Microsoft’s Surface Laptop Go 2 is a powerful and portable laptop, but can it also double as a tablet? As more and more devices are blurring the lines between laptops and tablets, it’s a question worth exploring. In this article, we’ll dive into the capabilities and limitations of the Surface Laptop Go 2 as a tablet, and whether it’s a viable option for those who want a 2-in-1 device.
Design and Build – A Laptop First, Tablet Second
The Surface Laptop Go 2 is, first and foremost, a laptop. Its design and build reflect this, with a sleek and sturdy construction that’s meant to withstand the rigors of daily use. The device features a 12.4-inch touchscreen display, which is generously sized for a laptop but quite small for a tablet. The screen is surrounded by a thick bezel, which may not be the most aesthetically pleasing but does provide a comfortable grip when held in tablet mode.
One of the most notable design features of the Surface Laptop Go 2 is its lack of a 360-degree hinge. Unlike many modern 2-in-1 devices, the Surface Laptop Go 2’s hinge only allows for a maximum of 135-degree rotation, which means it can’t be folded all the way back into a flat, tablet-like position. This is a deliberate design choice, as Microsoft wants to emphasize the device’s laptop credentials.
What This Means for Tablet Use
The lack of a 360-degree hinge means that using the Surface Laptop Go 2 as a tablet can be a bit awkward. You’ll need to find a way to prop the device up or hold it at an angle, which can be tiring and uncomfortable. This is especially true when using the device in portrait orientation, where the weight of the laptop can make it difficult to hold for extended periods.
On the other hand, the Surface Laptop Go 2’s touchscreen display is responsive and accurate, making it well-suited for tablet-like interactions. The device also supports Surface Pen input, which can be useful for taking notes, sketching, or navigating the interface.
Performance and Specifications – Powering a Smooth Tablet Experience
Under the hood, the Surface Laptop Go 2 boasts a range of configurations to suit different needs and budgets. The base model comes with an Intel Core i5 processor, 4GB of RAM, and a 128GB SSD, while higher-end models can be equipped with up to an Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD.
In terms of performance, the Surface Laptop Go 2 is more than capable of handling everyday tasks, including web browsing, email, Office work, and streaming media. The device’s SSD storage ensures fast loading times and responsive performance, even when running multiple applications simultaneously.
Tablet-Specific Features and Optimizations
Windows 10, the operating system of choice for the Surface Laptop Go 2, has a range of features and optimizations specifically designed for tablet use. These include:
- Tablet Mode: A dedicated mode that simplifies the interface, makes icons and text larger, and allows for easier navigation with touch input.
- Touch-friendly apps: Many built-in Windows apps, such as Microsoft Edge and the Windows Store, are optimized for touch input and can be used easily in tablet mode.
These features, combined with the Surface Laptop Go 2’s responsive touchscreen display, make for a smooth and intuitive tablet experience.
Battery Life and Portability – A True Hybrid Device
One of the key advantages of the Surface Laptop Go 2 is its portability. Weighing in at just 2.45 pounds, the device is easy to carry around, making it an excellent choice for those who need a laptop that can also double as a tablet.
The Surface Laptop Go 2’s battery life is another strong point, with Microsoft claiming up to 10 hours of use on a single charge. In our testing, we found that the device easily lasted a full working day, with plenty of juice left over for evening tasks.
What This Means for Tablet Use
The Surface Laptop Go 2’s portability and battery life make it an excellent choice for those who want a device that can be used on the go. Whether you’re commuting, working remotely, or simply want a device that can keep up with your active lifestyle, the Surface Laptop Go 2 is well-suited to the task.
Conclusion – A Capable but Flawed Tablet Experience
So, can the Surface Laptop Go 2 be used as a tablet? The answer is a resounding “yes”, but with some caveats. While the device’s design and build may not be optimized for tablet use, its performance, specifications, and features make it a capable and enjoyable tablet experience.
However, the lack of a 360-degree hinge and the device’s weight may make it less comfortable to use as a tablet, especially for extended periods. Those who prioritize tablet use may want to consider a dedicated tablet device or a laptop with a more flexible hinge.
For those who want a device that can do it all, the Surface Laptop Go 2 is an excellent choice. It’s a powerful laptop that can also function as a capable tablet, making it an excellent option for those who want a single device that can adapt to their changing needs.
| Feature | Surface Laptop Go 2 |
|---|---|
| Design and Build | Laptop-first design, sturdy construction, but limited hinge flexibility |
| Performance and Specifications | Range of configurations, fast SSD storage, and capable processor options |
| Battery Life and Portability | Up to 10 hours of battery life, lightweight and easy to carry |
| Tablet-Specific Features and Optimizations | Windows 10 Tablet Mode, touch-friendly apps, and responsive touchscreen display |
In the end, the Surface Laptop Go 2 is a device that defies categorization. It’s a laptop that can be used as a tablet, but it’s not a traditional tablet. It’s a hybrid device that offers the best of both worlds, but also requires some compromises. If you’re willing to adapt to its limitations, the Surface Laptop Go 2 can be an excellent choice for those who want a single device that can do it all.
Is the Surface Laptop Go 2 a 2-in-1 device?
The Surface Laptop Go 2 is designed to be a laptop first, but it can be used in tablet mode. However, it’s essential to note that it doesn’t have a 360-degree hinge like some other 2-in-1 devices, which means you can’t flip the keyboard all the way around to the back of the device.
While it may not be a traditional 2-in-1, the Surface Laptop Go 2 can still be used in tablet mode by folding the keyboard back and using the touchscreen. This can be useful for tasks like reading, browsing the web, or streaming content. However, the device’s weight and size may make it more cumbersome to use in this way, especially for extended periods.
How does the Surface Laptop Go 2’s keyboard work in tablet mode?
When you fold the keyboard back to use the Surface Laptop Go 2 in tablet mode, the keyboard is disabled to prevent accidental key presses. This is a thoughtful design touch, as it helps to prevent unwanted input and keeps the device focused on touchscreen input.
The keyboard is also designed to be more of a “lap-friendly” design, which means it’s meant to be used on a flat surface rather than on your lap. This can make it more comfortable to use the device in tablet mode, as you’re not fighting with the keyboard to stay upright. However, this design choice may not be ideal for everyone, especially those who prefer to work from their lap.
Is the Surface Laptop Go 2’s touchscreen responsive?
The Surface Laptop Go 2’s touchscreen is highly responsive and accurate, making it a pleasure to use in tablet mode. The device’s 12.4-inch touchscreen display is touch-enabled, and it supports multi-touch gestures, allowing you to navigate and interact with the device with ease.
Whether you’re scrolling through web pages, pinching to zoom in on images, or tapping on icons, the touchscreen is quick to respond to your inputs. This makes it an excellent choice for tasks that require a high degree of precision and accuracy, such as gaming, graphic design, or video editing.
Can I use a stylus with the Surface Laptop Go 2?
Yes, the Surface Laptop Go 2 is compatible with the Surface Pen, which is a stylus designed specifically for Surface devices. The Surface Pen offers 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, making it ideal for tasks like note-taking, drawing, and sketching.
Using the Surface Pen with the Surface Laptop Go 2 can greatly enhance your productivity and creativity. The stylus is precise and accurate, allowing you to capture your ideas with precision and clarity. Whether you’re brainstorming, creating art, or marking up documents, the Surface Pen is an excellent addition to the Surface Laptop Go 2.
How heavy is the Surface Laptop Go 2 in tablet mode?
The Surface Laptop Go 2 weighs in at 2.48 pounds (1.12 kg), which is relatively lightweight for a laptop. However, when you’re using it in tablet mode, the device can feel more substantial due to its size and shape.
While the device is still relatively portable, its weight may become more noticeable when you’re holding it for extended periods in tablet mode. This may not be a deal-breaker for most users, but it’s essential to consider if you plan to use the device in tablet mode frequently.
Can I use the Surface Laptop Go 2 with a keyboard accessory?
Yes, you can use the Surface Laptop Go 2 with a keyboard accessory, such as the Surface Type Cover or a third-party keyboard. This can be useful if you prefer to use the device in laptop mode but want to take advantage of the tablet mode’s flexibility.
Using a keyboard accessory can enhance your productivity and make it easier to work on documents, emails, or spreadsheets. The Surface Type Cover is a excellent choice, as it’s designed specifically for Surface devices and provides a comfortable and responsive typing experience.
Is the Surface Laptop Go 2’s battery life affected in tablet mode?
The Surface Laptop Go 2’s battery life is not significantly affected when used in tablet mode. According to Microsoft, the device can last up to 10 hours on a single charge, regardless of whether you’re using it in laptop or tablet mode.
This means you can enjoy a full day of productivity, entertainment, or creativity without worrying about running out of power. The device’s battery life is impressive, making it an excellent choice for users who need a device that can keep up with their busy lifestyle.