Since the first Surface Laptop Go iteration was released, Microsoft's line of devices has been considered one of the best laptops due to their reliability and ultraslim design. In fact, they're so slim that they feel like Microsoft Surface tablets with built-in keyboards and trackpads. With the release of the latest model, it's time to compare the three iterations side by side to see the most significant updates and changes. 

I'll also dive into what the different specs mean for you as a consumer so you can figure out which device is best suited to meet your needs. 

Surface Laptop Go vs Laptop Go 2 vs Laptop Go 3: Specs

To start this comparison off, take a look at the official specifications between the original Surface Laptop Go, the Surface Laptop Go 2, and finally, the Surface Laptop Go 3. After that, I'll dive more into what these specs mean for you as a potential owner. 

Surface Laptop Go vs Laptop Go 2 vs Laptop Go 3: What are the major differences?

You might not be able to tell the Surface Laptop Go model apart simply by looking at them because their chassis, displays, dimensions, and color options are pretty similar. However, it's the internal components and hardware changes that really provide a different user experience. Here are the most important differences between Surface Laptop Go, Laptop Go 2, and Laptop Go 3, as well as what these differences mean fo

PROCESSORS: Each consecutive model since the release of the original Surface Laptop Go has housed an improved processor (CPU) that offers more processing power than the model before it. CPUs are one of the most critical parts of a laptop because they provide the necessary instructions to tell it what to do so it can run certain programs and perform specific tasks. As such, the latest Surface Go 3 can handle the most processing tasks out of all three models thanks to the more powerful processor, the Intel Core i5-1235U.

RAM: Although memory (RAM) and storage both deal with Gigabytes (GB), their actual functions within a laptop are very different. RAM stands for random access memory and refers to quickly reading and writing data that it previously accessed to cut down on the time it takes to perform various functions. RAM is essential as a separate entity from storage because a laptop can access data more easily via RAM than an SSD, so it allows your laptop to run programs or save information a lot faster. 

The more RAM you have, the better the Surface Laptop Go can perform, which is why it's good to see that the latest Surface Laptop Go 3 finally offers a version with 16GB of RAM for the average consumer. In contrast, the previous two versions only offered up to 8GB for consumers.

BATTERY: The last thing you want to deal with on the go is having your laptop run out of juice at the wrong moment. Obviously, there's no way to guarantee this won't happen, but having a longer battery life definitely helps. The latest Surface Laptop Go lasts up to 15 hours on one charge, making it the longest-lasting option. Meanwhile, the first and second Surface Laptop Go were relatively similar, with up to 13 or 13.5 hours of battery life, respectively.

Price: Compared to Microsoft's other laptops, like the Surface Laptop Studio 2, the Laptop Go line is very affordable, but they aren't cheap. As is often the case, the latest laptop versions tend to cost more than previous ones because they include upgraded hardware over previous versions and the same can be said with the Surface Laptop Go line. 

Depending on the configuration chosen at launch, the original Laptop Go costs between $550 and $1,100. Meanwhile, the Laptop Go 2 launched at $600 to $1,100. As for the latest Laptop Go 3, it has a starting price of $799. However, it's as yet unclear what the most expensive version costs. So if you want to save money, it's not a bad idea to go with the Laptop Go 2.

Surface Laptop Go vs Laptop Go 2 vs Laptop Go 3: Which should I buy?

If you want to stay up to date with the latest and greatest iteration of Microsoft's Surface Laptop Go line, then you should purchase the new Surface Laptop Go 3. It has the best processing power, provides more RAM than previous versions, and even has a battery life that lasts up to one and a half hours longer than the previous option. It is a bit pricier than the others, but it will also receive support longer. 

Meanwhile, if you want a Surface Laptop Go but want to save some money, I suggest going for the Surface Laptop Go 2. It's pretty powerful still, more so than the original, thanks to its improved graphics card and processor. However, it won't be nearly as costly as the latest version. 

What you need to know

• Microsoft shipped firmware updates for the Surface Go 2, Surface Pro 8, and Surface Pro X.
• The updates don't add new features, but they do include fixes and improvements.
• The Surface Pro 8 update features a fix for the graphics configuration and artifact bug.

Microsoft recently rolled out new firmware updates for its Surface Pro X, Surface Pro 8, and Surface Go 2. Last month, the company shipped firmware updates for the Surface Pro 9 and Surface Laptop Studio, bringing many improvements as well as fixes, including one for the 'battery not genuine' bug.

Here's what to expect from the firmware updates:

Surface Pro X

The August 14 release is available for Surface Pro X (Wi-Fi) devices running Windows 11 October 2021 Updates, Version 21H2, or greater. It ships with 3rd party application performance improvements. Microsoft also promises better device and wireless connection stability with new drivers listed below:

• Surface UEFI - Firmware - 10.610.140
• Microsoft SQ1 Adreno 685 GPU - Display adapters - 27.20.1960

Surface Pro 8

According to Microsoft's support website for the Surface Pro 8, users with a device running Windows 10 October 2020 Update, Version 20H2, or greater should have received a new firmware update which shipped at the beginning of this month. The update ships with a fix for the graphics configuration and artifact bug. Here's the driver included in this fix:

• Intel(R) Iris(R) Xe Graphics - Extension - Intel Corporation - Extn - 31.0.101.3889

Surface Go 2

And most recently, Microsoft also shipped a new firmware update for its second-generation entry-level Windows tablet, the Surface Go 2. The update ships with several fixes and support for new accessories, as listed below:

• Addresses security vulnerability and improves system stability.
• Enables support for new docking accessories.
• Improves Surface Dock2 stability.

Here are all the new drivers included in this patch:

• Surface UEFI - Firmware - Surface - Firmware - 1.0.2.6
• Surface Dock 2 Firmware Update - Extension - Surface - Extension - 6.13.137.0
• Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt(TM) 4 Dock Firmware Update - Firmware - Surface - Firmware - 2.26.4.0
• Microsoft Devices Telemetry Service - Extension - Surface - Extension - 6.196.139.0

As is often the case, these updates roll out to users in waves, so there's a possibility it might not be available to you immediately. Once it is available for you, it'll be listed in the Windows Update section. You'll need to head over to your Settings tab, find "Windows Update" under there, and click "Check for Updates" to download it.

It's worth noting that you cannot roll back to a previous update once you install the most recent one. You can head to Microsoft's support page for additional information, support documents, and requirements.

What you need to know

• Microsoft recently released a firmware update for the Surface Go 2.
• The update addresses a critical security vulnerability and includes a few other changes.
• Surface updates roll out in stages, so you may not see the latest firmware for the Surface Go 2 yet.

Microsoft shipped a firmware update for the Surface Go 2 late last week. It doesn't include any new features, but it does address a critical security vulnerability. Microsoft doesn't specify which security issue is addressed by the update in its support document, but since the vulnerability is marked as critical, it's worth grabbing the fix for it.

The update is available for Surface Go 2 devices running the Windows 10 May 2020 Update (version 20H1) or greater.

Here are the details of the update, as outlined by Microsoft:

Surface updates are released in stages, so you may not see this particular update right away. It started rolling out on June 24, 2022, but it could take a bit to make its way to specific PCs. You can check for the update by searching "View Optional updates" through the Start menu or Settings app. You can also manually update your Surface Go 2 .

Today is Earth Day, and while you might not immediately associate saving and appreciating the planet with technology, Microsoft has a few ways that you can commemorate the holiday. Right now, you can pick up the Microsoft Ocean Plastic Mouse and several refurbished Surface devices at a discount.

The Microsoft Ocean Plastic Mouse is made from recycled ocean plastic that was recovered from oceans and waterways. Microsoft takes that plastic, cleans it up, and turns it into pellets that can be used to make electronic devices. That process contributes to the unique look of the mouse, which has flecks of different-colored material in it.

Save on Surface

Buying a refurbished Surface device can save you a few dollars while also reducing e-waste. "Good for the planet," says Microsoft. "Buying refurbished is a sustainable way to own a Surface that's held to the same standards as all our devices."

Picking up a refurbished device is always a bit cheaper than ordering a new one, but there are additional savings today through the Microsoft Store.

Refurbished Surface Go 2, Pro 7, Laptop 3, Pro 6, Laptop 2, and Pro X devices are available through the Microsoft Store. Stock on refurbished devices can run out quickly and vary depending on what Microsoft has available.

Both of these devices are excellent, but we think that most people will prefer the performance benefits of the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 over the better display and smaller size of the Surface Go 2. With that said, the Surface Go 2 is a fantastic device as well and we highly recommend it if you're okay with sacrificing some horsepower and storage space.

Lenovo IdeaPad 3 vs. Surface Go 2: Performance or display?

Unlike most devices that are separated by their price, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 and Surface Go 2 are primarily separated by two things: their performance and their displays. The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is the undisputable winner of the matchup in terms of performance, as its array of 10th Gen i3 CPUs comfortably outperform the Surface Go 2's Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y and Intel Core m3.

The IdeaPad 3 also comes with options for more memory and storage space, which may be useful for people who occasionally have to tackle more demanding tasks beyond what you'd expect from basic productivity. Notably, the device also comes with a built-in webcam shutter that you can use for privacy, and the bezels of the display are also thinner than the Surface Go 2's.

Don't think that the Surface Go 2's screen is worse just because of the bezels, though. In fact, it's considerably better, as its 400 nit 1920x1280 panel is both sharper and brighter than the screen on the Lenovo IdeaPad 3. The Surface Go 2 also gets a better battery life of around 9-10 hours compared to the IdeaPad's 7-8 hours. All versions of the device also come with Windows Hello support, and there's a configuration available with LTE if you want it. Finally, the Surface Go 2's smaller size and convertible design make it useful if you need something compact, although some may prefer the Lenovo IdeaPad 3's traditional laptop design and size.

Lenovo IdeaPad 3 vs. Surface Go 2: Which should you buy?

While both of these laptops are great choices for anyone who needs a budget-friendly machine, we feel that most people will benefit more from the Lenovo IdeaPad 3's stronger performance and its wider range of options for memory and storage. CPU strength is the biggest difference maker when it comes to productivity work, so it's difficult to advise choosing the Surface Go 2's aging processors over modern 10th Gen options.

With that said, the Surface Go 2's performance is by no means bad for general workloads, and the fact that it comes with a better display and has a more compact form factor will likely appeal to many users — especially if you frequently travel a lot.

For more options to consider, don't miss our roundups of the best Windows laptops and the best cheap laptops available.

Ultimately, the 2021 version of the HP Pavilion x360 2-in-1 14 will be the best choice for most people, as it offers better performance and storage than the Surface Go 2 at a price that many laptop buyers will still find affordable. With that said, the Surface Go 2 remains a great choice for budget buyers in need of a reliable productivity device. It's also a better choice if you're looking for something with very small dimensions.

HP Pavilion x360 14 vs. Surface Go 2: Performance or price?

Above all else, the biggest thing that separates these two devices is their performance capabilities. While both the HP Pavilion x360 2-in-1 14 and the Surface Go 2 deliver reliable performance, the HP Pavilion is more performant overall thanks to its cutting edge i5-1135G7 CPU that's significantly more powerful than the Surface Go 2's aging Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y and 8th Gen Intel Core m3. It also has much better integrated graphics hardware as well, as Intel Xe Graphics are a substantial step up from Intel UHD Graphics.

The device also comes with a full 256GB of SSD storage; the Surface Go 2's base model offers only 64GB of eMMC storage, and you're capped at the 128GB SSD mark if you want to pay extra for more drive space. Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 compatibility also give the device a connectivity edge, ensuring that you'll be able to use Wi-Fi and Bluetooth more efficiently with faster speeds and fewer issues. At the end of the day, the HP Pavilion x360 14 2-in-1 is simply a more powerful and versatile device able to tackle anything from basic productivity work to light gaming — and hey, the screen bezels are thinner, too.

This doesn't mean that the Surface Go 2 doesn't have some notable advantages, though. Its display can reach a maximum of 400 nits, which gives it a solid edge over the HP Pavilion's disappointing 250 nits. This may make the Surface Go 2 more appealing to outdoor users that need something bright enough to counter sun glare. The Surface Go 2 also comes with a Windows Hello-compatible webcam, which many will no doubt enjoy having for increased security. There's an LTE variant of the device available as well, which will likely appeal to users who are often on the go.

Another win in the Surface Go 2's column is how affordable its base model is compared to the HP Pavilion x360 14 2-in-1 (and most other laptops). For $400 (plus some extra for a Surface Go Type Cover or a suitable alternative), you can get a solid convertible that will comfortably handle basic productivity work and simple media consumption. That's a great deal, and it's one that budget buyers shouldn't overlook.

HP Pavilion x360 14 vs. Surface Go 2: Which should you buy?

While both the 2021 version of the HP Pavilion x360 14 2-in-1 and the Surface Go 2 are excellent convertibles, we ultimately think that the HP Pavilion x360 14 2-in-1 will be the better choice for most people thanks to its stronger processor, graphics hardware, and higher storage capacity. Thinner bezels and compatibilities for both Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 are awesome to have as well. Even though it's more expensive, we feel that the improved performance makes the extra cost worth it in the long run — especially since the laptop is still pretty affordable compared to more premium options on the market.

The Surface Go 2 is still a great option if you're looking for reliable performance on a tight budget, and it's what we recommend if you're not comfortable with the price of the HP Pavilion x360 14 2-in-1. It handles everyday work tasks just fine, and it even has a 400-nit display and Windows Hello compatibility. At 10.5 inches, it's also a very compact device that's easy to carry around with you during the day.

For other excellent options to consider, check out our roundup of the best Windows laptops.

What you need to know

• From May 17 to May 31, save $100 on Surface Go 2 bundles.
• From May 28 to June 20, save up to $100 on the Surface Laptop Go.
• From May 28 to June 13, save up to $360 on the Surface Pro X.

Microsoft has some snazzy deals lined up for just about every occasion happening in the near future. Father's Day, Memorial Day, and general graduation date ranges are all covered in the latest Microsoft Store sale, wherein the tech giant is offering up its Surface Go 2 bundles, Surface Laptop Go, and Surface Pro X at discounted rates.

As was noted when the deals were shared with Windows Central, keep in mind the following perks of grabbing one of these discounts from the MS Store: "Any Surface purchased from Microsoft Store comes with the Microsoft Store Promise for Surface, including free 2-3 day shipping, a 60-day extended return window and access to on-demand training videos and workshops."

The Surface Laptop Go, Surface Pro X, and Surface Go 2 are all among the best Microsoft Surface PCs you can get, so know that whatever product you want to score a deal on will likely be a good one; it's all just a matter of grabbing the one suited for your needs or those of the person you're buying gifts for.

What you need to know

• The Surface Go, Surface Go 2, and Surface Laptop Go have new firmware updates available.
• The updates don't include any new features but do improve performance and address bugs.
• The Surface Laptop and Surface Laptop 2 also received firmware updates recently.

Microsoft is rolling out Surface firmware updates left and right. Last week, the Surface Laptop and Surface Laptop 2 received a firmware update. Now, the Surface Go, Surface Go 2, and Surface Laptop Go all have firmware updates. As is normally the case, the updates don't include any new features. They do, however, improve performance and address issues.

If you have a Surface Go, you'll see the following changes:

The Surface Go 2 changelog is largely the same, though it has more changes:

Here is the Surface Laptop Go changelog:

You should be able to grab all of the firmware updates through Windows Update now.

What you need to know

• The Surface Go 2 has a new firmware update available.
• The update focuses on stability and improves reliability with the Surface Dock 2.
• Surface Go 2 owners can grab the update now through Windows Update.

Microsoft has a fresh firmware update ready for the Surface Go 2. The update focuses on stability improvements, as is often the case with firmware updates. In addition to improving stability, the update improves reliability when using the Surface Go 2 with the Surface Dock 2.

Here's what's new for Surface Go 2 owners:

You can grab the latest firmware update for the Surface Go 2 now through Windows Update.

What you need to know

• Brydge unveils several accessories that are "Designed for Surface."
• The accessories include a standalone Precision trackpad, a standalone keyboard, and keyboards that turn the Surface Pro and Surface Go into laptops.
• The W-Touch trackpad costs $100 and the W-Type keyboard costs $60.
• The Brydge 12.3 Pro+ and 10.5 Go+ keyboards cost $150 and $130 respectively.

Brydge has a range of new accessories coming out that make Microsoft's Surface devices more versatile. The company unveiled the W-Touch standalone Precision trackpad, the W-Type keyboard, the Brydge 12.3 Pro+ keyboard, and the 10.5 Go+ keyboard (via The Verge). The W-Touch trackpad ($100), W-Touch keyboard ($60), and Brydge 12.3 Pro+ ($150), and the 10.5 Go+ ($130) go on sale August 17, though they won't ship until a bit after that. All of the accessories will ship the week of August 31 except that 10.5 Go+ which will ship the week of September 7.

The W-Touch trackpad is a unique accessory because it is the "first ever standalone Wireless Windows Precision Trackpad," according to Brydge. The W-Touch trackpad seems similar to the Magic Trackpad 2 that's popular for macOS devices, though the W-Touch is built for Windows 10.

The W-Touch connects with Bluetooth 4.2. It supports the gestures you'd expect in a Precision trackpad, including pinch to zoom, multitouch swiping to switch desktops, and swiping to show the multitask view on Windows 10. The W-Touch is made in partnership with Microsoft.

The W-Type is a full-size keyboard with a number pad. It Also has a full row of function keys. It connects with Bluetooth 5.1 and features an Aluminum body. It has 2mm of travel on its keys, which should feel comfortable.

The Brydge 12.3 Pro+ and 10.5 Go+ will be more familiar to people who have used Brydge products before. Brydge is known for its iPad keyboards that perform a similar function, allowing you to slot a tablet into a keyboard to make a laptop-like device while having the option to remove the tablet to use on its own.

The Brydge 12.3 Pro+ works with the Surface Pro 4, 5, 6, and 7 while the 10.5 Go+ works with the Surface Go and Surface Go 2. The 12.3 Pro+ has a 70 percent larger touchpad than the original Brydge 12.3. Both of the keyboards have the "world's first Bluetooth precision touchpad for Windows," according to Brydge.

The Brydge 12.3 Pro+ does not work with the Surface Pro X, which makes sense considering the Surface Pro X has different physical dimensions than any Surface Pro. When Engadget first covered these keyboards from Brydge, it reported that a Surface Pro X version would be available in the second half of 2020.

The Surface Pro 7 already made our list of Best Windows laptops as the best convertible device. With the new Brydge keyboard, you now have more options to convert the Surface Pro 7.

The Brydge 12.3 Pro+ and 10.5 Go+ keyboards charge with USB-C, have backlit keys, and support multitouch gestures. These keyboards connect with Bluetooth rather than the pogo pins that Microsoft's Surface Type Covers use.

What you need to know

• Toast unveiled a wooden cover for the Surface Go 2.
• The cover is made out of real wood.
• You can also purchase a trackpad surround or tablet front that goes around your screen.

Toast unveiled its wooden covers for the Surface Go 2. You can purchase a cover for the back and kickstand of the device or a cover that surrounds your trackpad. You can also grab a tablet front that wraps around your Surface Go 2's screen.

Our executive editor Daniel Rubino is a big fan of Toast. He's reviewed Toast's wood cover for the Surface Laptop, Surface Go, and many other devices. Several of Toast's products have earned a 5/5 thanks to their unique look, build quality, variety of wood options, and level of protection. As the Surface Go has a similar design to the original Surface Go, his review of Toast's cover should give you a great idea of how the wooden covers will look.

Toast is a unique covering manufacturer. The people at Toast use real wood, which comes with the natural look, smell, and texture of wood. You can choose from different materials, including Walnut, Bamboo, Rosewood, and more.

In his review of Toast's cover for the Surface Go, Rubino called it "A premium, gorgeous way to protect your Surface Go."

The tablet wood cover costs $49 and the tablet trackpad surround costs $19. The tablet wood cover also has an option to add a cut out Windows logo, or a custom design for an additional cost.

What you need to know

• Several Surface X-ray wallpapers are available online.
• A Reddit user named "cuiver" shared the wallpapers online.
• There are wallpapers available for the Surface Go, Surface Go 2, and Surface Pro X.

Microsoft's Surface device are attractive pieces of hardware on the outside, but you can now show off their insides with some X-ray wallpapers. Reddit user "cuiver" shared several Surface X-ray wallpapers on Reddit recently. The wallpapers show off the layered insides of the Surface Go, Surface Go 2, and Surface Pro X. You can grab the Surface Go and Go 2 wallpapers and the Surface Pro X wallpapers on Reddit.

The monotone effect of the wallpapers creates a unique look. Some components appear solid black, but many appear in different shades of gray with varying levels of transparency. As a result, you can see every component of the devices in the wallpapers.

Cuiver shared the inverted and non-inverted designs on Reddit, so you can grab the one that lines up how you like.

What you need to know

• The Surface Go 2 has a new firmware update.
• The update improves pen performance when a palm is touching the screen.
• The update also improves system stability.

Microsoft just rolled out a firmware update for the Surface Go 2. The update improves pen performance when a palm is on the screen and also improves general stability.

Here's a look at what's new, according to Microsoft's Surface Update History:

• Elantech Ltd. – Firmware - 64.26.0.0: Surface Touch - Firmware - improves pen performance when your palm is on the device.
• Surface – Firmware – 1.0.1.0: Surface UEFI – Firmware - improves system stability.

The Surface Go 2 is a recent addition to Microsoft's Surface lineup. It has a larger display than its predecessor while maintaining the same body size. You can check out our full review of the Surface Go 2 to read more about the device.

The latest firmware update for the Surface Go 2 should be available now through Windows Update.

What you need to know

• UAG announced several new protective cases for Microsoft's Surface devices.
• The lineup includes cases for the Surface Go 2 and Surface Book 3.
• They range from sleek designs seen in the Scout case to UAG's Outback line with a hand strap.

Microsoft Surface Go 2 and Surface Book 3 owners have some new options to protect their new hardware. UAG recently announced several new cases for Microsoft's newest Surface devices. Surface Go 2 owners can choose between the Outback, Metropolis, Plasma, Plyo, and Scout cases and Surface Book 3 owners can pick up a Plasma case. The new cases start at $45 and go up to $90 depending on the style you choose.

The Plasma Series features translucent back panels that let you show off the metal finish of your Surface device. The Surface Book Plasma case adds protection around both the detachable screen and the keyboard base. It also adds a bit of lift to the back of the device when sitting on a desk or table, improving the typing angle of the Surface Book. The Plasma case works with the Surface Book, Surface Book 2, and Surface Book 3.

The Surface Go 2 Plasma case covers the device's built-in kickstand but adds its own so you can still use the device at different angles. It works with the Surface Go 2 Type Cover and still allows you to access the device's ports. The Surface Go 2 Plasma case includes a shoulder strap and hand strap.

The Plyo Series case for the Surface Go 2 also has a translucent back, but it doesn't have the hand and shoulder straps of the Plasma Series. As a result, it appears clean and minimalist. It also has its own kickstand and allows access to the Surface Go 2's ports.

The Outback and Metropolis cases feature grippier exteriors. The Outback has a hand strap while the Metropolis features a kickstand.

The Scout Series case is the most minimal in the new lineup. UAG states that it's built with "feather-light construction" but that it has an impact resistant core.

What you need to know

• Microsoft updated Surface tools to support the Surface Go 2 and Surface Book 3.
• The updated tools allow IT admins to manage, secure, and diagnose Surface devices.
• The Surface Go 2 is available now and the Surface Book 3 will be available later this month.

Microsoft updated several Surface tools that allow IT admins to secure, diagnose, and manage Surface devices. The tools now support the newly announced Surface Go 2 and Surface Book 3. These tools are available for almost all other Surface devices, and now support Microsoft's newest additions to the Surface family.

Microsoft summarizes the updated tools in a recent post:

• Surface Data Eraser. Allows you to perform a secure wipe of all data from compatible Surface devices.
• Surface Diagnostic Tool for Business. Provides a range of diagnostic tests and software repairs to quickly investigate, troubleshoot, and resolve hardware, software, and firmware issues with Surface devices.
• Surface Enterprise Management Mode. Allows you to secure and manage firmware settings within your organization.

Microsoft points out that the latest version of Surface Brightness Control already supports the new devices and adds that the original Surface Dock does as well following a firmware update.

You can download Surface Tools for IT from Microsoft's website.

Microsoft's Surface Go came as a surprise release in the summer of 2018. It had been three years since the similar Surface 3, filling the vaunted lower-end and more portable tablet PC segment.

While the Surface Go has since won many converts and fans, it has always been held back by its middling Pentium processor. The Surface Go 2 fixes that by offering a pricier Core m3 option, which effectively solves many of the Go's limitations. Add a slightly bigger display (with smaller bezels), and Microsoft has pushed the Surface Go 2 as far as it can, which is great but also reflects poorly on Intel.

Here is how Surface Go 2 stacks up against its predecessor, and why it is still a remarkably fun and nimble PC even if it costs a little bit more this time.

Mini Surface Pro

Microsoft Surface Go 2 technical specifications

The Surface Go 2 is a 2-in-1 tablet PC that can be accurately described as a mini-Surface Pro. Despite the weaker processor, everything about the Surface Go 2 is premium, including its fully articulating kickstand.

This year, the Surface Go 2 gets a bit more complicated thanks to two processor options. And unlike other laptops, the choice is dramatically different.

There is the Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y, a small bump from the previous Pentium Gold 4415Y in the original Surface Go. There's not much to say about this chip – it is 100Hz faster and uses UHD Graphics 615 (instead of HD Graphics 615). The Pentium Gold 4425Y is found in the $399 and $549 models of Surface Go 2.

However, the Intel Core m3-8100Y is a different story. While this processor is a few years old, it offers a substantive jump in performance, so much so that it makes it hard to recommend the Pentium Gold 4425Y model at all. But the pricing for the Core m3 starts at $629 (8GB RAM, 128GB storage), making it less of a value buy.

There are other differences between the Pentium Gold and Core m3 models. That $399 model has much slower eMMC for storage compared to the faster SSD found in the $549 and up models. RAM is also at just 4GB for the entry-level edition.

But one notable change that applies to all Surface Go 2 editions is the larger display. Microsoft thinned the gargantuan bezels from Surface Go, and the result not only looks better, but the display's size has grown from 10-inch (1800 x 1200) to 10.5-inch (1920x1280). The pixels-per-inch (PPI) also modestly increased from 216 PPI to 220 PPI.

Microsoft is also launching the Surface Go 2 with optional 4G LTE, which includes both a physical nano-SIM and electronic SIM (eSIM) capability. The Surface Go 2 with LTE is only in the top-of-the-line model with 128GB SSD, 8GB of RAM, and Core m3 for $729. It is the version used for this review.

For ports, nothing has changed. There is a single Type-C with USB 3.1 Gen 2, microSDXC slot (behind the kickstand), headphone jack, and Surface Connect for charging. That Type-C port can power one 4K display at 60Hz, or two full HD displays also at 60Hz. It can also be used for charging and data for thumb drives.

The 128GB SSD has about 81GB of free space after the initial setup. The Surface Go 2 ships with Windows 10 version 1909 (build 18363.15) in S Mode. Switching out of S-Mode is very easy with a simple button click in the Microsoft Store – you don't even have to reboot. The new Microsoft Edge came pre-installed to and pinned to the taskbar along with a few Office applications.

An awesome screen

Microsoft Surface Go 2 display, inking, audio, and cameras

While I regularly criticize Microsoft for not adding anti-reflective coatings to its display or skimping on Dolby Vision, both of which apply here, the Surface Go 2's screen is still remarkable at this price range.

The Go 2's screen can hit nearly 400 nits of brightness, which is brilliant. While many high-end laptops can go to 500 or even the rare 600 nits, Go 2's brightness level is more than enough indoors and can be used with moderate success outdoors too.

Color accuracy is also exceptionally good with 100 percent sRGB, 74 percent Adobe RGB, and 78 percent DCI-P3. Those numbers are similar to the Surface Pro 7 and reinforce the idea that Surface Go 2 is a mini Surface Pro instead of a cheap Surface.

The 10.5-inch 1920 x 1280 display has the familiar 3:2 Surface aspect and excellent contrast at 1400:1. It is a sharp, colorful display with exceptional viewing angles.

The thinner Surface Go 2 display bezels now look normal. They're not crazy Dell-InfinityEdge-thin, but there's a reason for that. The Surface keyboard now comes right up to the bottom of the display. Were the Go 2's bezels any thinner, either the keyboard would overlap onto the screen, or Microsoft would have to have a larger bezel just on the bottom, which ruins the symmetry. As is, your hand sometimes blocks the tiny Surface Go 2 display when typing, so it is not evident how those bezels could be made even thinner.

Inking has not changed between Surface Go and Surface Go 2. Both the regular Surface Pen and the new Surface Slim Pen work with the same 4,096 levels of pressure, tilt support, and Bluetooth.

Microsoft is emphasizing the cameras on the Surface Go 2 for a good reason. While nothing has changed between the previous generation and this one, the Surface Go 2's 5MP front-facing camera is the same one found in the Surface Book 3. It's not just beyond average — it is likely the best front-facing built-in web camera on any laptop. Due to workers and students needing to work from home, Surface Go 2 is an ideal teleconferencing companion. That notion is validated further with the new dual "Studio" microphones, which deliver excellent audio fidelity.

That front-facing camera is also Windows Hello compatible, letting you log in to Windows 10 with just your face. It is fast, reliable, and another premium feature that you won't find in any $400 laptop.

The speakers are first-rate. They are stereo, front-facing and nearly invisible. The positioning delivers good audio separation and volume that is aimed at your ears when using the Surface Go 2 in keyboard mode. While there is not a lot of bass, the sound is rich and enjoyable.

still the best

Surface Go 2 Type Cover is now stickier

There is no debating that the Surface Type Cover ($130) is a required purchase to make full use of the Surface Go 2. At least you get to pick one of three Alcantara-based colors, including ice blue, poppy red, and platinum. You can also save $30 with just a black, microfiber one, which costs $100.

The size of the Type Cover is small at just 9-inches across. Many people will find it too small at first. However, after some time, you realize it is not only usable but quite fantastic considering the constraints. It is hard to fathom how anyone could make a better keyboard at this size. The key travel is better than some full-sized Ultrabooks, and there is ample backlighting. While those with larger hands will feel cramped, this criticism feels obvious when talking about a tiny 10.5-inch tablet PC.

The trackpad is also well done. It is large, glass, and uses Microsoft Precision drivers. There is a satisfying click, and the trackpad registered movement with ease.

These second-generation Surface Go Type Covers are interchangeable with the first-generation saving money for those upgrading. But Microsoft did make two subtle changes this year. The functions keys have moved around with the two display brightness keys jumping from F1 and F2 to F6 and F7. The keyboard backlight key moved from F7 to F1 and so on for play/pause, volume, and mute keys, etc. These have no real impact on usability.

Microsoft also followed the Surface Pro X and put a small magnet below the trackpad in the new Surface Type Cover for Surface Go. This magnet lets the second-generation Surface Type covers stick to the Surface Go 2's bezel when closed, preventing it from flopping around. It is not a strong magnet, but it does make a difference. While you can use a first-generation Surface Go Type Cover on Surface Go 2, you won't get this little feature. The same is true in reverse as the original Surface Go does not have a matching magnet in its top bezel.

Speaking of magnets, I'm not thrilled with the lower magnet that holds the keyboard to the lower display bezel. It feels weaker on this model and would separate with too little force.

Core m3 steps up

Microsoft Surface Go benchmarks, LTE, battery, and heat

Early testing with the Surface Go 2 and Core m3 delivered striking results and a massive improvement over Pentium Gold.

The Core m3 runs at 5 watts versus the 6 watts of the Pentium chip with a lower base frequency (1.1 GHz, vs. 1.7 GHz, respectively). But the Pentium is effectively fixed at 1.7Ghz, whereas the Core m3 can use turbo to 3.4GHz. That turbo is the big difference in performance between the two chips.

Using PCMark 10, which does a decent job of simulating usage with a web browser, Microsoft Office, and video conferencing, the Core m3 gets 700 points higher than the original Surface Go.

A real-world comparison has Microsoft's Edge browser launching and loading the default MSN page taking around six seconds on Surface Go (Pentium Gold 4415Y), whereas Surface Go 2 (Core m3) can do it in just three. Multiply that by every other app or game, and you can see how Surface Go 2 with Core m3 dramatically enhances your productivity.

On 3DMark Night Raid, the Surface Go 2 gets a respectable 3,759. But even the Surface Pro X nearly doubles that score at 7,078 due to its powerful Adreno 685 GPU. The original Surface Go yields 2,873 on the same test.

Geekbench 5

Geekbench 5.0 (CPU) (Higher is better)

Geekbench 4

Geekbench 4.0 (CPU) (Higher is better)

GPU

Geekbench 4.0 OpenCL (higher is better)

PCMark

PCMark 10 (higher is better)

3DMark

Night Raid (higher is better)

SSD

CrystalDiskMark (Higher is better)

.

It's not all just CPU and GPU, though. Microsoft is using a slightly faster SSD for storage, which increases read speeds by nearly 500 MB/s and write speeds almost triple to 373 MB/s. These are still well below proper Ultrabook storage performance, but they are much better than the Surface Go's original eMMC, which was just 260 MB/s (read) and 133MBs (write).

In real-world gaming, this means Rocket League can get 30 frames-per-second (FPS) when set to "performance" for graphics at 1152 x864 resolution. Side scroller action games like Bro Force or Fury Unleashed can hit 30 FPS or even 60 FPS, respectively. Meanwhile, Ori and the Will of the Wisps struggles at 10 FPS making it unplayable no matter the resolution. Ironically, while the Surface Pro X cannot play modern x64-bit video games, it will trounce Surface Go on 32-bit x86 ones due to its much more powerful GPU.

Under continued usage, the CPU hovers nicely at 2.0GHz (Intel XTU) with no drops due to thermal throttling (there is power limit throttling (PLT), which refers to how warm Surface Go 2's chassis gets, but this is standard). While the Core m3 is capable of turbo to 3.4GHz, that is only for short bursts. The Surface Go with Pentium 4415Y, however, would only hit 1.6GHz sustained, giving the Core m3 a nice 400Hz bump in overall performance for prolonged CPU-intensive tasks.

The most interesting (and complicated) metric is battery life. Despite the massive jump in performance, the Core m3 uses slightly less power than the Pentium Gold. That means battery life is not impaired from a much faster processor – a rare result. That's not to say battery life is outstanding – real-world usage pegs it at around 7 hours using typical display brightness. That number can shift to just five hours on the low-end up to eight hours if using battery saver mode. While more battery would have been nice, I found the result satisfactory, but underwhelming.

For synthetic benchmarks, PCMark 10's battery test dubbed "Modern Office" loops between productivity applications, web browsing, and video conferencing with small breaks in between to simulate everyday usage. The results may surprise some with Surface Go 2 beating the Surface Go by just over an hour (both PCs had display brightness set to 45 percent). But the reasoning is sound: The Core m3 uses 1-watt less power than the Pentium Gold processor, and it can idle at lower speeds (1.1GHz vs. 1.7GHz), which overtime pays off.

PCMark 10 Battery (Modern Office)

Recharging is also a breeze with the ultra-portable 24-watt charger, which is small enough to fit snugly in your front jeans pocket. Surface Go 2 does support quick charge (and you can use any Surface charger, even if it has more wattage) with the ability to replenish 80 percent of the battery in just over an hour.

Optional 4G LTE (+$100) had no connectivity issues whatsoever and is extremely reliable. The "Surface Mobile Broadband" modem is carrier unlocked. It supports global brands including T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T, and Sprint in the U.S. Speeds were on par with the Surface Pro X. LTE is an intriguing add-on value for Surface Go 2 letting you use the tiny PC anywhere in the world regardless of Wi-Fi. For those planning to use the Surface Go 2 regularly, the addition of LTE is encouraged.

Even if you do not opt for LTE, the new Intel AX200 with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5 is welcomed over the previous Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 4.1.

There is an improved Instant On with Surface Go 2. The PC can turn on and log into Windows 10 in just three seconds, letting it behave more like a smartphone. After six hours of idling on battery, the laptop goes into a proper hibernate (changeable under advanced power settings).

Finally, because the Core m3 is a fanless processor, there is no excessive heat with Surface Go 2. Temperatures rarely went above 101 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius), which is well below what most laptops get on their top decks.

When and where

Microsoft Surface Go 2 pricing and availability

The Surface Go 2 is now available in these markets, following its May 12 release:

• United States
• Canada
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Germany
• Austria
• UK
• Ireland
• France
• Switzerland
• Belgium
• Netherlands
• Denmark
• Finland
• Norway
• Sweden
• Italy
• Spain
• Portugal
• Poland
• Japan

Surface Go 2 will also be launching in several more markets in the coming weeks, starting with China on June 2. On June 18, Surface Go 2 will launch in Taiwan, Hong Kong, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, before also launching in Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and India on July 14. Microsoft will also be launching Surface Go 2 in Mexico and South Africa, new markets for Surface, on August 25.

Multiple configurations and price points are depending on the consumer (Windows 10 Home in S-Mode) or business (Windows 10 Pro in S-Mode) SKUs:

Surface Go 2 Consumer

Surface Go 2 Commercial

Commercial customers have even more configurations to choose from, such as a Core m3 model with just 4GB RAM and 64GB storage. Commercial SKUs also come with Windows 10 Pro instead of Windows 10 Home in S mode:

So much more fun

Microsoft Surface Go 2: As good as it gets

There are multiple ways to evaluate the Surface Go 2 and whether it is a smash hit or just an overpriced mini PC.

Compared to the original Surface Go, Surface Go 2 (Core m3) is an enormous improvement thanks to that larger display, smaller bezels, improved Instant On, and a much faster processor. You'll need to grab the $629 model to see that difference versus the $400 one, but if you are using this device hours a day, it is absolutely worth it. You get nearly double the performance, and yet do not sacrifice battery life. With this configuration, the Surface Go 2 feels like a real PC now.

Another way to look at Surface Go 2 is comparatively to other Windows laptops. Here, Microsoft wins by default. There is no other tablet PC this size that does this much. Assuming you want a 10.5-inch tablet PC that supports inking has excellent audio, a fully-articulating kickstand, microSD expansion, optional LTE, Windows Hello, all in a package that weighs just 1.2lbs (544g). It's actually an incredible machine making it ideal for students, professionals, business use, and journalists (especially if Surface Pro X is out of your price range).

But the Surface Go 2 also exists in the bigger world of Apple iPads – which device is better depends on your work style and goals. The Surface Go 2 is, at its heart, a real PC that can be docked and turned into a decently performing desktop one. The iPad is a tablet that is slowly getting better as a "real" PC but still falls short in some areas. Each has its strengths and weaknesses.

What Surface Go 2 proves, unfortunately, is Microsoft may have hit a wall in design and performance. There is no way to make such a PC better (read: faster) without dramatically increasing its cost. While the Core m3 is a massive improvement in Surface Go 2, it is still a two-year-old processor – a dual-core throwback in a world of octa-core silicon. I can't spin that as a positive; it's frankly sad.

Battery life, performance, costs – these are still massive challenges for Windows 10 PCs when competing against Apple that the Surface Go 2 does not, unfortunately, solve. The needle has moved significantly, but things like longer battery life and octa-core CPUs are desperately needed in this category.

That Intel problem is not Microsoft's fault, but it is not clear what else can be done with Surface Go save for some new, low-cost/high-performance processor technologies. One does wonder, however, how the Snapdragon 7c or 8c would have compared. It is a bit bewildering that Microsoft did not make this an ARM PC.

Should anyone buy the Surface Go 2 with Pentium Gold? Sure. If you plan to use the Surface Go 2 as a companion PC to be used only occasionally in addition to your regular desktop PC or laptop. The Pentium Gold chip is OK for web browsing, email, and even light games. But if your goal is to use the Surface Go 2 habitually, the Core m3 version is preferred every time. It's not just slightly faster, it's massively so, and you get the right amount of RAM and storage capacity.

The bottom line is Surface Go 2 is the best Microsoft could have done in this form factor, and it addressed most of the original Surface Go's criticisms. I genuinely enjoy using Surface Go 2, and I could easily imagine taking it on a hike or out for the weekend when I do not need a full laptop. The performance and 4G LTE let me use it anywhere without getting frustrated, and it's still just really cool. I get why Surface Go has its fans - there is nothing else like it around. But for a Surface Go 3, I'd like to see more revolution than evolution in regards to battery and performance.

Expanding your Surface

Microsoft's new Surface Dock 2 features a plethora of ports to expand the functionality of your Surface devices. You can connect it to all your peripherals and then leave it on your desk. When you bring your Surface device to your desk, you just have to connect your device to the Surface Dock 2 with a single cable. It's an easy and convenient way to have your Surface remain portable while having the ability to connect to plenty of devices at your desk. The Surface Dock 2 has USB-C ports, charges your device, and features fast transfer speeds, but it can't work with all Surface devices. The Surface Dock 2 is expected to launch on May 26, 2020, but is available for preorder now

To use a Surface Dock 2, you generally have to have a Surface device made in 2017 or later. Specifically, it works with the Surface Book 3, Surface Book 2, Surface Pro 7, Surface Pro 6, Surface Pro (5th Gen), Surface Pro X, Surface Laptop 3, Surface Laptop 2, Surface Laptop (1st Gen), Surface Go 2, Surface Go, Surface Go, and Surface 3. Some of the data transfer rates vary depending on the Surface device you have. Surface devices also vary in how much resolution they can put out to external monitors through the dock. You can check Microsoft's support page to see a complete chart of features.

The Surface Dock 2 provides a wide variety of ports to connect old and new devices such as keyboards and mice. Here are the ports included on the Surface Dock 2:

• 2x front-facing USB-C ports.
• 2x rear-facing, video-enabled USB-C ports
• 2x rear-facing USB-A 3.2 (10Gbps) ports
• 1x Gigabit Ethernet port
• 1x 3.5mm audio in/out port
• Kensington compatible lock

The Surface Dock 2 is ideal for desktop setups. It can drive two 4K displays at 60Hz or two 5K displays at 30Hz. It also has enterprise management tools for IT admins to manage the dock with authentication.

In addition to connecting your supported Surface device to peripherals, the Surface Dock 2 can charge your Surface device. It supports up to 120 watts of power delivery to your Surface device and a total of 199 watts to all devices connected to the dock. The increase to 120 watts, when compared to the original Surface Dock, means that your Surface device won't run out of battery while plugged in. The older dock couldn't supply enough power to keep up with the device's power draw at times. With the Surface Dock 2, you can plug in your Surface device, use it all day, then take it on the go on a full charge.

If you're using an older Surface device and want some of the same benefits that you get with the Surface Dock 2, you can check out the original Surface Dock. It's dated at this point, but it still has several ports and allows you to easily connect your Surface to several devices.

What you need to know

• Surface Go 2 received its first firmware updates today.
• These updates focus on improving connection reliability for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
• Surface Go 2 is available now starting at $400.

Microsoft's new Surface Go 2 only just went on sale today, but it's already getting its first firmware updates. These day-one updates aren't large in number, but they hone in on improving both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.

Here's a look at what's new, according to Microsoft's Surface Update History:

• Intel - net – 21.80.2.1: Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX200 160MHz – Network Adapters - improve connection reliability.
• Intel Corporation –Bluetooth – 21.80.0.3: Intel(R) Wireless Bluetooth – Bluetooth - improve connection reliability.

Surface Go 2 is the first big update to Microsoft's tiniest available Surface. It brings a slightly larger display in the same size body as the original Surface go. It also adds new chips to the mix, including an impressive option for a version with Intel's Core m3 processor.

If you get your hands on a Surface Go 2 this week, you can grab today's firmware updates now via Windows Update.

What you need to know

• Microsoft's Surface Go 2, Surface Earbuds and Surface Headphones 2 are available for purchase.
• Microsoft's website lists several configuration options for the Surface Go 2, including the Intel Core m3 variant.
• Microsoft's other pieces of Surface hardware should be available later this month.

Microsoft's Surface Go 2, Surface Headphones 2, and Surface Earbuds are available starting today. Microsoft recently announced several additions to its Surface family of devices, and a few of them are available now. The Surface Go 2 starts at $400, the Surface Earbuds cost $200 and the Surface Headphones 2 are available for $250.

The Surface Go 2 has a 10.5-inch display, up from the original Surface Go's screen size. While the screen is larger, the body of the Surface Go 2 is the same size as the original. Microsoft did this by reducing the size of the convertible PC's bezels. The Surface Go 2 is available with either an Intel Pentium Gold processor or a more powerful Intel Core m3 processor. Our initial benchmarks show that the Core m3 version does very well when compared to the Pentium Gold variant. The Pentium Gold, Core m3, and Core m3 with Wi-Fi or LTE are listed on Microsoft's website. Best Buy lists the Pentium Gold and Core m3 Wi-Fi variants.

The Surface Earbuds are a new member of the Surface family. They have omnisonic speakers for high quality audio and support haptic gestures for controlling music and other content. They also integrate with Office 365, including support for dictating documents.

The Surface Headphones 2 also support gestures and work with Office 365. They're similar to the original Surface Headphones but have Bluetooth 5.0 and aptX support. Also, they're more comfortable when worn around the neck because the earcups can now be rotated 180 degrees. The Surface Headphones 2 are available in Light Gray or Matte Black.

What you need to know

• Microsoft's new lineup of Surface hardware is available for preorder on Amazon.
• You can preorder the Surface Go 2, Surface Book 3, Surface Dock 2, and Surface Earbuds now.
• The Surface Headphones 2 have not appeared for preorder on Amazon yet.

Microsoft's Surface Go 2, Surface Book 3, Surface Earbuds, and Surface Dock 2 are all available for preorder on Amazon. Microsoft recently announced its newest additions to the Surface family, and you can preorder them now to get them as early as possible. The Surface Go 2 starts at $400, the Surface Book 3 starts $1,599 and the Surface Earbuds cost $200. You can also preorder the Surface Dock 2 for $260. At the moment, the Surface Headphones 2 are not available for preorder on Amazon but you can preorder them from Microsoft.

The Surface Go 2 has a larger display than the original Surface Go while keeping the same body size and shape. Microsoft accomplished this by making the bezels thinner and expanding the display. The Surface Go 2 is available with either Intel Pentium Gold processors or more powerful Intel Core m3 processors. Our initial benchmarks show that the Core m3 version stacks up very well against the cheaper Pentium Gold version. Though at this time only the Pentium Gold version appears for preorder on Amazon.

The Surface Book 3 keeps the external design and look of the Surface Book 2 but has several internal improvements. The CPU and GPU that you can get inside are more powerful, and there are more GPU options. Though, like the Surface Go 2's listing, only some options appear on Amazon at this time.

The Surface Earbuds are a newcomer to the Surface family. They feature omnisonic speakers for high quality audio and support haptic gestures for navigating playback. They also integrate with Office 365, allowing you to perform tasks such as dictating documents.

The Surface Dock 2 is a refresh of the original Surface Dock. It supports faster transfer speeds than the original dock and includes several USB-C ports. It also can deliver up to 120 watts of power to connected Surface devices, meaning your device won't run out of power while you have it docked.

Microsoft Surface Go 2 vs. Surface Go tech specs

Design and features

The new Surface Go 2 shares the same dimensions and (essentially) the same weight, making it just as easy to carry around with you as the original Surface Go. These are both 2-in-1 devices that work comfortable as a tablet or notebook with attached keyboard and touchpad. Old Type Covers will work with the Go 2, as will the Surface Pen. The hinge for the built-in kickstand has been redesigned and the antenna cover is also a bit different, but overall the Go 2 has the same stellar design. Under the stand is still a microSD card reader you can use to expand storage.

The rear- and front-facing cameras on both devices are the same, with the rear set at 8MP (1080p) and the front at 5MP (1080p). However, for better audio quality on calls, there are two far-field Studio microphones on the Go 2. Both laptops also offer a front-facing IR camera for facial recognition through Windows Hello. Along the top edge of both devices is a power button and volume rocker for quick control when in tablet mode.

The Surface Go 2 has been stepped up to Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity compared to Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 4.1 in the original Go. You're going to see much faster wireless speeds in the newer version. Both can be had with optional LTE connectivity, and both are compatible with physical SIM. However, only the Go 2 adds the option for eSIM.

Display and inking

One of the major attractions to the refreshed Go 2 is a larger 10.5-inch display with a slimmer bezel. It holds onto the 3:2 aspect ratio for a boxy look that's slowly becoming more common. The original Go's 10-inch display has an 1800x1200 resolution, while the Go 2 has a 1920x1280 resolution with slightly higher 220 pixels-per-inch (PPI). The Go 2 looks more modern thanks to the rework, delivering more screen real estate for times when productivity is paramount.

Both displays feature 10-point multi-touch functionality and compatibility with a Surface Pen, delivering 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support for a natural inking experience. If you'd like a device that can handle note-taking and sketching, either of these excels.

Performance and price

There are several performance hardware changes with the Go 2 that will no doubt make it far more attractive than the original Go, at least for those who consider themselves more on the side of Power than Casual user.

The Go 2 has a slightly larger battery that is expected to add some life over what the Go was capable of offering (between seven and eight hours). The Go 2 also offers better Instant On so that you can get to work faster. With the Type Cover attached, all it takes is the keyboard to pull away from the screen to have the device turn on.

One downside of the original Surface Go is its relatively underpowered Intel Pentium Gold 4415Y processor (CPU). It has the performance to handle light productivity work and even some light gaming, but don't expect it to match up with modern Intel Core CPUs.

The Surface Go 2 has a similar Pentium Gold 4425Y CPU option that is close to the same performance as its predecessor. Still, it also has an 8th Gen Intel Core m3-8100Y option that significantly boosts performance. It has a lower base clock speed than the Pentium 4425Y, but the Core m3 has a boost up to 3.4GHz, whereas the Pentium is fixed at 1.7GHz. The updated Intel UHD Graphics 615 in the Go 2 is also tweaked by 50MHz for a nice little boost. We ran some benchmarks to see exactly how it stacks up to the Pentium CPU in the original Surface Go.

Geekbench 5

Geekbench 5.0 (CPU) (Higher is better)

Geekbench 4

Geekbench 4.0 (CPU) (Higher is better)

GPU

Geekbench 4.0 OpenCL (higher is better)

3DMark

PCMark 10 (higher is better)

SSD

CrystalDiskMark (Higher is better)

Write speeds are faster in the Go 2, but otherwise not much has changed. eMMC storage in the Go 2 should be far slower than the SSD alternative. You can, however, add up to a 256GB SSD option in the Go 2 Business version.

Elect the Go 2 for a larger display, better performance

The Surface Go 2's larger display, Core m3 CPU option, Wi-Fi 6, slightly larger battery, and myriad other improvements no doubt make it an attractive option, especially with it priced to closely to the original Go.

Look out for great deals on the original Surface Go

The original Surface Go doesn't measure up to the Go 2 in a lot of ways, but if you can find a model bundled with accessories and on sale, it might just be worth picking up. It's still a great little PC you can take anywhere, just with fewer features.

The Surface Go 2 and microSD

Because the Surface Go 2's storage capacity is relatively limited (the SSD is only 128GB), it's a device that significantly benefits from the large amount of storage that a microSD card can provide. Thankfully, the Surface Go 2 has a microSD card slot, so you'll have no problems using a microSD card with the device.

If you're looking for a card to pair with the Surface Go 2, we recommend the Samsung EVO Select. It has excellent read and write speeds and can be configured to have anywhere between 32 and 512GB of storage, so it will be perfect for you no matter how much extra storage you want or need.

Why get a Surface Go 2?

In addition to the fact that it supports microSD cards, there are plenty of other reasons to get a Surface Go 2, too. Its Core m3-8100Y CPU offers a substantial step-up in performance compared to the 4415Y found in the original Surface Go; this processor makes the Surface Go 2 feel like an actual laptop and not just a tablet. Also, the Intel UHD 615 GPU is noticeably stronger compared to the original device's graphics hardware as well. Even the SSD speed is increased, which means that you'll be able to transfer data to and from the drive at a quicker pace. Overall, these hardware improvements make the Surface Go 2 incredibly satisfying to use.

On top of this, the Surface Go 2's display is excellent as well. It sports a higher color accuracy rating than the first Surface Go's and also comes with thinner bezels, which is always excellent. The system wake-up speed has been improved too, as has battery life. In terms of connectivity, all variants of the device come with compatibility for Wi-Fi 6, and if you want it, you can pay extra for 4G LTE connectivity. Overall, the Surface Go 2 is simply a beefed-up Surface Go that features a similar price point to the original, making it a fantastic device.

Microsoft's Surface Go 2, Surface Book 3, and Surface Earbuds are all available for preorder on Best Buy. The latest pieces of Surface hardware were announced yesterday, and you can preorder them now to make sure you get them as soon as possible. At Best Buy, The Surface Go 2 starts at $400, the Surface Book 3 starts $1,599 and the Surface Earbuds cost $200. At the moment, the Surface Headphones 2 and both of Microsoft's new docks are not available for preorder through Best Buy.

The Surface Go 2 features a larger display than the original Surface Go while retaining the same body shape and size. It has improved internals and has options for either Intel Pentium Gold or Intel Core m3 processors. Based on our initial benchmarks, the Core m3 version stacks up very well against the cheaper Pentium Gold version. Though at this time Best Buy does not list the Core m3 version of the Surface Go 2.

The Surface Book 3 has the same body size and shape as the Surface Book 2 and has no external changes. Instead, it has internal improvements and options for a more powerful CPU and GPU. Best Buy doesn't list the cheaper 8GB variant that's available on Microsoft's website. Instead, it starts at the version with 16GB of RAM at $2,300.

The Surface Earbuds are a new member of the Surface family, and feature omnisonic speakers for high audio quality. They support haptic gestures that allow you to control music and other content. They also integrate with Office 365 such as allowing you to dictate to documents.

What you need to know

• The Surface Go 2 is now available for preorder.
• The device has a larger display, larger battery, and improved internals compared to the original Surface Go.
• The Surface Go 2 launches on May 12 starting at $399.

Microsoft announced the Surface Go 2 earlier today, and the device is now available for preorder. The Surface Go 2 improves on several aspects of the original Surface Go, including having a larger display, a better front-facing camera, and improved internals. There's also an option for an Intel Core m3 version for people who want a more powerful option and more affordable Intel Pentium Gold variant. The Pentium Gold version starts at $399 while the Core m3 version starts at $629.

The Surface Go 2 isn't an overhaul of the original Surface Go. Instead, it features general improvements across the board. It has a larger 10.5-inch display that's made possible by its thinner bezels. Because Microsoft expanded the display by thinning the bezels, the Surface Go 2 comes in the same sized body as the original Surface Go. The Surface Go 2 also has an improved 5MP front-facing camera, a larger battery than the original, and dual Microsoft Studio microphones.

On the inside, the Surface Go 2 comes in two variants. Consumers on a budget or that don't need a lot of power can opt for the Intel Pentium Gold version, while people looking for more power can grab the Intel Core m3 version. The Surface Go 2 also has modern connectivity options, supporting both Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0.

You can grab the Surface Go 2 with or without LTE. There are quite a few variants of the Surface Go 2, including different storage options, processor options, and LTE and non-LTE models. The Surface Go 2 also has a staggered launch, with its release date varying by country. The Surface Go 2 will first be available on May 12, starting at $399. We break down all of the variants, price details, and availability dates in our post covering the announcement of the device.

Microsoft launched a whole load of new Surface devices today. With the new Surface Book 3, Surface Go 2, and Surface Headphone 2 finally breaking cover, alongside a ton of other products, you're bound to have some questions, and we have answers.

Windows Central's Daniel Rubino and Zac Bowden will go live on YouTube and Mixer today at 1 PM ET to answer any questions you may have about the new Surface gear announced today. We've already had some hands on time with the Surface Go 2, Surface Headphones 2, and Surface Earbuds, but we'll be fielding questions about everything else as well.

You can watch along on this page via the video embed above, or join us directly on YouTube and Mixer starting at 1 PM ET.

What you need to know

• Preorders are live for the Surface Go Sleeve.
• The sleeve is available in Ice Blue, Poppy Red, Sage, and Matte Black.
• The Surface Go Sleeve is available for preorder for $70.

Microsoft announced the Surface Go 2 today, a small convertible table with a 10.5-inch screen. The Surface Go 2 retains the same dimensions as its predecessor but has improved internals and more processor options. If you're on the market to get one and would like to protect it, you can now preorder a Surface Go Sleeve. They're available in either Ice Blue, Poppy Red, Sage, and Matte Black for $70.

Because the Surface Go 2 has the same physical dimensions as the original Surface Go, the Surface Go Sleeve will work with either device. The Surface Go Sleeve will be available starting May 12, which is the same day that the Surface Go 2 will be available.

The Surface Go 2 has thinner bezels than the original Surface Go, creating a 10.5-inch screen. It also has variants powered by either an Intel Pentium Gold processor or an Intel Core m3 processor. We haven't had the Surface Go 2 for long, but you can check our comparison between benchmarks of the Pentium Gold and Core m3 versions to help you make your decision.

What you need to know

• Panos Panay shared a brief video on Twitter about the new Surface devices.
• Microsoft announced the Surface Book 3, Surface Go 2, and several other Surface devices today.
• Panay highlights that the devices are designed to adapt to people's workflow.

Microsoft's chief product officer, Panos Panay, shared a brief video on Twitter today showing his excitement for the new Surface devices. Microsoft announced two new PCs today, the Surface Book 3 and the Surface Go 2. The company also announced the Surface Headphones 2, Surface Earbuds, and two docks for connecting devices. Panay discussed how the devices adapt to people's workflow.

About halfway through the video, Panay's daughter walks into the room in which he's filming. She joins the video, says hi, and says good-bye alongside Panay ending the video.

Panay often announces Surface devices with a bit more fanfare, but with the current health crisis Microsoft took a different approach to announcing the new Surface devices.

The Surface Go 2 is now official, and Microsoft will begin shipping the device on May 12th in more than 20 different markets. Now with a more prominent display, smaller bezels, and new processor options, the Surface Go 2 looks to be a significant bump over its predecessor, so long as you shell out the extra cash.

I have had the Surface Go 2 for nearly the last 24 hours. While it is way too early for battery life estimates, I have been able to run some synthetic benchmarks to add some perspective to that "new" Intel Core m3-8100Y processor.

Here are five things I have noticed with the new Surface Go 2, so far.

Intel Core m3 makes a big difference

Compared to the Pentium processor in both the older 4415Y and newer 4425Y models, the Core m3-8100Y delivers a significant step up in performance. The Go 2 now feels much more like a regular laptop.

The Core m3 runs at 5 watts versus the 6 watts of the Pentium chip with a lower base frequency (1.1 GHz, vs. 1.7 GHz, respectively). But the Pentium is effectively fixed at 1.7Ghz, whereas the Core m3 can use turbo to 3.4GHz. That's the big difference.

The Intel UHD 615 GPU is also tweaked by 50MHz, which adds a little boost, too.

The early benchmarks speak for themselves when compared to the original Surface Go:

Geekbench 5

Geekbench 5.0 (CPU) (Higher is better)

Geekbench 4

Geekbench 4.0 (CPU) (Higher is better)

GPU

Geekbench 4.0 OpenCL (higher is better)

3DMark

PCMark 10 (higher is better)

SSD

CrystalDiskMark (Higher is better)

.

The heat is also well contained despite the higher CPU clockspeed. The Surface Go 2 with Core m3 is a fanless system, like before, but it doesn't get scorching either in my early tests.

The back of the Go 2 gets warm to around 101 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius), which is well below what most laptops get on their top decks. You can see in my thermal image just how the heat is dispersed throughout the chassis.

Of course, the Intel Core m3-8100Y retails for roughly $120 more than the Pentium chip, and that is reflected in the slightly higher price point of the Surface Go 2. That said, the performance boost – when combined with the faster SSD in the Go 2 – makes a big difference in the user experience.

This is an excellent display

Even though the Surface Go 2 can creep up in price, that $399 model is still impressive, especially the screen for this class of device.

Sure, it's still glossier than I would prefer, but it is pulling in 99 percent Adobe sRGB with nearly 400 nits of brightness with outstanding viewing angles.

That extra half-inch of screen realestate is undoubtedly much nicer too. It's still a small device, but it's a bit better now.

The thinner bezels now look ordinary. They're not crazy Dell-InfinityEdge-thin, but there's a reason for that. The Surface keyboard now comes right up to the bottom of the display. Were the bezels to be any thinner, either the keyboard would overlap onto the screen (not good), or Microsoft would have to have a larger bezel just on the bottom of the Surface Go 2, which would ruin the symmetry and make it look goofy.

Instant On, magnets, LTE, and more

Some smaller changes with the Surface Go 2 get less attention, but here are a few.

There is now a better implementation of Microsoft's Instant-On technology that came to the Surface Laptop 3 (Intel versions) and Surface Pro 7 last year. Flipping the keyboard open now turns on the Surface Go 2 much faster without it going into hibernation as quickly. When combined with the zippy Windows Hello, it's very fluid.

Like Surface Pro X there are now small magnets at the top of the display that helps keep the keyboard from flopping around.

Microsoft is hyping the camera and microphones in its new sizzler video for the Go 2. It is right to do so as Surfaces have always had the best web cameras around, and this 1080P one is great. It's the same camera as the Surface Go, but now it has two Studio Microphones flanking it instead of one, making it even better for that online digital meeting life we're all doing in 2020. Compared to every premium Ultrabook on the market, the Go 2 smokes them.

The model I am testing also has 4G LTE, and Wi-Fi 6 is now standard. So far, the wireless abilities have been excellent. It is an unlocked LTE device, as expected. I'm using it with Verizon and have tried Sprint with no issue. There is also a secondary eSIM option letting you switch between a physical and electronic SIM on the fly.

Surface Go 2: More to come

As usual, I'll be spending the next few days with the Surface Go 2 before my review to get a better idea of battery life and performance.

So far, out-of-the-box impressions are great. The 128GB SSD has about 81GB of free space after the initial setup. The Surface Go 2 ships with Windows 10 version 1909 (build 18363.15) in S Mode. Switching out of S-Mode is very easy with a simple button click in the Microsoft Store – you don't even have to reboot. The new Microsoft Edge came pre-installed to and pinned to the taskbar along with a few Office applications.

The Surface Go 2 arrives on May 12 with a starting price of $399. The model I'm testing with LTE, and the Core m3 tops out at $729. You can get all the pricing and full specifications in our announcement post here.

Have any questions? Leave them in comments, and I'll answer them for the review.

What you need to know

• Preorders for the Surface Book 3 and Surface Go are available on Amazon U.K.
• The Surface Book 3 listing has an option to receive a free Surface Pen.
• The Surface Go 2 starts at £629 and the Surface Book 3 starts at £1,599.

Microsoft's Surface Book 3 and Surface Go 2 are availalbe for preorder on Amazon U.K. Microsoft announced both devices today alongside the Surface Headphones 2, Surface Earbuds, and two docks for connecting devices. The Surface Go 2 starts at £529 and the Surface Book 3 starts at £1,599. If you order the Surface Book 3 from Amazon U.K., there's an option to receive a black Surface Pen for free.

The Surface Book 3 shares its body design and look with the Surface Book 2 but has several internal updates. It's powered by 10th Gen Intel processors and has options for NVIDIA GTX graphics. If you get the 13.5-inch model, you can choose between Intel Iris Plus graphics or an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Max-Q. The 15-inch variant of the Surface Book 3 has more powerful options. You can choose between Intel Iris Plus graphics or an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Max-Q. If you go for the commercial model of the 15-inch Surface Book 3, you can choose to have Quadro RTX 3000 graphics. Unfortunately, the models with Quadro graphics do not appear on Amazon.

The Surface Go 2 has thinner bezels than the original Surface Go and has more options when it comes to processors. You can choose between Intel Pentium Gold processors or an Intel Core m3 processors, though right now Amazon U.K. only lists the Pentium Gold variants. The Surface Go 2 also has dual studio mics, a 5MP front facing camera, and a larger battery than its predecessor.

What you need to know

• Microsoft recently posted videos for the Surface Book 3, Surface Go 2, and Surface Earbuds.
• The videos highlight the latest additions of the Surface lineup.
• Microsoft will likely share videos for the rest of the lineup soon.

Microsoft just announced a plethora of Surface hardware, and you can check out three of them in new sizzler videos. The new videos show off the Surface Book 3, Surface Go 2, and Surface Earbuds.

The Surface Go 2 video focuses on mobility. It highlights the device's instant on capabilities, Windows Hello, and versatility. The Surface Go 2 has a larger display than its predecessor, thanks to its thinner bezels, and can attach to a keyboard.

The Surface Earbuds video appears to be similar or identical to the one that Microsoft used when the headphones were originally announced. It shows off the Surface Earbuds support for gestures, charging case, and quick pairing. It also shows off the ability to dictate to Office 365.

The Surface Book 3 video highlights that it's the Surface device with the longest battery life. The video also mentions some of the internal specs, such as its new GPU options and its 10th Gen Intel processor.

Make sure to check out our coverage of the Surface Go 2, Surface Book 3, and Surface Earbuds to get all the details.

Microsoft's Surface Go 2 is right around the corner. While nothing is set in stone, I am hearing we could see the product announced sometime in May. Thanks to leaked benchmarks, which I've been able to confirm via my own sources, we already know everything about the CPU, RAM, and storage options inside the Surface Go 2. But what about any external hardware changes?

According to sources familiar with the matter, I'm told that Surface Go 2 will feature a larger 10.5-inch display without increasing the overall size of the device. Its exterior chassis will be identical to the original Surface Go, including dimensions and placement of the ports. That means keyboards and accessories designed for the 2018 Surface Go will work just fine on the Surface Go 2 as well.

The larger display size means Microsoft can make the bezels on the front of the device a little slimmer. Sources say the bezels on Surface Go 2 are an improvement over the first Surface Go, but it's not a drastic reduction in size. The bezels are not as thin as those on the Surface Pro X, for example. Expect the bezels to be more like those on the Surface Laptop 3 instead.

Increasing the display to 10.5-inches will also make using Windows 10 feel a little less cramped, especially when dealing with multiple app windows at a time. Along with the increased display size is a small bump in resolution to 1920 x 1280 which should keep things looking sharp.

What's on the inside?

The Surface Go 2 is expected to start at the same $399 price tag for the entry-level model. This will get you an Intel Pentium GOLD 4425Y, paired with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage. We're also expecting to see support support for Wi-Fi 6. Accessories like the Type Cover and Surface Pen will once again be sold separately, as is usually the case.

The big news for this year is that the higher tier option will feature an Intel Core m3-8100Y processor with significantly more power to boot. This model will be paired with 8GB RAM, 128GB storage, and an optional LTE modem too. We don't yet know exact pricing for this model, but it is expected to be somewhere in the $500 range.

All the Surface hardware we're expecting to see announced this spring

Surface Go 2 is shaping up to be a modest update over the original, with a larger display, thinner bezels, and a more powerful CPU option for those who need it. I was hoping to see a model powered by an ARM processor, but that doesn't appear to be happening this year. Fingers crossed that happens with the Surface Go 3 instead.

What are your thoughts on the Surface Go 2? Let us know in the comments.

What you need to know

• A leaked retail listing shows potential details of the Surface Book 3.
• The listing indicates that the Surface Book 3 will bump up to a 25W processor and have an option for an NVIDIA Quatro GPU.
• Other listings share potential details about the Surface Go 2.

Update: Small correction: These are standard 15W chips, not stronger 25W ones.

Recent leaked store listings include potential details about multiple variants of the upcoming Surface Book 3. As with all leaks, these need to be taken with a grain of salt, but they line up fairly well with what's expected of the Surface Book 3. They certainly don't include any details that seem blatantly unrealistic. WinFuture first spotted the listings and shared details about the Surface Book 3. Additionally, some details about the Surface Go 2 came out through leaked listings.

The listings show options for 13-inch and 15-inch models of the Surface Book 3. Both models have options for the Intel Core i5-10210U and Intel Core i7-10510U processors, according to WinFuture. These chips are similar to the previous generation being 15W TDP, but they can burst or be configured to run at 25W TDP.

While it's not clear exactly how different these chips will be, there's a fair chance that the Surface Book 3 will have much more powerful chips than its predecessor. Intel's data charts share more insight regarding the Intel chips that might appear in the Surface Book 3.

WinFuture notes that the Intel Core i5-10210U and Intel Core i7-10510U processors have a base clock speed of 1.6GHz and 1.8GHz and a turbo clock maximum speed of 4.2GHz and 4.9GHz, respectively.

It also appears that The Surface Book 3 will see a bump to an option with 32GB of RAM. This jump isn't surprising but is more than the previous model. There will also be options for 8GB and 16GB of RAM, according to the listings. Storage for the Surface Book 3 goes up to 1TB on the listings.

On the graphics side of things, the Surface Book 3 seems like it will have an option to have an NVIDIA Quatro GPU. These would be professional-grade GPUs that could handle heavier workloads.

The Surface Book 3 listings range from €1,007 to €4,256 (roughly $1,093 to $4,617).

WinFuture also shares some potential details about the Surface Go 2 based on retail listings. The Surface Go 2 will reportedly have LTE and non-LTE option. According to WinFuture, the Surface Go 2 will have an 1800x1200 pixel display and potentially have a screen diagonal of 11-inches. If accurate, this would mean that the Surface Go 2's display would be largely the same as the original Surface Go.

On the inside, the Surface Go 2 will reportedly have an Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y, with a clock speed of 1.7GHz or an Intel Core m3-8100Y CPU. The Core m3 CPU is from the Amber Lake family of Intel chips. It has a base clock speed of 1.1GHz and can reach speeds of 3.4GHz. The Surface Go 2 will have options for 128GB or 256GB SSDs, according to the listing.

As always, leaked listings can be inaccurate or incomplete. There could be other variants of each device listed, or things could be entirely different.

What you need to know

• A new FCC filing spotted this week could be for the Surface Go 2.
• The filing references the same codename seen in Geekbench scores said to be the Surface Go 2.
• This follows the recent appearance of possible Surface Go 2 retailer listings.

A new FCC filing spotted by Windows Latest could be evidence that the Surface Go 2 is almost here. The filing, which was published this week, references the same "EV2" codename that appeared on Geekbench scores that were said to be for the Surface Go 2. It also sports the model number 1927.

There's no explicit reference to the Surface Go 2 name, but we're largely expecting the follow-up to the original Surface Go to debut sometime this spring. We're expecting the smallest member of the Surface lineup to potentially launch alongside a Surface Book 3 as well.

The FCC filing comes as retailer listings for what is presumed to be the Surface Go 2 and Surface Book 3 were spotted at European retailers over the weekend. That those listings and this filing appeared around the same time hint that we could be in for a launch relatively soon. However, with current world events, it's hard to say for certain.

As for what we're expecting with the Surface Go 2, recent reports have suggested that it will come with an Intel Pentium Gold processor. There may also be an Intel Core M option available. Both processors seem reasonable given the Surface Go's position at the entry level of Microsoft's lineup. There's currently no expectation that Microsoft will launch a Snapdragon variant with Windows 10 on ARM.

What you need to know

• Alleged specs for the Surface Go 2 have leaked online.
• The leaks show that the Surface Go 2 could have Intel m3 and Intel Pentium variants.
• The leaks line up with some previous rumors and reports about the Surface Go 2.

Alleged specs of the Surface Go 2 recently leaked online. Twitter user rogame shared the alleged specs, which state that the Surface Go 2 will have Intel Core m3 and Intel Pentium variants (via Tom's Hardware). Specifically, the leak states that the Surface Go 2 will have variants powered by the Intel Core m3-8100Y processor and the Intel Pentium 4425Y processor. If accurate, the specs mean that the Surface Go 2 will see a significant bump in its second generation.

The first-generation Surface Go runs on an Intel Pentium Gold 4415Y processor that hits 1.6GHz. The leaked specs show a model with an Intel Pentium CPU 4425Y processor running at 1.70GHz with two cores, four threads, and no base boost. The potential Intel Core m3-8100Y variant would run at 1.10GHz, have two cores, four threads, and a boost speed of 3.4GHz.

Rogame states on Twitter that both models use the same SSD as the Surface Pro 7 and Surface Pro X.

As is the case with all leaks, these figures need to be taken with a grain of salt. The specs shared here do seem plausible, as they line up with some previous reports and rumors about the Surface Go 2. In our roundup of the Surface hardware we expect this year, we pointed to Geekbench scores that show a Surface Go 2 running the same Intel Core m3 processor shown in these recent leaks.

What you need to know

• Microsoft will announce a Surface Book 3 and Surface Go 2 this spring, according to a report.
• The devices will likely feature refinements and internal changes rather than an overhauled design.
• This latest report lines up with our previous reporting on Microsoft's upcoming plans for Surface hardware.

Microsoft will announce a Surface Book 3 and Surface Go 2 this spring, according to a report by Petri's Brad Sams. Sams states that Microsoft will unveil a refreshed Surface Book, Surface Go, and potentially other Surface hardware at the event. The report from Sams lines up well with our recent reporting on what new Surface hardware we expect to see this year.

According to Sams, the Surface Book 3 will run on an Intel 10th Gen processor and a 16** series NVIDIA GTX GPU. A higher-end Surface Book, which will likely only be available as a 15-inch device, will have an option for a Quadro series GPU. Quadro cards are built for professional people, and should open up the abilities of the Surface Book line. Sams also reports that the max RAM configuration will increase from 16GB to 32GB. The device should be available with up to a 1TB SSD. Sams points out that Quadro GPUs require more wattage, so the Surface Book 3 could also have hardware built with that in mind.

Sams exects the Surface Go to likely run on a Pentium Gold chip. There will also be an option for a Core M chip. Sams quashed rumors of a version of the Surface Go powered by the new Snapdragon 7c processor, stating the rumors "do not appear to be accurate at this time."

Microsoft will also talk about the Surface Earbuds at the event, according to Sams. The Surface Earbuds have already been announced, but have been delayed. He also adds that second-generation Surface Headphones exist, but that he isn't sure if they'll be at the event.

What you need to know

• First Snapdragon 7c laptops are very affordable.
• An ARM-based Surface Go 2 could happen in 2020.
• A 5G Surface Go could also be possible.

In December 2019, Qualcomm announced two new Snapdragon processors for Windows 10 PCs. The Snapdragon 7c and 8c are positioned for entry-level and mid-range PCs competing against Intel's lackluster Atom and Pentium processors (and even AMD).

At the time, I speculated that a Surface Go 2 could potentially use one of the new chips as Qualcomm hinted at sub-$400 PCs running the Snapdragon 7c chipset (the slightly more powerful 8c is for laptops in the $500-800 range).

Now, we have the first evidence that these chips would let Microsoft hit the $400 price-point for Surface Go 2 if they so choose.

First Snapdragon 7c laptops are very affordable

These two new laptops — the JP.IK Turn T101 ($300), and the Positivo Wise N1212S with inking ($575) — were recently announced along with Microsoft's continued annual push into growing education markets. What makes both laptops unique is they are the first to utilize a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c processor — which itself is newsworthy.

The news is also our first look at real-world pricing for 7c devices, and $300 is quite low. School laptops tend to have thick bezels, use a lot of hard plastic, lack high-end specs like IPS displays and are generally not attractive. They're meant to take beatings from school kids for years and bought en masse for entire classrooms.

But the ability for Qualcomm to hit that low of a price is noteworthy (and a direct threat to Intel and AMD long term, despite lingering growing pains with ARM on Windows).

Surface Go 2 ♥ ARM?

The original Microsoft Surface Go is high-end by comparison to the JP.IK Turn T101. The Go's 1800 x 1200 IPS display with inking is one of the most expensive parts of the tablet. The same applies to the front-facing speakers, magnesium chassis, hinged kickstand, MicroSD slot, and Windows Hello infrared camera. It's remarkable Microsoft can push Surface Go down to the $400 range even without the extra $100 Surface Go Keyboard.

But with the Snapdragon 7c, the costs of that chip compared to an Intel Pentium Gold or even new AMD Athlon mobile processors seems comparable. That's important if Microsoft is exploring going with ARM for a Surface Go 2.

As we've seen with the Surface Pro X's design by going with ARM Microsoft could keep the Surface Go 2 very thin while efficiently delivering 4G LTE. It remains to be seen if Microsoft goes down this road if they make 4G LTE optional — Qualcomm in the past has resisted this effort, but the Snapdragon 850-powered HoloLens 2 omits such connectivity setting some precedence.

By removing LTE, Microsoft could help keep that $400 entry-level price in check.

Another benefit of using the Snapdragon 7c over Intel or AMD is it's an eight-core chip. Intel's Pentium Gold 4415Y, the newer Pentium Gold 6405U, and AMD's comparable Athlon Gold 3150U are merely dual-core. The benchmark results reveal themselves under multi-core testing.

Geekbench 4.0 (CPU) (Higher is better)

Intel and AMD are also both 14nm, whereas the Snapdragon 7c is just 8nm — Qualcomm can pack much more on the chip, including Bluetooth 5.1, Wi-Fi 6, GPS, LPDDR4, and UFS 3.0 for storage. All these features add up to a more efficient system. Intel's forthcoming Lakefield offering could easily rival the Snapdragon 7c, but most estimates are putting its price in the range of the higher-end Snapdragon 8cx, not the 7c.

Of course, Microsoft is likely testing various chipsets and scenarios, making Qualcomm hardly a shoo-in for a Surface Go 2. But Surface Go — like those new education laptops — is aimed at similar markets. Microsoft originally spun the Surface Go as the perfect device for "schools, kids, and enterprise".

While the push for ARM-based PCs has mostly focused on business, it is now evident education markets are ripe for them too. That's a lot of overlap with Surface Go, and with the right price, connectivity, and slimmer hardware profile, an ARM-based Surface Go 2 could be a very intriguing device. What's more exciting is Microsoft could even offer a higher-tier 5G Surface Go 2 with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8c – similar to how Intel has Core i5, and i7 processors.

Hopefully, we'll find out by summer 2020 if Microsoft chooses this path. I'm hoping they do.