Lenovo Tab P11 (2nd Gen) vs Microsoft Surface Go 3
The Verdict
Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2 and Microsoft Surface Go 3 serve different purposes despite both being tablets. Lenovo's 11.5-inch display offers more screen real estate with 120Hz refresh rate, making it better for content consumption and light productivity. Its MediaTek Helio G99 processor handles Android apps efficiently, while the 7700 mAh battery delivers solid 10-hour endurance. However, Surface Go 3's Windows 11 platform provides genuine laptop-class software compatibility, including full desktop applications and file management that Android cannot match. Its 10.5-inch PixelSense display runs at 60Hz but maintains sharper text clarity for productivity work. Intel's Pentium Gold or Core i3 processors outperform the Helio G99 for computing tasks, though they consume more power. At $229, the Lenovo excels as an entertainment and light browsing device, especially with stylus support and expandable storage. Surface Go 3's $399 price reflects its productivity capabilities and optional cellular connectivity. Choose Lenovo for media consumption on a budget; select Surface Go 3 if you need Windows software and serious productivity work.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Lenovo Tab P11 (2nd Gen) if…
- →120Hz display is very smooth for scrolling and media at this price
- →Optional stylus and keyboard accessories for productivity
- →MicroSD card expansion for additional storage
Buy the Microsoft Surface Go 3 if…
- →Most portable Windows device at 544 g with built-in kickstand
- →Full Windows 11 runs desktop apps not available on iPad or Android
- →Affordable entry into the Surface ecosystem at $399
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Lenovo Tab P11 (2nd Gen)
Pros
- 120Hz display is very smooth for scrolling and media at this price
- Optional stylus and keyboard accessories for productivity
- MicroSD card expansion for additional storage
- Quad speakers with Dolby Atmos for good audio
- Lightweight at 520 g for comfortable handheld use
Cons
- Helio G99 is a low-power chip — struggles with heavy apps
- 4 GB base RAM is tight for multitasking
- IPS LCD has limited contrast compared to AMOLED options
- USB-C 2.0 limits data transfer speeds
- Camera quality is poor for anything beyond video calls
Microsoft Surface Go 3
Pros
- Most portable Windows device at 544 g with built-in kickstand
- Full Windows 11 runs desktop apps not available on iPad or Android
- Affordable entry into the Surface ecosystem at $399
- LTE option for always-connected productivity
- MicroSD expansion and headphone jack included
Cons
- Pentium/i3 processors struggle with anything beyond light tasks
- 64 GB eMMC base storage is painfully slow and limited
- 10.5" screen feels cramped for Windows desktop apps
- 4 GB RAM base model is barely usable with modern Windows
- Type Cover and pen still sold separately
Full Specifications
| Spec | Lenovo Tab P11 (2nd Gen) | Microsoft Surface Go 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Android 13 | Windows 11 Home (S Mode) / Pro |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 520 g | 544 g |
| Dimensions | 269.6 x 173.9 x 7.45 mm | 245 x 175 x 8.3 mm |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours | Up to 11 hours (typical usage) |
| Capacity | 7700 mAh | 28 Wh |
| Display | ||
| Size | 11.5 inches | 10.5 inches |
| Type | IPS LCD | PixelSense IPS |
| Resolution | 2000 x 1200 | 1920 x 1280 |
| Refresh rate | 120Hz | 60Hz |
| Storage | ||
| Storage options | 64 GB, 128 GB | 64 GB eMMC, 128 GB SSD |
| Expandable storage | ||
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 4 GB / 6 GB | 4 GB / 8 GB |
| Chipset | MediaTek Helio G99 | Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y / Intel Core i3-10100Y (Dual-core) |
| Connectivity | ||
| USB | USB-C 2.0 | 1x USB-C |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Cellular | ||
| Stylus Support | ||
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This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
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