Microsoft’s latest budget beasts: unveiling the key differences between surface laptop go vs 2

When it comes to budget-friendly laptops that don’t compromise on quality, the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go and Surface Laptop 2 are two of the most popular options. Both devices offer a sleek design, impressive performance, and long battery life, but they also have their distinct differences. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive deep into the specifications, features, and performance of the Surface Laptop Go and Surface Laptop 2 to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Design and Build Quality

Both the Surface Laptop Go and Surface Laptop 2 feature a premium design with a sturdy magnesium chassis. However, the Laptop Go is noticeably more compact and lightweight, weighing in at just 2.45 pounds compared to the Laptop 2’s 2.76 pounds. The Laptop Go also has a smaller 12.4-inch display, while the Laptop 2 offers a larger 13.5-inch screen.

Display

The Surface Laptop Go’s 12.4-inch PixelSense display has a resolution of 1536 x 1024, providing sharp and vibrant visuals. The Laptop 2’s 13.5-inch PixelSense display, on the other hand, has a higher resolution of 2256 x 1504, resulting in even more detailed and immersive images. Both displays support touch input and the Surface Pen, making them ideal for note-taking, sketching, and other creative tasks.

Performance

Under the hood, the Surface Laptop Go is powered by an Intel Core i5-1035G1 processor, while the Surface Laptop 2 offers a more powerful Intel Core i5-8250U processor. In terms of RAM, both devices come with 8GB as standard, but the Laptop 2 can be upgraded to 16GB for enhanced multitasking capabilities. For storage, the Laptop Go offers 128GB or 256GB of SSD storage, while the Laptop 2 provides 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of SSD storage.

Battery Life

The Surface Laptop Go boasts an impressive battery life of up to 13 hours, making it an excellent choice for students or professionals who need their laptop to last throughout the day. The Surface Laptop 2, on the other hand, has a battery life of up to 14 hours, providing slightly longer usage time.

Ports and Connectivity

The Surface Laptop Go features a USB-C port, a USB-A port, a headphone jack, and a Surface Connect port. The Surface Laptop 2 offers a slightly more comprehensive selection of ports, including a USB-C port, a USB-A port, a mini DisplayPort, a headphone jack, and a Surface Connect port.

Features and Accessories

Both the Surface Laptop Go and Surface Laptop 2 come with Windows 10 Home pre-installed. The Laptop Go includes a built-in fingerprint reader for added security, while the Laptop 2 has a webcam with Windows Hello facial recognition support. Both devices are compatible with the Surface Pen and Surface Dial for enhanced creativity and productivity.

Which One Should You Choose?

The Surface Laptop Go is the ideal choice for those who prioritize portability, affordability, and long battery life. It’s a great option for students, budget-conscious consumers, or anyone who needs a reliable and lightweight laptop for basic tasks and productivity.

The Surface Laptop 2 offers a larger display, more powerful performance, and more versatile port selection. It’s a better choice for professionals, creatives, or anyone who needs a more capable laptop for demanding tasks such as video editing, graphic design, or programming.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose the Surface Laptop Go or the Surface Laptop 2, you’ll be getting a premium laptop with a great design, impressive performance, and excellent battery life. The key differences lie in the size, display, performance, and price point. By carefully considering your needs and budget, you can make the best choice for your specific requirements.

Answers to Your Questions

Q: Which device is more suitable for students?
A: The Surface Laptop Go is a more budget-friendly and portable option, making it ideal for students.

Q: Which laptop is better for creative professionals?
A: The Surface Laptop 2 offers a larger display and more powerful performance, making it a better choice for creative professionals.

Q: Does the Surface Laptop Go support 4K video output?
A: No, the Surface Laptop Go does not support 4K video output.

Q: Can I upgrade the SSD storage on the Surface Laptop 2?
A: No, the SSD storage on the Surface Laptop 2 is not user-upgradeable.

Q: Which device has a longer battery life?
A: The Surface Laptop 2 has a slightly longer battery life of up to 14 hours compared to the Surface Laptop Go’s 13 hours.