The Surface Laptop Go 2 is a popular choice among students, professionals, and anyone looking for a portable and powerful laptop. However, one of the most common questions people ask about this device is whether it’s upgradeable. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Surface Laptop Go 2 upgrades, exploring what’s possible, what’s not, and what you need to know before attempting any upgrades.
Understanding the Surface Laptop Go 2’s Design
Before we dive into the upgrade possibilities, it’s essential to understand the Surface Laptop Go 2’s design. The laptop features a sleek and compact body, weighing in at just 2.48 pounds. The device is built with a magnesium alloy construction, which provides a sturdy and durable framework. However, this design also makes it challenging to access the internal components.
Accessibility and Repairability
The Surface Laptop Go 2 has a repairability score of 6 out of 10, according to iFixit, a website that specializes in gadget repair and teardowns. While this score indicates that the device is somewhat repairable, it also highlights the challenges involved in accessing the internal components.
To upgrade or repair the Surface Laptop Go 2, you’ll need to remove the bottom panel, which is held in place by several screws. However, the process is not straightforward, and you’ll need to be careful not to damage any of the surrounding components.
Upgrading the RAM and Storage
One of the most common upgrades people want to make to their Surface Laptop Go 2 is adding more RAM or storage. However, the device’s design makes it difficult to upgrade these components.
The Surface Laptop Go 2 comes with 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB of RAM, depending on the configuration. Unfortunately, the RAM is soldered to the motherboard, making it impossible to upgrade. This means that if you want more RAM, you’ll need to purchase a new device with the desired amount of RAM.
The storage situation is slightly better. The Surface Laptop Go 2 comes with a range of storage options, from 64GB to 256GB. While you can’t upgrade the storage in the classical sense, you can replace the SSD with a new one. However, this requires significant technical expertise and specialized tools.
Replacing the SSD
If you’re comfortable with DIY repairs and have the necessary tools, you can replace the SSD in your Surface Laptop Go 2. However, this process is not for the faint of heart.
To replace the SSD, you’ll need to:
- Remove the bottom panel
- Disconnect the battery and other components
- Remove the SSD from its socket
- Install the new SSD
- Reassemble the device
It’s essential to note that replacing the SSD will void your warranty, and you’ll need to ensure that the new SSD is compatible with your device.
Upgrading the Processor and Graphics Card
Unfortunately, upgrading the processor or graphics card on the Surface Laptop Go 2 is not possible. These components are soldered to the motherboard and cannot be replaced or upgraded.
Why Upgrades Are Limited
The limited upgrade options on the Surface Laptop Go 2 are due to its design and construction. The device is built to be thin and lightweight, which means that there’s limited space for upgradeable components.
Additionally, the Surface Laptop Go 2 is designed to be a consumer device, rather than a business or enterprise device. As such, Microsoft has prioritized ease of use and portability over upgradeability.
Alternatives to Upgrading
If you’re looking to upgrade your Surface Laptop Go 2, but are unable to do so, there are several alternatives to consider:
- Purchase a new device: If you need more RAM, storage, or processing power, it may be more cost-effective to purchase a new device that meets your requirements.
- Use cloud storage: If you’re running low on storage space, consider using cloud storage services like OneDrive or Google Drive to store your files.
- Use external devices: If you need more ports or connectivity options, consider using external devices like USB hubs or docking stations.
Conclusion
The Surface Laptop Go 2 is a powerful and portable device, but its upgrade options are limited. While you can replace the SSD, upgrading the RAM, processor, or graphics card is not possible.
If you’re looking to upgrade your device, it’s essential to weigh the costs and benefits of doing so. In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to purchase a new device that meets your requirements.
Ultimately, the Surface Laptop Go 2 is designed to be a consumer device that’s easy to use and portable. While its limited upgrade options may be a drawback for some users, it’s a trade-off for the device’s sleek design and compact size.
| Component | Upgradable? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| RAM | No | The RAM is soldered to the motherboard and cannot be upgraded. |
| Storage | Yes (with limitations) | The SSD can be replaced, but this requires significant technical expertise and specialized tools. |
| Processor | No | The processor is soldered to the motherboard and cannot be upgraded. |
| Graphics Card | No | The graphics card is soldered to the motherboard and cannot be upgraded. |
By understanding the Surface Laptop Go 2’s design and upgrade options, you can make informed decisions about your device and ensure that it meets your needs.
What are the upgrade options for the Surface Laptop Go 2?
The Surface Laptop Go 2 offers limited upgrade options due to its compact design and soldered components. Users can upgrade the storage, but it requires technical expertise and specialized tools. The RAM is soldered to the motherboard, making it impossible to upgrade. Additionally, the battery is also not user-replaceable.
It’s essential to weigh the risks and benefits before attempting any upgrades. While upgrading the storage can provide more space for files and programs, it may void the warranty and potentially damage the device. Users should carefully consider their needs and seek professional help if they’re unsure about the upgrade process.
Can I upgrade the RAM on the Surface Laptop Go 2?
Unfortunately, the RAM on the Surface Laptop Go 2 is soldered to the motherboard, making it impossible to upgrade. This means that users are limited to the amount of RAM that comes with the device. While this may not be a significant issue for casual users, those who require more memory for resource-intensive tasks may need to consider other options.
It’s worth noting that Microsoft’s decision to solder the RAM is likely due to the device’s compact design and the need to keep costs low. While this may be a limitation for some users, it also helps to make the Surface Laptop Go 2 more affordable and accessible to a wider range of consumers.
How do I upgrade the storage on the Surface Laptop Go 2?
Upgrading the storage on the Surface Laptop Go 2 requires technical expertise and specialized tools. Users will need to purchase a compatible M.2 NVMe SSD and carefully disassemble the device to access the storage slot. It’s essential to follow proper procedures and precautions to avoid damaging the device or voiding the warranty.
Before attempting the upgrade, users should ensure that they have the necessary tools and expertise. It’s also recommended to back up important files and data to prevent loss in case something goes wrong during the upgrade process. Additionally, users should be aware that upgrading the storage may not significantly improve the device’s performance, as the processor and RAM remain the same.
What are the risks of upgrading the Surface Laptop Go 2?
Upgrading the Surface Laptop Go 2 can pose several risks, including damage to the device, voiding the warranty, and potential data loss. Users who attempt to upgrade the storage or other components may inadvertently damage the device’s internal components, which can be costly to repair.
Additionally, upgrading the device may void the warranty, leaving users without support or protection in case something goes wrong. Users should carefully weigh the risks and benefits before attempting any upgrades and consider seeking professional help if they’re unsure about the process.
Can I upgrade the processor on the Surface Laptop Go 2?
Unfortunately, the processor on the Surface Laptop Go 2 is soldered to the motherboard, making it impossible to upgrade. This means that users are limited to the processor that comes with the device. While this may not be a significant issue for casual users, those who require more processing power for resource-intensive tasks may need to consider other options.
It’s worth noting that upgrading the processor is generally not possible on most laptops, as it requires significant technical expertise and specialized tools. Users who require more processing power may need to consider purchasing a new device with a more powerful processor.
How much does it cost to upgrade the Surface Laptop Go 2?
The cost of upgrading the Surface Laptop Go 2 depends on the specific components and tools required. Upgrading the storage, for example, may require a compatible M.2 NVMe SSD, which can range in price from $50 to $200 or more, depending on the capacity and speed.
Additionally, users may need to purchase specialized tools, such as a Torx screwdriver and plastic spudgers, to disassemble the device. These tools can range in price from $10 to $50 or more, depending on the quality and brand. Users should carefully consider the costs and benefits before attempting any upgrades.
Is it worth upgrading the Surface Laptop Go 2?
Whether or not it’s worth upgrading the Surface Laptop Go 2 depends on the user’s specific needs and requirements. If users require more storage space, upgrading the storage may be a viable option. However, if users require more processing power or RAM, it may be more cost-effective to purchase a new device.
Users should carefully consider their needs and weigh the risks and benefits before attempting any upgrades. It’s also essential to consider the device’s age and condition, as well as the cost of the upgrade, to determine whether it’s worth the investment.