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Linus Tech Tips

Linus Tech Tips

Microsoft Surface Pro 3

Video thumbnail for Microsoft Surface Pro 3 by Linus Tech Tips

Microsoft Surface Pro 3

Linus Tech Tips

Linus Tech Tips

Video thumbnail for Microsoft Surface Pro 3 review | Engadget by Engadget

Microsoft Surface Pro 3 review | Engadget

Engadget

Engadget

Video thumbnail for Surface Pro 3 review by The Verge

Surface Pro 3 review

The Verge

The Verge

Video thumbnail for Microsoft Surface Pro 3 In depth Review by MobileTechReview

Microsoft Surface Pro 3 In depth Review

MobileTechReview

MobileTechReview

Video thumbnail for REVIEW: Surface Pro 3 in 2023 - Still Usable? - Now Budget 2-in-1 Tablet PC! by OSReviews

REVIEW: Surface Pro 3 in 2023 - Still Usable? - Now Budget 2-in-1 Tablet PC!

OSReviews

OSReviews

Video thumbnail for Microsoft Surface Pro 3 Review by The Wall Street Journal

Microsoft Surface Pro 3 Review

The Wall Street Journal

The Wall Street Journal

Reviews

PROS

  • Lightweight design ideal for on-the-go use

  • High-resolution 12-inch PixelSense display with vibrant colors

  • Solid build with magnesium alloy body

  • Handles multitasking and resource-intensive applications smoothly

  • Compatible with a wide range of peripherals via USB 3.0 hub

  • Functions well as a Linux machine

  • Long battery life compared to similar devices from the same era

  • Good performance with Intel Core i5 and i7 options

  • Versatile for both work and creative applications

  • Affordable price for its features and performance

CONS

  • Common issues with the 5GHz wireless band

  • Refurbished units may not meet "like new" quality expectations

  • Battery cycles often not fully reset in refurbished models

  • Physical wear and cleanliness issues in some refurbished units

  • Prone to screen cracking if not handled carefully

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Microsoft Surface Pro 3.

User experience

  • Owners report 10+ years of usage, highlighting durability despite touch and charging issues.

    Source
  • Replacing the battery in a Surface Pro 6 can extend its life significantly, with some reporting up to 6-9 hours after replacement.

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  • Pro 6 devices tend to run hot during tasks beyond basic note-taking, impacting comfort and performance.

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Comparisons

  • For a portable note-taking device, a Surface Go or a tablet like an iPad may provide better battery life and portability than older Surface Pro models.

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  • Surface Pro 3 with an i7 has been noted for overheating issues, especially when running basic tasks.

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Features and functionality

  • The proprietary charger on the Surface Pro models is disliked for its lack of convenience compared to modern USB-C charging options.

    Source
  • Some units can last around 4.5 hours on battery, depending on usage patterns.

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  • The Surface Pro 3's 12-inch screen size makes it a suitable alternative to Android tablets for browsing and email.

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Software and compatibility

  • Owners successfully install Windows 11 by bypassing official requirements.

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  • It's possible to unofficially install Windows 11 using Rufus on Surface Pro 3, though official support isn't available.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Linux dual-boot is possible for those wanting to experiment beyond Windows.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Replacing thermal paste can help manage fan noise and improve cooling efficiency.

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  • Owners may face driver issues requiring operating system reinstallation; a clean install might cause malfunctions.

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Use cases and applications

  • Surface Pro 3 can be effective for remote access to home PCs for software or game development.

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  • It serves well as a docked desktop replacement with a monitor and keyboard setup.

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Build quality

  • Older Surface Pro models, like the Pro 3, may have battery and fan issues, potentially affecting performance and longevity.

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Value and pricing

  • Surface Pro 3 units are available on eBay for $50-$100, making it a budget-friendly 2-in-1 option.

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Critic Reviews

Microsoft Surface Pro 3 review | TechRadar

techradar.com

The Microsoft Surface Pro 3 stands out as a testament to the potential of hybrid devices, merging tablet and laptop functionalities with finesse. Its sharp display, elegant design, and significant Type Cover upgrade make it a compelling choice for those seeking versatility in mobile computing. However, it's not without flaws—battery life is merely adequate, and it can run hot during intensive tasks. The optional Type Cover may be a drawback for some, considering its necessity for full laptop replacement. Despite these issues, the Surface Pro 3 remains a strong contender in the hybrid market, showcasing Microsoft's innovative vision.

positive

Final Words - Microsoft Surface Pro 3 Review

anandtech.com

The Microsoft Surface Pro 3 is a standout in the hybrid device market, excelling with its enhanced design and improved "lapability" over predecessors. As both a laptop and tablet, it shines with a larger, more comfortable display and a versatile kickstand. The new Type Cover and pen enhance its usability, although Windows 8.1 still lags as a tablet OS, causing touch interactions to fall short. Performance dips due to thermal constraints may deter power users, yet it strikes a balance for those seeking a unified device. If you're intrigued by hybrids, this is the best Surface yet.

positive

Microsoft Surface Pro 3 Review: Photography and Writing

photographylife.com

The Microsoft Surface Pro 3 impresses with its sleek design and versatility, adeptly functioning as both a tablet and a laptop. Its 12-inch high-resolution screen and lightweight build make it ideal for on-the-go tasks like writing and client presentations. While the full Windows OS offers compatibility with professional software like Lightroom and Photoshop, some may find the limited port selection and high price points—ranging from $800 to nearly $2,000—a drawback. Battery life is commendable, though issues like screen banding and bezel size could be improved. Overall, this premium device stands out for its portability and performance, making it a solid choice for creatives and professionals.

positive

Microsoft Surface Pro 3 review - The Verge

theverge.com

The Microsoft Surface Pro 3 aims to replace your laptop with its sleek, engineering marvel of a design, featuring a high-res screen and improved kickstand. While its hardware impresses, offering a full-powered computer in a thin package, the Surface Pro 3 falls short in some areas, including average battery life and software bugs. Windows 8.1's identity crisis remains, complicating the user experience with its dual interfaces. The Type Cover's keyboard and trackpad still don't match the convenience of traditional laptops, and the device's hefty size may deter tablet purists. Despite these drawbacks, it stands as a competitive hybrid, contingent on users' acceptance of Windows and Microsoft's ecosystem.

Microsoft Surface Pro 3 Review: In Defense of the 2-in-1 PC | TIME

time.com

The Surface Pro 3 is a commendable attempt at a 2-in-1 device, offering significant improvements over its predecessor with a larger screen, better build, and enhanced functionality. Its versatility as a hybrid device makes it an attractive option for those juggling multiple tasks, providing a compelling blend of tablet and laptop features. However, software bugs and glitches, ranging from Wi-Fi issues to touch response problems, hinder its potential. Despite these setbacks, its hardware prowess and unique utility make it a worthwhile contender for those seeking an all-in-one solution, albeit with patience for occasional software frustrations.

Microsoft Surface Pro 3 review: The best Surface yet is more than a tablet, less than a laptop - CNET

cnet.com

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings

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cthreeaudio

You'd be surprised

I run Everything on my Surface Pro 3. Core i7 4650, 8GB DDR4 memory, 256GB SSHDD. With a USB 3.0 hub, I hook my Maschine MKII, M-Audio Oxygen 25, NI Komplete 6 USB Audio interface, 2X dual bay SATA/SSD docks, 1 Seagate 1TB USB SSHDD, & a wireless mouse and keyboard. I run Maschine 2.2, Reaper, Ableton Live 9, and occasionally Audacity. It gets a little warm, but an 8-core Haswell in this frame is expected to do so.

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