The Surface Go 2 is more affordable but is it as good as Microsoft’s premium tablets? Find out more in this Microsoft Surface Go 2 review.
Microsoft Surface Go 2 in the test: small but solid
Surface Go 2 is Microsoft’s second-generation entry-level tablet, which features Surface-level quality, and the overall price / performance ratio is not high. But don’t be fooled; Microsoft’s cheapest tablet still offers a variety of hardware to appeal to the most demanding tablet users. With Windows 10 built in, this tablet can also use some of the best office and creative tools in the industry.
What you need to know about Microsoft Surface Go 2
Surface Go 2 is the entry point for Microsoft’s updated and accessible line of Windows tablets. The upgrade to the original Surface Go includes a larger screen and a more powerful processing package. For Microsoft Surface Tablet PC, Surface Go 2 comes with a sturdy built-in stand. It was released in mid-May 2020 and is available for purchase from the Microsoft Store, Amazon, and many other retail stores. the
The base specification provides a 10.5-inch screen with a resolution of 1920 x 1280, an aspect ratio of 3: 2 and Gorilla Glass 3. Microsoft Surface Go 2 is equipped with a dual-core Intel Pentium 4425Y processor. with a clock speed of 1.7 GHz or 3.4 GHz… Core m3 8100Y and both integrate the same Intel UHD Graphics 615, against 850 MHz, which provides 900 MHz. The clock frequency is slightly higher. With the exception of the cheapest model, all models come with 8GB RAM and 128GB SDD instead of 4GB RAM and 64GB slower eMMC storage. On the front of the
is a 5 megapixel camera capable of capturing 1080p video, and on both sides are multiple Windows Hello face verification cameras, allowing you to unlock the tablet quickly and securely. On the back, there is an 8MP autofocus camera with 1080p video capabilities. The Surface Go 2 comes with a 24W Surface Connector charger in the box, but the tablet can also be powered by USB and charged up to 45W via USBC.
Microsoft added Bluetooth 5.0, WiFi 6, a headphone jack, an ambient light sensor, a microSDXC card reader, two speakers and a microphone and a USB-C port. The on-board firmware of the TMP is an essential component and is also provided free of charge. Upgrade to Windows 11. More expensive models include 4G LTE band for data transmission via physical SIM or eSIM.
Surface Go 2 works the same as its predecessor in Windows 10 S mode, which limits downloading apps from the Microsoft Store and using the Edge browser. It can be upgraded to the full version of Windows, although it is a one-time transaction. You can go back, but only by downloading the recovery image and restoring factory settings.
Microsoft Surface Go 2 is only available in Platinum. Basic customization options come from the Surface Go keyboard shell. It’s available in Ice Blue, Poppy Red (pictured), Platinum, and Black, and priced at $ 129.99.
What is good?
We tested 8th Gen Intel Core m3 processor, Surface Go 2 variant with 8GB RAM, and demonstrated excellent performance in word processing, multi-table web browsing, and more. Integrated Intel Mobile Graphics supports my external 4K monitor connected via USBC without delay. Very useful for improving the performance of small flat screens. It’s also powerful enough to run new and older games that are less demanding at a playable frame rate, such as The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, although it is definitely not a gaming device. .
Using facial recognition to unlock the tablet is also very fast. It seems to be more mobile than the premium first-gen Surface Pro X that I’ve been using for some time. The setup process is straightforward, and because it’s based on infrared depth mapping, it’s much more secure than the basic face unlock technology you find on other laptops and smartphones.
Speaking of cameras, the front webcam is very suitable for video calls etc. It offers a wide enough field of view and works well in bright backlight and HDR environments, so your calls won’t be blurry. You won’t find all video conferencing apps in the Microsoft Store. See for example zoom. the
The Surface Go keyboard cover is a well-thought-out combination of keyboard and keyboard cover, despite its steep price. Despite the slim profile, the key strokes are acceptable and the touchpad is responsive. Improve web browsing and document editing, and protect the screen when carrying a tablet. My only complaint is that the buttons are a bit sticky and loud. It’s certainly not a replacement for a more rugged desktop keyboard, but it does the job well.