Microsoft Surface Go 3 vs Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4
The Verdict
Microsoft Surface Go 3 targets productivity-focused users seeking a true Windows tablet hybrid, while Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4 delivers multimedia excellence with superior specifications. Surface Go 3's 10.5-inch PixelSense display offers 1920x1280 resolution and full Windows 11 compatibility, ideal for Office work and legacy software. Its dual-core Pentium Gold/i3 processor handles light tasks adequately, though battery life reaches 11 hours. Pad 6S Pro excels with a larger 12.4-inch 3048x2032 display running 144Hz refresh rate, powered by flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 with 8-12GB RAM, enabling fluid gaming and media consumption. Its 10,000mAh battery supports 120W charging. HyperOS limits productivity software, though 50MP rear and 32MP front cameras surpass Surface Go 3. At $399 versus $699, Surface Go 3 suits Windows users and hybrid workers; Pad 6S Pro better serves content consumption and gaming enthusiasts with modern Android features and superior hardware.
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 Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4 if…
- →Flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 performance
- →Large 12.4-inch 3K 144Hz display
- →Very fast 120W wired and 50W wireless charging
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
Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4
Pros
- Flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 performance
- Large 12.4-inch 3K 144Hz display
- Very fast 120W wired and 50W wireless charging
- Premium metal build under 600 g
- High-resolution 50 MP rear and 32 MP front cameras
Cons
- No cellular variant
- No microSD card slot
- MIUI/HyperOS software can feel cluttered
- Limited official global availability
Full Specifications
| Spec | Microsoft Surface Go 3 | Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Windows 11 Home (S Mode) / Pro | HyperOS (Android 14) |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 544 g | 590 g |
| Dimensions | 245 x 175 x 8.3 mm | 278.7 x 191.6 x 6.3 mm |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 11 hours (typical usage) | 120W HyperCharge wired, 50W wireless |
| Capacity | 28 Wh | 10000 mAh |
| Display | ||
| Size | 10.5 inches | 12.4 inches |
| Type | PixelSense IPS | IPS LCD |
| Resolution | 1920 x 1280 | 3048 x 2032 |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 144Hz |
| Storage | ||
| Storage options | 64 GB eMMC, 128 GB SSD | 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB |
| Expandable storage | ||
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 4 GB / 8 GB | 8 GB / 12 GB LPDDR5X |
| Chipset | Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y / Intel Core i3-10100Y (Dual-core) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 |
| Connectivity | ||
| USB | 1x USB-C | USB-C 3.2 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 7 |
| Cellular | ||
| Stylus Support | ||
| Cameras | ||
| Rear | — | 50 MP main + 2 MP depth |
| Front camera | — | 32 MP |
Related Comparisons
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.
Explore more in tablets, see all Microsoft products or all Xiaomi products. View full details for the Microsoft Surface Go 3 or the Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4.
