Quick summary
- The Surface Go has a rated battery life of up to 9 hours, while the Go 2 offers a slightly improved battery life of up to 10 hours.
- The Surface Go and Go 2 laptops run on Windows 10 in S mode, which is a streamlined version of Windows that focuses on security and performance.
- The Surface Go provides a compact and budget-friendly option for basic productivity and entertainment, while the Go 2 delivers a more refined experience with improved performance and a larger display.
With the release of the Microsoft Surface Go 2 laptop, the question arises: how does it stack up against its predecessor, the Surface Go? Both devices offer a unique blend of portability and versatility, targeting users on a budget. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between these two devices, examining their design, display, performance, battery life, and other crucial aspects, to help you make an informed decision about which one best suits your needs.
Design and Build Quality
The Surface Go and Go 2 laptops share a similar design aesthetic, featuring a sleek and compact form factor. However, the Go 2 is slightly thinner and lighter, weighing just 1.2 pounds compared to the Go’s 1.5 pounds. Both devices come with a built-in kickstand that provides flexibility for various usage scenarios. The Go 2 offers a more refined and premium feel with its aluminum chassis, while the Go utilizes a polycarbonate body.
Display
The Surface Go has a 10-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1800 x 1200 pixels, while the Go 2 boasts a slightly larger 10.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels. The Go 2’s display offers a noticeable improvement in sharpness and viewing angles. Both devices support touch input and pen input with the Surface Pen.
Performance
The Surface Go is powered by an Intel Pentium Gold 4415Y processor, while the Go 2 is equipped with an Intel Core m3-8100Y processor. The Go 2 offers a significant performance boost, providing smoother multitasking and handling more demanding applications. However, both devices are primarily designed for basic productivity tasks, web browsing, and multimedia consumption.
Battery Life
The Surface Go has a rated battery life of up to 9 hours, while the Go 2 offers a slightly improved battery life of up to 10 hours. In real-world usage, both devices can last a full day of light to moderate use. However, the Go 2’s larger battery capacity gives it an edge in terms of endurance.
Ports and Connectivity
The Surface Go and Go 2 laptops offer a limited selection of ports. Both devices feature a USB-C port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a microSD card slot. The Go 2 adds a Surface Connect port, which allows for charging and connecting to external accessories like the Surface Dock.
Operating System and Software
The Surface Go and Go 2 laptops run on Windows 10 in S mode, which is a streamlined version of Windows that focuses on security and performance. Users can upgrade to Windows 10 Pro for additional features and customization options. Both devices come pre-installed with Microsoft Office apps, providing essential productivity tools out of the box.
Accessories
The Surface Go and Go 2 laptops support a range of accessories, including the Surface Pen, Surface Type Cover, and Surface Mobile Mouse. These accessories enhance the functionality and usability of the devices, allowing users to take notes, type documents, and navigate with ease.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Surface Go and Go 2 laptops depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize portability and affordability, the Surface Go is a solid choice. However, if you value a larger display, improved performance, and a more premium build quality, the Surface Go 2 is the better option.
The Verdict: A Close Call with Different Priorities
The Microsoft Surface Go and Go 2 laptops offer unique advantages and cater to different user preferences. The Surface Go provides a compact and budget-friendly option for basic productivity and entertainment, while the Go 2 delivers a more refined experience with improved performance and a larger display. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual requirements and priorities.
Questions You May Have
Q: Which device has a better battery life?
A: The Surface Go 2 has a slightly improved battery life of up to 10 hours, compared to the Surface Go’s 9 hours.
Q: Can I upgrade the storage on the Surface Go and Go 2?
A: No, both devices have fixed storage options and do not allow for user-upgradable storage.
Q: Which device is more powerful?
A: The Surface Go 2 is more powerful, featuring an Intel Core m3 processor compared to the Surface Go’s Intel Pentium processor.
Q: Can I use the Surface Pen with both devices?
A: Yes, both the Surface Go and Go 2 support input from the Surface Pen.
Q: Which device is better for students?
A: The Surface Go and Go 2 are both suitable for students, offering portability, productivity tools, and pen input for note-taking. The Surface Go 2 may be a better choice for students who require more performance for heavier workloads.