Everything sold with the Microsoft name is notoriously known for being sold at a high price point. The Microsoft Surface Go 2 bucks that trend and has become one of Microsoft’s best selling lines. This tablet to laptop hybrid comes equipped to run Windows 10 operating system. As a result, this tablet has much more versatility than many others on the market. With incredible battery life and affordability, this tablet to laptop is a great option for students.
Is the Microsoft Surface Go 2 right for you?
If you’re looking for an affordable tablet that can run Windows 10, the Microsoft Surface Go 2 is the tablet to laptop you should be targeting. Go 2 is also ideal for students because of its battery life, price, portability, and flexibility.
Performance
This is a relatively low-powered device. Pretty much what I’m saying is, don’t expect this to be a top-notch gaming PC. It could also run into issues when downloading large files and using intricate video editing apps. However, the tablet has no issue running casual games from the Microsoft store whenever you need a quick escape from your work.
While the Surface Go 2 doesn’t possess the strongest processor, it is what you would expect at its given price. It is a well-designed and unique device that has many functional uses. After working on this 2-in-1 laptop for a few days, I didn’t run into any issues when writing, browsing, or streaming. So it definitely isn’t as if this device contains a potato for a processor. If this is what you want the Go 2 to do for you, at this price, it’s absolutely the right product for you.
You can purchase upgrades for the Go 2, including a stronger processor. However, this can quickly escalate the price. Frankly, you can find better options for laptops if you are planning to push your device with demanding tasks. This 2-in-1 laptop is a great fit for the right person. Primarily, a person who is looking for a low budget laptop that will perform basic tasks.
Keyboard and Stylus
Unfortunately, if you want to receive the full benefits of this device, you’re going to need to purchase the Microsoft Surface Go Signature Type Cover Keyboard and Surface Stylus separately. Although the tablet is often advertised with photos of an accompanying keyboard and stylus, they’re sold separately. You’re going to want to buy both of these add-ons. On its own, the tablet is not the cheapest tablet on the market, it gains versatility when paired with its additional tools.
Battery Life
This device boasts an incredible battery life. Microsoft claims that the Surface Go 2 offers “up to 10 hours of typical device usage” whether on Wi-Fi or LTE. After working on the Surface, I’ve managed roughly 9 hours and 15 minutes of battery life. To test it, I performed my daily tasks of typing, web surfing, video watching, my bad habit of leaving a million tabs open, and running streams when I was away from my device. The battery life is spectacular and can get you through a workday or school day without issue. Additionally, if you travel a lot, the battery life should last you cross country flights with ease.
Webcam
If having a high quality front-facing camera is important to you, then the Microsoft Surface Go 2 would be an ideal match for you. The Go 2 has a sharp 1080p webcam that outdoes even the latest MacBook Pro.
Great For Students
The stylus is fantastic for students. I am personally a fast typer and have never had issues keeping up with note-taking during my class lectures in college. However, I know that many students suffer from this issue. The stylus allows you to scribble notes onto your device, turning it into standard text. This is an alternative to typing your notes. Also, for students who need to sketch designs, from engineering to art students, this touch screen stylus is perfect for drafting up designs.
Pros:
- Price
- Can run full Windows 10
- Battery life
Cons:
- No-touch cover and stylus sold separately
- The base model is not premium, competitive pricing can quickly escalate
- Not strong enough for high graphic gaming
Specs:
CPU: 1.7GHz Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y (dual-core, 2MB Cache)
RAM: 4GB
Storage: 64GB
Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 615
Display: 10.5-inch PixelSense (1,920 x 1,280)
Ports: 1x USB-C, combi audio jack, Surface Connect port, Surface Type Cover port, microSSDXC card reader
Connectivity: Intel Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth
Cameras: 1080p front-facing camera, 1080p rear-facing camera
Weight: 1.2 pounds
Size: 9.65 inches x 6.9 inches x 0.33 inches
In Conclusion, TLDR
Microsoft Surface Go 2 is an excellent choice for students. It contains the versatility of a tablet and laptop in one device, assuming you purchase the keyboard separately. Its affordable price, battery life, portability, and touch screen make it an attractive 2-in-1 tablet and laptop for students. It is not the strongest device, so do not purchase this if you intend to play high graphic games.
