Surface go empowers designers: adobe illustrator on your tablet, anywhere, anytime

Adobe Illustrator is a widely used vector graphics editor renowned for its versatility and precision. With its advanced features and intuitive interface, Illustrator empowers designers to create stunning artwork, logos, illustrations, and more. However, as technology evolves, users often wonder whether their current devices can handle demanding software like Illustrator. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the compatibility and performance of Adobe Illustrator on Microsoft’s Surface Go, a compact and versatile 2-in-1 device.

Surface Go Specifications: A Closer Look

Before assessing Illustrator‘s compatibility, let’s examine the Surface Go’s specifications:

• Processor: Intel Pentium Gold 4415Y or Intel Core m3-8100Y
• RAM: 4GB or 8GB
• Storage: 64GB eMMC or 128GB/256GB SSD
• Display: 10-inch PixelSense touchscreen with a resolution of 1800 x 1200 pixels
• Operating System: Windows 10 (Home or Pro)

Adobe Illustrator System Requirements

To determine if the Surface Go can run Adobe Illustrator, we need to compare its specifications to Illustrator’s system requirements:

• Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo or AMD Athlon 64 processor
• RAM: 8GB (16GB recommended)
• Storage: 2GB of available hard-disk space
• Display: 1280 x 800 display resolution
• Operating System: Windows 10 (64-bit)

Compatibility: Can Surface Go Run Adobe Illustrator?

Based on the specifications, it is evident that the Surface Go meets the minimum system requirements for Adobe Illustrator. The Intel Pentium Gold 4415Y and Core m3-8100Y processors are both capable of handling the software’s demands, and the 4GB of RAM is sufficient for basic operations. However, for optimal performance, it is recommended to upgrade to 8GB of RAM.

Performance: How Well Does Illustrator Run on Surface Go?

While the Surface Go meets the minimum requirements, the real question is how well Illustrator performs on the device. Here are some factors to consider:

• Processor: The Pentium Gold 4415Y and Core m3-8100Y processors are designed for low power consumption and fanless operation. This means that they may not be as powerful as higher-end processors, which can affect Illustrator’s performance, especially with large or complex files.
• RAM: 4GB of RAM is adequate for basic tasks, but users who work with large files or multiple applications simultaneously may experience slowdowns. Upgrading to 8GB of RAM will significantly improve performance.
• Storage: The Surface Go’s eMMC storage is slower than SSD storage. This can affect Illustrator’s loading times and file saving. If possible, opt for the SSD configuration for faster performance.
• Display: The Surface Go’s 10-inch display is not ideal for detailed design work. However, the high resolution and touchscreen capabilities make it suitable for basic editing and sketching.

Tips for Optimizing Illustrator Performance on Surface Go

To maximize Illustrator‘s performance on the Surface Go, consider the following tips:

• Close unnecessary applications: Running multiple applications simultaneously can consume resources and slow down Illustrator. Close any programs that you are not using.
• Purge the cache: Illustrator creates temporary files that can accumulate over time. Regularly purging the cache can free up space and improve performance.
• Enable hardware acceleration: Hardware acceleration utilizes the Surface Go’s graphics chip to speed up certain tasks. Ensure that this feature is enabled in Illustrator’s preferences.
• Use a cloud-based storage service: Storing files on a cloud-based service, such as OneDrive or Google Drive, can reduce the load on the Surface Go’s storage and improve Illustrator’s performance.

Alternatives to Adobe Illustrator for Surface Go

If the Surface Go’s performance is not sufficient for your Illustrator needs, there are alternative vector graphics editors that may be better suited for the device:

• Inkscape: A free and open-source vector graphics editor that is less demanding on system resources.
• Vectr: A web-based vector graphics editor that does not require installation.
• Gravit Designer: A cloud-based vector graphics editor with a simplified interface and lower hardware requirements.

Recommendations: Making an Informed Decision

Whether or not the Surface Go can run Adobe Illustrator depends on your specific needs and usage patterns. If you are a casual user or only require basic editing capabilities, the Surface Go is a viable option. However, if you work with large files or demand high performance, you may need to consider a more powerful device or explore alternative vector graphics editors.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q1. Can the Surface Go run Adobe Illustrator smoothly?
A1. The Surface Go can run Illustrator, but the performance may vary depending on the device’s configuration and the complexity of the artwork.

Q2. What is the best way to improve Illustrator‘s performance on the Surface Go?
A2. Close unnecessary applications, purge the cache, enable hardware acceleration, and use cloud-based storage.

Q3. Are there any alternatives to Adobe Illustrator that are better suited for the Surface Go?
A3. Yes, alternatives such as Inkscape, Vectr, and Gravit Designer offer lower hardware requirements and are suitable for basic editing tasks.