The world of budget-friendly laptops has witnessed a significant surge in recent years, with two prominent contenders vying for dominance: the Microsoft Surface Go 2 and the Chromebook. Both devices have garnered considerable attention from consumers seeking affordable, portable, and efficient computing solutions. In this article, we’ll delve into the intricacies of each device, comparing their features, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Display: A Tale of Two Form Factors
The Surface Go 2 boasts a sleek, compact design, weighing in at a mere 1.2 pounds and measuring 9.65 inches in length, 6.9 inches in width, and 0.33 inches in thickness. Its magnesium alloy construction exudes a premium feel, while the adjustable kickstand provides versatility in various usage scenarios. The device features a stunning 10.5-inch PixelSense touchscreen display, with a resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels and a 3:2 aspect ratio, making it ideal for browsing, streaming, and productivity tasks.
In contrast, Chromebooks come in a variety of shapes and sizes, depending on the manufacturer. However, most Chromebooks tend to have a more plastic-heavy construction, which, although durable, may not feel as premium as the Surface Go 2’s metal build. Display-wise, Chromebooks often feature 11.6-inch to 15.6-inch screens, with resolutions ranging from HD to Full HD. While some Chromebooks may offer touchscreens, they might not be as responsive or vibrant as the Surface Go 2’s PixelSense display.
Processor and Performance: A Battle of Wits
The Surface Go 2 is powered by Intel’s 8th Gen Core m3 processor, which provides a balance between performance and power efficiency. This processor is capable of handling everyday tasks such as web browsing, email, and office work with ease. However, it may struggle with more demanding tasks like video editing, 3D modeling, or gaming.
Chromebooks, on the other hand, are typically equipped with Intel Celeron, Pentium, or Core i3 processors, which are optimized for Chrome OS’s lightweight architecture. These processors are designed to provide fast boot times, seamless multitasking, and efficient battery life. While they may not match the Surface Go 2’s processing prowess, they are more than capable of handling Chrome OS’s web-centric workflow.
Benchmark Comparison
| Device | Processor | Geekbench 5 Score |
| — | — | — |
| Surface Go 2 | Intel Core m3-8100Y | 1,356 (Single-Core), 3,444 (Multi-Core) |
| Chromebook (Acer Chromebook 715) | Intel Core i3-8130U | 1,044 (Single-Core), 2,444 (Multi-Core) |
As seen in the benchmark comparison, the Surface Go 2’s Intel Core m3 processor outperforms the Chromebook’s Intel Core i3 processor in both single-core and multi-core tests. However, it’s essential to note that Chrome OS is optimized for web-based applications, which may not require the same level of processing power as Windows 10.
Software and Ecosystem: A World of Difference
The Surface Go 2 runs on Windows 10, providing access to a vast library of desktop applications, including Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Cloud, and more. Windows 10 also offers a more comprehensive feature set, including support for multiple desktops, a robust task manager, and advanced security features.
Chromebooks, as the name suggests, are built around Google’s Chrome OS. This operating system is designed specifically for web-based applications, with seamless integration with Google Drive, Google Docs, and other Google services. Chrome OS is incredibly lightweight, providing fast boot times and efficient battery life. However, it may not offer the same level of software compatibility as Windows 10.
App Compatibility: A Key Differentiator
| Device | Operating System | App Compatibility |
| — | — | — |
| Surface Go 2 | Windows 10 | Desktop applications (Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Cloud, etc.) |
| Chromebook | Chrome OS | Web-based applications (Google Docs, Microsoft Office Online, etc.) |
As evident from the table above, the Surface Go 2’s Windows 10 operating system offers a significant advantage in terms of app compatibility. While Chromebooks excel in web-based applications, they may struggle with desktop applications, which could be a major drawback for users who rely on specific software for work or creative pursuits.
Price and Value: The Ultimate Decider
The Surface Go 2 starts at $399 for the base model, which features 4GB of RAM and 64GB of eMMC storage. The top-of-the-line model, with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of SSD storage, costs $629.
Chromebooks, on the other hand, can range from as low as $200 to over $1,000, depending on the manufacturer, processor, and features. Budget-friendly options like the Acer Chromebook 715 start at around $300, while premium models like the Google Pixelbook Go can cost upwards of $1,000.
Value Comparison
| Device | Price | Value |
| — | — | — |
| Surface Go 2 | $399 (Base), $629 (Top-of-the-line) | Excellent display, premium build, and Windows 10 ecosystem |
| Chromebook (Acer Chromebook 715) | $300 (Base), $500 (Top-of-the-line) | Affordable, lightweight, and seamless Google ecosystem integration |
While the Surface Go 2 offers a premium build, excellent display, and Windows 10 ecosystem, its price may be a barrier for some users. Chromebooks, on the other hand, provide an affordable entry point into the world of laptops, with a lightweight operating system and seamless Google ecosystem integration.
Conclusion: Which Reigns Supreme?
The Surface Go 2 and Chromebook cater to different user needs and preferences. If you’re invested in the Microsoft ecosystem, require desktop applications, and value a premium build, the Surface Go 2 is an excellent choice. However, if you’re looking for an affordable, lightweight laptop for web-based tasks, and are deeply integrated into the Google ecosystem, a Chromebook might be the better option.
Ultimately, the decision between the Surface Go 2 and Chromebook depends on your specific needs and priorities. We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of both devices, enabling you to make an informed decision in the budget-friendly market.
What is the main difference between Surface Go 2 and Chromebook?
The main difference between Surface Go 2 and Chromebook lies in their operating systems. Surface Go 2 runs on Windows 10, offering a more traditional PC experience, while Chromebooks run on Google’s Chrome OS, which is designed for web-based applications and Google services. This difference significantly impacts the user experience, with Surface Go 2 providing more flexibility and compatibility with a wide range of software, and Chromebooks exceling in simplicity and seamless integration with Google’s ecosystem.
In terms of hardware, both devices can offer similar specs, such as processor, RAM, and storage options. However, Surface Go 2 tends to have more premium build quality and a higher-resolution display, making it a more attractive option for those who value aesthetics and a more immersive visual experience. On the other hand, Chromebooks are often more affordable and offer longer battery life, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize functionality over form.
Which device is more suitable for productivity tasks?
Surface Go 2 is generally more suitable for productivity tasks due to its ability to run Windows 10 and support a wide range of software applications, including Microsoft Office. The device’s touchscreen and stylus support also make it an excellent option for note-taking and creative tasks. Additionally, Surface Go 2’s more powerful processor options and higher storage capacity make it better equipped to handle demanding tasks and multitasking.
In contrast, Chromebooks are designed primarily for web-based applications and may not offer the same level of productivity as Surface Go 2. However, Chromebooks have made significant strides in recent years, and many models now offer improved performance and support for Android apps. Google’s suite of productivity tools, including Google Docs and Sheets, is also highly capable and integrates seamlessly with Chrome OS. Ultimately, the choice between Surface Go 2 and Chromebook for productivity tasks depends on the specific needs and preferences of the user.
Can Chromebooks run Windows applications?
Chromebooks are not natively compatible with Windows applications, as they run on Chrome OS. However, there are some workarounds that allow Chromebook users to access Windows apps. For example, Google’s Chrome Remote Desktop feature enables users to remotely access a Windows PC and run Windows applications from their Chromebook. Additionally, some Chromebooks support Android apps, which can provide alternative solutions for tasks that would typically require Windows software.
Another option is to use cloud-based services that offer Windows applications, such as Microsoft’s Cloud PC or Amazon’s WorkSpaces. These services allow users to access Windows applications from their Chromebook, albeit through a cloud-based interface. While these workarounds can provide some flexibility, they may not offer the same seamless experience as running Windows applications natively on a device like Surface Go 2.
Which device offers better value for money?
Chromebooks generally offer better value for money, as they tend to be more affordable than Surface Go 2. Budget-friendly Chromebooks can start at around $200-$300, while Surface Go 2 typically starts at around $400-$500. However, it’s essential to consider the overall cost of ownership and the device’s capabilities when evaluating value for money.
While Chromebooks may be cheaper upfront, Surface Go 2 offers more flexibility and compatibility with a wide range of software, which may be essential for some users. Additionally, Surface Go 2’s premium build quality and higher-resolution display may justify the higher price point for those who value aesthetics and a more immersive visual experience. Ultimately, the choice between Surface Go 2 and Chromebook depends on the user’s specific needs and priorities.
Can Surface Go 2 run Android apps?
Surface Go 2 can run Android apps, but not natively. Microsoft offers a feature called Windows Subsystem for Android, which allows users to run Android apps on their Windows device. However, this feature is still in its early stages, and the selection of available apps is limited compared to Chromebooks, which can run Android apps more seamlessly.
To access Android apps on Surface Go 2, users need to install the Windows Subsystem for Android from the Microsoft Store and then download the Android apps they want to use. While this feature provides some flexibility, it may not offer the same level of integration as Chromebooks, which can run Android apps more natively.
Which device is more suitable for gaming?
Surface Go 2 is generally more suitable for gaming due to its more powerful processor options and higher storage capacity. The device can run a wide range of Windows games, including popular titles like Minecraft and Fortnite. Additionally, Surface Go 2’s touchscreen and stylus support make it an excellent option for casual gaming and creative tasks.
In contrast, Chromebooks are not ideal for gaming, as they are designed primarily for web-based applications and may not offer the same level of performance as Surface Go 2. However, some Chromebooks can run Android games, which can provide some gaming options. Ultimately, the choice between Surface Go 2 and Chromebook for gaming depends on the user’s specific needs and preferences.