Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3: A Missed Opportunity

Microsoft’s Surface Laptop Go line has always been a popular choice for students and young professionals seeking a high-quality laptop at an affordable price. However, the latest addition to the line, the Surface Laptop 3, fails to live up to its predecessors and falls short of expectations.

Both the previous models, the Surface Laptop Go and the Surface Laptop Go 2, received criticism for their low-resolution screens, average battery life, and lack of a backlit keyboard. Despite these drawbacks, their luxurious build, solid performance, and portability made them easy to recommend.

Unfortunately, the Surface Laptop 3, starting at $800, offers little in terms of upgrades. Microsoft has removed the 4-GB RAM and 128-SSD options, leaving only the choice between 8 GB or 16 GB of RAM with a 256-GB SSD, which costs $1,000. While a 12th-generation Intel chip with a Core i5 processor has been included, the lack of new features and the elimination of the cheaper options are disappointing.

Top-Tier Design

The Surface Laptop Go 3 retains its excellent design, with the top half made of anodized aluminum and the bottom half a mix of aluminum and polycarbonate resin. This combination not only looks luxurious but also provides better resistance against scratches and nicks. The available colors include Sage, Platinum, Ice Blue, and Sandstone, although the storage configurations vary depending on the chosen color.

The Surface Laptop Go 3 remains lightweight at just 2.49 pounds and compact, making it ideal for students and professionals on the go. Its size allows for easy portability and fits comfortably in bags without weighing them down. In fact, it can even fit into smaller bags like the Baggu Medium Nylon Crescent Bag, offering convenience and flexibility.

The full-size keyboard of the Laptop Go 3 stands out, providing an excellent typing experience. Unlike other Microsoft devices with mushy keys, this keyboard offers satisfying key travel and springy feedback. Whether you are typing emails, messages, or working on a review, the keyboard’s performance will not disappoint.

A Crucial Omission

However, one critical feature missing from the Laptop Go 3 is a keyboard backlight. This absence is surprising, considering the target audience of students and Gen-Z buyers who may require a laptop for late-night studying or working in dimly lit environments. Trying to locate controls in the dark can be frustrating, and it is a downside that Microsoft should have addressed.

In conclusion, the Surface Laptop Go 3 fails to live up to its predecessors and faces criticism for its lack of new features and the removal of cheaper options. While it maintains its top-tier design and offers a satisfying typing experience, the absence of a keyboard backlight is a notable drawback. With a starting price of $800, it falls short of being a compelling choice in an already competitive laptop market.