Essential Information
- In the realm of affordable and portable computing devices, the HP Chromebook and Microsoft Surface Go stand out as popular choices.
- Both the HP Chromebook and Microsoft Surface Go offer limited storage space, with base models starting at 32GB or 64GB of eMMC storage.
- The HP Chromebook has a slight edge in battery life, with models capable of lasting up to 12 hours on a single charge.
In the realm of affordable and portable computing devices, the HP Chromebook and Microsoft Surface Go stand out as popular choices. Both offer a blend of functionality and value, but which one is the right fit for your specific needs? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two devices to help you make an informed decision.
Operating System
HP Chromebook: Chrome OS
Microsoft Surface Go: Windows 10
Chrome OS is a lightweight and cloud-based operating system that prioritizes simplicity and security. It relies heavily on web apps and cloud storage, making it ideal for basic tasks such as browsing the internet, sending emails, and editing documents.
Windows 10, on the other hand, is a full-fledged operating system that offers a wide range of features and applications. It provides greater flexibility and customization options, allowing you to install software, play games, and access a vast ecosystem of desktop applications.
Display
HP Chromebook: 11.6-inch HD or FHD IPS display
Microsoft Surface Go: 10.5-inch PixelSense display
The HP Chromebook offers a larger display size, with options for both HD and FHD resolution. This provides a more spacious workspace for viewing content, multitasking, and watching videos. The Microsoft Surface Go, on the other hand, has a slightly smaller but higher-resolution PixelSense display. This display offers vibrant colors and sharp details, making it ideal for tasks that require visual clarity.
Performance
HP Chromebook: Intel Celeron or Pentium processor
Microsoft Surface Go: Intel Pentium Gold or Core m3 processor
The HP Chromebook is typically equipped with budget-friendly Intel Celeron or Pentium processors. These processors provide adequate performance for basic tasks but may struggle with demanding applications. The Microsoft Surface Go offers a wider range of processor options, including Intel Pentium Gold and Core m3 processors. These processors provide better performance, allowing you to handle more intensive tasks such as video editing and light gaming.
Storage
HP Chromebook: 32GB or 64GB eMMC storage
Microsoft Surface Go: 64GB or 128GB eMMC storage
Both the HP Chromebook and Microsoft Surface Go offer limited storage space, with base models starting at 32GB or 64GB of eMMC storage. This is sufficient for storing essential files and applications, but you may need to rely on external storage or cloud services for larger files.
Battery Life
HP Chromebook: Up to 12 hours
Microsoft Surface Go: Up to 9 hours
The HP Chromebook has a slight edge in battery life, with models capable of lasting up to 12 hours on a single charge. The Microsoft Surface Go offers a more modest battery life of up to 9 hours. This difference should be considered if you frequently use your device away from power outlets.
Connectivity
HP Chromebook: Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4.2, USB-C, USB-A
Microsoft Surface Go: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C, Surface Connect
The HP Chromebook provides a solid set of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4.2, USB-C, and USB-A. The Microsoft Surface Go offers a more advanced wireless experience with Wi-Fi 6, which supports faster speeds and reduced latency. It also includes a Surface Connect port for charging and connecting to external accessories.
Accessories
HP Chromebook: Stylus (optional)
Microsoft Surface Go: Surface Pen (optional)
Both the HP Chromebook and Microsoft Surface Go support optional styluses. The HP Chromebook offers a basic stylus that can be used for taking notes and drawing. The Microsoft Surface Go supports the Surface Pen, which offers advanced features such as pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition, making it ideal for digital artists and note-takers.
Price
HP Chromebook: Starting at $249
Microsoft Surface Go: Starting at $399
The HP Chromebook is a more affordable option, with models starting at $249. The Microsoft Surface Go is priced slightly higher, with models starting at $399. The price difference reflects the additional features and performance that the Surface Go offers.
The Verdict: Which One is Right for You?
The HP Chromebook and Microsoft Surface Go are both excellent choices for different types of users. The HP Chromebook is an ideal option for students, casual users, and those on a budget. It provides a simple and secure computing experience with a long battery life. The Microsoft Surface Go is a more versatile device that offers greater performance, a high-resolution display, and a wider range of accessories. It is a better choice for users who need a more powerful device for work, school, or creative pursuits.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which device is better for students?
A: The HP Chromebook is generally a better choice for students due to its lower price, longer battery life, and simplicity of use.
Q: Which device is better for gaming?
A: The Microsoft Surface Go offers better performance and a higher-resolution display, making it a better choice for light gaming.
Q: Which device has better battery life?
A: The HP Chromebook typically has a longer battery life than the Microsoft Surface Go, lasting up to 12 hours on a single charge.
Q: Which device is more portable?
A: The HP Chromebook is slightly larger and heavier than the Microsoft Surface Go, but both devices are highly portable and easy to carry around.
Q: Which device is better for video editing?
A: The Microsoft Surface Go offers better performance and a higher-resolution display, making it a more suitable choice for video editing.