What To Know
- Microsoft’s Surface line is renowned for its sleek design, powerful performance, and versatility, but deciding between the Surface Go 2 and the Surface Pro 4 might leave you scratching your head.
- The display is a crucial aspect of any tablet, and both the Surface Go 2 and Pro 4 deliver impressive visuals.
- The Go 2 boasts a claimed battery life of up to 10 hours, while the Pro 4 can last up to 9 hours on a single charge.
Choosing the right tablet can be a daunting task, especially when considering the vast array of options available. Microsoft’s Surface line is renowned for its sleek design, powerful performance, and versatility, but deciding between the Surface Go 2 and the Surface Pro 4 might leave you scratching your head. Both devices offer a compelling blend of portability and productivity, but each caters to different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Microsoft Surface Go 2 and Pro 4, helping you determine which tablet aligns best with your requirements.
Design and Build Quality
The Surface Go 2 and Pro 4 share Microsoft’s signature minimalist aesthetics. Both feature a sleek, modern design with a magnesium alloy chassis, exuding durability and premium feel. However, there are subtle differences in their physical dimensions. The Surface Go 2, as its name suggests, is significantly smaller and lighter, making it incredibly portable and ideal for on-the-go use. The Pro 4, on the other hand, boasts a larger footprint and slightly heavier weight, offering a more substantial and desktop-like experience.
Display
The display is a crucial aspect of any tablet, and both the Surface Go 2 and Pro 4 deliver impressive visuals. The Surface Go 2 features a 10.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels, offering crisp and vibrant colors. The Pro 4, however, takes it a step further with a 12.3-inch PixelSense display boasting a higher resolution of 2736 x 1824 pixels. This translates to a sharper and more detailed viewing experience, perfect for creative professionals and those who demand pixel-perfect accuracy.
Performance
Under the hood, the Surface Go 2 and Pro 4 are powered by different processors, resulting in distinct performance capabilities. The Surface Go 2 is equipped with Intel’s 8th Gen Core m3 processor, which provides adequate performance for everyday tasks such as browsing, streaming, and light productivity. However, for demanding applications like video editing or gaming, the Pro 4’s Intel Core i5 or i7 processor delivers a noticeable performance boost. The Pro 4 can handle more intensive workloads with ease, making it a suitable choice for professionals and power users.
Storage and Memory
Both the Surface Go 2 and Pro 4 offer a range of storage options to suit your needs. The Go 2 comes with either 64GB or 128GB of storage, while the Pro 4 offers up to 1TB of storage. The Pro 4 also provides greater flexibility in terms of RAM, with options ranging from 4GB to 16GB, allowing for smoother multitasking and a more responsive user experience.
Battery Life
Battery life is a critical consideration for mobile devices, and both the Surface Go 2 and Pro 4 deliver respectable battery performance. The Go 2 boasts a claimed battery life of up to 10 hours, while the Pro 4 can last up to 9 hours on a single charge. However, actual battery life can vary depending on usage patterns and screen brightness.
Ports and Connectivity
Both tablets offer a decent selection of ports and connectivity options. The Surface Go 2 features a USB-C port, a Surface Connect port, and a headphone jack. The Pro 4 expands on this with the addition of a microSD card reader, a full-size USB 3.0 port, and a mini DisplayPort. The Pro 4 also supports faster Wi-Fi speeds compared to the Go 2.
Keyboard and Pen Support
The Surface Go 2 and Pro 4 are designed to be versatile devices that can seamlessly transition between tablet and laptop modes. Both support a detachable keyboard and a Surface Pen, allowing for a more productive and intuitive user experience. The keyboards are responsive and comfortable to type on, while the Surface Pen offers precise and natural handwriting capabilities.
Price and Value
Price is always a significant factor when making a purchase decision. The Surface Go 2 is the more affordable option, starting at a lower price point compared to the Pro 4. However, the Pro 4 offers a more powerful and feature-rich experience, justifying its higher price tag. Ultimately, the best value proposition depends on your individual needs and budget.
Choosing the Right Surface for You
So, which Surface tablet should you choose? Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Surface Go 2:
- Ideal for: Students, casual users, travelers, and those seeking a lightweight and portable tablet for everyday tasks.
- Pros: Compact and lightweight design, affordable price, decent battery life.
- Cons: Limited performance, smaller display, less storage options.
Surface Pro 4:
- Ideal for: Professionals, creative users, gamers, and those requiring powerful performance and a larger display.
- Pros: Powerful processor, larger display, more storage and RAM options, better connectivity.
- Cons: Higher price, heavier and less portable than the Go 2.
The Verdict: Finding the Perfect Fit
The decision between the Microsoft Surface Go 2 and Pro 4 boils down to your individual priorities and budget. If portability and affordability are paramount, the Surface Go 2 is a solid choice. However, if you require powerful performance, a larger display, and greater versatility, the Surface Pro 4 is the superior option. Ultimately, the best tablet for you is the one that best aligns with your needs and usage patterns.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Can I upgrade the storage on either tablet?
A: Unfortunately, both the Surface Go 2 and Pro 4 have soldered storage, meaning you cannot upgrade it.
Q: Which tablet is better for creative work?
A: The Surface Pro 4 is better suited for creative work due to its more powerful processor and larger display. However, the Go 2 can handle basic photo editing.
Q: Can I use both tablets as a laptop?
A: Yes, both tablets support a detachable keyboard, allowing you to use them as laptops.
Q: Is the Pro 4 still worth buying in 2023?
A: While the Pro 4 is a capable device, newer models like the Surface Pro 7 and 8 offer significant improvements in performance, battery life, and features. However, the Pro 4 can be found at a more affordable price, making it a good value for budget-conscious buyers.
Q: What are the main differences between the Surface Go 2 and the Pro 4?
A: The main differences lie in performance, display size, storage options, and price. The Pro 4 offers a more powerful experience with a larger display, while the Go 2 is more affordable and portable.
