What To Know
- The Surface Studio 2 is still available for purchase, while the Surface Studio 2+ is the newer and more expensive model.
- The Surface Studio 2 is a more affordable option with solid performance, while the Surface Studio 2+ offers improved performance, display quality, and ergonomics.
- However, if you are on a budget or don’t need the most powerful device, the Surface Studio 2 is still a great option.
The Microsoft Surface Studio 2 and Surface Studio 2+ are two powerful all-in-one (AIO) desktop computers designed specifically for creative professionals. They offer a unique combination of performance, versatility, and style, making them ideal for tasks such as graphic design, video editing, and 3D modeling. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between these two devices, helping you make an informed decision about which one is the right choice for your needs.
Display and Pen Input
The Surface Pen is an essential tool for creative work, and both devices offer excellent support for it. The Surface Pen supports up to 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for precise and natural drawing and writing experiences.
Processor and Graphics
The Surface Studio 2 is powered by a 7th-generation Intel Core i7 processor, while the Surface Studio 2+ features an 11th-generation Intel Core i7 processor. The newer processor in the Surface Studio 2+ provides a significant performance boost, especially in demanding applications like video editing and 3D rendering.
Both devices offer dedicated NVIDIA graphics cards. The Surface Studio 2 comes with an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070, while the Surface Studio 2+ has an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060. The RTX 3060 offers better performance, especially for ray tracing and AI-powered features.
Memory and Storage
The Surface Studio 2 is available with 16GB or 32GB of RAM, while the Surface Studio 2+ offers 32GB or 64GB of RAM. More RAM is beneficial for running multiple applications simultaneously and handling large files.
Both devices come with a 1TB solid-state drive (SSD) as standard. The SSD provides fast boot times and quick loading of applications.
Connectivity and Expansion
The Surface Studio 2 and 2+ offer a wide range of connectivity options, including USB-A, USB-C, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi 6. The Surface Studio 2+ also includes a built-in SDXC card reader, which is convenient for photographers and videographers.
Design and Ergonomics
The Surface Studio 2 and 2+ share a similar sleek and modern design. They feature a sturdy metal base and a thin, adjustable display that can be tilted to a comfortable angle for drawing or working.
The Surface Studio 2+ has a slightly improved ergonomic design with a more comfortable keyboard and mouse. The keyboard is now detachable, allowing you to use it on your lap or at a different angle.
Operating System and Software
Both the Surface Studio 2 and 2+ run on Windows 10 Pro, which provides a familiar and powerful operating system for creative work. Microsoft also offers a range of optimization tools and software specifically designed for Surface devices, such as Surface Dial and Surface Pen support.
Price and Availability
The Surface Studio 2 starts at $3,499, while the Surface Studio 2+ starts at $4,499. The Surface Studio 2 is still available for purchase, while the Surface Studio 2+ is the newer and more expensive model.
Which One is Right for You?
The Microsoft Surface Studio 2 and 2+ are both excellent choices for creative professionals. The Surface Studio 2 is a more affordable option with solid performance, while the Surface Studio 2+ offers improved performance, display quality, and ergonomics.
If you need the best possible performance and features for demanding creative work, the Surface Studio 2+ is the better choice. However, if you are on a budget or don’t need the most powerful device, the Surface Studio 2 is still a great option.
Questions You May Have
Q: What is the main difference between the Surface Studio 2 and 2+?
A: The main difference is the processor and graphics card. The Surface Studio 2+ has a newer processor and a more powerful graphics card, providing better performance for demanding creative tasks.
Q: Which device has a better display?
A: The Surface Studio 2+ has a slightly better display with improved color accuracy, contrast ratio, and HDR support.
Q: How much RAM do I need?
A: The amount of RAM you need depends on your workflow. If you multitask heavily or work with large files, more RAM is beneficial. The Surface Studio 2+ offers up to 64GB of RAM, while the Surface Studio 2 has a maximum of 32GB.
Q: Can I use my own keyboard and mouse with these devices?
Q: Which device is more portable?
A: Neither device is particularly portable due to their large size and weight. However, the Surface Studio 2 is slightly lighter and more compact than the Surface Studio 2+.
