What To Know
- The Surface Go 2 runs on Windows 10 Home in S mode, which provides a streamlined and secure computing experience.
- The Surface Go 2 features a single USB-C port, a microSD card slot, and a headphone jack.
- The choice between the Microsoft Surface Go 2 and the HP Pavilion x360 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
The world of 2-in-1 laptops has witnessed a fierce rivalry between two tech giants: Microsoft and HP. Their flagship devices, the Microsoft Surface Go 2 and the HP Pavilion x360, have captured the attention of consumers seeking versatile and portable computing solutions. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key features, performance, and usability aspects of these two remarkable devices to help you make an informed choice.
Design and Build
Microsoft Surface Go 2: The Surface Go 2 boasts a sleek and premium design with a magnesium alloy chassis. Its compact size and lightweight construction make it highly portable, weighing just 1.2 pounds. The 10.5-inch PixelSense display features a resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels, offering vibrant colors and sharp text.
HP Pavilion x360: The HP Pavilion x360 also impresses with its stylish design and durable construction. Its aluminum body and 360-degree hinge allow for a versatile experience, transitioning seamlessly between laptop, tablet, and tent modes. The 14-inch FHD display provides ample screen real estate with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels.
Performance and Hardware
Microsoft Surface Go 2: Powered by an Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y processor, the Surface Go 2 delivers adequate performance for everyday tasks such as browsing the web, checking emails, and running basic productivity applications. It comes with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, which can be expanded via the microSD card slot.
HP Pavilion x360: The HP Pavilion x360 offers a wider range of hardware options. The base model features an Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor, while higher-end configurations include Intel Core i5 and i7 processors. It also provides up to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of SSD storage, ensuring smooth multitasking and ample storage space.
Battery Life
Microsoft Surface Go 2: The Surface Go 2 claims to provide up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge. However, real-world usage may vary depending on factors such as screen brightness and workload.
HP Pavilion x360: The HP Pavilion x360 offers an impressive battery life of up to 11 hours on a single charge. This makes it an excellent choice for users who need a long-lasting laptop for extended use away from an outlet.
Operating System and Software
Microsoft Surface Go 2: The Surface Go 2 runs on Windows 10 Home in S mode, which provides a streamlined and secure computing experience. However, it limits the installation of apps to the Microsoft Store.
HP Pavilion x360: The HP Pavilion x360 comes pre-installed with Windows 10 Home, offering a more comprehensive operating system with full access to all Windows applications and features.
Connectivity and Ports
Microsoft Surface Go 2: The Surface Go 2 features a single USB-C port, a microSD card slot, and a headphone jack. It supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless connectivity.
HP Pavilion x360: The HP Pavilion x360 provides a more extensive array of ports, including two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A ports, one USB-C port with Thunderbolt 4 support, an HDMI port, a microSD card slot, and a headphone/microphone jack. It also includes Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0.
Accessories and Stylus Support
Microsoft Surface Go 2: The Surface Go 2 is compatible with the Surface Pen, which enables note-taking, sketching, and digital inking capabilities. It also supports the Type Cover keyboard accessory, which provides a comfortable typing experience.
HP Pavilion x360: The HP Pavilion x360 is compatible with the HP Active Pen, which offers similar functionality to the Surface Pen. It also supports the HP Rechargeable MPP2.0 Tilt Pen, which provides enhanced pressure sensitivity and tilt support.
Pricing and Value
Microsoft Surface Go 2: The Microsoft Surface Go 2 starts at $399 for the base model with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. The higher-end configuration with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage costs $499.
HP Pavilion x360: The HP Pavilion x360 starts at $599 for the base model with an Intel Core i3 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of SSD storage. Higher-end configurations with more powerful processors and larger storage capacities can cost up to $1,299.
Which Device is Right for You?
The choice between the Microsoft Surface Go 2 and the HP Pavilion x360 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize portability, affordability, and a streamlined computing experience, the Surface Go 2 is an excellent option. On the other hand, if you require more performance, versatility, and a wider range of features, the HP Pavilion x360 is a better choice.
A Final Verdict
Both the Microsoft Surface Go 2 and the HP Pavilion x360 are exceptional 2-in-1 laptops that offer unique advantages. The Surface Go 2 excels in portability and affordability, while the HP Pavilion x360 provides superior performance, versatility, and a more comprehensive feature set. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual requirements and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which device has a better display?
A: Both devices feature 1080p displays, but the Surface Go 2 has a slightly smaller 10.5-inch screen compared to the Pavilion x360’s 14-inch display.
Q: Can I use either device for gaming?
A: The Surface Go 2 and Pavilion x360 are not designed for heavy gaming due to their limited graphics capabilities.
Q: Which device offers better battery life?
A: The HP Pavilion x360 has a slightly longer battery life of up to 11 hours compared to the Surface Go 2’s 10 hours.
Q: Can I upgrade the storage on either device?
A: The Surface Go 2 supports storage expansion via a microSD card slot, while the HP Pavilion x360 offers a larger internal SSD that can be upgraded.
Q: Which device is more durable?
A: Both devices feature durable construction, but the Surface Go 2’s magnesium alloy chassis may provide better protection against accidental drops and bumps.
