4Gb m3 vs 8Gb i5

[mr_fomo]

Just did a quick test on the worst-case scenario I expect my m3 SP4 to be able to handle at the same time:
Large spreadsheet, 200 + pages word document with tons, outlook loaded, a few Edge tabs open and two music/video streams (high quality) simultaneously. Memory use maxed out a around 3.1 - 3.2 GB, so I'm cool with that :grin:

 

[zkyevolved]

In my use with the SP2 I was constantly hitting the 4GB RAM wall. Sure, I could manage with it, but it was uncomfortable at times. As for my 8GB SP4, I haven't had much time to game with it yet, but I've found that the fan almost never turns on when it's unplugged. When plugged in, it turns on rather frequently, but it doesn't bother me. It's far less loud than my desktop fan. Boltman seems to think that nobody in the world needs anymore more than an SP4 m3, he is quite happy with his, but I know for my own use, while I might have gotten away with using the m3 processor, 8GB was mandatory.

I think for most people the m3 is more than enough. It's quite powerful. I know I could get away with the majority of my usage with the m3, but then there are those times I need the power. So I opted for the i5. I couldn't afford to spend more on the 8gb model, sadly. But from my usage, the memory was more than enough before.

 

[slysy]

Well, I bought the M3 for now. Seems nice so far but I'm not sure about the 12inch form factor. In landscape mode it's hard to reach the middle while holding the tablet. Going to try it out a big more as I have a decent returns period, but wondering if I should've gone for Surface 3 non-pro

 

[TechoGeek]

They kept the specs lower to offer it at $899 ($100 more than SP3i3) ..no one will buy a SP4 if the starting point is $1399 without a keyboard!..what happens Apple perfected...they offer a 16GB iphone at $599/699 yet no one in their right mind would be stuck with 16GB (used to be 8GB!) especially with the magic Harry Potter photo movement stuff that takes a picture AND a video for every picture..its strictly so that they can sell that at a lower price point. But some a are stupid and buy it..others spend the $1000 Apple wants .

Microsoft took a page out of that book with the M3 however they are not Apple and if the put the word PRO on a device they cannot make it un-PRO as the "productivity company" so they did the next best thing... experiment with fan less design and make small quantities of he M3 while promoting for the masses the i5 and rely on human "need to have the best" psychology to loosen the purse strings for the extra $500 and a fan.

Smart buyers never ever go with the crowd..the crowd is susceptible to group think (most people are stupid) not actually making a decision that is smart. M3 buyers are the smart ones.

I drive a Hyundai too...FYI and used that 100000 warranty on a new transmission at 75K..same thing. Be smart. Get what you need not what others get.

I don't spend $1000 lightly...I did for the reason I need a new laptop as mine was wearing out AND wanted to be the one to review the M3 for the world. Since someone had to, glad I did.

Just because you can afford something does not me anyone should waste money...spend on what YOU NEED, not what others say is better. They are broke. Chasing the latest Tech anything is a sure way to end up disappointed and broke. My TV after 10 years with a WEGA XBR..a SHARP 1080P at $349... great PQ. Added my Wirless Miracast and a Sony Streamer...done. No need to spend north of $1000 on anything other than your home, major appliances or a car.

I'm happy with my no mass appeal S3 (non pro) for now.
I wouldn't gain much going to a M3 as it exist today. $300 saved.

Thanks, your posts have made me feel good about my purchase. I jumped on the deal Costco has running on the non pro Surface 3 (128/ 4GB version which includes the pen and type cover for 599) but was then wondering if I should move up to the SP4 since most sites are recommending the SP3 and SP4. I would defintely have purchased the M3 model if I did get the SP4, I too have a hatred of fans. The fact that I have a desktop computer means I do not need any more than what the Surface 3 will provide.....I'm a Hyundai driver too Boltman

 

[WildKarrde]

I actually quite like the Surface 3. If I didn't use my tablet for CAD design I might have gotten one.