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Since the launch of the original Microsoft Surface Laptop Go in 2020, hybrid tablets have created quite a stir in the tech world. They are slimmer and more compact than a laptop and have many more features than a standalone tablet. It is also the perfect model for those on a budget.
The Surface Laptop Go 2 has capitalized on this frenzy and is an upgrade from the first version. With a higher price tag, at £529, this laptop is well within the mid-range. It comes with all the features you’d expect, and a few extras (more on them below), making this a great buy for those who need something to use on the go that won’t blow the budget.
Specifications at a glance
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Screen: 12.4 inch PixelSense display
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Resolution: 1536 x 1024 (148 PPI)
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Size ratio: 3:2
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Processor: quad-core Intel Core i5-1135G7 (11th generation)
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Storage: 128 GB or 256 GB SSD
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Memory: 4GB or 8GB of RAM
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Camera: 720P front facing
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Connection: wifi 6 (ax), Bluetooth 5.1, USB-A, USB-C, headphones, Surface Connect, fingerprint sensor
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Operating System: Windows 1
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Dimensions: 10.95″ x 8.12″ x 0.62″
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Weight: 1127 grams
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Graphics: Intel Iris Xe
The design
The new design is impressive. Available in four different sleek colors – Platinum, Sage, Ice Blue and Sandstone, this laptop looks like it matters. For those looking for something light, it doesn’t get any better than this as the whole unit weighs just 1127g. As well as its feather-light feel, it’s incredibly slim and is generally much more compact than other models – perfect for carrying to and from the office or travelling.
At 12.4 inches, we were a little let down by the screen size. Compared to other similarly priced laptops, the screen is smaller and feels more tablet-like; a drawback for anyone using this as their primary laptop, but fine if you need it on call for entertainment and light remote work. But the size is also compensated by the higher 3:2 ratio which makes it suitable for everyday use.
The keyboard and trackpad were two prominent features when it came to the design. Both worked beautifully. The keyboard feels like a full-size version, and the trackpad’s precision could not be faulted.
The functions
When it comes to daily use, this laptop comes close to perfection. It has a vivid screen, color contrast and higher resolution than similar models, making it perfect for streaming and scrolling through social media.
A marked improvement from the first model, the Go 2 features a 720p webcam and microphone for audio that’s crisp and clear, meaning those Zoom meetings have never felt easier. The speakers also produce decent sound quality and volume, but will not replace the need for a separate speaker.
Unlike its predecessor, there are no problems with overheating or noisy buzzing in the background, and it is 23 percent faster.
Disappointingly, what is the same is the battery life. It still lags behind other laptops, with a full charge providing a day’s light use (around six hours), but not having a charger nearby would be risky; hardly ideal if you want to travel light.
The fingerprint scanner and one-touch login are a convenient addition and increase the efficiency of the laptop.
We were able to open large documents normally and use multiple apps without issue. It’s clear that the updates over the past few years have helped streamline Windows 11, and there appear to be no software issues.
Verdict
Overall, the design and feel of the laptop is remarkably similar to the iPad pro, but when it comes to the actual functionality of the Go 2, it functions far more like a PC than a tablet thanks to its Windows processor.
The new additions and improvements compared to the first version make this laptop worth the extra money, and of all Microsoft’s products, this is the best value. If they could increase the battery life, that would be perfect.
If you’re looking for a laptop for school or university, there’s little like the Go 2 – it’s portable, great for taking notes via the keyboard or touch screen, and has all the firepower of Windows 11 behind it. It’s not just for students: As business travel resumes and WFH days are an ongoing reality for many, a lightweight laptop that meets the demands of your work is an absolute must, and this reliable laptop won’t let you down.
