Lenovo IdeaPad vs Surface Go: Battle of the Best 2-in-1 Laptops on a Budget
What To Know
- The IdeaPad boasts a sleek and lightweight design, with a slim profile and a durable plastic chassis.
- The Surface Go has a USB-C port, a Surface Connect port, a microSD card slot, and a headphone jack.
- The Lenovo IdeaPad is a budget-friendly option that provides solid performance for everyday tasks, while the Surface Go excels in terms of design, display quality, and processing power.
When it comes to portable 2-in-1 devices, the Lenovo IdeaPad and Microsoft Surface Go stand as formidable contenders. Both offer a blend of tablet and laptop functionality, but each has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Lenovo IdeaPad vs Surface Go, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
Design and Build Quality
Lenovo IdeaPad: The IdeaPad boasts a sleek and lightweight design, with a slim profile and a durable plastic chassis. Its rounded edges and soft-touch finish provide a comfortable grip.
Surface Go: The Surface Go exudes a premium feel with its magnesium alloy body and sleek design. Its kickstand design allows for versatile positioning, making it ideal for both work and entertainment.
Display
Lenovo IdeaPad: The IdeaPad features a 11.6-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. It offers decent brightness and color accuracy, but the viewing angles are limited.
Surface Go: The Surface Go has a slightly smaller 10.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. It boasts exceptional sharpness, color accuracy, and wide viewing angles.
Performance
Lenovo IdeaPad: The IdeaPad is powered by Intel Celeron or Pentium processors, providing adequate performance for basic tasks like web browsing, email, and light productivity.
Surface Go: The Surface Go offers a wider range of processor options, including Intel Core m3, Pentium Gold, and Core i5. These more powerful processors enable smoother multitasking and handling of demanding applications.
Storage and Memory
Lenovo IdeaPad: The IdeaPad comes with 4GB or 8GB of RAM and 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB of eMMC storage. While eMMC storage is slower than SSDs, it is more affordable.
Surface Go: The Surface Go offers similar RAM options (4GB or 8GB) but features faster SSD storage with capacities ranging from 64GB to 256GB.
Battery Life
Lenovo IdeaPad: The IdeaPad has a 35Wh battery that provides up to 8 hours of battery life. However, actual usage may vary depending on factors like screen brightness and workload.
Surface Go: The Surface Go packs a 26.1Wh battery, which offers up to 9 hours of battery life. It also supports fast charging, allowing you to quickly power up your device.
Operating System
Lenovo IdeaPad: The IdeaPad comes pre-installed with Windows 10 Home.
Surface Go: The Surface Go runs Windows 10 S, a streamlined version of Windows that focuses on security and performance. However, it can be upgraded to Windows 10 Pro for additional features.
Connectivity and Ports
Lenovo IdeaPad: The IdeaPad features a USB-C port, two USB 3.0 ports, an HDMI port, and a microSD card slot.
Surface Go: The Surface Go has a USB-C port, a Surface Connect port, a microSD card slot, and a headphone jack.
Verdict
Both the Lenovo IdeaPad and Surface Go offer compelling features and value for money. The Lenovo IdeaPad is a budget-friendly option that provides solid performance for everyday tasks, while the Surface Go excels in terms of design, display quality, and processing power.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize affordability and basic functionality, the Lenovo IdeaPad is an excellent choice. However, if you demand a premium experience, exceptional performance, and a versatile design, the Surface Go is the superior option.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q1. Which device is better for students?
A: Both devices are suitable for students, but the Lenovo IdeaPad offers a more affordable option with adequate performance for basic tasks.
Q2. Can I use the Surface Go as a laptop replacement?
A: Yes, the Surface Go can be used as a laptop replacement, especially with a keyboard cover. However, it may struggle with demanding applications due to its limited processing power.
Q3. Which device has a better operating system?
A: Windows 10 S on the Surface Go provides a streamlined and secure experience. However, Windows 10 Pro on the Lenovo IdeaPad offers more features and customization options.
