The Surface Go premise makes sense. It’s a tablet that can run any Windows app you like. But it arrives with already dated-looking performance thanks to Intel’s lack of major progress in battery-sipping processors.

A far better webcam than almost all laptops, High-quality, ultra-portable design, Can run full Windows 11

It’s begging for more power, Price gets less appealing when you consider the must-have keyboard

The Surface Go 3 is the latest entry in Microsoft’s range of tablets, which can also be turned into a makeshift laptop when paired with the sold-separately Type Cover. It’s an appealing form factor for watching video and scrolling through social media, while also being handy for writing duties with...

Boosted performance, Windows 11 improves the tablet experience, Great design, with built-in stand, You want a Windows 11 tablet : Windows 11 is a nice step up on Windows 10 for tablets, with more touch-friendly icons making it far easier to navigate.

Minor improvements compared to Surface Go 2, Poor battery life, Type Cover costs extra, iPad is faster and has a better screen, You’re happy to go for an iPad or Chromebook : The biggest issue with the Surface Go 3 is that it doesn’t offer up an advantage over the iPad, despite Apple’s tablet seeing...

Microsoft Surface Go 3: A still-impressive design is undermined by a puny entry-level CPU that is barely fit for purpose

Excellent display, Very good speakers, Top-quality webcam

Thick screen bezels, Keyboard a costly extra, Pentium models underpowered

To find a tablet that can actually double up as an effective laptop is rather tough to find. Unless you are willing to splash the cash on the iPad Pro. The search for an Android tablet — that can also be used as a laptop —starts and ends with the rather expensive Samsung Galaxy Tab S series.

From what I can tell, Microsoft intends the Surface Go 3 to be sold to two kinds of customers: kids and IT professionals who need a tiny computer when they’re out in the field. I’m in the third category of potential customers: people who love tiny computers.

Small and light, Windows 11 looks nice, Multi-user support

Bad battery life, Keyboard cover too flimsy, Too expensive

Microsoft’s Surface Go 3 is the best budget Windows 2-in-1 tablet, but its performance and value are a bit below expectations for a third-generation product that competes against Chromebooks and the Apple iPad.

Low starting price, Lightweight, Sunny display with vivid colors, Windows Hello webcam with 1080p video support, Integrated kickstand, SD card reader for easy storage expansion, Long battery life

Keyboard cover not included, Only one USB-C port, Optional extras pump up price quickly, Disappointing computing performance, even with Core i3 upgrade

“The affordable Microsoft Surface Go 3 isn't a performer, but it still finds way to delight.”

A super-portable machine for getting bits and pieces done while on the go, but it's just not adept enough when it comes to power and battery life. That makes it difficult to see how this device represents the Surface name well, as even a decent Chromebook would be preferable.

Windows 11 so you're free to install apps and executables as you please, The webcam is genuinely decent, Kickstand design is great

Lacklustre performance and battery life, Type Cover keyboard not included, Chunky screen bezel looks dated, Only one USB-C (ditch the Surface Connect port already)

The Surface Go 3 has had a nice performance boost over its predecessor, but the meaningful upgrades end there. Compared to Microsoft’s premium 2-in-1s, there’s a lot you’re missing out on.

Premium build, Decent Core i3 performance, Great video calling experience

Poor battery life, Dated design, Can be expensive

The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is decent for school use. It's a very portable device as it's compact and lightweight, and its battery lasts a little over seven hours of light productivity, so depending on your school schedule, you might be able to get through the day on a full charge.

Compact and lightweight., Feels well-built., Display gets bright enough for use in most settings., Outstanding webcam video quality for video calls., Keyboard feels good to type on.

Small screen isn't ideal for multitasking., Low-power CPU and integrated graphics can't handle demanding workloads., Only one USB port., Small touchpad.