't ideal for demanding workloads like gaming or video editing. The type cover keyboard provides a good typing experience, and the touchpad tracks well, but like the Surface Go 2, it's an accessory that you have to purchase separately.

It has a sharp display that gets bright enough for use in most settings however, its small size makes it hard to multitask, and the backlight flickers unless you set the brightness to maximum, which may cause eye strain for some people. It looks nearly identical to its predecessor, the Microsoft Surface Go 2 (2020), and it feels just as well built, sporting a sturdy magnesium chassis. The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is a 10.5 inch Windows tablet with a kickstand and a detachable keyboard.

Surface go 3 i3 performance