What To Know
- Both the Surface Laptop Go and the Surface Laptop Go 2 maintain the sleek and minimalist design that the Surface line is known for.
- The original Surface Laptop Go is powered by the 10th Gen Intel Core i5 processor, while the Surface Laptop Go 2 offers the option of the 11th Gen Intel Core i5 or i7 processors.
- The Surface Laptop Go features a USB-C port, a USB-A port, a headphone jack, and a Surface Connect port for charging.
The Microsoft Surface Laptop Go series has become a popular choice for students, professionals, and casual users seeking a portable and stylish laptop. But with the release of the Surface Laptop Go 2, choosing the right one for your needs can be a challenge. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key differences between the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go and the Surface Laptop Go 2, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build: A Familiar Yet Refined Aesthetic
Both the Surface Laptop Go and the Surface Laptop Go 2 maintain the sleek and minimalist design that the Surface line is known for. The aluminum lid and magnesium chassis offer a premium feel, while the compact size makes them highly portable. However, there are subtle design differences that set them apart.
The Surface Laptop Go 2 features a slightly larger display compared to its predecessor, resulting in a slightly larger overall footprint. While the difference isn’t drastic, it’s noticeable. Both laptops come in a range of color options, including Platinum, Sandstone, and Ice Blue.
Display: A Bigger and Brighter Canvas
One of the key upgrades in the Surface Laptop Go 2 is the display. The original Surface Laptop Go boasts a 12.4-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1536 x 1024 pixels. While this is a decent display, the Surface Laptop Go 2 steps up the game with a larger 12.4-inch PixelSense display with a higher resolution of 1536 x 1024 pixels. This translates to a sharper and more vibrant viewing experience, ideal for multimedia consumption and productivity tasks.
Performance: Powering Through Your Workday
Both laptops offer decent performance for everyday tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and light video editing. However, the Surface Laptop Go 2 packs a punch with its upgraded processor options. The original Surface Laptop Go is powered by the 10th Gen Intel Core i5 processor, while the Surface Laptop Go 2 offers the option of the 11th Gen Intel Core i5 or i7 processors. This means faster processing speeds and improved multitasking capabilities in the Surface Laptop Go 2.
Battery Life: Staying Connected All Day Long
Battery life is a crucial factor for mobile users, and both laptops excel in this department. The original Surface Laptop Go boasts a battery life of up to 13 hours, while the Surface Laptop Go 2 offers an impressive 13.5 hours of battery life. This means you can comfortably work or browse the web for an entire day without needing to worry about finding a power outlet.
Ports and Connectivity: Staying Connected
Both laptops offer a decent selection of ports for connectivity. The Surface Laptop Go features a USB-C port, a USB-A port, a headphone jack, and a Surface Connect port for charging. The Surface Laptop Go 2 adds a second USB-C port, providing more flexibility for connecting peripherals. Both laptops support Wi-Fi 6 for fast and reliable internet connectivity.
Keyboard and Touchpad: A Comfortable Typing Experience
The Surface Laptop Go series is known for its comfortable typing experience. Both laptops feature a soft, responsive keyboard with a generous key travel distance. The spacious touchpad provides accurate and responsive tracking, making navigation a breeze.
Price and Value: Finding the Right Fit for Your Budget
The Surface Laptop Go 2 comes at a higher price point compared to the original Surface Laptop Go. However, the added performance, display quality, and battery life make it a worthwhile investment for users who need a more powerful and versatile laptop. The original Surface Laptop Go remains a budget-friendly option for those seeking a portable and reliable laptop for basic tasks.
Making the Decision: Which One is Right for You?
The choice between the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go and the Surface Laptop Go 2 ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget. If you prioritize portability, a decent display, and long battery life, the original Surface Laptop Go is a solid choice. However, if you need more power, a larger and brighter display, and the latest processor technology, the Surface Laptop Go 2 is the clear winner.
A Final Thought: Beyond the Surface
While the Surface Laptop Go 2 offers significant upgrades over its predecessor, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and budget. If you’re a student or casual user who needs a reliable laptop for basic tasks, the original Surface Laptop Go might be sufficient. However, if you’re a professional or a creative individual who requires more power and a better display, the Surface Laptop Go 2 is the way to go.
Common Questions and Answers
Q1: Which laptop is better for gaming?
A: Neither the Surface Laptop Go nor the Surface Laptop Go 2 are ideal for gaming. While they can handle casual games, they lack the dedicated graphics cards needed for demanding titles.
Q2: Is the Surface Laptop Go 2 worth the upgrade?
A: If you need a more powerful and versatile laptop with a better display, the Surface Laptop Go 2 is a worthwhile upgrade. However, if you’re happy with the performance and features of the original Surface Laptop Go, the upgrade might not be necessary.
Q3: What are the key differences between the two laptops?
A: The key differences include the processor, display, and battery life. The Surface Laptop Go 2 offers a more powerful processor, a larger and brighter display, and a longer battery life.
Q4: Is the Surface Laptop Go 2 good for students?
A: Yes, the Surface Laptop Go 2 is a great option for students. It offers a balance of portability, performance, and battery life, making it ideal for taking notes, writing essays, and browsing the web.
Q5: What are the pros and cons of each laptop?
A:
Surface Laptop Go:
- Pros: Affordable, portable, long battery life, comfortable keyboard.
- Cons: Limited performance, smaller display.
Surface Laptop Go 2:
- Pros: Powerful processor, larger and brighter display, longer battery life, more ports.
- Cons: More expensive, slightly larger footprint.
