What To Know
- The Surface Laptop Go offers a claimed battery life of up to 13 hours, while the Go 2 extends this to an impressive 15 hours.
- The Surface Laptop Go includes a USB-C port, a USB-A port, a Surface Connect port, and a headphone jack.
- However, if you demand better performance, a sharper display, and additional connectivity options, the Surface Laptop Go 2 is worth the investment.
In the realm of ultraportable laptops, Microsoft’s Surface Laptop Go series has garnered significant attention with its sleek designs and compact form factors. The Surface Laptop Go and its successor, the Go 2, offer compelling options for professionals, students, and casual users alike. However, choosing between these two exceptional devices can be a challenging task. This comprehensive comparison guide will delve into the key differences between the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go vs Go 2, empowering you to make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Surface Laptop Go and Go 2 feature premium designs with lightweight magnesium chassis. The Go 2, however, boasts a slightly more polished look with a new ‘Sage’ color option and a slightly thinner profile. Both devices offer a comfortable typing experience with their spacious keyboards and responsive trackpads.
Display
The Surface Laptop Go comes with a 12.4-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1536 x 1024, while the Go 2 upgrades to a slightly larger 12.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1920 x 1280. The Go 2’s display offers a noticeable improvement in sharpness and clarity.
Performance
Under the hood, the Surface Laptop Go and Go 2 offer different processor options. The Go features an Intel Core i5-1035G1 processor, while the Go 2 comes with an Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor. The Go 2’s newer processor provides a significant performance boost, particularly in demanding tasks like video editing and multitasking.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor for ultraportable laptops. The Surface Laptop Go offers a claimed battery life of up to 13 hours, while the Go 2 extends this to an impressive 15 hours. In real-world usage, both devices deliver exceptional battery performance that will keep you powered throughout the day.
Ports and Connectivity
The Surface Laptop Go includes a USB-C port, a USB-A port, a Surface Connect port, and a headphone jack. The Go 2 adds a Thunderbolt 4 port for faster data transfer and external display support.
Price and Availability
The Surface Laptop Go starts at $549, while the Go 2 starts at $599. Both devices are available from Microsoft’s website and select retailers.
Which One is Right for You?
Choosing between the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go and Go 2 depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize affordability and value a compact form factor, the Surface Laptop Go is an excellent choice. However, if you demand better performance, a sharper display, and additional connectivity options, the Surface Laptop Go 2 is worth the investment.
Final Thoughts: The Victor Emerges
After a thorough comparison, the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 2 emerges as the superior choice. Its improved performance, upgraded display, and expanded connectivity options make it an exceptional ultraportable laptop that excels in both productivity and entertainment. While the Surface Laptop Go remains a solid option for budget-conscious users, the Go 2’s superior features justify its slightly higher price tag.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which device has a better keyboard?
A: Both the Surface Laptop Go and Go 2 offer comfortable keyboards with spacious keys and responsive trackpads.
Q: Can I upgrade the RAM or storage on either device?
A: No, both the Surface Laptop Go and Go 2 have non-upgradeable RAM and storage.
Q: Which device is more suitable for gaming?
A: Neither device is specifically designed for gaming, but the Surface Laptop Go 2’s improved performance may provide a slightly better experience for casual gaming.
Q: Is the Surface Laptop Go 2 worth the additional cost over the Go?
A: If you prioritize performance, display quality, and connectivity options, the Surface Laptop Go 2 is worth the investment. However, if budget is a primary concern, the Surface Laptop Go remains a viable option.
Q: Which device has a longer battery life?
A: The Surface Laptop Go 2 offers an extended battery life of up to 15 hours, compared to the Go’s 13 hours.
