Is Surface Go 2 Obsolete? A Comprehensive Review of Microsoft's Compact Tablet

The Microsoft Surface Go 2, released in 2020, was a compact and portable tablet designed to cater to the needs of students, professionals, and individuals seeking a lightweight device for everyday tasks. With the rapid evolution of technology, it’s natural to wonder whether the Surface Go 2 has become obsolete. In this article, we’ll delve into the device’s specifications, performance, and features to determine its relevance in today’s market.

Table of Contents

Design and Display

The Surface Go 2 boasts a sleek and sturdy design, weighing in at just 1.2 pounds and measuring 9.65 inches in length, 6.9 inches in width, and 0.33 inches in thickness. The device features a 10.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 220 pixels per inch. Although the display is not as vibrant as some of its competitors, it’s still crisp and clear, making it suitable for browsing, streaming, and productivity tasks.

Portability and Ergonomics

One of the Surface Go 2’s strongest suits is its portability. The device is designed to be carried around effortlessly, making it an excellent choice for students, freelancers, and professionals who are always on the move. The tablet’s compact size and lightweight design allow users to hold it comfortably in one hand, while the kickstand provides a convenient way to prop it up for typing or watching videos.

Performance and Hardware

The Surface Go 2 is powered by Intel’s 8th Gen Core m3 processor, which provides a decent balance between performance and power efficiency. The device comes with 4GB or 8GB of RAM, depending on the configuration, and offers storage options ranging from 64GB to 128GB. While the Surface Go 2’s hardware may not be as powerful as some of its competitors, it’s still capable of handling everyday tasks such as browsing, emailing, and office work.

Benchmark Scores

To give you a better idea of the Surface Go 2’s performance, here are some benchmark scores:

| Benchmark | Score |
| — | — |
| Geekbench 5 (Single-Core) | 808 |
| Geekbench 5 (Multi-Core) | 1,934 |
| 3DMark Time Spy | 341 |

As you can see, the Surface Go 2’s benchmark scores are respectable, but not exceptional. However, it’s essential to remember that this device is designed for general productivity and not for demanding tasks like gaming or video editing.

Software and Features

The Surface Go 2 runs on Windows 10, providing users with a familiar and intuitive interface. The device also comes with a range of features, including:

Windows Hello: A biometric authentication system that allows users to log in with their face or fingerprint.
Microsoft Office: A suite of productivity apps, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Surface Pen: A stylus that supports 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, making it ideal for note-taking and creative tasks.

Security Features

The Surface Go 2 also boasts a range of security features, including:

TPM 2.0: A trusted platform module that provides an additional layer of security for sensitive data.
BitLocker: A full-disk encryption system that protects user data from unauthorized access.

Is the Surface Go 2 Obsolete?

While the Surface Go 2 may not be the most powerful device on the market, it’s still a capable and portable tablet that can handle everyday tasks with ease. However, its hardware and software may become outdated in the near future.

Upcoming Windows 11 Compatibility

Microsoft has announced that the Surface Go 2 will be compatible with Windows 11, which is expected to be released later this year. This means that users will be able to upgrade their device to the latest operating system, ensuring they have access to the latest features and security updates.

Alternatives to the Surface Go 2

If you’re in the market for a new tablet, you may want to consider the following alternatives:

Apple iPad Air: A powerful and feature-rich tablet that runs on iPadOS.
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Tablet: A business-focused tablet that offers a range of productivity features and a long-lasting battery.
Microsoft Surface Go 3: The latest iteration of the Surface Go series, which offers improved performance and a range of new features.

Comparison Table

As you can see, each device has its strengths and weaknesses, and the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Conclusion

The Surface Go 2 may not be the most powerful device on the market, but it’s still a capable and portable tablet that can handle everyday tasks with ease. While its hardware and software may become outdated in the near future, its upcoming Windows 11 compatibility and range of features make it a solid choice for those seeking a compact and affordable device. Ultimately, whether or not the Surface Go 2 is obsolete depends on your specific needs and expectations.

Is the Surface Go 2 still a good option for everyday tasks?

The Surface Go 2 is still capable of handling everyday tasks such as browsing the web, checking email, and using Microsoft Office. It comes with a range of processor options, including the Intel Core m3 and Pentium Gold processors, which provide sufficient power for general use. Additionally, the device features up to 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, making it suitable for multitasking and storing files.

However, it’s essential to consider that the Surface Go 2 was released in 2020, and its hardware may not be as efficient as newer devices. If you plan to use the device for more demanding tasks or want the latest features, you might want to consider a more recent model. Nevertheless, for basic tasks, the Surface Go 2 remains a viable option.

Can the Surface Go 2 run demanding applications and games?

The Surface Go 2 is not designed for running demanding applications and games. Its Intel Core m3 and Pentium Gold processors are geared towards general use and may struggle with resource-intensive programs. While it can run some games, the experience may not be smooth, and you may encounter lag or frame rate issues.

If you need a device for gaming or running demanding applications, you may want to consider a more powerful option. The Surface Go 2 is better suited for casual use, and its hardware is not optimized for heavy workloads. However, if you’re looking for a device for general use and occasional light gaming, the Surface Go 2 might still be a suitable choice.

Is the Surface Go 2’s display still good enough for watching videos and browsing the web?

The Surface Go 2 features a 10.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels. While it may not be as sharp as newer displays, it’s still suitable for watching videos and browsing the web. The display is also touchscreen-enabled, making it easy to navigate and interact with content.

However, if you’re used to higher-resolution displays or want the latest features like HDR or OLED technology, you might find the Surface Go 2’s display lacking. Nevertheless, for general use, the display remains a strong aspect of the device, and its portability makes it an excellent option for watching videos on the go.

How long does the Surface Go 2’s battery last?

The Surface Go 2’s battery life is around 10 hours, depending on usage. This is relatively standard for a device of its size and type. If you use the device for general tasks like browsing the web, checking email, and using Microsoft Office, you can expect the battery to last a full day.

However, if you use the device for more demanding tasks or watch videos extensively, the battery life may be shorter. Additionally, the battery life may degrade over time, which is a common issue with lithium-ion batteries. Nevertheless, the Surface Go 2’s battery life remains competitive with other devices in its class.

Is the Surface Go 2 compatible with the latest software and security updates?

The Surface Go 2 is still receiving software and security updates from Microsoft, which is essential for maintaining the device’s security and performance. As a Windows 10 device, it will continue to receive updates until the operating system reaches its end-of-life in 2025.

However, it’s essential to note that the Surface Go 2 may not be compatible with the latest software features or updates, especially if they require more recent hardware. Additionally, the device may not be eligible for the latest Windows 11 update, which requires more powerful hardware. Nevertheless, the Surface Go 2 remains a secure and supported device for now.

Can the Surface Go 2 be used with a keyboard and mouse?

The Surface Go 2 is designed to be used with a keyboard and mouse, making it an excellent option for productivity tasks. The device features a USB-C port, which can be used to connect a keyboard and mouse, as well as other accessories. Additionally, the Surface Go 2 is compatible with the Surface Type Cover, which provides a comfortable typing experience.

Using a keyboard and mouse with the Surface Go 2 can enhance your productivity and make it easier to use the device for tasks like writing, browsing the web, and using Microsoft Office. The device’s portability and versatility make it an excellent option for working on the go or in different environments.

Is the Surface Go 2 still worth buying in 2023?

The Surface Go 2 is still a viable option for those looking for a compact and portable device for general use. Its affordability, portability, and versatility make it an excellent choice for students, professionals, and anyone who needs a device for basic tasks.

However, if you’re looking for a device with the latest features, more powerful hardware, or a more recent operating system, you might want to consider a more recent model. The Surface Go 2’s hardware and software may not be as efficient as newer devices, and it may not be compatible with the latest software features or updates. Nevertheless, for its price and capabilities, the Surface Go 2 remains a good option for those who want a compact and portable device for general use.

Is Surface Go 2 Obsolete? A Comprehensive Review of Microsoft’s Compact Tablet