Review: Microsoft Surface Laptop 3: AMD Ryzen 7 vs. Intel Core i7

Conclusion

Having being hamstrung on desktop, Intel needs a win and is eager to highlight its advantages in the mobile space, where efficiency, Wi-Fi capabilities and battery life are more pressing concerns than sheer core count.

Proving that such optimisations shouldn't be overlooked, our analysis of the Surface Laptop 3 has revealed that while Microsoft's gorgeous 15in laptop is highly capable with either choice of CPU, the Intel Core i7-1065G7 ultimately has an advantage over the nascent AMD Ryzen 7 3780U Surface Edition in a couple of key areas. Performance is improved, there's support for both LPDDR4X and Wi-Fi 6, and most importantly, battery life can be extended by over 40 per cent.

These are meaningful enhancements, yet we come away feeling impressed with both configurations, as AMD has managed to put itself back in the game while having 7nm technology waiting in the wings. There are now two viable options for consumers to choose from, and more aggressive pricing may help shift the decision-making process in AMD's favour.

We don't imagine end users being disappointed with either CPU, and it is in use that Surface Laptop 3 ultimately begins to justify its premium price tag. The PixelSense display is a real joy, the speakers are convincing, the keyboard and trackpad are outstanding, and while port selection could be improved, Microsoft's design sets a high bar for others to match.

Bottom line: there will be twists and turns as competition among mobile CPUs increases in 2020, but right now, if tasked with picking just one Surface Laptop 3 to keep, it would have to be the Intel Core i7.

Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 15in
(Powered by Intel)

Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 15in
(Powered by AMD)

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The Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 is available to purchase from Scan Computers.

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