The new Microsoft Surface 3 Laptop launched earlier this month and now the guys from iFixit have taken the device apart to find out what was inside.
The new Surface 3 Laptop comes with a 15 inch PixelSense Display with a resolution of 2256 x 1504 pixels and it features 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage.
There is also a choice of the latest Intel Core processors and it comes with a 720p web camera, USB-C and more.
Detailed Specifications and Features
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 is designed to cater to both casual users and professionals. The 15-inch PixelSense Display is not only high-resolution but also supports touch and Surface Pen input, making it versatile for various tasks such as drawing, note-taking, and presentations. The display’s 3:2 aspect ratio provides more vertical screen real estate, which is particularly useful for productivity tasks like editing documents and browsing the web.
In terms of performance, the Surface Laptop 3 offers a range of Intel Core processors, including the Intel Core i5 and i7 options. These processors are part of Intel’s 10th generation lineup, which promises improved performance and efficiency. The 8GB of RAM ensures smooth multitasking, while the 256GB SSD provides ample storage space and fast data access speeds. For those needing more power, there are configurations available with up to 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage.
Connectivity options are modern and versatile. The inclusion of a USB-C port allows for faster data transfer and charging, and it also supports external displays. Additionally, there is a USB-A port, a headphone jack, and a Surface Connect port for charging and docking. The 720p HD webcam is adequate for video calls and conferences, and it is complemented by dual far-field Studio Mics that enhance voice clarity.
Repairability and User Experience
When iFixit takes a device apart, they score the device on a scale of 1 to 10, indicating how easy the device is to repair, with 1 being very hard to repair and 10 being very easy to repair. The new Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 managed to score 5 out of 10, which means it is fairly difficult to repair. This score is an improvement over previous Surface models, which were notoriously difficult to open and service.
One of the reasons for this middling repairability score is the use of adhesive to secure components, which makes disassembly challenging. However, iFixit noted that the SSD is replaceable, which is a significant improvement over previous models where storage was soldered to the motherboard. This means users can upgrade their storage if needed, extending the device’s lifespan.
The Surface Laptop 3 also features a redesigned keyboard and trackpad. The keyboard offers a comfortable typing experience with well-spaced keys and good travel distance. The trackpad is larger than in previous models and supports precise multi-touch gestures, making navigation smoother and more intuitive.
Battery life is another strong point of the Surface Laptop 3. Microsoft claims up to 11.5 hours of typical device usage, which should be sufficient for a full day of work or study. The device also supports fast charging, allowing users to get up to 80% battery in about an hour.
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 is a well-rounded device that offers a blend of performance, portability, and premium features. While its repairability score is not the highest, it is a step in the right direction compared to its predecessors. Whether you are a student, professional, or creative, the Surface Laptop 3 has something to offer.
Source iFixit
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.