Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 2: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 2: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Surface Laptop Go 2: An Overview
3. Design and Build Quality
4. Display and Screen Resolution
5. Performance and Processor
6. Storage and RAM Options
7. Battery Life and Charging
8. Connectivity and Ports
9. Webcam and Audio Quality
10. Pricing and Value for Money
11. Competition and Alternative Options
12. Conclusion

Introduction

The Surface Laptop Go 2: A Terrible Name but a Great Laptop

Surface Laptop Go 2: An Overview

The Surface Laptop Go 2 is the latest addition to Microsoft's lineup of Surface devices. With its affordable price point and impressive features, it aims to cater to users who are looking for a well-rounded laptop without breaking the bank. In this article, we will Delve into the various aspects of the Surface Laptop Go 2, exploring its design, performance, display, battery life, and more. So, let's dive in and see if this laptop is worth considering as your next purchase.

Design and Build Quality

The Surface Laptop Go 2 continues Microsoft's tradition of sleek and premium design. With its all-metal construction and slim profile, it exudes an air of elegance and sophistication. The laptop weighs just 1.1 kilograms, making it incredibly portable and easy to carry around. The tapered design adds a touch of uniqueness to the aesthetics while also making it more comfortable to Type on. However, one drawback is the limited hinge flexibility, which may hinder finding the perfect viewing angle.

Display and Screen Resolution

While the Surface Laptop Go 2's display is not full HD, it still offers a reasonably sharp image quality. With a resolution slightly above 720p and a pixel density of around 150 PPI, individual pixels are not discernible, providing a satisfactory viewing experience. The 12.4-inch PixelSense screen boasts good color accuracy, with approximately 98% sRGB coverage. Whether You're watching movies, editing photos, or working on your assignments, this display proves to be more than capable.

Performance and Processor

Equipped with 11th gen Intel processors, the Surface Laptop Go 2 delivers a noticeable boost in performance compared to its predecessor. The inclusion of Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics further enhances the laptop's graphical capabilities, making it suitable for light gaming and multimedia tasks. The laptop's processing power, combined with the improved graphics, ensures a smooth and responsive user experience.

Storage and RAM Options

Microsoft has addressed the storage limitations of the previous model by doubling the base storage capacity to 128GB. Moreover, the Surface Laptop Go 2 features the faster PCIe type storage, eliminating the need to compromise on speed. However, it is worth noting that the laptop lacks any significant options for expandable storage. In terms of RAM, options range from 4GB to 8GB, with the mid-range model offering the best value for money.

Battery Life and Charging

Microsoft claims that the Surface Laptop Go 2 can last up to 13.5 hours on a single charge. However, real-life usage suggests a more conservative estimate, with approximately 6.5 to 7 hours of battery life during typical tasks such as streaming, web browsing, and document editing. The laptop's compact and lightweight form factor, coupled with the convenience of the Microsoft Connected Charger, allows for easy portability and quick charging.

Connectivity and Ports

The Surface Laptop Go 2 provides a decent selection of ports, including a regular USB Type-A and a USB Type-C, which supports display output, data transfer, and charging. Additionally, a headphone jack and the Surface Connect charging port are included. While the inclusion of USB Type-A is appreciated, its slower transfer speeds may be a drawback for some users.

Webcam and Audio Quality

The Surface Laptop Go 2 features an improved webcam that, while not perfect, sits among the best in its price range. Adaptive lighting technology helps adjust image quality Based on myriad lighting conditions. The laptop's built-in speakers provide surprisingly good audio output, enhancing the overall multimedia experience. While not comparable to high-end audio systems, these speakers are more than sufficient for everyday use.

Pricing and Value for Money

Starting at £529 or $599, the Surface Laptop Go 2 offers an enticing value proposition for those seeking a well-rounded laptop without breaking the bank. The base model comes with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, which should be sufficient for casual users. However, to truly unlock its potential, opting for the mid-range model with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage is recommended. The additional investment provides a noticeable performance boost, making it a worthwhile upgrade.

Competition and Alternative Options

In the realm of affordable laptops, the Surface Laptop Go 2 faces stiff competition. Rivals such as the Asus ZenBook 14 and Vivobook 15 offer similar specifications and performance, making them attractive alternatives. The choice ultimately comes down to personal preferences, with each laptop presenting its own strengths and weaknesses. It is worth considering all available options before making a final decision.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Surface Laptop Go 2 is a commendable laptop that strikes a balance between affordability and performance. While it may not possess the most cutting-edge specifications, it makes up for it with its sleek design, satisfactory display, and solid build quality. The laptop's versatile nature makes it an ideal choice for students, as well as those in need of a compact and reliable laptop for home or office use. If you are searching for a well-priced, all-round laptop, the Surface Laptop Go 2 is definitely worth considering.

Highlights

• Sleek and premium design
• Improved performance with 11th gen Intel processors
• Reasonably sharp display with good color accuracy
• Decent selection of ports, including USB Type-C
• Improved webcam and satisfactory audio quality
• Competitive pricing for a well-rounded laptop

FAQ

Q: Does the Surface Laptop Go 2 come with a backlit keyboard? A: Unfortunately, the Surface Laptop Go 2 does not feature a backlit keyboard, except for the power button, which doubles as a fingerprint reader.

Q: Can I upgrade the storage on the Surface Laptop Go 2? A: The Surface Laptop Go 2 does not offer user-upgradeable storage options, so it is important to choose the storage capacity that suits your needs before making a purchase.

Q: Can the Surface Laptop Go 2 handle gaming? A: While the Surface Laptop Go 2 is not designed for intensive gaming, it can handle light gaming thanks to the improved Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics.

Q: How long does the battery last on the Surface Laptop Go 2? A: Microsoft claims a battery life of up to 13.5 hours, but real-life usage suggests approximately 6.5 to 7 hours of battery life during typical tasks.

Q: Are there any alternatives to the Surface Laptop Go 2 in the same price range? A: Yes, the Asus ZenBook 14 and Vivobook 15 are worth considering as alternatives, as they offer similar specifications and performance.