In Short

The Surface 2 is a Windows RT tablet from Microsoft. It’s part of the second-generation of Surface devices. Microsoft unveiled the Surface 2 at a press event on September 23, 2013. The device was released a month later on October 22nd.

The Surface 2 is the second Windows RT tablet from Microsoft. The first was the Surface RT launched the prior year. The Surface 2 is a continuation of that initial device, but with better specifications and an improved chassis.

The Surface 2 introduced a significant bump in specs from the previous model, especially with the display and processing units. Up front you’ll find a ClearType 10.6-inch screen with a 1080p display. The display is the same one used in the higher-end Surface Pro 2. Inside a 1.7GHz quad-core Nvidia Tegra 4 chipset with 2GB of RAM powers the Surface 2.

The Surface 2 comes in two configurations that differ in storage: a 32GB model and 64 GB model. Though there was a 64GB model launched in March 2014 that includes integrated LTE-connectivity. In the United States it connects with AT&T’s network, while Vodafone customers can look forward to international support. Storage can be expanded with a microSD card slot and supports cards up to 64GB.

Improved battery life and a different external chassis are other major differences with the Surface 2 over the first-gen Surface RT. Battery life has been improved to 10 hours of video playback. While the integrated kick-stand now has two positions with different viewing angles. Additionally the magnesium allow that encases the Surface 2 has been made silver vs. black.

Microsoft’s Surface 2 has been relatively well received by consumers. The Surface 2 has also received monthly firmware updates that have improved a variety of functions. 

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