Summary
- The Surface Go 2 has a Type-C port and a Surface Connect port for charging and connecting accessories.
- The Samsung Tab S7 is a better option for those who need a larger display, faster performance, and a more versatile experience.
- The Surface Go 2 offers a unique “Studio Mode” that allows you to prop up the device at a 165-degree angle, making it perfect for drawing, writing, or watching videos.
In the competitive world of 2-in-1 devices, the Microsoft Surface Go 2 and Samsung Tab S7 stand out as two formidable contenders. Both devices offer a blend of portability, versatility, and productivity, but they cater to different preferences and needs. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, advantages, and drawbacks of each device to help you make an informed decision.
Display and Design
Surface Go 2: The Surface Go 2 features a compact 10.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1920×1280. It boasts a 3:2 aspect ratio, providing ample screen space for productivity tasks. The bezels are noticeably thicker than the Tab S7, but the overall design is sleek and professional.
Tab S7: The Tab S7 sports a larger 11-inch TFT LCD display with a resolution of 2560×1600. It offers a higher pixel density and a wider 16:10 aspect ratio, making it ideal for media consumption and gaming. The slim bezels and lightweight design give it a premium and modern look.
Performance and Storage
Surface Go 2: Powered by the Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y processor, the Surface Go 2 delivers adequate performance for basic productivity tasks and web browsing. It comes with 4GB or 8GB of RAM and 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB of eMMC storage.
Tab S7: The Tab S7 is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+ processor, offering noticeably faster performance than the Surface Go 2. It comes with 6GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of UFS storage. The UFS storage provides significantly faster read and write speeds than eMMC.
Battery Life and Connectivity
Surface Go 2: The Surface Go 2 has a battery life of up to 10 hours on a single charge. It supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless connectivity.
Tab S7: The Tab S7 offers a slightly better battery life of up to 15 hours. It also supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, as well as optional 5G connectivity for ultra-fast mobile data speeds.
Pen and Keyboard
Surface Go 2: The Surface Go 2 is compatible with the Surface Pen, which provides excellent precision and pressure sensitivity for writing, drawing, and note-taking. It comes with a detachable keyboard that offers a comfortable typing experience.
Tab S7: The Tab S7 comes with the S Pen, which is also highly responsive and supports Air Gestures for remote control. It features a built-in keyboard that is integrated into the device, making it more portable.
Operating System and Apps
Surface Go 2: The Surface Go 2 runs Windows 10 Home or Pro, giving you access to a wide range of desktop software and applications. However, some apps may not be optimized for the smaller screen.
Tab S7: The Tab S7 runs Android 10, which offers a more mobile-centric experience. It has access to the Google Play Store, which has a vast selection of apps designed for tablets.
Accessories and Expandability
Surface Go 2: The Surface Go 2 has a Type-C port and a Surface Connect port for charging and connecting accessories. It can be expanded with an optional microSD card for additional storage.
Tab S7: The Tab S7 has a USB-C port and a microSD card slot for expandable storage. It also supports the Samsung DeX mode, which allows you to connect an external monitor and peripherals for a desktop-like experience.
Pros and Cons
Surface Go 2:
Pros:
- Compact and portable design
- Excellent pen support
- Windows 10 compatibility
- Detachable keyboard
Cons:
- Limited performance
- Thicker bezels
- eMMC storage
Tab S7:
Pros:
- Larger and higher-resolution display
- Faster performance
- UFS storage
- Built-in keyboard
- 5G connectivity (optional)
Cons:
- Heavier and less portable
- Android operating system
- Limited app optimization
Which One is Right for You?
The Microsoft Surface Go 2 is an excellent choice for those who prioritize portability, pen support, and Windows compatibility. It’s ideal for students, note-takers, and casual users.
The Samsung Tab S7 is a better option for those who need a larger display, faster performance, and a more versatile experience. It’s suitable for professionals, gamers, and content creators.
Beyond the Comparison: Unique Features and Value
Surface Go 2: The Surface Go 2 offers a unique “Studio Mode” that allows you to prop up the device at a 165-degree angle, making it perfect for drawing, writing, or watching videos.
Tab S7: The Tab S7 features a “Wireless DeX” mode that allows you to wirelessly connect to a TV or monitor for a full-fledged desktop experience.
Value: The Surface Go 2 starts at a lower price point than the Tab S7, making it a more budget-friendly option. However, the Tab S7 offers better overall value with its superior display, performance, and expandability.
Frequently Discussed Topics
1. Which device has a better display?
The Samsung Tab S7 has a larger and higher-resolution display with a wider aspect ratio.
2. Which device is more powerful?
The Samsung Tab S7 has a faster processor and UFS storage, providing noticeably better performance.
3. Which device has a longer battery life?
The Samsung Tab S7 has a slightly better battery life of up to 15 hours.
4. Which device is more portable?
The Microsoft Surface Go 2 is more compact and lightweight than the Tab S7.
5. Which device is better for note-taking?
The Microsoft Surface Go 2 offers excellent pen support with the Surface Pen.
6. Which device is better for gaming?
The Samsung Tab S7 has a larger display and faster performance, making it a better choice for gaming.
7. Which device is better for video editing?
The Samsung Tab S7 has a faster processor and UFS storage, which can improve video editing performance.
8. Which device is more versatile?
The Samsung Tab S7 offers more expandability and connectivity options, including 5G and DeX mode.
9. Which device is more affordable?
The Microsoft Surface Go 2 has a lower starting price point.
10. Which device is better for business use?
The Microsoft Surface Go 2 with Windows 10 compatibility may be more suitable for business applications.