Windows 11 unleashed on surface go: is it a game-changer or just a gimmick?

At a Glance

1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC).
Based on the specifications, both the Surface Go (2018) and Surface Go 2 (2020) meet the minimum system requirements for Windows 11.
The Surface Go is not a high-performance device, and running Windows 11 may result in slower performance compared to more powerful laptops.

With the advent of Windows 11, many users are eager to upgrade their devices to experience its latest features and enhancements. One of the most popular devices is the Microsoft Surface Go, a compact and versatile 2-in-1 laptop. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the question of whether the Surface Go can run Windows 11 and explore the nuances of compatibility.

Understanding the Minimum System Requirements

Before delving into the specific compatibility of the Surface Go, it’s crucial to understand the minimum system requirements for Windows 11. According to Microsoft, the following specifications are necessary:

Processor: 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC)
Memory: 4 gigabytes (GB) or greater
Storage: 64 GB or larger storage device
System firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable
TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0
Graphics card: DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0 driver
Display: High definition (720p) display that is greater than 9″ diagonally, 8 bits per color channel

Analyzing the Surface Go’s Specifications

Now that we have established the minimum system requirements, let’s examine the specifications of the Surface Go. The device comes in two variants:

Surface Go (2018): Intel Pentium Gold 4415Y processor, 4GB/8GB RAM, 64GB/128GB storage
Surface Go 2 (2020): Intel Core m3-8100Y processor, 4GB/8GB RAM, 64GB/128GB storage

Compatibility Assessment: Can Surface Go Run Windows 11?

Based on the specifications, both the Surface Go (2018) and Surface Go 2 (2020) meet the minimum system requirements for Windows 11. However, there are a few additional considerations to keep in mind:

Trusted Platform Module (TPM)

Both the Surface Go (2018) and Surface Go 2 (2020) come with TPM 2.0, which is a mandatory requirement for Windows 11.

Secure Boot

Both devices support Secure Boot, another essential requirement for Windows 11.

DirectX 12 Graphics

The Surface Go (2018) uses Intel UHD Graphics 615, while the Surface Go 2 (2020) uses Intel UHD Graphics 620. Both graphics cards support DirectX 12, meeting the requirement for Windows 11.

Display Size

Both the Surface Go (2018) and Surface Go 2 (2020) have 10.5-inch displays, which exceed the minimum 9-inch requirement for Windows 11.

Upgrade Considerations and Potential Issues

While the Surface Go is compatible with Windows 11, there are a few potential issues to be aware of:

Storage Space

The Surface Go comes with limited storage space, which may be insufficient for a full Windows 11 installation. Consider using an external storage device or upgrading to a model with more storage.

Performance Limitations

The Surface Go is not a high-performance device, and running Windows 11 may result in slower performance compared to more powerful laptops.

Battery Life

Windows 11 may consume more battery power than previous versions of Windows, which could impact the battery life of the Surface Go.

Upgrading to Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

If you have determined that your Surface Go is compatible with Windows 11 and you wish to upgrade, follow these steps:

1. Ensure your device is connected to a stable internet connection.
2. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
3. Click on “Check for Updates.”
4. If the Windows 11 update is available, click on “Download and Install.”

Summary: Embracing Windows 11 on Your Surface Go

In conclusion, both the Surface Go (2018) and Surface Go 2 (2020) are compatible with Windows 11. However, users should be aware of potential issues such as limited storage space, performance limitations, and reduced battery life. By following the upgrade guide and considering the nuances of compatibility, users can enjoy the latest features and enhancements of Windows 11 on their Surface Go devices.