Microsoft unveiled its new Surface Pro 12-inch on May 6, 2025, and it's expected to launch on May 20. The Surface Go 4, which launched in 2023, is another compact 2-in-1 that launched in 2023.

While Microsoft has stated that its new Pro 12-inch isn't replacing the Surface Go line — it's instead meant to add a more affordable option to its Copilot+ PC lineup — the newer 2-in-1 almost completely removes any enthusiasm and appeal for the Surface Go 4.

Short story? Buy the Surface Pro 12-inch. Long story? Read on for a detailed breakdown of the differences and similarities between the Surface Pro 12-inch and Surface Go 4.

Surface Pro 12-inch vs. Surface Go 4: Specifications

Before I dive into a more detailed breakdown, here's a look at the raw specs that make up these 2-in-1 Surface devices.

Surface Pro 12-inch vs. Surface Go 4: Price and availability

Microsoft's new Surface Pro 12-inch is now available for preorder at Microsoft and third-party retailers, with the official launch slated for May 20, 2025.

The Surface Pro 12-inch with a Snapdragon X Plus (X1P-42) System-on-Chip, 16GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage starts at $799.99 at Best Buy. It comes in a Platinum finish.

Doubling storage to 512GB, the price climbs to $899.99. Violet, Ocean, and Platinum colors are available for this pricier SKU.

The Surface Pro 12's optional keyboard is sold separately for $149.99. It comes in Slate, Violet, and Ocean colors.

The optional Surface Slim Pen 2 adds another $129.99 to the total. You can save some money by bundling the Pro 12-inch Keyboard and the Slim Pen for $249.99 at Best Buy.

With keyboard, pen, and PC, you're looking at spending about $1,050 for even the baseline package with 256GB of storage.

• Surface Pro 12-inch, Platinum, 16GB RAM, 256GB Storage: $799.99 at Best Buy
• Surface Pro 12-inch, Platinum, 16GB RAM, 512GB Storage: $899.99 at Best Buy
• Surface Pro 12-inch, Violet, 16GB RAM, 512GB Storage: $899.99 at Best Buy
• Surface Pro 12-inch, Ocean, 16GB RAM, 512GB Storage: $899.99 at Best Buy
• Surface Pro 12 Keyboard: $149.99 at Best Buy
• Surface Pro 12 Keyboard with Slim Pen: $249.99 at Best Buy

The Surface Go 4 launched in October 2023 and remains available to buy today via Microsoft's commercial storefront and some third-party retailers like Amazon.

Shopping at Microsoft, the Surface Go 4 "for Business" starts at $689.99. The baseline model gets you an Intel N200 processor, 8GB of LPDDR5 RAM, and 64GB of storage.

There's also a $799.99 model still on sale at Microsoft. It doubles the storage to 128GB, but specs are otherwise the same.

Amazon seems to be one of the only other retailers selling the Surface Go 4 in an unused state.

I found a model with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage for $819.99 at Amazon. I also found a model with 256GB of storage (sold out at Microsoft) for $964.99 at Amazon.

Microsoft sells its Surface Go Type Cover keyboard and Surface Pen separately. The best prices I found for the former are at Amazon. The Poppy Red option starts at $63, and prices climb from there for Platinum, Ice Blue, and Black colors.

The Surface Go 4 is made for use with the Surface Pen, which starts at about $60 at Amazon.

Taking the best prices I could find, you're still adding about $123 to the cost of the PC for its accessories. That pushes the $690 model up to $813 for the full package with Surface Go 4, keyboard, and pen.

Because the device supports Microsoft Pen Protocol (MPP), you shouldn't have issues using Microsoft's newer Surface Slim Pen or Slim Pen 2, albeit without all the extra features like haptic feedback.

Surface Pro 12-inch vs. Surface Go 4: Design and features

The new Surface Pro 12-inch and the Surface Go 4 are both fanless 2-in-1 PCs. Because there aren't any fans inside, there's no necessary venting around the edges, making for a cleaner tablet aesthetic.

The Surface Go 4, despite its smaller display, is the chunkier device. Microsoft made a point of thinning down its Surface Pro 12-inch to match modern tablet slabs, and it's thinner than the Go 4 at 0.30 inches (compared to 0.33 inches).

The Go 4 has a smaller footprint, but not by a whole lot. The Surface Pro 12-inch measures about 1.15 inches wider and 0.57 inches taller.

The Go 4 also weighs less at 1.15 pounds compared to 1.5 pounds. Considering you get an additional 1.5 inches of screen space on the newer device, Microsoft did some fine work designing the Pro 12-inch.

Both Surface PCs feature a built-in stand on the back of the tablet. It extends out to stabilize and prop up the tablet, and it's especially important when a keyboard is attached.

The Surface Go 4 hides a microSD card reader under its stand, which can be used to expand its meager storage options.

The Go 4 otherwise offers one USB-C 3.1 port for data and video, Surface Connect for charging or Surface docks, and a 3.5mm audio jack.

The Surface Pro 12-inch has two USB-C 3.2 ports (10Gbps) only. It no longer includes Surface Connect, and it lacks a 3.5mm audio jack.

The Pro 12-inch can run dual 4K external monitors each at a 60Hz refresh rate with this setup.

The Go 4 can run one 4K display at 60Hz natively; for additional displays, a dock or extender with DisplayLink is required. Dan S. Charlton's Surface blog has an outstanding explanation of Surface USB-C capabilities if you want more info.

Both Surface PCs have a similar audio setup with dual 2W stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos tuning.

Camera hardware is also similar. Both PCs have a front-facing 1080p camera with an IR sensor for Windows Hello facial recognition. The Pro 12-inch bumps its rear-facing camera to 10MP, while the Go 4 hits 8MP.

The Pro 12-inch has much newer wireless hardware, with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 offering the best possible experience. The Go 4 offers Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1; still good, but not as good.

Both devices use a detachable keyboard to complete the notebook setup. The Go 4's keyboard is smaller (I find it edging on too small, but my hands are probably larger than average), but it comes with a backlight.

The Pro 12-inch keyboard is slightly different. It still attaches magnetically, but the hinge is slimmer and no longer flips up to stick to the bottom bezel.

This allows it to rotate backwards to sit flat on the back of the tablet, but it also makes for a more streamlined look. The Pro 12-inch keyboard also features a backlight.

Microsoft added an indented cradle on the back of the tablet to house the Slim Pen when it's not in use. The pen charges automatically when cradled.

Platinum, Ocean, and Violet colors are available for the Surface Pro 12-inch. The Surface Go 4 is only available in Platinum, although its keyboards (linked in the section above) can add some flair.

Overall, the Surface Pro 12-inch is immediately recognizable as the newer, more modern device.

It's slightly thinner, the keyboard has less bulk (and more typing space), and the new Slim Pen charging cradle is a nice feature.

Both 2-in-1 laptops are ultimately great for traveling, but don't make a final decision before I discuss the display and, especially, the performance.

Surface Pro 12-inch vs. Surface Go 4: Display

The Surface Go 4's display measures 10.5 inches with a 3:2 aspect ratio and a 1920x1280 resolution. That works out to 220 pixels per inch (PPI).

The Surface Pro has a larger 12-inch display with a 3:2 aspect ratio, but its 2196x1464 resolution works out to the same 220 PPI.

That goes to show how good the Go 4's display still is today. Microsoft lists a 1500:1 contrast ratio on the Go 4, besting the Pro 12-inch's 1200:1 ratio.

However, the Pro 12-inch pulls ahead of the Go 4's 60Hz refresh rate, boosting it to 90Hz for a smoother view that's easier on the eyes. The Pro 12-inch should also get brighter.

Both devices have 10-point touch displays with pen compatibility, but the Pro 12-inch is the right choice if you want the best inking experience with haptic feedback.

The Go 4's display has relatively thick bezels, and its smaller size will impact some workflows. The Pro 12-inch has thinner bezels for a more modern look, and the larger screen will benefit many users.

Surface Pro 12-inch vs. Surface Go 4: Performance and battery

The Surface Go 4 is equipped with a 4-core Intel N200 CPU with a 1GHz clock. Even in 2023, when the Go 4 launched, this chip wasn't very impressive.

Realistically, it has enough power for very light computing; multitasking will pull it to a standstill in most cases.

On the other hand, the Surface Pro 12-inch has an 8-core Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus (X1P-42) SoC with a 3.2GHz multi-core frequency, integrated GPU with 1.7 TFLOPs of power, and a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for full access to Copilot+ tools.

Editor-in-Chief Daniel Rubino went hands-on with the Surface Pro 12-inch and did some preliminary benchmarking. Looking at Geekbench 6 scores puts the performance difference into perspective.

Geekbench, of course, doesn't provide a full picture of real-world performance. But a 3x increase on single-core and a 5x increase on multi-core power is no joke.

If you want a PC that can do more than just email and light web browsing, the Surface Pro 12-inch is the easy choice.

That's before getting into Copilot+ AI tools available for the Pro 12-inch. Because its NPU hits 45 TOPS of power for local AI work, it'll handle Copilot+ features (like Recall, Click to Do, Cocreator, etc.) just as well as the Surface Pro 11.

👉 Related: Surface Pro 12-inch vs. Surface Pro 11

The Surface Go 4's RAM and storage options also aren't as impressive. It's locked into 8GB of LPDDR5 RAM (more wouldn't make much of a difference to the N200 CPU), and it tops out at 256GB of storage.

The Surface Pro 12-inch has 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM as standard, and it's available with 256GB or 512GB of storage.

Both PCs use UFS instead of real SSDs. They're more efficient but generally slower. The Surface Pro 12-inch's storage can technically be upgraded after purchase if you don't mind opening the case, while the Go 4 only offers microSD expansion.

As for battery life, I won't make any concrete claims until we've had more time with the Surface Pro 12-inch. The Go 4, however, generally runs for about five or six hours if you're pushing it.

With Qualcomm's efficiency, I expect to see the Pro 12-inch offer better battery life.

The Pro 12 runs Windows 11 on Snapdragon due to its chip's ARM64 architecture, whereas the Go 4 runs standard Windows 11.

The major difference between the two OS versions boils down to app compatibility. Windows on ARM64 is better than ever these days, and I wouldn't let some occasional emulation requirements stand in your way of picking up the Pro 12-inch.

You can check app and game compatibility at the WorksOnWoA website, and I urge you to check out the best native Windows on Snapdragon apps.

Surface Pro 12-inch vs. Surface Go 4: Which should you buy?

I kind of felt like I was beating up on the Surface Go 4 in this comparison, but that's only testament to how much better the new Surface Pro 12-inch really is.

The Snapdragon X Plus chip inside is somewhere around five times as powerful as the Intel N200 in the Go 4, and considering how small a price difference there is between the two PCs, that should be enough to help you make a final decision.

Everything about the Surface Pro 12-inch feels more refined, from the slimmer display bezels to the thinner chassis to the new keyboard.

Unless you find an incredible deal on a Surface Go 4, the regular price difference is just too small, and it's far easier to recommend the Surface Pro 12-inch.

It’s been a very busy year for Surface, the first under new leadership with Pavan Davuluri at the helm. In March, Microsoft launched its first ever specialized commercial Surface PCs with the Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6, featuring Intel Core Ultra processors and anti-reflective screens.

Just a few short months later, the company unveiled its first ever Copilot+ PCs with the Surface Pro 11 and Surface Laptop 7, both headlining Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon X SoCs along with updated designs and accessories. It's the first time we’ve seen Microsoft ship multiple generations of hardware in such a short time span.

This year was all about AI PCs, specifically Copilot+ AI PCs. The focus was on Microsoft’s hero devices to kickstart this new category of AI-powered Windows computers. I fully expect this trend to continue as we head into 2025 as Microsoft aligns more of the Surface portfolio under the Copilot+ umbrella.

According to my sources, Microsoft is planning to ship new versions of the Surface Pro, Surface Laptop, Surface Laptop Studio, and maybe even a new 11-inch Surface of some kind.

Up first are new versions of the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, this time with Intel Lunar Lake chips powering things under the hood, joining the Snapdragon X versions already on the market. These devices are expected to ship as Microsoft’s first Intel-powered Copilot+ PCs, something many Surface customers will have been waiting for.

The Surface Laptop with Intel Lunar Lake has already leaked, confirming that its design will remain identical to the existing Surface Laptop 7 with Snapdragon X. This is unsurprising given the Surface Laptop was only just refreshed with a new design, so I don’t expect to see another design update for at least a few years yet. The Surface Pro with Intel Lunar Lake will be a similar affair.

I think Microsoft will bring the anti-reflective coating from the Pro 10 and Laptop 6 to the new Intel Lunar Lake models, which was confusingly missing from the Laptop 7 and Pro 11. I also hear the Surface Laptop with Intel Lunar Lake will be configurable with a card reader, just like the Laptop 6. And for the first time, Microsoft may even offer a variant of Surface Laptop with 5G.

I’m also expecting Microsoft to bring Copilot+ capabilities to other members of the Surface portfolio, such as the Surface Laptop Studio. I'm unsure which chips will power this, it could be Intel or AMD, but for it to be classed as Copilot+ compatible it needs an NPU of 40+ TOPS. I don't expect too much to change in regard to design, but I did hear whispers that a 16-inch model was being considered.

I’ve also heard that Microsoft is working on a new Surface device with a display size of around 11 inches. I'm not fully sure what form factor this will take—my sources have described it as a Surface Go-sized Laptop Go hybrid that uses premium materials and components. UPDATED December 9: I believe this smaller device is a Surface Laptop, likely replacing the Surface Laptop Go. Sources say it will feature premium materials and components, and be powered by an Arm processor.

Lastly, I hear a new Surface Dock is on the way, but I have no idea what’s actually new with it at this time. Microsoft’s last Surface Dock dropped Surface Connect in favor of USB-C, so it will be interesting to see if that change sticks with the new one.

The timing for when all of these products will arrive is uncertain for now. I believe the new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop will likely land in the first quarter of 2025, but the rest of the lineup could arrive from spring to fall.

As always, there may also be some surprises that we're yet to know about. We'll be sure to keep you updated if things change.

Microsoft's lesser-known certified refurbished storefront is having a massive sale for Cyber Monday, and right now you can grab the Surface Go 3 for JUST $261. That's an insane deal, especially when you consider the Surface Go 3 is technically the latest version of the product for consumers, as the recently announced Surface Go 4 is exclusive to enterprise customers.

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The best small Windows 2-in-1 tablet

Even though it's from Microsoft's refurnished store, you're still getting what is essentially a new device. Microsoft thoroughly inspects all refurbished products and will fix any issues before putting it up for sale. It also replaces the packaging, and each device comes with a full standard year of warranty. So don't pass up a good deal just because it's a refurbished product!

The Surface Go 3 has been on the market for a little while, but it's still fully supported by the company and is still technically its latest Go offering for consumers. It features an Intel Pentium 6500Y or 10th-Gen Intel Core i3, with either 4GB or 8GB RAM, and 64GB or 128GB of storage.

That's all housed inside a tiny package with a 10.5-inch high resolution display. And let's not understate how good that display is; it's one of the best I've seen on a tablet of this size. It's 1920 x 1280, meaning Windows 11 renders at a beautiful 150%, making text and images look crisp and clear.

That display is also touch and pen enabled, of course. The Surface Go 3 is a 2-in-1, meaning you can pair it with Microsoft's Type Cover accessory to transform it from a tablet to a laptop, enhancing your productivity. 

You can also get the Surface Go 3 in either Platinum or Black colorways, which is the only version of the Surface Go be available in more than one color. There's also a built-in kickstand that sits flush with the external chassis when not in use, and there's even a microSD card reader underneath the kickstand for when you need to add more storage.

Enhance your Surface Go 3 with some accessories

To make the most of Surface Go 3, make sure you grab these recommended accessories which will transform it from a regular tablet to a productive laptop!

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. 

We're back with another exciting episode of the Windows Central Podcast, and on this week's episode, Dan and Zac discuss the leak of Microsoft's StagingTool that unlocks hidden Windows 11 features, the RGB option coming to Windows 11, Windows 11 preview build 23516, Microsoft's Surface Go 4 getting postponed, everything we know about the Surface Laptop Go 3, the brilliant Robo & Kala 2-in-1 Laptop, review Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 & Flip 5, and more!

Links

• Microsoft accidentally leaks internal tool that can enable hidden Windows 11 features - Windows Central
• Microsoft forgot to mention this awesome RGB option coming to Windows 11 - Windows Central
• Windows 11 is getting true HDR desktop wallpaper support - Windows Central
• Microsoft postpones Surface Go 4 with ARM - Windows Central
• Surface Laptop Go 3: Specs, features, and everything we know so far - Windows Central
• Don't waste your money on a Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 - Windows Central
• This might be the BEST deal I've ever seen on a Windows 11 device - Windows Central

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• Zac Bowden

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From Surface Go disappointment to exclusive reports about a handheld gaming PC from Lenovo, this week was packed with all sorts of news. We even got to share a story about Linux surpassing macOS when it comes to gaming on Steam. Whether it's Microsoft Loop coming to the Microsoft Store or another trending topic, you can stay in the loop here with our weekly news roundup.

Microsoft leaks hidden Windows 11 features

Microsoft engineers have access to a tool that allows them to enable hidden features on Windows. But this week that tool leaked, allowing Insiders to turn on features that are in limited testing or that are hidden. It's called "Staging Tool," and it was spotted in a bug bash quest through the Feedback Hub.

Staging Tool is a command line interface that lets people enable or disable features through the use of feature IDs. That means you have to know a feature ID to enable or disable a specific feature. Thankfully, there's a GitHub page to help out.

Microsoft Surface Go 4 with ARM postponed

Those with hope for picking up a Surface Go 4 with an ARM processor got some bad news this week. According to our Senior Editor Zac Bowden, Microsoft has postponed its plans to ship and ARM-powered Surface Go. The company was going to release a Surface Go powered by a Qualcomm 7c-based processor, but it decided to go in another direction.

Instead, the next-gen Surface Go will feature an Intel Processor N200 CPU. That chip is part of a new lineup that replaces Intel's entry-level mobile series processors.

It's not entirely clear why Microsoft shifted its plans, but there's a chance that it's related to the Surface Go being aimed at business and education customers. Users in those sectors are less likely to have their needs met by a Windows on ARM PC.

Lenovo Legion Go in the works

This year is the year of handheld gaming PCs. Valve's Steam Deck and ASUS' ROG Ally are doing well and AYANEO has an impressive portable gaming PC as well. Soon, we will have an entry from Lenovo to compete within the space. Our Managing Editor Jez Corden shared an exclusive report that Lenovo is working on the Legion Go.

The Legion Go will reportedly run on AMD's new Phoenix processors. Based on what Corden has heard, the Legion Go could feature an 8-inch screen, which is larger than the display of the Steam Deck and ROG Ally.

Of course, plans are always subject to change. We may never see the Legion Go ship to consumers, but if it does, we'll have another contender in the growing portable gaming PC market.

Steam Deck tops Mac

Sticking with mobile PC gaming, the rise in popularity of the Steam Deck has officially bumped macOS into third place when it comes to Steam gaming. The most recent Steam survey shows that Linux has taken the second spot when it comes to Steam users. Rather than 2023 being the fabled year of the Linux desktop, the shakeup in rankings is thanks to the Steam Deck.

Valve's Steam Deck runs Linux, and the handheld PC appears to be quite popular. SteamOS makes up 42% of the Linux market share of Steam users.

Microsoft Loop now in Microsoft Store

Microsoft Loop brings together components from across Microsoft 365 into shared workspaces. The aim is to facilitate collaboration while giving fine-tune controls over what is shared with specific people. For example, a shared workspace could have information from a Word document and financial data from an Excel spreadsheet, but only have that sensitive information shared with specific people.

Microsoft Loop shipped in preview to Android and iOS earlier this year. Now, it's available through the Microsoft Store on Windows 11.

Initially, Microsoft Loop only supported work accounts, but it now works with personal accounts as well.

Reviews & Editorials

One of the best parts of working at Windows Central is getting to play around with the latest and greatest tech. But we're not just here to have fun! Our team of experts runs laptops, monitors, and accessories through their paces to help you make an informed decision. Our gaming team also dives deep into the most popular titles to let you know if it's worth playing those games.

• Samsung's pre-order deals are SO good, I'm still tempted to upgrade to the Galaxy Z Fold5
• Xbox's biggest crisis right now isn't games. It's hardware.
• Dangbei Neo Smart projector review: A refreshing cinematic experience for video games
• Alienware 34 Curved QD-OLED Gaming Monitor (AW3423DWF) review: Does it all with ease
• After Us Xbox review: Somber and emotional world, bland platforming
• HP OMEN 34c review: A curved ultrawide monitor that mostly shines in games at 165Hz with a 1ms response
• Alienware Tri-Mode Wireless Gaming Headset (AW920H) review: Active noise cancellation on a budget

Best laptop, PC, monitor, and gaming deals

With back-to-school season in full force, there are plenty of deals across the tech world. Even if you're not a student, you can save big on laptops, SSDS, monitors, and more. Here are the best deals from the last week that are still live.

What you need to know

• Microsoft has postponed plans to ship an ARM powered Surface Go this year.
• The device was going to feature a Qualcomm 7c-based processor.
• Instead, Microsoft will now ship a refreshed Surface Go with an Intel N200 chip.

Earlier this year, I reported that Microsoft was working on a new Surface Go that would ship with an ARM processor for the first time, with plans to launch the product this fall. Unfortunately, my sources now tell me that device, codenamed Tanta, has been postponed, and will instead be replaced with a refreshed Intel powered Surface Go for commercial customers.

I hear the upcoming Surface Go will be powered by an Intel Processor N200 CPU, which is a new line of chips that serve as a replacement for Intel’s entry-level mobile series of processors. The device will be more powerful and efficient than the current Surface Go 3, which is powered by an Intel Core i3-10100Y in the top-end configs.

The new Surface Go will be similar to the previous model but feature a more repairable internal layout with replaceable components, similar to the recent Surface Pro 9 and Surface Laptop 5. In fact, all of Microsoft’s future Surface PC devices will be more repairable going forward, I'm told. 

It's unclear why Microsoft has opted to postpone the ARM-powered Surface Go 4, but my sources say it's likely to do with the Surface Go’s heavy focus on commercial customers, many of which may not be ready to adopt Windows on ARM fully. I’m told a future Surface Go with ARM is still planned, but it’s currently unknown when it will ship.

I hear the upcoming Surface Go will be primarily targeted at business and education customers, similar to the Surface Pro 7+ when that product launched in 2021. This might mean the upcoming Surface Go is branded “Surface Go 3+” instead of Surface Go 4, though that isn't 100% confirmed just yet. 

Microsoft is planning to launch the new Surface Go alongside two other Surface PCs this fall. Those include the Surface Laptop Studio 2 and Surface Laptop Go 3, both of which will feature updated specs and focus on AI capabilities. I'll be sure to share more about Microsoft's fall hardware plans in the coming weeks.

The world of Windows is full of news. From apocalyptic titles like Diablo 4 to Surface hardware, news makes it across our desk and onto the front page at a blistering pace. That's why each weekend we gather the biggest news stories in a convenient roundup.

If you prefer to listen to your news, make sure to check out the Windows Central Podcast. Our Editor-in-Chief Daniel Rubino and our Senior Editor Zac Bowden discuss the hottest topics in tech, break news, and add insight.

Surface Go 4 and smaller Surface Pro

Microsoft has a pair of smaller Surface devices on the way. Our Senior Editor Zac Bowden exclusively reported that Microsoft is planning to ship a Surface Go 4 with an ARM chip inside.

The Surface Pro X runs on an ARM chip, as do some models of the Surface Pro 9, but this would be the first Surface Go to have an ARM processor. The device is codenamed Tanta, and it will run on a Snapdragon 7c-based SoC in the entry-level model. That should deliver similar performance to the preceding Surface Go model while having better battery life.

Bowden also heard "whispers" that Microsoft will ship a new Surface Pro in two sizes. In addition to the 13-inch Surface Pro, the company is working on an 11-inch Surface Pro. The sizing options are similar to those seen for the iPad Pro.

While the new Surface hardware is exciting, it will likely be quite some time before we see it ship. Bowden said that it's unlikely either device will come out before this fall, and either of them could be pushed back further.

Windows 10X on Surface Duo

Sticking with Surface news, independent developer Gustave Monce managed to get Windows 10X to run on both displays of the original Surface Duo. That device is meant to run Android, but Monce has spent years figuring out ways to get different forms of Windows to run on the Duo.

Windows 10X on the Surface Duo looks a lot like the Surface Neo that never saw the light of day. While the Neo was larger than the Duo, both devices had a pair of displays and could fold around a hinge.

With Windows 10X canceled and the Surface Neo being put on the chopping block as well, Monce's project is probably the closest we'll get to a folding dual-screen device running an OS designed for that form factor.

Windows 11 Taskbar features

When Microsoft made Windows 11, the company rewrote the Taskbar. That process left out some fan-favorite features. Many of those have made their way back over time, such as showing seconds on the clock. Now, another popular feature is set to make its return. The Windows 11 Taskbar will soon have the ability to "never combine" and to "show app labels."

The option to never combine items in the Taskbar has been heavily requested since the release of Windows 11. Previous versions of Windows supported it, so anyone that relied on the feature for their workflow has missed out for a while.

The two features were hidden in the latest Insider Build of Windows 11, so it may be a bit before they make their way to a general release of Windows.

Diablo 4 Slam Beta

Diablo 4 is a highly anticipated game that could make its way onto our list of the best Xbox games. The title won't launch until June 6, 2023, but you don't have to wait until then to try it out. The open beta ended in March, but a special beta-style "Server Slam" event is coming up.

Server Slam kicks off on May 12, 2023 at 12:00 p.m. PT / 3:00 p.m. ET and will run through May 14, 2023 at 12:00 p.m. PT / 3:00 p.m. ET.

The aim of the event is to stress test Diablo 4's servers. To do so, the game needs a load of players online at once. During Server Slam, gamers will be able to play through the Prologue and Act 1 of Diablo 4's campaign. All five of the Diablo 4 classes will be playable.

The Diablo 4 Server Slam beta has a few differences from the open beta that ran earlier this year. For example, the level cap during Server Slam is 20 instead of 25. A Server Slam patch also includes Diablo 4 beta feedback-driven balance changes that will launch with the game.

Our piece on the Diablo 4 Server Slam beta includes steps on how to download the game and play during Server Slam.

Microsoft rejects Twitter

With Twitter removing legacy checkmarks, it's becoming clear who pays for Twitter and who doesn't. But Microsoft decided to stop paying for a different Twitter service this week. The tech giant removed Twitter as an option for its Digital Marking Center's social media management tool.

Twitter would have companies like Microsoft pay at least $42,000 per month to have access to the API needed to power the marketing tool in question.

Twitter owner Elon Musk responded to Microsoft's move by claiming Microsoft "trained illegally," likely referring to Bing Chat. Musk also threatened a lawsuit against the company, though he is not known for following through on all of his threats.

Samsung may ditch Google for Bing

The new Bing has turned heads, thanks in large part to its integration with ChatGPT. A new report states that Samsung could swap its default search engine to Bing. That would be a major coup for Microsoft, as Samsung devices currently use Google by default.

If Samsung switches to Bing, Google could lose $3 billion annually.

There's always a chance that Samsung is merely using the potential swap to Bing as a negotiation tactic to get Google to pay more, but we'll have to wait to see what happens. Microsoft and Samsung have gotten closer over the years. Perhaps that relationship could help Microsoft get a victory over Google.

Reviews & Editorials

Each week our experts review the latest gadgets, gear, and games. This week we looked at Minecraft Legends, the Dell UltraSharp Curved Monitor, Dead Island 2, and plenty more.

Our team also shares editorials and features that share insight and perspective on the latest tech trends.

• ChatGPT? More like ChadGPT: How I'm using AI as my personal trainer
• The Xbox handheld is already here — it's called the Steam Deck (with Windows 11)
• Minecraft Legends review (Xbox): Amazing alone, even more fantastic with friends
• Dell UltraSharp 49 Curved Monitor (U4924DW) review: The multitasker's best friend if used correctly
• Dead Island 2 review: One Hell-A of a good time
• Samsung Galaxy Book3 Pro review: The laptop that leaves Surface Laptop 5 in the dust
• Turtle Beach Stealth Pro (Xbox, PC) Headset Review: Turtle Beach ascends

Microsoft is hard at work on the next Surface Go, codenamed Tanta and expected to ship as the Surface Go 4, which is rumored to include some notable updates and changes to the hardware. Most notably, word on the rumor mill currently is that the Surface Go 4 will be the first to feature an ARM processor.

The first Surface Go shipped in 2018, and from the get-go people wanted an ARM version. Frustratingly, each Surface Go has shipped with a low-powered Intel Pentium processor, or an Intel Core m3 chip in the more recent models. These chips haven't been very powerful or offered great battery life.

Hopefully, some of that is going to change with the Surface Go 4. Here's everything we know so far about Microsoft's next budget-conscious 2-in-1 tablet. We'll be sure to keep this post up to date with all the latest rumors and info as they become available! 

Surface Go 4: Price & specs

According to my sources, the Surface Go 4 will feature both Intel and ARM chips for the first time, offering longer battery life and 5G capabilities in the ARM model. Introducing ARM to the Surface Go line is something many people have been asking for, as Windows on ARM arguably makes more sense on a low-cost, low-powered, and ultra-mobile device like the Surface Go.

I hear the ARM variant will be powered by a Snapdragon 7c-based SoC, which is Qualcomm's entry-level processor for Windows PCs. This means performance won't be best-in-class, but it shouldn't be any worse than the existing entry-level Surface Go 3 with an Intel Pentium processor. The benefit of moving to ARM will be increased efficiency, meaning battery life should be much better on Surface Go 4.

Not much else is known about the specs or price at this time. I suspect Microsoft will be trying to keep entry-level pricing as low as possible, though with current market inflation, I don't know if Microsoft will be able to maintain the same $399 starting price that previous Surface Go models shipped at. Perhaps the price will be bumped $50, which is something we've seen across the industry in the last handful of months.

I also hear Microsoft will continue to sell an Intel version for customers who want or prefer it. This will remain for the higher-tier SKUs for customers who need a little more power at the expense of battery life. Currently, we don't know what exact chipset Microsoft is planning to use for the Intel variant. Previous Surface Go's have used Intel Pentium chips, now known as Intel N-series processors.

Availability of Surface Go 4 is still mostly unknown. I'm told it was originally supposed to start shipping this spring, but after recent layoffs and continued economic uncertainty, that plan was pushed back and now the product is targeting a fall 2023 release. 

Surface Go 4: ARM or Intel

The choice between ARM and Intel on Surface Go 4 will depend on what you want most out of your device. If you're looking for a lightweight tablet experience that doubles up as an excellent mini laptop for replying to emails, browsing the web, and working in Office, the Surface Go 4 with an ARM processor is going to be excellent for you.

The Snapdragon 7c SoC is much more energy efficient compared to an Intel processor of the same performance, which means you will see longer battery life doing many of the same tasks. Unfortunately, because not all Windows apps have been compiled for Windows on ARM yet, some apps you might need to use will be forced to run in emulation.

Emulated apps on Windows on ARM run slower compared to natively compiled ARM apps, and depending on the kind of app you're trying to run, the performance hit can be noticeable. Be sure to do some research to determine if the apps you expect to use are available natively on ARM, and if not, whether they run okay under emulation. Some apps run better than others under emulation.

The Intel model will be great for those who find themselves working in many apps that aren't yet compiled natively for Windows on ARM. If you find yourself in Slack, Zoom, Telegram, or Adobe programs, the Intel model will likely be a better choice. That said, the Intel processor we expect to see ship in the Surface Go 4 will be of the lower-end variety, so you won't be doing any demanding tasks on a device like Surface Go 4 anyway.

Surface Go 4: Design & features

Not much is known about the design of Surface Go 4. I hear there may be some minor design changes, but as to what that entails is still a mystery. Perhaps Microsoft will update the chassis to be similar to that of the Surface Pro 9, being slightly rounder.

Perhaps the Surface Go 4 will also support new a Type Cover accessory that uses the same connector that the rumored 11-inch Surface Pro will use. Both of those devices are expected to be roughly the same shape and size. This might also mean the Surface Go 4 will support Microsoft's newer Surface Slim Pen accessories, with charging in the keyboard deck.

Regarding features, the ARM version of the Surface Go 4 is expected to feature an NPU for advanced AI features called "Windows Studio Effects," which includes eye correction, background blur, automatic framing, voice focus, and voice clarity. These are features that the ARM-based Surface Pro 9 also feature, and are currently exclusive to Windows on ARM PCs.

Microsoft has also been working on updates to Windows 11 to make it better on tablets, especially on those with small screens. Just recently, Windows 11 was updated with a new touch-focused Taskbar that automatically minimizes when an app is opened. Apps now also open full-screen on devices with an 11-inch display or smaller.

More improvements are coming too, including a more touch friendly interface in File Explorer, the ability to turn off the date and time in the system tray to allow room for more pinned apps, and more.

What you need to know 

• Microsoft is planning to ship the Surface Go 4 with ARM for the first time.
• The Surface Go 4 with ARM will be powered by a Snapdragon 7c-based SoC.
• Microsoft is also working on a smaller Surface Pro with an 11-inch display.

Microsoft is readying a new Surface Go for release this year that will feature an ARM processor for the first time. According to my sources, the Surface Go 4 is codenamed Tanta and will ship with a Snapdragon 7c-based SoC in the entry-level model and offer similar performance to the current Surface Go but with better power efficiency for longer-lasting battery life.

I hear there may be some minor design changes on the cards for Surface Go 4 along with the new SoC, but it will still maintain a similar-sized footprint to previous models. The new SoC may also allow Microsoft to ship a Surface Go with 5G for the first time, though that SKU isn't yet confirmed to ship. An Intel variant is also expected to stick around for customers who want or prefer it.

In addition to a Surface Go 4 with ARM, I’m starting to hear whispers that Microsoft is also planning to ship a new Surface Pro in two sizes, similar to what Apple is doing with the iPad Pro. Alongside the typical 13-inch Surface Pro that we’re all familiar with, Microsoft is building a new 11-inch Surface Pro as well.

The 11-inch Surface Pro is codenamed Luxor and will be similar in shape and size to that of the Surface Go, albeit with slimmer bezels like its larger sibling. Of course, the 11-inch Surface Pro will also be more powerful, with a better 120Hz display compared to the budget-conscious Surface Go line, which will still maintain a low-entry price point.

Windows 11 was recently updated with a new tablet mode that works better on devices with smaller screens. The taskbar now minimizes out-of-view when an app is open. On devices with 11-inch screens or less, apps automatically open full screen to mimic better the tablet experience found on an iPad or Android tablet.

I’m told that this trend will continue throughout this year and into the next version of Windows, which is currently expected to ship at the end of 2024. More tablet optimizations are coming, including a more touch-friendly File Explorer, lock/login screen, and desktop environment. This might explain Microsoft’s sudden interest in shipping a new entry-level and flagship 11-inch tablet.

Regarding timing for the new Surface Go and Surface Pro, things are still in flux, but my sources say it’s unlikely you’ll see them ship before this fall (and even then, things might get pushed back further). Microsoft had initially planned to ship the new Surface Go this spring, but I hear that plan has now changed. Microsoft will also need to wait for Qualcomm to begin shipping its new Nuvia chips before it can ship the next Surface Pro too.

Welcome to the 12th episode of Ask Windows Central, a show where we answer our community's most asked questions around Microsoft, Windows, Surface, Xbox, and the general tech industry. In today's episode, we answer questions about Surface Go 4 and whether or not it could be powered by ARM, the feasibility of tri-foldables in the Windows PC space, and more.

This week's episode features the following questions:

• What do you know about Surface Go 4, and will it be ARM based?
• What are your thoughts on tri-foldables and do you think they're feasible in the PC space?
• Are we ever getting a true iPad Pro 11-inch competitor?
• What is your favorite non-Surface PC right now?

If you have a question you'd like us to answer on the show, be sure to submit them in the comments below, or email daniel@windowscentral.com with "Ask Windows Central" in the subject line! You can also join the Windows Central Discord and ask questions in the dedicated #ask-wc channel.

If you're on Twitter, you can tweet your question with the #AskWindowsCentral tag included, and make sure you tag either @daniel_rubino or @zacbowden so we can see it.

If you have any feedback about the show format, please let us know. We're building this show around you, so if there's something you don't like or think we should change, we're all ears. We hope you enjoy the episode, and look forward to getting back to your questions in the next one.

What you need to know

• Microsoft recently released a firmware update for the Surface Go 3.
• It is the first update shipped to the device, though it doesn't appear to contain any noteworthy features.
• Surface updates are released in stages, so you may not see the most recent firmware update for the Surface Go 3 at this time.

Microsoft launched the Surface Go 3 around six months ago, but the device only received its first firmware update this week. On April 25, 2022, Microsoft released an update for Surface Go 3 devices running the Windows 10 October 2020 Update (version 20H2) or greater.

While the update is the Surface Go 3's first since its launch, it doesn't include any notable improvements, at least based on its release notes.

The Surface Go 3 is one of the best Windows tablets, especially if you're looking for a smaller device. Since its initial launch, Microsoft released a more affordable LTE version of the device ($500).

You can download the update through the Windows Settings app or Microsoft's website.

Microsoft's budget-friendly Surface Go line of tablets is one of our favorites, being accessible to a much wider audience thanks to its low-cost of entry in a tiny package that makes it super portable and fun to use. With pricing starting at $399, it's hard to hate the Surface Go. So, here's everything you need to know about the latest Surface Go 3.

Surface Go 3: Pricing and availability

The Surface Go 3 is expected to start shipping on Oct. 5 in "many markets." The LTE models of Surface Go 3 will begin shipping in the December timeframe in the United States and Canada, and in early 2022 for other markets. U.S. pricing for each SKU is as follows:

Surface Go 3

Surface Go 3: Specs

Surface Go 3: Features

Surface Go 3 is identical to the Surface Go 2 in every way except the processor department. That means there are no new features specific to the Surface Go 3, though you do now get more power for your money with the entry-level model, as it's now 60% more powerful than the entry-level Surface Go 2.

You can equip the Surface Go 3 with a microSD card, thanks to the built-in microSD card reader hidden under the kickstand. The 10.5-inch touchscreen can be used with your fingers or an optional Surface Pen. Surface Go 3 also supports the same Surface Go 2 and Surface Go 1 Type Covers, though Microsoft has updated the newest Surface Go Type Covers with the new Windows 11 logo on the Start button. Outside of that change, the Type Covers are identical.

The Surface Go 3 also uses the older Surface Pen design, not the Surface Slim Pen or Surface Slim Pen 2. The old Surface Pen can magnetically attach to the side of the Surface Go 3, though it will not wirelessly charge there, and the battery will need to be replaced around once a year.

Of course, the Surface Go 3 also has options for LTE, giving you access to the web from anywhere using a data plan. Those models won't be shipping until later, however.

Surface Go 3 for students

Microsoft says the Surface Go 3 is an excellent PC for students looking to complete schoolwork at home or at school. Its small size makes it a great PC for fitting into a backpack, and the optional Type Cover accessory gives the Surface Go 3 the versatility of turning into a laptop when required for writing essays or doing research.

With the optional Surface Pen, the Surface Go 3 becomes a great note-taking device. The 10.5-inch display is almost the same size as a piece of paper, so when paired with OneNote, writing with the Surface Pen feels totally natural.

You've also got a great webcam for video calls with classmates, and a headphone jack if you wish to plug in your headphones to listen to music or watch a video while you work.

What you need to know

• HP's new 11-inch Tablet PC looks like a Surface Go at first but brings quite a few unique features that make it stand out.
• The HP 11-inch Tablet PC features a unique vertical orientation with a matching keyboard.
• A 13MP rotatable camera can flip from back to front and scan your desktop for online collaboration.
• Pricing starts at $599 (with keyboard) and will be available this December with Windows 11 in S mode.

So far, only Microsoft has sought to compete in the 11-inch range of tablet PCs with its famous Surface Go. But HP is now entering the fray with its new HP 11-inch Table PC that brings some innovative and unique features starting this December.

At first glance, it's easy to dismiss the 11-inch Tablet PC (we'll forgive HP for the rather generic name) as just a Surface Go clone, but it's far from it as two features make it very different:

1. Besides normal landscape usage, the tablet is meant to be used vertically with the keyboard mounting in either position magnetically.
2. A massive 13MP camera flips from the back to the front with the ability to live-share your desktop during collaboration conference calls.

The keyboard optionally attaches vertically is also very different and something we're excited to try out. Choice is good, right?

HP is using a tablet vertically because Windows 11 now allows the snapping of two apps in that orientation. Additionally, the posture lets that 13MP camera rotates down to see your desktop letting you live-share with colleagues during a video call (the image is auto rotated).

The camera scanning is all reminiscent of the HP Sprout that could 3D scan objects but for updated 2021's shift to work-from-home environments. HP also makes use of the concept in its just-announced HP ENVY 34 all-in-one PC.

Indeed, the 11-inch Tablet PC can be thought of as a companion device to that ENVY 34. With HP Duet, you can use the tablet as a wireless extension of the ENVY 34 (like Apple's Sidecar). Other collaborative tools like HP Palette (smart photo searching between devices), HP QuickDrop for instant file sharing, and the app Concepts make it even more seamless for sketching and doodling on 11-inch Table PC and going deeper with the ENVY 34.

Specs-wise, the HP 11-inch Tablet is respectable, especially for $499 (without keyboard; $599 with).

The CPU is a 2021 quad-core Intel Pentium Silver N6000. Compared to the entry-level Intel Pentium 6500Y expected in Surface Go 3 the N6000 is 10nm (vs. 14nm) with the same 1.1GHz base frequency (3.3GHz burst), but a slightly higher 6W TDP (instead of 5), faster LDDR4 RAM, and more powerful UHD Graphics. But the Pentium Gold features 3.4GHz Intel Turbo Boost, Intel Hyper-Threading, and is a smaller overall package size.

Interestingly, the HP 11-inch Tablet 11 has a larger 32.2WHr battery than Surface Go's 27WHr one, which bodes well for battery life. The chassis and matching keyboard cover features a unique cloth-like material as well. That may explain why the HP 11-inch Tablet PC weighs 1.99lbs (903g) with a keyboard compared to Surface Go at just 1.71lbs (771g) with a keyboard.

Storage is 128GB, but it is faster PCIe format than slower eMMC found in the 64GB entry-level Surface Go.

The 11-inch display is also very good with a 2160x1440 resolution resulting in 231 pixels-per-inch (PPI) compared to Surface Go's 10.5-inch 1800 x 1200resolution at just 217 PPI. It also hits 400 nits of brightness (a solid number) with 100% sRGB making it ideal for photos and colorwork.

Ports are highly minimal, with just one Type-C that does it all, including 5Gbps data, Power Delivery, DisplayPort 1.4, and charging. There is also a microSD card reader for media.

Overall, the HP 11-inch Tablet PC is an intriguing value, especially if you're interested in the HP ENVY 34 or any other HP PC or you want a small Windows tablet PC with a really good webcam and distinctive vertical orientation.

HP.com and Best Buy will both be selling it later in December, with the overall price being $599 with the keyboard. Best Buy will also have it without the keyboard for $499.

In addition to this tablet, HP announced the ARM-based HP 14-inch Laptop PC, ENVY 34 AIO with 5K display, and Spectre x360 16 laptop.

Welcome to the seventh episode of Ask Windows Central, a show where we answer our communities most asked questions around Microsoft, Windows, Surface, Xbox, and the general tech industry. In today's episode, we answer questions about Microsoft's new Windows 11 CPU requirements, the future of HoloLens in the consumer space, and whether or not we'll be seeing a Surface Go 3 anytime soon.

This week's episode features the following questions:

• What is Microsoft's reasoning behind its CPU requirements for Windows 11 and which chips will they be adding to the officially supported list?
• When are we getting consumer hololens glasses powered by Windows 365?
• Has the Windows Central team ever opted for non-Microsoft products for work and communication? (e.g. Slack instead of Teams, Google Drive instead of OneDrive, etc.)
• What does Panos Panay's promotion to the SLT mean for the future of Windows and Surface?
• Will there be a Surface Go 3 and what CPUs do you think it will have?

If you have a question you'd like us to answer on the show, be sure to submit them in the comments below, or email daniel@windowscentral.com with "Ask Windows Central" in the subject line! You can also join the Windows Central Discord and ask questions in the dedicated #ask-wc channel.

If you're on Twitter, you can tweet your question with the #AskWindowsCentral tag included, and make sure you tag either @daniel_rubino or @zacbowden so we can see it.

If you have any feedback about the show format, please let us know. We're building this show around you, so if there's something you don't like or think we should change, we're all ears. We hope you enjoy the episode, and look forward to getting back to your questions in the next one.

This is the Windows Central Podcast, and this week we're back with more follow up on Surface Pro 7+, and Zac spells out what Microsoft could be doing to improve Surface Duo. He and Daniel also take on Windows 10X, haptic touchpad, HP's Omen 15 gaming laptop, and more.

This episode of the Windows Central Podcast was recorded on February 5th 2021.

Links:

• Surface Pro 7+ vs. Surface Pro 7: What's the difference? | Windows Central
• Microsoft needs to step up for Surface Duo to be taken seriously | Windows Central
• You can install Windows 10X on unsupported PCs using this new tool | Windows Central
• Haptic touchpads are finally coming to Windows laptops. Here's why it matters. | Windows Central
• HP Omen 15 (2020) review: A generational refresh turns this gaming laptop into one of the best values around | Windows Central

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Whether you should buy the Surface Go 2 or Surface Pro 7 depends largely on how much you value portability. The Surface Pro 7 isn't heavy by any means, but it's a beast compared to the Go 2. That's because it's vastly more powerful, effectively allowing you to use it as you would your desktop PC.

You can find a whole host of electronics on sale for Black Friday, and the Surface range can often be found discounted on storefronts. Should you locate the Surface Go 2 or Pro 7 on sale, it's worth considering to save some money in the process. Microsoft also sells numerous other Surface devices at various price ranges and specifications, so you should be able to locate a new portable PC for you.

Surface Go 2 vs. Surface Pro 7: tech specs

Design and features

Not a lot changed between the Surface Go and Surface Go 2 in terms of design. The dimensions are pretty much the same, so too is the overall build. This allows for all previous generation accessories to continue working with the newer Surface Go—a massive win for anyone upgrading.

The Surface Pro 7 is of a similar affair with Microsoft not going all out with a redesign compared to the previous generation. The Go rocks more rounded, smoother edges and corners that make it easier to hold when being used as a tablet. It also weighs less, coming in at just 544g for the Wi-Fi only version. The Pro isn't exactly massive, but its 775g is noticeable.

Interestingly, both tablets have a kickstand that can rotate 165 degrees and are made of magnesium. They're also similar for cameras with a 5 and 8 megapixel (MP) combo being used for facial recognition in Windows 10. Ports are an interesting separation with the Go 2 coming with a single USB-C, Surface Connect, microSDXC card reader, and a 3.5mm audio jack.

The Surface Pro 7 rocks USB-C, USB-A, 3.5mm audio jack, Surface Connect, and a microSD reader. If you're after LTE capabilities, the Go 2 is your only option right now since Microsoft doesn't offer the Pro 7 with LTE. For both tablets, you can buy a Surface Pen — sold separately for about $100 — and both have Type Covers — also sold separately — with Precision touchpads and an Alcantara fabric finish.

Display

You simply get more screen real estate with the Surface Pro 7, thanks to the 12.3-inch display compared to the Surface Go's 10.5 incher. Color accuracy between the two is roughly the same, so too are the bezels, making it largely down to which display size you'd prefer.

Where there is a difference between the two tablets is resolution. The Pro 7 is a clear winner here with a resolution of 2736x1824 and a pixels-per-inch (PPI) count of 267, which is pretty good. The Go 2 has a resolution of 1920x1280 and a PPI of 220. Both tablets have functional 3:2 aspect ratios, and both have magnets in the side to hold the Surface Pen when not in use.

Performance

Interestingly, while the Surface Pro 7 is the more capable device and comes rocking up to an Intel 10th Gen Core i7-1065G7 CPU, the Surface Go 2 is no slouch. Unlike Intel's low-end CPUs of old, the Intel Core m3-8100Y is rather snappy with daily use. It won't turn heads in benchmarks, but it's more than good enough for general PC use.

Still, if you need more power for a little photo editing on the go, the Surface Pro 7 is where you should spend your money. Storage is another win for Surface Pro 7, which is another small reason it costs considerably more than the Go 2. You can configure it with up to 1TB of storage, while the Go 2 can only max out at 128GB (or 256GB for commercial).

Surface Go 2 for those on the go

See what I did there? But seriously, the Go 2 is ideally suited to those who frequently find themselves moving between location and require a Windows-based tablet for the journey. You've got optional LTE, Wi-Fi 6 support, and various configurations available, starting at a lower price.

Surface Pro 7 for more performance

Get the Surface Pro 7 if you want a tablet that will almost provide a PC-like experience on the go. The speedy Intel Core i7 processor is great at general use and even some more powerful apps, but don't expect desktop-like performance. It's the premium Surface tablet.

Microsoft today shipped out a new set of firmware updates for the Surface Go. Both the LTE and standard Wi-Fi models are included here. The biggest updates here are all related to improving the camera experience, but it's not entirely clear what's changed.

There are also various reliability and security updates, including some related to Surface Dock 2 and battery smart charging. Here's a look at the full release notes (via OnMSFT):

The new updates are available for both the Surface Go and Surface Go LTE for devices running the Windows 10 May 2019 Update (version 1903) or greater. You can snag these updates now via Windows Update.

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

• New firmware updates are rolling out for Surface Book 2 and Surface Go.
• The updates bring security and system stability improvements.
• Both updates are the first in months for each device.

Another round of firmware updates are now available for the Surface Book 2 and Surface Go. This marks the first firmware update for the Surface Book 2 since February, and it's the first for the Surface Go since July, 2019. Each set of updates focuses on bringing system stability and security improvements.

Here's a look at the improvements for each device.

Surface Go

• Surface – Firmware – 11.8.70.3626: addresses security updates and improves system stability.
• Intel – System – 1914.12.0.1256: addresses security updates and improves system stability.
• Intel – Software Component - 1.56.87.0: improves integration between system services, and addresses security updates.
• Intel – Extension - 1914.13.0.1063: improves integration between system services, and addresses security updates.
• Intel Corporation - Display - 26.20.100.7637: addresses security updates and improves system stability.
• Intel – Extension - 26.20.100.7637: improves integration between system services, and addresses security updates.

Surface Book 2

• Intel Corporation – Display – 26.20.100.7639: improves graphics and system stability.
• Surface – Extension - 1914.13.0.1063: addresses security updates and improves system stability.
• Intel – Software Component - 1.56.87.0: addresses security updates and improves system stability.
• Intel – System – 1914.12.0.1256: addresses security updates and improves system stability.
• Marvell Semiconductor, Inc. – Bluetooth – 15.68.17018.116: improves connection stability and enables the support of new products.
• Marvell Semiconductor, Inc. – Net – 15.68.17018.116: addresses security updates and improves system stability.
• NVIDIA – Display – 26.21.14.3218: addresses security updates and improves system stability.
• Surface – System – 5.91.139.0: addresses security updates and improves system stability.
• Surface - Firmware - 11.8.70.3626: addresses security updates and improves system stability.
• Surface - Firmware - 242.11.1.15: addresses security updates and improves system stability.
• Surface - Firmware - 242.0.1.5: addresses security updates and improves system stability.
• Surface – Firmware – 390.3192.768.0: addresses security updates and improves system stability.

If you own either device, you should be able to grab these updates now via Windows Update. For more on each, you can check out the Surface Update pages for Surface Go and Surface Book 2 now.

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.

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.

Why do Surface Go keyboards and cases still work?

The reason why keyboards and cases designed to work with the original Surface Go will still work with the Surface Go 2 is because Microsoft hasn't changed the shape or the size of the device for the Surface Go 2. This means that while things like internal hardware or bezels are different, the silhouette of the device is identical, and thus the Surface Go 2 can work with accessories designed to fit the first Surface Go.

If you're looking for a keyboard to go with the Surface Go 2, our favorite choice is Microsoft's own Surface Go Type Cover since it feels incredible to type on and is very comfortable overall. If you need a case, we love Procase's PU leather cover that both protects well and looks elegant.

Why get a Surface Go 2?

The brand new Surface Go 2 is an excellent step forward compared to its predecessor for quite a few reasons. The main one is that the Core m3 CPU you can outfit the Surface Go 2 with offers significantly better performance compared to the Surface Go's Pentium 4415Y chip. Also, the GPU is a little better as well; while the performance jump isn't massive, the Surface Go 2's Intel UHD 615 GPU is noticeably better than its predecessor's. All Surface Go 2 models also come with Wi-Fi 6 compatibility, and if you want it, you can get 4G LTE as well, though you'll have to pay some more.

The display has been upgraded as well. The bezels have been slimmed down a half-inch, and the color accuracy on the Surface Go 2's screen is a step up from the original Surface Go. On top of this, the device's SSD is faster than the first Surface Go's, as is the Surface Go 2's wake-up speed. Overall, the Surface Go 2 offers a massive performance boost compared to its predecessor, yet it still costs relatively the same amount, making it a fantastic device.

Why is LTE worth it?

In a day and age where people are always on the move, and Wi-Fi can often be scarce, cellular internet connectivity can be a lifesaver. Cellular internet allows you to get online anywhere at any time, eliminating the need for Wi-Fi.

LTE is the best kind of cellular internet, offering the user the fastest speeds possible on their devices. Nearly all smartphones have LTE, but in recent years, tablets and even laptops have begun to integrate it into their systems as well. The Surface Go, thankfully, is one such tablet/laptop hybrid, though you'll need to pay more for an LTE variant of the device than one without.

Why get a Surface Go 2?

Aside from the fact it has an LTE option, there are plenty of other reasons you'd want to buy a Surface Go 2. The main one is that it's affordable; even though the LTE variant of the Surface Go 2 is more expensive than the normal version, it's still less pricey than most LTE hybrid devices. Another is that it's very compact and light, making it perfect for people who are out and about. Additionally, there's an impressive amount of horsepower under the hood of the Surface Go 2. While it won't match the performance of a dedicated laptop, the Go 2 is still a very capable device and a big step up from its predecessor.

It's worth highlighting that LTE will drain your battery faster, but this drawback won't be too much of an issue as long as you're diligent about charging the Go 2 when you're able to. Considering Microsoft has made some improvements to battery life with this new Go compared to the original one as well, the battery is ultimately something you won't need to worry about. Overall, the Surface Go 2 is a fantastic portable device, and the version with LTE makes it even more versatile than it already is.

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

• Microsoft announced the new Surface Book 3, Surface Go 2, and Surface Dock 2 today.
• Microsoft Mechanics released a trio of videos diving deeper into the technical specs of each.
• The videos offer some insight into the new chips in each PC, how the Surface Dock 2 performs, and more.

Microsoft unveiled a load of new Surface gear today, and now Microsoft Mechanics is offering a deeper dive into some of the devices. The folks at Microsoft Mechanics took a closer look at the new Surface Book 3, Surface Go 2, and Surface Dock 2 with a trio of new videos, talking more of the technical specs and improvements for each. Check them out in the gallery below.

The Surface Go 2 and Surface Book 3 both received some significant hardware upgrades over their predecessors. The Surface Book 3 now sports 10th Gen Intel chips and up to NVIDIA Quadro graphics. The Surface Go 2, meanwhile, received a new Intel Core m3 option, along with a larger display area and more.

You can preorder the Surface Book 3 and Surface Go 2 from Microsoft now, with prices starting at $399 for the Surface Go 2 and $1,599 for the Surface Book 3. Both are expected to launch in stores on May 12.

Microsoft announces new Surface PCs and accessories for spring 2020

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.

What you need to know

• Retailer listings recently surfaced for a new Surface Dock and what could be Surface Book 3 and Surface Go 2.
• Most of the listings are no longer publicly viewable.
• The appearance of the listings suggests a new slate of Surface devices could be close to launch.

A new batch of retailer listings in Europe over the weekend have outed a batch of new Surface devices that could be close to launch. As spotted by German blog DrWindows, it appears a new Surface Dock 2 may be in the works. Likewise, Dan S. Charlton's tech blog caught several retailer listings for what could be Surface Book 3 and Surface Go 2 configurations.

The Surface Dock 2 is still available to view at Shopmat.be, but there's no accompanying image or technical information. However, DrWindows speculates that we could see Microsoft add USB-C ports to this refresh. It's been five years since the original Surface Dock launched, so it wouldn't be surprising to see Microsoft adopt USB-C for any major refresh here.

While all of the unreleased products were briefly searchable, they're no longer visible without direct links to the listings. However, there were previously configurations for a Surface "Project T" and "Project U," which could be the 13.5-inch and 15-inch Surface Book 3 based on their pricing. Project T showed five configurations ranging from €1,617 to €2,616, while Project U ranged from €2,234 to €3,441.

Rounding things out is Surface "Project V", which showed five configurations ranging between €407 and €847. Based on this pricing, it's expected that this may be a potential Surface Go 2.

As for what to expect in each, recent reports have suggested Surface Book 3 will move to Intel's 10th Gen processors and NVIDIA GTX 16-series GPUs. The Surface Go 2 is expected to have a base configuration with an Intel Pentium Gold chip, but may also offer a Core M processor.

With the uncertainty around events right now, it's unclear whether we'll see Microsoft hold some sort of digital event for whatever it has planned. However, we're expecting to see the launch of Microsoft's Surface Earbuds and, potentially, a follow-up to the Surface Headphones, as well.

All the new Microsoft hardware we expect to see in 2020

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.

If you've been rocking a Microsoft Surface Go without the Type Cover, or if you need a new one, this deal at Amazon is too good to pass up. Right now you can score the Microsoft Surface Go Type Cover in Black for just $50.28. Not only does that save you over $30 off its average price there, but it's also the best deal we've ever seen on this keyboard and case combo. It regularly sells for up to $100 otherwise.

The Surface Go Type Cover features a full mechanical keyset with backlit keys and an extra-large trakpad. It's easy to click into place and start using, and it's slim and compact enough to not add much heft to your Surface Go once attached. It's designed to adjust to practically any angle and pulls double duty as a cover for your Surface Go's screen when it's not in use. You're also able to fold it back completely to keep it out of your way. The Type Cover is even designed to resist stains.

Once your new Type Cover is ordered, you might want to think about picking up a Surface Pen next. For even more ideas on what to buy your Surface Go, this guide to the 10 must-have Surface Go accessories could be a huge help. While the Type Cover and Surface Pen happen to take two of the spots on the list, the rest of the options are a bit more varied.

Shipping at Amazon is free on orders totaling $25 or more, but you could receive your order even faster with an Amazon Prime membership. If you've never been a Prime member before, you can start a free 30-day trial to score free two-day shipping with no order minimum, along with perks such as access to the Prime Video streaming service, exclusive members-only discounts, and more.

Technology is designed to help us make our day-to-day life experiences smoother, and there's arguably nobody who will appreciate that more than university students. The life of a student can be (and often is) incredibly hectic, as you're always scrambling to tackle your next assignment, keep track of all your notes, and more. As a studying undergraduate myself, I'm always looking for ways that my studying, notetaking, and overall campus life experience can be streamlined. Over the holidays, I recieved a Surface Go — and after using it for my first week of classes, I can definitively say that it is the single best piece of tech I've ever used in my educational career.

Defining what it means to be compact

Weighing in at just 1.7 lbs (with keyboard) and taking up only 9.6" x 6.9" x .33" of space, the Surface Go defines what it means for a convertible laptop to be compact. Not only is it practically as light as a feather, it's also small enough to slip into almost any pocket you'll find on any backpack or tote bag.

The small size and weight of the Surface Go is incredibly valuable to students, as they already have to carry too much every day between textbooks, notebooks, and other supplies. Being able to easily slip a mini-PC into my bag without having to sacrifice carrying other items is awesome, and it gives me the flexibility I need as a full-time student.

Dependable and reliable performance

While the Surface Go is by no means a powerful machine, it nevertheless delivers reliable, consistent performance that is perfect for what a student needs a compact 2-in-1 laptop for. The Intel 4415Y processor and 4 GB of RAM (models with 8 GB are available) can power multiple web browser tabs and productivity programs like Microsoft Word or PowerPoint simultaneously without any slowdown at all, and you can also use recreational apps like Spotify or Netflix too in the event that you want to listen to some tunes while studying or catch up on a TV show between classes. The Surface Go has a solid battery life too; depending on how bright you keep the screen and how heavily you tax the CPU, it can last anywhere between 5-7 hours, which will be sufficient for the needs of most students. If you need it to last longer, you can recharge it fairly quickly at a plug with the device's Surface Connect charger. The USB Type-C 3.1 port, which is primarily used for speedy data transfer, can also double as a charging port in a pinch.

In terms of the display, the 10-inch 1800x1200 screen looks great. It has 99 percent sRGB and 76 percent Adobe RGB color accuracy, which is better than other devices on the market, including some Surface Pros. On top of that, the display has a maximum brightness of 435 nits, which is good for sunny conditions — perfect for when you want to spend some time outside on campus grounds.

Lastly, the optional (but heavily recommended) Surface Go Type Cover is hands down one of the best keyboards I've ever used. The Alcantara fabric is pleasant to the touch, but also firm and sturdy. The low-profile keys are lovely to type with, and the trackpad is smooth and precise. People who are used to larger devices will probably need some time to adjust to the smaller size of the keyboard, but once you do, you'll be in love. And when you consider how often students take notes or write papers, a keyboard you'll love using is worth every dollar. It's also worth noting that the Surface Go also works wonderfully with the Surface Pen for things like highlighting passages or drawing in art classes.

Easy on your bank account

If I've learned anything during my three years in college, it's that the people in charge are happy to bleed your wallet dry with tuition payments. Therefore, saving money is an incredibly important thing that every student has to strive to do. Everyone doesn't have upwards of a thousand dollars or more to drop on a hybrid laptop, and those people are exactly who the Surface Go is perfect for.

For just around $500, you can get your hands on the entry level Surface Go and its Type Cover, which is an absolute steal. Aside from the killer price, the best part about this is that the entry level device will be the best one for most students; while the increase in RAM and storage that the other options offer is beneficial, I think what the base model offers is more than sufficient. You might want to get a more expensive option if you work with a lot of video in your classes, but otherwise, students aren't losing much by opting for the most affordable version. College campuses typically have Wi-Fi that works indoors and out, so the version of the device that has LTE won't be worth the price hike either.

Overall, the Surface Go's budget-level pricing makes it a very enticing option for students, and when you consider how reliably it performs and how compact it is, it's clear why the device has cemented itself as an invaluable tool for students around the world.

What you need to know

• Brydge has new keyboards in store for Surface devices.
• Laptop-style keyboard accessories are expected to launch in the second quarter of 2020 for Surface Pro and Surface Go.
• A Surface Pro X keyboard is expected in the second half of 2020.

Brydge already makes Surface keyboards that'll turn your tablet into a proper laptop, but it is set to grow its range significantly this year. Dropping before CES 2020 next week, Brydge announced a new set of keyboards for Surface Pro tablets, the Surface Go, and Surface Pro X (via Engadget). For desktop PCs, the company also has a new keyboard and trackpad in store as well.

The Brydge 12.3 Pro and Brydge 10.0 Go are both set to launch in the second quarter of 2020. Surface Pro X owners, meanwhile, can expect to get a Brydge Pro X keyboard in the second half of 2020.

For each device, you'll get a Bluetooth keyboard and glass trackpad surface that allows you to dock your Surface in its hinges like a laptop display. The current crop of Brydge keyboards are made out of aluminum and pack up to three months of battery life on a single charge. If you're looking for something a little more "lappable" than the Surface Pro Type Cover, then these may be the ticket.

In addition to its Surface keyboard lineup, Brydge also has some accessories in store for desktop PC users. The new W-Type keyboard and W-Touch trackpad will give you a set of wireless accessories to use at your desk. Both are expected to launch in the second quarter of 2020.

There's no pricing information available for these devices just yet. However, if you want to get an idea of what Brydge is cooking up, the current Brydge 12.3 is available for $130 for Surface Pro devices.

Qualcomm announced its new Snapdragon 7c and 8c compute platform chipsets that fall nicely below the flagship Snapdragon 8cx. While the performance of ARM-based chips is still behind Intel's 10th Gen Core processors, it's clear Qualcomm is always pushing forward to compete with Santa Clara's best.

Pricing for the Snapdragon 7c and 8c is going to be critical as, so far, Windows 10 on ARM has mostly been in the premium-tier category. Reported pricing though states that the Snapdragon 7c could hit sub-$400 laptops and that's a big deal for a few reasons.

Pentium Gold? No thanks

Intel struggles at the low-end

I've been quite bullish on Intel's recent moves in for its 10th Gen series of mobile processors. Performance, heat, battery life, and things like building in Thunderbolt 3 have solidified Intel as the go-to chip for premium Ultrabooks.

Intel's Project Athena – where it works closely with manufacturers – is resulting in some outstanding laptops. Both of HP's newest Ultrabooks – the Spectre x360 13 and Elite Dragonfly – push quoted battery lives of 20 or more hours. Even accounting for OEM overestimating real-world 10+ hours is doable while still running a quad-core Core i7 processor. That's magic.

Intel and Microsoft also did a fantastic job with the improved Instant On abilities of Surface Pro 7 and Surface Laptop 3. Both devices turn on instantly and seamlessly even now beating Qualcomm ARM-based PCs.

But Intel is still terrible on the low-end. Years of sub-par Atom processors and even last year's odd Pentium Gold have done nothing to slow Apple iPad sales and have had only moderate success at stemming the rise of Chromebooks in U.S. schools.

While the Surface Go looked the part its mediocre performance, and battery life resulted in it being a fun, but still flawed experience. So close, yet so far.

It's more than the US

4G LTE, PCs, and emerging markets

In many emerging markets, a person's first – and only – computer is the smartphone. Home internet and desktop PCs are not a thing. One way to circumvent that, or at least grow that market, is by offering low-cost laptops that also offer native 4G LTE.

If the Snapdragon 7c with its octa-core processor and LTE can be sold in $400-range laptops that's a huge win, Intel certainly doesn't have anything in that range. Even the Surface Go with LTE is priced at $679 without the keyboard.

For those in markets where the internet is mobile-only having a laptop that is always-connected and costs as little as a smartphone opens the door for new possibilities. Whether its coding and developing, or even just education, Qualcomm could push into a market that so far has eluded Intel.

This could happen

Surface Go 2 with ARM?

Turning back to Microsoft Surface Go, the big question for many is if Microsoft will do another version, and if so, what will power it.

If Microsoft offers Snapdragon 7c (and even 8c as an upgrade-SKU) with LTE, it could still be able to hit that $399 starting-cost (laptop costs are hard to define since screen type, resolution, RAM, storage, all play a factor).

The performance will be interesting. I don't expect the Snapdragon 7c to be a massive performer, but all it needs to do is beat the Intel Pentium Gold for price, battery, and performance. That's it. All three of those seem doable. Toss in some thinner bezels and some of that Surface Pro X design magic, and what's not love?

The Pentium Gold 4415Y is only a 1.6GHz dual-core processor limited to DDR3 memory. A Snapdragon 7c is octa-core clocked at 2.45GHz, supports DDR4 and Wi-Fi 6. It will beat out a Pentium Gold, especially on multi-core benchmarks (an older Snapdragon 850 gets double the multi-core compute score of a Pentium Gold already).

Of course, there are the usual hang-ups about Windows 10 on ARM, performance hits from Win32 emulation, and x86-64-bit incompatibility (for now), but considering what $400 PCs are used for these concerns are even less impactful than on premium-tier PCs where the critique holds more water.

Finally, whatever your thoughts on ARM, you can't deny one thing: it is causing competition. Intel's low-cost chips are terrible, but there's no reason why that suddenly can't shift now that Qualcomm is trying to go there. Apple is doing great with ARM on its iPad line, and we should all be rooting for Qualcomm (and AMD) to be making Intel work for your money. Microsoft knows this too. The Surface Go is amazing hardware held back by Intel. Hopefully, history doesn't repeat itself for a Surface Go 2.

These two Surface devices both live up to a high expectation of quality and design. Though they're both portable, the Go is undoubtedly meant to be a device you can tuck under your arm for casual computing, while the Pro 7 is more of a powerhouse 2-in-1 that promotes versatile performance. Let's take a look at the specs to see how these two devices differ.

Surface Pro 7 vs. Surface Go tech specs

Design and features

The Surface Pro 7 doesn't stray far from the Pro design we've come to expect. It brings a slim tablet chassis with folding kickstand on the back, removable Type Cover keyboard and Precision touchpad, and brilliant touch display with inking support for the Surface Pen.

Most of the real changes to the Pro 7 come on the inside, though one advancement we're welcoming is the addition of a USB-C port for added connectivity. The Pro 7 still holds onto a USB-A port (which the Go lacks), as well as Surface Connect, a microSD card reader, and a 3.5mm audio jack.

The Surface Go is a smaller, more portable version of the Pro. It sacrifices performance and battery life for portability, but it's still a premium Surface device that lives up to the set standard. It's the same thickness as the Pro 7, which makes it seem a bit chunkier due to the overall smaller footprint, and it has a rotating kickstand on the back to prop up the tablet. It also works with a Type Cover if you'd like to add a Precision touchpad and keyboard, and the high-res touch display is compatible with the Surface Pen for a great inking experience.

The Pro 7 does not have optional LTE connectivity for staying in touch wherever you go. For that feature, you'll have to opt for the LTE-enabled Surface Go, which costs about $679. Thanks to the 10th Gen Intel Core CPUs, the Pro 7 does offer Wi-Fi 6 connectivity for blistering wireless speeds where available.

Ultimately, if you're looking for the most portable 2-in-1 between these two Surface products, the Go is your best bet. However, if you're interested in optimal performance or the best inking experience possible, the Pro 7 can't lose.

Display and inking

The Pro 7's 12.3-inch display is essentially the same as the Pro 6, with a 3:2 aspect ratio, 267 PPI, and 2736x1824 resolution. It offers a brilliant picture, and the larger size allows for easier multitasking compared to the Go. The Surface Pen with the Pro 7 offers a natural inking experience, with 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt function. It is also compatible with the Surface Dial, but only for off-screen interactions.

The Go's smaller 10-inch touch display is no slouch, with a 3:2 aspect ratio, 217 PPI, and 1800x1200 resolution. It also offers 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support, as well as off-screen Surface Dial interactions. The Go does not have the same co-processor for lower latency, however, so the overall inking experience isn't going to match up with the larger, pricier Surface Pro 7. The Go is great for jotting notes and making sketches, but for those with serious artistic ambition in mind, the Pro 7 should be a much better fit.

Performance and price

The portable Surface Go isn't meant to be a powerhouse, and the hardware options reflect that. The Intel Pentium Gold 4415Y CPU is a dual-core chip that's cut out for productivity and some light gaming, but it's not going to get you into any specialized work. To compare, it performs just below a Surface Pro 4 with Core m3 CPU in terms of raw processing power.

You can add 4GB or 8GB of RAM to the Go depending on your budget and performance needs, and there's likewise the option for 64GB of eMMC storage or a 128GB SSD. The eMMC storage is quite slow, so if you have room in the budget, we recommend jumping up to the 128GB mark. The baseline Go, with 64GB storage, 4GB of RAM, and Pentium CPU costs about $389, far less than the entry Pro 7 model. If you're interested in 128GB of SSD storage, 8GB of RAM, and LTE connectivity, the price jumps up to about $679.

Geekbench 5

Geekbench 5.0 (CPU) (Higher is better)

Geekbench 4

Geekbench 4.0 (CPU) (higher is better)

PCMark

PCMark 10

GPU

Geekbench 5.0 OpenCL (higher is better)

SSD

CrystalDiskMark (Higher is better)

.

The Surface Pro 7, which starts at about $883, is much better cut out for heavy multitasking, gaming, and even some specialized work. 10th Gen Intel Core i5 and i7 "Ice Lake" CPUs are going to offer the best performance (Iris Plus graphics are impressive), but if you're on a tight budget, the Core i3 model will still beat out the Pentium Gold chip in the Go.

You can outfit a Pro 7 with up to 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD, making it much more prepared for life as your only device. Price does play a far more obvious role here, though, as decked-out models with Core i7 CPU, 16GB of RAM, and 1TB SSD cost about $2,300. Battery life from the Core i5 Pro 7 hits eight hours from a charge.

Go with the Surface Pro 7 for best performance

Thanks to 10th Gen Intel Core "Ice Lake" CPUs, up to 16GB of RAM, and up to a 1TB SSD, the Surface Pro 7 is ready to tackle a heavy workload. It also delivers a better inking experience, and its larger display is better designed for multitasking. However, it does cost quite a bit more than the Go and does not include optional LTE connectivity.

The Surface Go offers ideal portability

The Surface Go might not offer the same level of performance or quite the same inking experience, but it costs a lot less and still reigns as an ultraportable 2-in-1 with optional LTE connectivity. It's likely best used as a secondary device — one that you can shove in a bag or under an arm when heading out the door — but it can certainly as your lone companion if you're mostly tackling productivity work.

Owners of the new Surface Pro 7, or Surface Laptop 3 13.5 or 15 (Intel) may find one feature disruptive to their workflow. Adaptive contrast is a feature of Intel systems (AMD calls it Vari-Bright) that differs from auto-brightness, and while it can enhance the user experience for many, it can be annoying too.

I wrote a few guides on this topic over the years. Back then, it required going into the Windows Registry, which is tricky and cumbersome. Luckily, Intel has a full app in the Microsoft Store that allows you to disable it with a switch.

Yes, this can work on older Surface PCs too, including Surface Book, Surface Go, and older Surface Pro models (though we have not tried it on all them). The only system requirements are Windows 10 version 1709 or higher and 6th Gen Intel Core Platforms or newer. Here is how it works.

Not auto-brightness, not HDR

What is adaptive contrast?

Adaptive contrast is quite different than auto-brightness (or adaptive brightness), found under Settings > System > Display, and which ramps up and down the display backlight on ambient lighting conditions.

Adaptive contrast differs because it adjusts based on the current images on your display rather than the ambient light in your room. It's like "edge-lit local dimming of specific zones" due to what is on the screen. This is also different than High Dynamic Range (HDR), which is much more sophisticated and precise with more color depth.

The feature is standard on modern TVs and high-end gaming monitors, but it can also be a source of frustration. The effect is most noticeable at night when you tend to have a lower display brightness because you are in a dark room.

To simulate the effect, go into a dark room and open Microsoft Word (or anything with a white background) then switch to an app that is all black like Settings (if dark mode is enabled). You should see the screen slowly and smoothly dim and shift in contrast.

Unfortunately, while you can easily disable adaptive brightness under Settings > System > Display > "Change brightness automatically when lighting changes," there is no easy way to disable adaptive contrast. Also, many users conflate the two, but disabling auto-brightness won't solve this behavior if it bothers you.

This is easy

How to disable adaptive contrast with Intel's Store app

Compared to diving into the registry, this newer method (mentioned on Reddit) is much safer and requires no advanced skills.

Intel's Graphics Command Center is a Universal Windows Platform (UWP) app that was released in Spring 2019. It is like Intel's Graphic Control Panel but is newer, easier to find, and easier to manage.

1. Download Intel Graphics Command Center and open it.

2. Go to the System tab.

3. Go to the Power sub-tab.

4. Turn Display Power Savings off.

That's it! Some users have remarked that after some cumulative updates to Windows 10, the setting may revert. If that happens, simply re-follow these steps.

Likewise, the Intel Graphics Command Center has many options to help tune your display to your liking. You can adjust contrast, sharpness, colors, battery savings, and more. There is no real risk as you can always "revert to default" if your display looks worse, or battery life decreases.

And for AMD users, the AMD Radeon software is also now in the Microsoft Store so you can disable Vari-Bright too.

Do you have the ideal settings for your Surface using this utility? Share them in the comments, including which model Surface you are using and why you chose those settings.

These two Surface devices are built with mobility in mind, and they're both built to a high standard. The Go is more of a casual device that you can tuck under your arm and take to the cafe, while the Pro X is more of a professional's tool with better performance and a larger display. Let's take a look at the specs that make up these two devices.

Surface Pro X vs. Surface Go tech specs

Features and design

The Surface Pro X is a bit of a departure from the Pro design we've come to expect. It still has roughly the same footprint as the Surface Pro 7, but the display has been stretched out to 13 inches thanks to slimmer bezel along the sides. It's also quite a bit thinner than the Pro 7, and it even manages to come it a hair thinner than the ultraportable Surface Go.

The Surface Go still reigns when it comes to weight, starting at just 1.15 pounds (522g), but the Pro X isn't far behind at 1.7 pounds (774g). Both devices should prove to be welcome travel companions, but if you want the most mobility, opt for the Go. It also provides a more rounded selection of ports, including one USB-C 3.1, a microSD card reader, Surface Connect, and a 3.5mm audio jack. On the other hand, the Pro X comes with two USB-C 3.1, Surface Connect, and a Nano SIM slot. Note also that the Pro X is capable of handling two external 4K displays at 60Hz through USB-C (Gen 2), while the Go is only capable of a single external 4K display with USB-C (Gen 1).

While the front-facing camera on both devices is essentially the same at 5MP (1080p), the rear-facing camera on the Pro X bumps things up to 10MP (4K). The Go's rear-facing camera is stuck at 8MP (1080p), so if you're concerned about image and video quality, the Pro X is no doubt the better choice. Both devices offer LTE connectivity to keep you connected even when there's no Wi-Fi, but only the Pro X offers eSIM and physical Nano SIM options.

Both the Pro X and Go employ a folding kickstand on the back to keep the tablet propped up, and combined with an attachable keyboard and touchpad, you can turn either into a productivity machine. However, keyboards for both models are sold separately, and you'll also have to shell out extra for an active pen. The Surface Go's Type Cover offers a comfortable (if slightly cramped) backlit keyboard and Precision touchpad, and the Surface Pen connects magnetically to the side of the tablet when not in use.

The Pro X's keyboard is larger to match the overall size of the tablet, and it has a backlit keyboard and Precision touchpad. Built into the hinge portion is a storage bay for the new Surface Slim Pen, which keeps the pen charged and better protected when you're on the move.

Display and inking

The Surface Go has a smaller 10-inch touch display with a 3:2 aspect ratio and 1800x1200 resolution. Pixels-per-inch (PPI) measures out to 217, which is really not bad at all. The picture is quite beautiful, and the Surface Pen can be used with it for a quality inking experience. If you're interested in multi-tasking, though, the Pro X's larger 13-inch display is probably better suited.

It also has a 3:2 aspect ratio for a boxy look, and it has a 2880x1920 resolution for a 267 PPI. The picture is going to be sharper, and it reaches up to about 450 nits for easier outdoor work. The Surface Slim Pen is likewise going to offer a natural feel. Overall, artists or design pros are likely going to want to opt for the Pro X thanks to the larger display and better performance from the Adreno 685 graphics.

Performance and price

All models of the Surface Go cost less than even the introductory Pro X model, but for a good reason. While the Go is using an Intel Pentium 4415Y CPU, the Pro X is ARM-powered with a custom SQ1 CPU that's essentially a beefed-up Snapdragon 8cx. The Pentium chip has two cores and a base clock of 1.60GHz, while the SQ1 boasts a 3GHz clock and eight cores. You're going to get far better CPU performance from the Pro X, and it also boasts an Adreno 685 GPU with two teraflops of power. Again, this easily trounces the Go, so if you want the best performance possible, you have to stick with the Pro X.

However, ARM-based PCs do have some limitations. OpenGL games won't work on ARM, and the device is overall better suited for web and scripted apps. Despite ARM chips having to emulate x86 apps, they should still run better on the Pro X. In terms of fun, we'll have to do our own testing to see precisely how well the Pro X runs, and don't expect it to be your next gaming machine. Keep in mind that Project xCloud, Microsoft's upcoming game-streaming service, can turn almost any device with a steady internet connection into a quality gaming platform.

Storage is another point of contention, with the Go offering either 64GB of slow eMMC storage or a speedier 128GB SSD. The Pro X can be had with up to 512GB of SSD storage, and the hardware is removable if you want to upgrade in the future. Finally, the Pro X can be configured with up to 16GB of LPDDR4x RAM, while the Go is capped at 8GB of LPDDR3.

Bottom line? Introductory Pro X models start at about $999, but they're going to offer far better performance and battery life than you get with the Surface Go. If you just want a casual 2-in-1 for light productivity work, web browsing, and a bit of light gaming, the Go starts at about $390.

The Surface Pro X is better cut out for professional performance

The ARM-powered Pro X brings a thin and light chassis, knockout 13-inch touch display with pen support, and LTE connectivity to keep you connected everywhere. It beats out the Surface Go in raw performance and battery life, making it the better pick for anyone who has more professional goals in mind. It does, however, cost significantly more than the Go.

The Surface Go is an affordable and portable 2-in-1

This miniaturized Surface Pro doesn't match up to the performance in the Pro X, but it's much more portable and will still offer an excellent 2-in-1 experience. Optional LTE connectivity can keep you connected anywhere, and the 10-inch touch display is brilliant, especially combined with a Surface Pen. It's also a much cheaper option compared to the Pro X.

We've spent plenty of time with each of these devices, and though they're both Surface 2-in-1s, the Pro is better suited for those who need the power of a standard laptop. It's still a portable device, but the Go is smaller and overall better suited for those on the move, and it still has hardware suitable for everyday productivity tasks.

Tech specs

Design and features

The Surface Go's chassis, compared to the Pro, has more rounded edges and corners that make it a bit easier to hold onto in tablet mode. It is smaller and lighter — the Go weighs in at just 1.15 pounds (0.52kg) without the Type Cover attached compared to the Pro's 1.69 pounds (0.77kg) — but it's made up of a single chunk of magnesium, just like the Pro. Both have kickstands on the back that can rotate out 165 degrees that allow you to type or draw with ease.

Both have front- and rear-facing cameras at 5 and 8 megapixels (MP) respectively, and both devices also have IR cameras with facial recognition that makes logging in through Windows Hello a snap. When it comes to ports, however, the Go has USB-C 3.1 while the Pro is stuck with USB-A 3.0, a difference that means more if you plan on using your device for years into the future. The Pro has a Mini DisplayPort for connecting video, both have Surface Connect for attaching a dock, and both have a microSD card reader for expanding storage.

If you need LTE capabilities, both the Pro and Go have the option. As for accessories, the existing Surface Pen — sold separately for about $100 — works flawlessly on both devices, and both have Type Covers — also sold separately — with Precision touchpads and an Alcantara fabric finish.

The keyboard on the Go is definitely small and might take a bit of time to get used to, but it's perfectly functional. Still, if you're planning on using your Surface to type on all day, the larger size of the Pro's keyboard might make more sense. The best thing to do here is try out both in person to see which you prefer.

Display

Despite the larger bezel and lower resolution, the Surface Go's touch display is quite impressive. For color accuracy, it hits 99% sRGB and 76% AdobeRGB, slightly higher results than the Surface Pro's 97% sRGB and 75% AdobeRGB. You get more real estate on the Pro's 12.3-inch display and there is less bezel, which definitely counts for something, but the Go seems set up to work more as a tablet with lots of space to hold onto, especially with a Surface Pen in-hand.

The Pro has a higher resolution than the Go — 2736x1824 compared to 1800x1200 — but the smaller overall size of the Go makes it less noticeable. Both have a functional 3:2 aspect ratio, and both have magnets in the side to hold the Surface Pen when not in use. If you love to draw, know that both devices support tilt when inking.

Performance

While these two devices are meant for separate purposes, performance isn't quite as lopsided as you might think. Both have all-day battery life, meaning you can leave your charger behind when you head out. Yes, the Pentium processor (CPU) in the Go is outperformed by the Surface Pro's Core CPU lineup — you can expect about double the performance from i5 and i7 models — and integrated graphics in the Pro likewise double what the Go has to offer.

However, when it comes to storage, the Go with 128GB solid-state drive (SSD) beats out the Pro in terms of sequential read and write speeds. The Go, in testing, hit 1,185MB/s read and 546MB/s write, while the Pro was able to hit 847MB/s read and 801MB/s write. Word of warning: The Go also has a 64GB eMMC storage that performs significantly slower.

Conclusion

The fifth-generation Surface Pro — not to confused with the newer Surface Pro 6, which we also compared to the Go — is still a strong option if you'd like a 2-in-1 device that can handle the performance needs often seen with a desktop PC. There are plenty of configuration options available, it has a larger display than the Go, and it's compatible with all Surface accessories.

The Go is a much better device for those who need a lightweight companion or who prefer the tablet experience. Overall performance won't match that of the Surface Pro, but that's why you can get your hands on a Go for hundreds of dollars less.

Why would you want to change your search engine?

While Bing is perfectly serviceable, it isn't the only search engine out there, and most people have their own favorite. I like to use Google because it ties into all the services I use on a daily basis, but you may prefer Yahoo or even DuckDuckGo. The point is, you should be able to choose what search engine you want to use.

When you first unwrap your shiny new Surface Go though, that option is not available. Because Microsoft wanted to create a walled garden with S Mode, you can only access apps on the Windows Store and subsequently, can't download browsers that aren't on the Microsoft store. You also can't change the search engine on the browser that the Surface Go ships with — Edge.

What is S-mode?

S-Mode is Microsoft's attempt to limit its Surface Go tablets to accept apps from its store. I can understand why it would want to do that. When you look at the success of the iPad, one of the key components is that each of the apps is made specifically for that device. When you can dictate what apps go on a device you can, in theory, make sure they are safe and compatible. You also won't be able to install anything that'll slow down the Surface Go and all its processes.

Unfortunately for Microsoft, that isn't what people who buy Windows generally want. They like the openness of the platform and the ability to choose what programs are available for it.

So what can you do to change it?

There are two ways to change your search engine, though both require a change in the system. The simplest way is to just turn off S-mode on your Surface Go. This may not be for everyone, but if you turn off S-mode through this simple process then the option to change your search in the address bar will become available.

The other way — and the one I have been using and enjoying — is to download the new Edge browser built on Chromium. Now that it's built on Google's platform the browser is fast and powerful, with access to all of Chromes vast library of extensions. It is still in Beta right now but even in these early builds, it feels like the right choice for the Surface Go.

Other cool accessories for the Surface Go

There are plenty of excellent accessories out there for the Surface Go so we thought we would give you a little taste of what you can pick up.

Surface Go Type cover ($130 at Amazon)

While the Surface Go is an excellent tablet, to make it an excellent productivity device you will need the type cover to tie everything together. Plus, it looks smashing in Burgundy.

Surface Go Pen ($68 at Amazon)

If you are interested in making art on your Surface Go, or just like taking handwritten notes, then you may want to invest in a Surface Pen. With over 4,000 points of pressure, it's insanely accurate and easy to use.

We're back with another exciting episode of the Windows Central Podcast, and this week Daniel Rubino and Zac Bowden wind down a truncated work week due to the American Thanksgiving holiday, but that doesn't mean there isn't a lot to discuss! Daniel has his hands-on impressions of Surface Go with LTE and Surface Studio 2. Plus, the dynamic duo dig deep into Microsoft Launcher 5.1. It features To-Do and Sticky Notes integration, plus Cortana support.

Finally, Windows Hello now supports FIDO2 Security Keys for an added layer of convenience and protection.

This episode of the Windows Central Podcast was recorded on November 23 2018.

Links:

• Surface Go with LTE preorders now available, starting at $679
• Which model Surface Studio 2 has the NVIDIA GTX 1070?
• Microsoft Launcher beta gets To-Do and Sticky Notes integration, 'Hey Cortana' support
• Windows Hello adding support for FIDO2 Security Keys

Subscribe to the podcast

• Download directly: Audio
• Listen via Spotify
• Listen via: Windows Central app Windows 10 | Android
• Subscribe via iTunes
• Subscribe via RSS
• Subscribe via Google Play Music
• Subscribe via Pocket Casts

Hosts

• Daniel Rubino
• Zac Bowden

Make this show great by participating!

Send in your comments, questions, and feedback to:

• Email: wcpodcast@windowscentral.com
• Twitter: @WindowsCentral with hashtag #wcpodcast

We're back with another exciting episode of the Windows Central Podcast, and this week Daniel Rubino and Zac Bowden have a ton of hardware and software news to share! As usual, there's a new build for fast ring insiders. But Microsoft had an embarrassing week on the server side of things when a Windows 10 activation server caused some PCs to lose activated status.

Surface Go LTE preorders are available now — the always connected device starts at $675. Zac and Daniel clarify the confusing Core m3-based Surface device Best Buy is advertising for Black Friday. It's not a Surface Pro 6 custom manufactured for the electronics retail giant. It's a Surface Pro 5, but still an impressive bargain!

Next, the discuss the possibilities that exist with Samsung's foldable display technology, and wrap things up with the Lenovo Yoga C630. Tune in!

This episode of the Windows Central Podcast was recorded on November 9 2018.

Links:

• Windows 10 build 18277 (and earlier) for PC: Everything you need to know
• Windows 10 activation server issue causes PCs to lose activated status (Update)
• Surface Go with LTE preorders now available, starting at $679
• No, Best Buy isn't selling a Surface Pro 6 with Core m3, but it's still a good deal
• Samsung's new Infinity Flex Display will hit mass production soon, enabling foldable phones of all kinds
• Lenovo Yoga C630 with Snapdragon 850 now available at Best Buy for $800

Subscribe to the podcast

• Download directly: Audio
• Listen via Spotify
• Listen via: Windows Central app Windows 10 | Android
• Subscribe via iTunes
• Subscribe via RSS
• Subscribe via Google Play Music
• Subscribe via Pocket Casts
• Watch on Mixer

Hosts

• Daniel Rubino
• Zac Bowden

Make this show great by participating!

Send in your comments, questions, and feedback to:

• Email: wcpodcast@windowscentral.com
• Twitter: @WindowsCentral with hashtag #wcpodcast

The 10-inch Surface Go is perfect for productivity on-the-move, sporting unrivaled portability among Microsoft's premium hardware line. While doubling as a full-fledged PC, its form factor, touchscreen, and inking support all establish a strong foundation for tablet users. However, with Windows 10's tablet-focused features in a rough state, the experience still isn't perfect.

As detailed in our review of Surface Go as a tablet, the official keyboard vastly improves the experience. While the hardware is among the best on the market, you can't ignore software limitations. We recently kicked off a thread on the Windows Central forums, asking for your Surface Go tablet opinions.

As always, we want to hear from you. Does Surface Go function as a capable tablet in your life? Or are there issues that should be addressed? Drop into the forum thread linked below with your thoughts and what you'd like to see changed.

From the forums: Your experience using Surface Go as a tablet?

See at Microsoft

It's been a few weeks since our last #AskDanWindows episode where I answer the questions you have about Microsoft, Surface and more.

This week we're talking about Thunderbolt 3 and Surface Go, will Microsoft merge its To-Do and notetaking apps, a little bit about Edge and the Microsoft Store, and what's the deal with Windows mixed reality - all hype, or is something there?

Grab a coffee and tune in!

Audience questions Episode 53

• Would it be possible to connect an external GPU to the Surface Go through the USB-C connector? - Arnaud van der Gaag
• Is AR/VR already becoming an afterthought in the tech world, and for consumers? - Rodneyej
• Do you have any news on when or if the Edge browser will move into the Microsoft Store - agd87
• Will Microsoft ever merge its multiple To-Do Apps? - stewardrose

Thanks to everyone for the questions!

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Hate using email? Join me on our #AskDan Forums at Windows Central! I'll occasionally jump in there to try and answer questions or take ideas for new episodes of our web series.

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When you need something that has everything in one package, including the ability to upgrade to normal Windows and install all the software you want, go with the Surface. The HP Envy x2 is best for LTE connectivity and when you don't need to use any apps that aren't available in the Microsoft Store.

Envy is great on the Surface

Battle of design

Both the Surface Go and HP Envy x2 look stunning. HP has matched Microsoft's Surface design and then some. The main difference between the two is the weight, with the Surface Go being almost a full pound lighter. That doesn't seem much on paper, but when you're holding a tablet for an hour or so, it makes all the difference.

That said, the HP Envy x2 isn't heavy by any means. Both have kickstands, and while the Surface Go has its stand integrated into the chassis itself, you need to have the keyboard cover attached to the HP Envy x2 in order to have it sit up for media consumption. Both devices have a webcam with support for Windows Hello and USB for charge and hooking up compatible accessories.

If you find yourself frequently on the move without stable Wi-Fi connections, the Envy x2 is the only true option if you seek 4G LTE support — Microsoft is expected to add an LTE version of the Surface Go at some point in the future. When it comes to the keyboard, you'll need to try both in person to find out which you prefer. Just don't buy the Intel HP Envy x2 because HP managed to make the keyboard worse.

Gazing at portable internals

The two tablets are aimed at portable use, but they have their own strengths in this area that sets them apart. Take the HP Envy x2, which comes with an ARM processor — the same Snapdragon 835 you'd find in smartphones. There's an Intel version available with a zippy Core i5, while the Surface Go is lumbered with the Pentium Gold.

The latter isn't a slow CPU, but it doesn't offer quite the same levels of efficiency than that of the Snapdragon, nor does it yet have LTE for use outside of your network boundaries. Both tablets have great displays and solid capacity options. There's even the choice of up to 8GB of RAM, which is handy when you want to run more than a single app.

It really comes town to the price and if you need LTE. If you don't care for LTE and need to run your own software, go with the Surface Go. If you want to be always connected, the HP Envy x2 is a solid option. Just don't go with the Intel-powered Envy x2.

Windows is more fun on Surface

Microsoft's Surface line of products is meant to be a demonstration of what Windows can do and offer partners a base to work with. The Surface Go is the company's latest iteration of the affordable tablet running Windows 10 S. It's probably the most fun you'll have with Windows on the go.

Always connected with ARM

HP decided to do something different by including a Snapdragon CPU inside the new HP Envy x2. There's an Intel version available, but you'll be sacrificing a lot for the extra horsepower. The 4G LTE with the ARM processor makes for quite the portable tablet that just keeps on going after a busy day.

If you want to save some money and get more for your buck, go with the Surface.

Daniel Rubino and Zac Bowden talk about the latest Redstone 5 builds as the Screen Sketch App becomes Snip & Sketch. Along those lines, they also chat about the usefulness of Sticky notes and To-do. How about Paint 2018 while we're at it? From there, the conversation moves to Xbox All Access — a monthly subscription service that gets you a new console, Xbox Live Gold, and Game Pass. We have good news and bad news. The good news is Zac received his Surface Go. The bad news? Well, if you haven't guessed from the show title, you'll have to listen and find out!

Help us make this show the best Microsoft podcast in the world. Tell your friends, share it on social media using the hashtag #wcpodcast, and give us a five-star rating wherever you download your podcasts! Thank you so much for listening!

Links:

• New Redstone 5 builds
• Xbox All Access
• Cortana and Alexa on Windows 10

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Hosts

• Daniel Rubino
• Zac Bowden

Make this show great by participating!

Send in your comments, questions, and feedback to:

• Email: wcpodcast@windowscentral.com
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Does Surface Go meet Windows Mixed Reality minimum specs?

There's a lot to like about Windows Mixed Reality (WMR). It's a cheaper alternative to the Oculus Rift and the HTC Vive, has a higher resolution than both of those devices, integrates with SteamVR, and is baked right into your Windows 10 device. To be able to use it on the go with a Surface Go is extremely appealing.

There are two different tiers of WMR — Ultra and Standard — that entail different system requirements to hit 90 frames-per-second (FPS) and 60 FPS respectively.

Without a dedicated graphics card (GPU), which the Surface Go does not have, at least a 7th Gen Intel Core i5 processor (CPU) is required to hit WMR Standard specs. The Go uses an Intel Pentium Gold 4415Y CPU, which does not compare.

In order to hit Ultra specs, a lesser CPU is required though it's only because a dedicated GPU is absolutely required. The bottom line here is that the Surface Go does not meet the minimum specifications required for either Ultra or Standard tiers of WMR.

Is Surface Go good for general gaming?

The Surface Go's integrated Intel HD Graphics 615 can offer up some decent performance when it comes to playing games. It won't come anywhere near powering popular AAA titles or popular esports titles, but it can certainly provide some entertainment during downtime.

There are hundreds of quality casual games available on the Microsoft Store, and you should even be able to have a good go at Minecraft for Windows 10.

What about other Surface devices?

We've tested out other Surface devices with WMR to see how well they run, and your best bet — at least when it comes to running WMR on Surface — is the 15-inch Surface Book 2. The 13.5-inch model does hit the minimum specs, though the larger version's NVIDIA GTX 1060 GPU has enough power to hit the WMR Ultra tier and 90 FPS.

As for the Surface Laptop and Surface Pro, both make the cut for the WMR Standard tier, maxing out at 60 FPS. The only issue you'll have to deal with is getting the proper adapter to make up for a lack of ports.

We're back with another exciting episode of the Windows Central Podcast! This week, Daniel Rubino and Zac Bowden cover a ton of news in the Windows universe this week, including performance of the base model Surface Go and Microsoft signing on with Disney's Movies Anywhere service. They also cover Windows 10 19H1 and speculate on the future roadmap of Windows releases, Samsung Galaxy Note 9, Acer's awesomely thin Swift 7 laptop, and a ton more!

Help us make this show the best Microsoft podcast in the world. Tell your friends, share it on social media using the hashtag #wcpodcast, and give us a five-star rating wherever you download your podcasts! Thank you so much for listening!

Links:

• Hands on with Windows 10 build 17733 (17735) showcasing the latest changes
• Windows 10 19H1: All the changes we know so far
• Do you need the more expensive Surface Go?
• Samsung Galaxy Note 9 hands-on preview: $1000 well spent

Subscribe to the podcast

• Download directly: Audio
• Listen via Spotify
• Listen via: Windows Central app Windows 10 | Android
• Subscribe via iTunes
• Subscribe via RSS
• Subscribe via Google Play Music
• Subscribe via Pocket Casts
• Watch on Mixer

Hosts

• Daniel Rubino
• Zac Bowden

Make this show great by participating!

Send in your comments, questions, and feedback to:

• Email: wcpodcast@windowscentral.com
• Twitter: @WindowsCentral with hashtag #wcpodcast

The Surface Go is Microsoft's latest Surface device, and is the second device from Microsoft to come with Windows 10 S out of box. Microsoft originally touted better battery life with devices that come with Windows 10 S on out of box, so does that mean battery life will be worse on the Surface Go if you turn S mode off?

The answer is: it depends. Seriously, the touted "better battery life" on Windows 10 S only counts because your selection of apps is limited to the Microsoft Store. Once out of S mode, you can install what you want, including more battery intensive programs such as Chrome or Premiere Pro.

If you're using heavy applications, then battery life will absolutely be worse. But, if you're keeping things light, even when S mode is off, your battery life shouldn't change. Surface Go's battery life is already on the lower side, so it's probably best to keep things light anyway.

How to turn off Windows 10 S mode on Surface Go

Of course, if you've got a Surface Go with S mode off, we'd love to hear about your battery life experiences. Let us know in our forums!