Microsoft’s Surface Laptop Go vs. Go 2: A Comprehensive Guide to Help You Choose the Best Laptop
What To Know
- Microsoft claims that the Surface Laptop Go can last up to 13 hours on a single charge, while the Go 2 offers up to 14.
- The Surface Laptop Go has a limited selection of ports, including a USB-C port, a USB-A port, a Surface Connect port, and a 3.
- Both devices have a durable construction, but the Go 2 has a slightly thinner chassis and lighter weight, which may make it more susceptible to damage in some scenarios.
The Microsoft Surface Laptop Go series has gained popularity as a compact and budget-friendly alternative to the Surface Laptop lineup. With the release of the Surface Laptop Go 2, it’s time to delve into the differences between these two devices and guide you in making an informed decision.
Form Factor and Design
Both the Surface Laptop Go and Go 2 share a similar sleek and lightweight design. They feature a 12.4-inch PixelSense touchscreen with a 3:2 aspect ratio, offering ample space for productivity and entertainment. However, the Go 2 is slightly thinner and lighter, weighing in at 2.45 pounds compared to 2.65 pounds for the Go.
Processor and Performance
The Surface Laptop Go is powered by an Intel Core i5-1035G1 processor, while the Go 2 boasts a newer Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor. The Go 2’s processor offers improved performance, especially in multi-core tasks and graphics-intensive applications.
Memory and Storage
The Surface Laptop Go offers 4GB or 8GB of LPDDR4x RAM, while the Go 2 comes with 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB of LPDDR4x RAM. For storage, the Go has 64GB or 128GB of eMMC storage, whereas the Go 2 provides 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of faster NVMe SSD storage.
Battery Life
Microsoft claims that the Surface Laptop Go can last up to 13 hours on a single charge, while the Go 2 offers up to 14.5 hours of battery life. Both devices support fast charging, allowing you to power them up quickly when needed.
Ports and Connectivity
The Surface Laptop Go has a limited selection of ports, including a USB-C port, a USB-A port, a Surface Connect port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The Go 2 expands on this with an additional USB-C port, providing more flexibility for connecting peripherals and external displays.
Keyboard and Trackpad
Both the Surface Laptop Go and Go 2 feature comfortable and responsive keyboards with 1.3mm of key travel. The trackpads on both devices are also smooth and accurate, providing a pleasant user experience.
Display
The Surface Laptop Go and Go 2 both have 12.4-inch PixelSense touchscreens with a resolution of 1536 x 1024 pixels. While the displays offer good brightness and color accuracy, the Go 2’s screen has a slightly higher contrast ratio, resulting in deeper blacks and more vibrant colors.
The Bottom Line: Making the Right Choice
The choice between the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go and Go 2 depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize portability, performance, and expanded storage options, the Surface Laptop Go 2 is a clear winner. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option with adequate performance for basic tasks, the Surface Laptop Go remains a solid choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which device has better graphics performance?
A: The Surface Laptop Go 2 has a newer and more powerful integrated graphics processor, providing improved graphics performance.
Q: Is the Surface Laptop Go 2 more durable than the Go?
A: Both devices have a durable construction, but the Go 2 has a slightly thinner chassis and lighter weight, which may make it more susceptible to damage in some scenarios.
Q: Can I upgrade the RAM or storage on either device?
A: The RAM and storage on both the Surface Laptop Go and Go 2 are not user-upgradeable.
