Summary
- The Surface Laptop Go offers a resolution of 1536 x 1024, while the Surface Laptop Go 2 boasts a higher resolution of 1920 x 1280.
- The Surface Laptop Go starts at $549 for the 4GB/64GB configuration, while the Surface Laptop Go 2 starts at $599 for the 4GB/128GB configuration.
- The Surface Laptop Go offers a budget-friendly option with solid performance and a great display, while the Surface Laptop Go 2 provides a more powerful and versatile experience with a higher-resolution display, more RAM and storage options, and improved battery life.
In the realm of compact and portable laptops, Microsoft’s Surface Laptop Go series has garnered a loyal following. The latest iterations, the Surface Laptop Go and Surface Laptop Go 2, offer a compelling blend of portability, performance, and style. But which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of these two devices, exploring their similarities, differences, and which one emerges as the superior choice.
Design and Build
Both the Surface Laptop Go and Surface Laptop Go 2 share a sleek and ultra-portable design. Their lightweight aluminum chassis and compact dimensions make them ideal for students, professionals, and travelers alike. However, the Surface Laptop Go 2 introduces a subtle refinement: a slightly curved lid that enhances its ergonomic appeal.
Display
The display is a crucial aspect of any laptop. Both devices feature a 12.4-inch PixelSense touchscreen with a 3:2 aspect ratio, providing ample vertical space for productivity tasks. The Surface Laptop Go offers a resolution of 1536 x 1024, while the Surface Laptop Go 2 boasts a higher resolution of 1920 x 1280. This results in a crisper and more detailed display on the Go 2.
Performance
Under the hood, the Surface Laptop Go and Surface Laptop Go 2 differ significantly. The Go runs on an Intel Core i5-1035G1 processor, while the Go 2 is powered by an Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor. The latter offers a substantial performance boost, particularly in demanding applications and multitasking scenarios.
RAM and Storage
The Surface Laptop Go comes with 4GB or 8GB of RAM, while the Surface Laptop Go 2 offers 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB of RAM. For storage, the Go provides 64GB or 128GB of SSD, while the Go 2 offers 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of SSD. The higher RAM and storage options on the Go 2 provide greater flexibility and performance for power users.
Battery Life
Battery life is paramount for mobile devices. The Surface Laptop Go offers up to 13 hours of battery life, while the Surface Laptop Go 2 delivers up to 14 hours. This improvement, albeit modest, ensures that the Go 2 can endure longer stretches of usage without requiring a recharge.
Ports and Connectivity
The Surface Laptop Go and Surface Laptop Go 2 feature a similar selection of ports. Both devices include a USB-C port, a USB-A port, a Surface Connect port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. However, the Go 2 introduces an additional USB-C port, providing greater expansion options for external peripherals.
Price
The Surface Laptop Go starts at $549 for the 4GB/64GB configuration, while the Surface Laptop Go 2 starts at $599 for the 4GB/128GB configuration. The higher specifications and improved performance of the Go 2 warrant the slight price premium.
The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
The Surface Laptop Go and Surface Laptop Go 2 represent two excellent choices in the compact laptop market. The Surface Laptop Go offers a budget-friendly option with solid performance and a great display, while the Surface Laptop Go 2 provides a more powerful and versatile experience with a higher-resolution display, more RAM and storage options, and improved battery life.
If portability, affordability, and basic performance are your priorities, the Surface Laptop Go is a wise choice. However, if you prioritize performance, multitasking capabilities, and a more premium experience, the Surface Laptop Go 2 is the better investment.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Which device has a better display?
A: The Surface Laptop Go 2 offers a higher resolution display (1920 x 1280) compared to the Surface Laptop Go (1536 x 1024).
Q: How much battery life can I expect?
A: The Surface Laptop Go provides up to 13 hours of battery life, while the Surface Laptop Go 2 offers up to 14 hours.
Q: Which device has more RAM and storage options?
A: The Surface Laptop Go 2 offers more RAM and storage options, including 16GB of RAM and up to 512GB of SSD.