What To Know
- It features a USB-C port, a Surface Connect port, and a microSD card slot for expandable storage.
- The Surface Pro is compatible with a range of accessories, including the Surface Pen, Surface Keyboard, and Surface Dock.
- If you require a powerful device with a large display, full Windows 10 support, and extensive accessory compatibility, the Surface Pro is the better option.
The Microsoft Surface Pro and Surface Go are two popular 2-in-1 devices that offer a unique blend of tablet and laptop functionality. While both devices share some similarities, they also have distinct differences that cater to different needs and preferences. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key aspects of the Surface Pro vs Surface Go to help you make an informed decision.
Display and Design
Surface Pro: The Surface Pro boasts a larger 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a higher resolution of 2736 x 1824. This provides a more immersive and detailed viewing experience, ideal for multitasking, content creation, and entertainment. Its slim and lightweight design makes it easy to carry around and use as a tablet.
Surface Go: The Surface Go features a smaller 10.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1920 x 1280. While it’s not as expansive as the Surface Pro, it still offers a crisp and vibrant image quality. Its compact size and low weight make it highly portable, making it suitable for on-the-go use.
Performance and Hardware
Surface Pro: Equipped with Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 processors, the Surface Pro offers a range of performance options to suit different needs. It comes with 8GB or 16GB of RAM and up to 1TB of SSD storage. This hardware configuration provides ample power for demanding tasks such as video editing, graphic design, and multitasking.
Surface Go: The Surface Go is available with Intel Pentium Gold or Core m3 processors. It offers 4GB or 8GB of RAM and up to 128GB of SSD storage. While it’s not as powerful as the Surface Pro, it provides sufficient performance for basic tasks such as web browsing, email, and light productivity.
Operating System and Software
Surface Pro: The Surface Pro runs the full Windows 10 operating system, which provides access to a wide range of desktop applications and software. It also supports the use of external monitors and peripherals, making it a versatile device for both work and play.
Surface Go: The Surface Go comes with Windows 10 in S mode, which restricts the installation of apps only from the Microsoft Store. However, users can upgrade to the full Windows 10 experience if desired. It also supports external monitors and peripherals, but its limited storage space may require additional external storage.
Battery Life and Connectivity
Surface Pro: The Surface Pro offers a battery life of up to 10.5 hours, depending on usage. It features a USB-C port, a Surface Connect port, and a microSD card slot for expandable storage.
Surface Go: The Surface Go has a battery life of up to 9 hours, which is slightly shorter than the Surface Pro. It has a USB-C port, a microSD card slot, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Accessories and Features
Surface Pro: The Surface Pro is compatible with a range of accessories, including the Surface Pen, Surface Keyboard, and Surface Dock. These accessories enhance productivity and versatility by providing additional input methods, docking capabilities, and external display support.
Surface Go: The Surface Go is compatible with the Surface Pen and Surface Keyboard Go. While it doesn’t support the Surface Dock, it can connect to external displays via USB-C or Miracast.
Price and Availability
Surface Pro: The Surface Pro is priced from $799 for the base model with an Intel Core i3 processor and 8GB of RAM. It is available in various configurations with different processor options, memory, and storage.
Surface Go: The Surface Go is priced from $399 for the base model with an Intel Pentium Gold processor and 4GB of RAM. It is also available in different configurations with upgraded processors, memory, and storage.
Which Should You Choose?
The choice between the Microsoft Surface Pro and Surface Go ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget. If you require a powerful device with a large display, full Windows 10 support, and extensive accessory compatibility, the Surface Pro is the better option. However, if portability, affordability, and basic productivity are your priorities, the Surface Go is a suitable choice.
In a nutshell:
The Microsoft Surface Pro and Surface Go offer distinct advantages for different users. The Surface Pro is the ultimate productivity powerhouse, while the Surface Go is the ideal companion for on-the-go productivity and entertainment. By carefully considering the key differences highlighted in this comparison, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your specific requirements and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which device has a better display?
The Surface Pro has a larger and higher-resolution display, providing a more immersive viewing experience.
2. Which device is more powerful?
The Surface Pro offers a wider range of processor options, including Intel Core i5 and i7, which provide better performance for demanding tasks.
3. Which device is more portable?
The Surface Go is more compact and lightweight, making it easier to carry around and use as a tablet.
4. Which device has a longer battery life?
The Surface Pro has a slightly longer battery life of up to 10.5 hours compared to the Surface Go’s 9 hours.
5. Which device has more accessories available?
The Surface Pro has a wider range of accessories, including the Surface Pen, Surface Keyboard, and Surface Dock, which enhance productivity and versatility.
