Microsoft introduced the Surface Laptop Go series to provide a more affordable entry into the Surface ecosystem. The 2022 model, officially known as the Surface Laptop Go 2, builds on the foundation of its predecessor, offering a blend of portability, premium design, and solid performance at a competitive price.
With this device, Microsoft aimed to attract students, professionals, and casual users who want a premium-feeling laptop without the high price of other Surface models. But how does it compare to the first-gen Surface Laptop Go, and does it truly deliver on Microsoft’s promises?
Surface Laptop Go 2 – What’s New?
The second generation of the Surface Laptop Go maintains the compact 12.4-inch touchscreen form factor but brings a few notable improvements:
- Intel 11th Gen Core i5 Processor – Upgraded from 10th Gen in the first model, providing better performance and efficiency.
- Improved Thermals & Battery Life – Microsoft claims up to 13.5 hours of battery life, making it a reliable all-day laptop.
- Upgraded Storage – The base model now comes with 128GB SSD instead of the slower eMMC storage from the first-gen.
- Better Repairability – Microsoft made changes to allow easier replacement of components like the SSD, battery, and keyboard.
- Refined Design – The laptop retains its aluminum top but with a more durable polycarbonate base for a lightweight feel.
Overall, these upgrades position the Surface Laptop Go 2 as a more refined, practical device for everyday users.
Positioning in the Microsoft Surface Lineup
The Surface Laptop Go series sits below the flagship Surface Laptop lineup. While the regular Surface Laptop 5 offers more power and premium features, the Laptop Go 2 is designed to be:
- More affordable than the Surface Laptop 5 and Surface Pro 9.
- More portable than the Surface Laptop Studio, making it ideal for students or travelers.
- More traditional than the Surface Go tablet, with a built-in keyboard and laptop form factor.
By filling the gap between premium Surface laptops and entry-level Windows devices, Microsoft hoped to capture a broader audience, particularly in the education and budget-conscious markets.
First-Gen Surface Laptop Go – The Starting Point
The original Surface Laptop Go (2020) was Microsoft’s attempt at creating a budget-friendly Surface laptop. Some key specs of the first model included:
- Intel Core i5-1035G1 (10th Gen) processor.
- 12.4-inch PixelSense touchscreen (1536×1024 resolution).
- 4GB/8GB RAM options, with eMMC storage on the base model.
- Fingerprint sensor (on higher-end models).
- Windows 10 Home in S Mode (upgradable to full Windows).
While it provided a premium look and feel, the first-gen Surface Laptop Go faced criticism for its low-resolution display, limited base model storage, and lack of keyboard backlighting. However, it still gained popularity among students and professionals needing a simple, lightweight Windows laptop.
What Users Say – The Good and the Not-So-Good
✅ What’s Great About the Surface Laptop Go 2?
✔ Compact & Lightweight – At just 2.48 lbs (1.13 kg), it’s one of the lightest Windows laptops in its class.
✔ Premium Build – Aluminum and polycarbonate construction gives it a high-end feel.
✔ Improved Performance – 11th Gen Intel chip offers noticeable speed improvements.
✔ Good Battery Life – Up to 13.5 hours of usage, better than the first model.
✔ Easier Repairs – Microsoft made it more user-serviceable compared to older models.
❌ What Could Be Better?
✖ Still No Keyboard Backlight – A missing feature that many competitors include.
✖ Low-Resolution Display – While touchscreen-enabled, the 1536×1024 resolution isn’t Full HD.
✖ Base Model Storage & RAM – 4GB RAM and 128GB SSD are limiting for power users.
✖ No Windows Hello Facial Recognition – Only the fingerprint sensor is available.
Conclusion – A Solid Choice for Budget-Conscious Users
The Surface Laptop Go 2 builds upon its predecessor with better performance, storage, and usability, making it a solid option for students and professionals who need a stylish, lightweight, and relatively affordable laptop. However, its low-resolution display and lack of keyboard backlighting remain drawbacks.
While it doesn’t compete with the Surface Laptop 5 or Surface Pro series in terms of power, it does fill an important niche – offering a premium feel without the premium price tag. Check for Surface Laptop Go 2 problems and fixes.
Would you consider the Surface Laptop Go 2 for your daily needs? Let us know your thoughts!