Microsoft Surface Go 3 vs Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE
The Verdict
Microsoft Surface Go 3 targets productivity users needing Windows compatibility, while Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE prioritizes media consumption and Android ecosystem integration. Surface Go 3 runs Windows 11 with Intel dual-core processors (Pentium Gold or Core i3), making it suitable for light computing tasks, document editing, and legacy software. Its 10.5-inch PixelSense display delivers 1920x1280 resolution at 60Hz, which feels dated compared to the Tab S9 FE's sharper 2304x1440 LTPS LCD at 90Hz refresh rate on a larger 10.9-inch screen. Galaxy Tab S9 FE's Exynos 1380 processor paired with 6GB/8GB RAM handles everyday apps and streaming smoothly, though it lags the Surface Go 3 for productivity workloads. Battery performance is comparable, with Surface Go 3 offering 11 hours versus Tab S9 FE's 12 hours of video playback. Storage starts at 64GB for Surface Go 3 versus 128GB minimum on Tab S9 FE. Both support styluses and Wi-Fi 6, but only Surface Go 3 offers optional 5G/LTE connectivity. Surface Go 3 edges out for professionals needing Windows and lightweight computing; Galaxy Tab S9 FE suits those prioritizing display quality and entertainment at a similar price point. Choose Surface Go 3 if you require Windows productivity; otherwise, Tab S9 FE delivers better value with superior display and base storage.
Who Should Buy
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
Buy the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE if…
- →S Pen included at a budget-friendly price
- →IP68 rated for dust and water resistance
- →90Hz display is smoother than typical budget tablets
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
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
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE
Pros
- S Pen included at a budget-friendly price
- IP68 rated for dust and water resistance
- 90Hz display is smoother than typical budget tablets
- Expandable storage via microSD card
- Long Samsung software support commitment
Cons
- LCD instead of AMOLED at this size
- Exynos 1380 is mid-range and shows in heavy tasks
- USB-C limited to slow 2.0 speeds
- Only 6GB of RAM on the base model
- Single rear camera
Full Specifications
| Spec | Microsoft Surface Go 3 | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Windows 11 Home (S Mode) / Pro | Android 13 with One UI 5.1 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 544 g | 523 g (Wi-Fi) |
| Dimensions | 245 x 175 x 8.3 mm | 254.3 x 165.8 x 6.5 mm |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 11 hours (typical usage) | Up to ~12 hours video |
| Capacity | 28 Wh | 8000 mAh |
| Display | ||
| Size | 10.5 inches | 10.9 inches |
| Type | PixelSense IPS | LCD (LTPS TFT) |
| Resolution | 1920 x 1280 | 2304 x 1440 |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 90Hz |
| Storage | ||
| Storage options | 64 GB eMMC, 128 GB SSD | 128 GB, 256 GB |
| Expandable storage | ||
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 4 GB / 8 GB | 6 GB / 8 GB |
| Chipset | Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y / Intel Core i3-10100Y (Dual-core) | Samsung Exynos 1380 |
| Connectivity | ||
| USB | 1x USB-C | USB-C 2.0 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Cellular | ||
| Stylus Support | ||
| Cameras | ||
| Rear | — | 8 MP wide |
| Front camera | — | 12 MP ultrawide (landscape) |
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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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