What To Know
- The Surface features a USB-C port, a USB-A port, a microSD card slot, and a Surface Connect port.
- The Go has a single USB-C port, a microSD card slot, and a headphone jack.
- The Surface Go starts at $399 for the base model with an Intel Pentium Gold processor, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage.
In the realm of 2-in-1 devices, Microsoft’s Surface lineup has long been the gold standard. But with the introduction of the Surface Go, a more affordable and compact option, the question arises: which one is right for you? To help you make an informed decision, we’ll delve into a comprehensive comparison of the Microsoft Surface vs Surface Go, examining their key features, performance, and value proposition.
Design and Display
The Surface Go is noticeably smaller and lighter than the Surface, measuring 10.5 inches compared to 12.3 inches and weighing 1.15 pounds versus 1.73 pounds. This makes the Go more portable and easier to carry around. Both devices feature a 3:2 aspect ratio display, but the Surface has a slightly larger 13.5-inch PixelSense display with a higher resolution of 2736 x 1824. The Go’s 10.5-inch PixelSense display has a resolution of 1920 x 1280.
Performance and Battery Life
The Surface is powered by Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, while the Surface Go is equipped with Intel Pentium Gold or Core m3 processors. This difference in processing power is evident in performance, with the Surface being better suited for demanding tasks such as video editing and gaming. However, the Go offers sufficient performance for everyday activities like browsing the web, checking emails, and running basic productivity software.
In terms of battery life, the Surface offers up to 14.5 hours of video playback, while the Go lasts for up to 9 hours. This difference is due to the larger battery capacity of the Surface.
Connectivity and Features
Both the Surface and Surface Go support Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring fast and reliable wireless connectivity. The Surface features a USB-C port, a USB-A port, a microSD card slot, and a Surface Connect port. The Go has a single USB-C port, a microSD card slot, and a headphone jack.
Accessories and Versatility
One of the key advantages of the Surface lineup is its versatility and compatibility with various accessories. Both the Surface and Surface Go support the Surface Pen, which allows for precise note-taking, sketching, and annotations. The Surface also supports the Surface Dial, which provides additional control and functionality for creative applications.
Price and Value
The Surface starts at $999 for the base model with an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage. The Surface Go starts at $399 for the base model with an Intel Pentium Gold processor, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage. As you upgrade to higher configurations, the price difference between the two devices widens.
Which One is Right for You?
The Microsoft Surface is the better choice if you prioritize performance, a larger display, and extensive connectivity. It’s ideal for professionals, creatives, and anyone who needs a powerful and versatile 2-in-1 device.
The Surface Go is a more budget-friendly option that offers a compact and portable design. It’s suitable for students, casual users, and anyone who needs a basic 2-in-1 device for everyday tasks.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which device has a better camera?
A: Both devices have a 5MP front-facing camera and an 8MP rear-facing camera.
Q: Can I use the Surface Pen with both devices?
A: Yes, both the Surface and Surface Go support the Surface Pen.
Q: Which device has more storage options?
A: The Surface offers more storage options, up to 1TB of SSD storage, while the Go offers up to 256GB of SSD storage.
Q: Can I upgrade the RAM and storage on either device?
A: No, the RAM and storage on both devices are not upgradeable.
Q: Which device is better for gaming?
A: The Surface is better suited for gaming due to its more powerful processor and graphics capabilities.
