What To Know
- The Microsoft Surface Studio and Surface Studio 2 are two of the most powerful and visually stunning all-in-one desktops on the market.
- Both models offer a unique Zero Gravity hinge, allowing the screen to tilt to a near-vertical position, transforming the desktop into a digital drawing board.
- While both offer a high-resolution display with excellent color accuracy, the Studio 2 boasts a wider color gamut, covering 100% of the sRGB and DCI-P3 color spaces.
The Microsoft Surface Studio and Surface Studio 2 are two of the most powerful and visually stunning all-in-one desktops on the market. Both offer a unique blend of performance, design, and versatility, making them ideal for creative professionals, designers, and anyone seeking a premium computing experience. But with their similarities, it can be challenging to determine which model best suits your needs.
This comprehensive guide will delve deep into the Microsoft Surface Studio vs Studio 2 comparison, highlighting their key features, strengths, and weaknesses. We’ll analyze their performance, display, design, and pricing, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
Performance: Powering Through Creative Workflows
Both the Surface Studio and Studio 2 are equipped with powerful processors and graphics cards capable of handling demanding creative tasks. However, the Studio 2 boasts significant performance enhancements, making it a more compelling choice for users who require the latest technology.
Surface Studio:
- Processor: Intel Core i5 or i7 (6th generation)
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 965M or GTX 980M
- RAM: 8GB or 16GB
- Storage: 1TB or 2TB HDD
Surface Studio 2:
- Processor: Intel Core i7 (7th generation) or Core i9 (8th generation)
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 or GTX 1070
- RAM: 16GB or 32GB
- Storage: 1TB or 2TB SSD
The Studio 2’s upgraded processor, graphics card, and faster SSD storage provide a noticeable performance boost, especially when working with complex 3D models, high-resolution images, or video editing. The increased RAM options also ensure smoother multitasking and faster application loading.
Display: A Canvas for Creativity
The Surface Studio series is renowned for its stunning displays, and the Studio 2 takes it to another level. Both models offer a unique Zero Gravity hinge, allowing the screen to tilt to a near-vertical position, transforming the desktop into a digital drawing board.
Surface Studio:
- Size: 28-inch
- Resolution: 4500 x 3000 (192 PPI)
- Touchscreen: Yes
- Color Gamut: 99% sRGB
Surface Studio 2:
- Size: 28-inch
- Resolution: 4500 x 3000 (192 PPI)
- Touchscreen: Yes
- Color Gamut: 100% sRGB, 100% DCI-P3
While both offer a high-resolution display with excellent color accuracy, the Studio 2 boasts a wider color gamut, covering 100% of the sRGB and DCI-P3 color spaces. This provides a more vibrant and accurate color representation, ideal for professional-grade image editing and video production.
Design: A Fusion of Elegance and Functionality
The Surface Studio series is known for its sleek and modern design. Both models feature a minimalist aesthetic with a thin metal frame and a large, immersive display. The Zero Gravity hinge, allowing the screen to tilt effortlessly, is a signature feature that adds to the overall elegance and functionality.
Surface Studio:
- Stand: Metal stand with a polished silver finish
- Color Options: Silver
- Weight: 34 pounds
Surface Studio 2:
- Stand: Aluminum stand with a polished silver finish
- Color Options: Silver
- Weight: 39.2 pounds
The Studio 2 features a slightly heavier design due to its upgraded components, but it maintains the same sleek and minimalist aesthetic as its predecessor. Both models offer a premium build quality and a comfortable user experience.
Connectivity: Staying Connected and Productive
Both the Surface Studio and Studio 2 offer a comprehensive set of ports for connecting external devices and peripherals.
Surface Studio:
- Ports: 4 x USB 3.0, 1 x SDXC card reader, 1 x Ethernet, 1 x Mini DisplayPort
Surface Studio 2:
- Ports: 4 x USB 3.0, 1 x SDXC card reader, 1 x Ethernet, 1 x Mini DisplayPort, 1 x Surface Connect, 1 x USB-C
The Studio 2 adds a USB-C port, offering more flexibility for connecting newer devices and peripherals. Both models offer reliable connectivity for various needs, ensuring a smooth workflow for creative professionals.
Pricing: Finding the Right Value for Your Budget
The Surface Studio series is positioned as a premium product, and its pricing reflects its high-end features and performance. The Studio 2 comes with a higher price tag compared to its predecessor.
Surface Studio:
- Starting Price: $2,999
Surface Studio 2:
- Starting Price: $3,499
The price difference reflects the Studio 2’s upgraded components and improved performance. However, both models offer excellent value for their respective price points, considering their premium design, powerful hardware, and versatile capabilities.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Surface Studio for You
Both the Microsoft Surface Studio and Surface Studio 2 are exceptional all-in-one desktops that offer a unique blend of performance, design, and versatility.
Choose the Surface Studio if:
- You are on a tighter budget and can compromise on the latest performance and features.
- You are not working with high-resolution images or complex 3D models.
Choose the Surface Studio 2 if:
- You require the latest performance and features for demanding creative workflows.
- You prioritize color accuracy and a wider color gamut for professional-grade image editing and video production.
Beyond the Comparison: Additional Considerations
While this comparison focuses on the key differences between the Surface Studio and Studio 2, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and priorities when making a decision.
- Software Compatibility: Ensure the software you use is compatible with the operating system and hardware specifications of the chosen model.
- Peripherals: Consider the types of peripherals you need, such as a stylus, external monitor, or keyboard, and ensure the chosen model has the necessary ports and compatibility.
- Personal Preferences: Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Information You Need to Know
Q: What is the difference in the CPU and GPU between the Surface Studio and Studio 2?
A: The Surface Studio 2 features a more powerful processor, with options for Intel Core i7 (7th generation) or Core i9 (8th generation), compared to the Surface Studio’s Intel Core i5 or i7 (6th generation). The Studio 2 also offers upgraded graphics cards, with NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 or GTX 1070, replacing the GTX 965M or GTX 980M found in the Studio.
Q: Can I upgrade the RAM or storage in the Surface Studio or Studio 2?
A: Both models are designed as closed systems, and RAM and storage are not user-upgradeable. However, you can choose the configuration with the desired RAM and storage capacity at the time of purchase.
Q: Is the Surface Studio 2 worth the extra cost?
A: The Surface Studio 2 offers significant performance enhancements and improved features compared to its predecessor. If you need the latest technology for demanding creative workflows, the Studio 2 is worth the extra cost. However, if you are on a tighter budget and your needs are less demanding, the original Surface Studio remains a solid option.
Q: What are the advantages of the Surface Studio‘s Zero Gravity hinge?
A: The Zero Gravity hinge allows the screen to tilt effortlessly to a near-vertical position, transforming the desktop into a digital drawing board. This feature is ideal for creative professionals who use a stylus or prefer a more natural drawing experience.
Q: Can I use the Surface Studio or Studio 2 as a regular desktop computer?
A: Yes, both models can be used as regular desktop computers. The Zero Gravity hinge allows you to adjust the screen to a comfortable viewing angle for traditional desktop use. You can connect external monitors, keyboards, and mice to expand your workspace and enhance productivity.
