Starting with the third generation of the laptop, you can still pick the 13.5-inch with the 3:2 aspect ratio touchscreen, but there’s the choice of a 15-inch model as well. Also, there’s a USB-C version 3.1 port that replaces the Mini Display port. The new port can be used for data transfer as well as for changing, but it doesn’t support Thunderbolt 3. As for the internals upgrade, the 13.5-inch model comes with the options of an Intel quad-core 10th generation Core i5 or Core i7 processor, while the 15-inch model is available with a custom AMD Ryzen processor with Radeon Vega 9 graphics. Microsoft says a 15-inch model will be available with Intel processors, but it’ll only be available for business customers. Also, both models have the option of 8GB or 16GB of memory and update 1TB of internal storage.
Surface Laptop 3 tech specs
Here’s the tech specs for the Surface Laptop 3 15-inch and 13.5-inch: In addition to the USB-C port, the devices also come with a USB-A port and 3.5mm headphone jack. You’ll still find the Surface Connect port, but now, it’s been updated to support fast charging. According to Microsoft, the port can charge the Surface Laptop 3 from zero to 80 percent in less than an hour. (This technology is available across the 2019 Surface line of devices.) As for battery life, the company claims up to 11.5 hours on a single charge, but take that with a grain of salt as the reality is often less than the number advertised. Although both devices include wireless connectivity, the Surface Laptop 3 13.5-inch comes with the faster and more advanced Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), while the 15-inch model ships with Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac).
Surface Laptop 3 removable hard drive
Also, these devices now have removable hard drives like the Surface Pro X. However, it’s something that Microsoft is touting as a privacy feature for organizations to make sure that data can be destroyed properly. According to the company, you should still be able to replace the hard drive for a bigger capacity, or replace a broken drive, but it’s recommended to use a specific Surface certified solid-state drive (SSD) as an off the shelf SSD is not guaranteed to work. Also, this should be handled by an authorized technician.
Alcantara and metal finish
Unlike previous generations, consumers will have the option to pick the new laptop with all-metal or Alcantara palm rest. The new option is available because the company is now recognizing that people has different taste on style, and as a result the all-metal finish model slightly heavier than one with the Alcantara finish. Either the 13.5-inch or 15-inch model offers a new keyboard that should make typing more comfortable with a full 1.33mm key travel, and now with a 20 percent larger glass trackpad. Finally, the laptop is available in four colors, including Sandstone, Matte Black, Cobalt Blue, Platinum, but the 15-inch is only available in Platinum and Matte Black.
Price and availability
Pricing starts at $999 for the 13.5-inch base model, and $1199 for the 15-inch base model. You can preorder these devices now, and they are expected to be available on October 22, 2019. All content on this site is provided with no warranties, express or implied. Use any information at your own risk. Always backup of your device and files before making any changes. Privacy policy info.
