What To Know
- This blog post will delve into the compatibility of Surface Go models with Windows 11, exploring the pros and cons, performance considerations, and ultimately help you decide if upgrading to Windows 11 is the right choice for your Surface Go.
- While your Surface Go 2 or 3 may be compatible with Windows 11, you might encounter some performance differences compared to running Windows 10.
- If you rely on your Surface Go’s battery life for extended periods, you might notice a slight decrease in battery life with Windows 11.
The Surface Go series has been a popular choice for students, professionals, and casual users alike, thanks to its compact size, portability, and decent performance. But with the release of Windows 11, many users are wondering: can Surface Go run Windows 11? This blog post will delve into the compatibility of Surface Go models with Windows 11, exploring the pros and cons, performance considerations, and ultimately help you decide if upgrading to Windows 11 is the right choice for your Surface Go.
Surface Go Models and Windows 11 Compatibility
The first step to determining if your Surface Go can run Windows 11 is understanding which models are officially supported. Here’s a breakdown:
- Surface Go (Original): This model, released in 2018, is **not** officially supported by Windows 11. While you might be able to install it via unofficial methods, Microsoft does not guarantee compatibility, driver support, or security updates.
- Surface Go 2: This model, released in 2020, is **officially supported by Windows 11**. It meets the minimum system requirements and receives official updates and driver support.
- Surface Go 3: This model, released in 2021, is also **officially supported by Windows 11**. It meets the minimum system requirements and enjoys full compatibility with Windows 11 features.
Minimum System Requirements for Windows 11
To run Windows 11 smoothly, your Surface Go must meet the following minimum system requirements:
- Processor: 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster with 2 or more cores.
- RAM: 4 gigabytes (GB)
- Storage: 64 GB
- System firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable
- TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0
- Graphics: Compatible with DirectX 12 or later, with a WDDM 2.x driver
Checking Your Surface Go’s Compatibility
Before attempting to upgrade, it’s crucial to confirm if your specific Surface Go model meets the requirements. Here’s how:
1. Open Settings: Click the Start button, then select “Settings.”
2. Navigate to System: In the Settings window, click “System.”
3. Check System Information: Scroll down to the “About” section. Here you’ll find information about your processor, RAM, storage, and system type.
4. Check TPM Version: Go to “System” > “About” > “System Information” > “Device Specifications.” Look for “Trusted Platform Module” to see if it’s version 2.0.
Potential Performance Considerations
While your Surface Go 2 or 3 may be compatible with Windows 11, you might encounter some performance differences compared to running Windows 10.
- Processor Power: Windows 11 is generally more demanding than Windows 10. While the Surface Go 2 and 3 processors are capable, you may notice slightly slower application loading times or longer boot times.
- RAM Usage: Windows 11 uses more RAM than Windows 10. If your Surface Go has 4GB of RAM, you might experience some lag or slowdowns when running multiple applications.
- Battery Life: Windows 11 may consume more battery power compared to Windows 10. You might notice a slightly shorter battery life if you’re frequently running resource-intensive applications.
Benefits of Upgrading to Windows 11
Despite potential performance considerations, upgrading to Windows 11 on your Surface Go 2 or 3 offers several benefits:
- Improved Security: Windows 11 includes enhanced security features, such as TPM 2.0 support, which helps protect against malware and unauthorized access.
- Modern Design: Windows 11 boasts a sleek new user interface with rounded corners, improved multitasking features, and a more intuitive design.
- Enhanced Gaming Experience: Windows 11 optimizes gaming performance with features like DirectX 12 Ultimate support, which can enhance visual fidelity and frame rates.
- New Features: Windows 11 introduces several new features, including the redesigned Start menu, Android app support, and improved touch interactions, that can enhance your user experience.
Should You Upgrade to Windows 11?
The decision of whether or not to upgrade to Windows 11 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider these factors:
- Performance Requirements: If you’re a demanding user who frequently runs resource-intensive applications, you might want to consider staying with Windows 10 for better performance.
- Battery Life: If you rely on your Surface Go’s battery life for extended periods, you might notice a slight decrease in battery life with Windows 11.
- New Features: If you’re excited about the new features and design of Windows 11, the upgrade could be worth it.
- Software Compatibility: Ensure that your essential applications and drivers are compatible with Windows 11 before upgrading.
Upgrade or Stay Put: Your Choice!
Ultimately, the decision to upgrade to Windows 11 on your Surface Go is yours. If your model is supported, you can enjoy the new features, improved security, and modern design. However, if you’re concerned about performance or battery life, you may want to stick with Windows 10 for now.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Can I upgrade my Surface Go (Original) to Windows 11?
A: While you might be able to install Windows 11 on the original Surface Go through unofficial methods, it’s not recommended. Microsoft does not officially support this model, and you may encounter driver issues, compatibility problems, and security vulnerabilities.
Q: Will upgrading to Windows 11 void my warranty?
A: No, upgrading to Windows 11 will not void your Surface Go warranty. However, if you experience any issues after upgrading, Microsoft may request that you revert to Windows 10 to troubleshoot the problem.
Q: What if I encounter issues after upgrading to Windows 11?
A: If you encounter any problems after upgrading, you can always revert back to Windows 10. Microsoft provides a recovery option to restore your Surface Go to its previous state.
Q: Can I dual-boot Windows 10 and Windows 11 on my Surface Go?
A: Yes, you can dual-boot Windows 10 and Windows 11 on your Surface Go. This allows you to experience both operating systems without having to choose one over the other. However, it requires partitioning your storage drive and may reduce available space for each operating system.
Q: Does upgrading to Windows 11 affect the Touchscreen functionality on my Surface Go?
A: No, upgrading to Windows 11 should not affect the touchscreen functionality on your Surface Go. Windows 11 is designed to support touchscreen devices and offers improved touch interactions.
