Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 2: A Top Budget Option

Go sequel packs a bit more pep than the first Go-around.

- MATTHEW BUZZI

Consider it a successful compromise computer. Microsoft has refreshed its in-between portable, the Laptop Go, which occupies the middle ground between its small Surface Go 3 tablet and the conventional Surface Laptop 4. The Surface Laptop Go 2 is a modest update to the original, replacing the processor with a faster Intel 11th Generation chip and tweaking a few components. Offering features including a 3:2-aspect-ratio display (which is rarely found on budget laptops), this Microsoft mini is more stylish and better made than many of its affordable rivals.

A PORTABLE DESIGN IN A FRESH COAT OF PAINT

Microsoft has populated just about every potential price and size point in the Surface line. The original Surface Laptop Go, as its name implied, combined the DNA of the petite Surface Go detachable and the traditional Surface Laptop. Smaller than the latter, this portability first laptop targets everyday productivity users on the, well, go.

The first thing you notice about our review unit (though it’s less visible in our photos than in person) is the lovely new sage-green color. This pale shade is pleasing to the eye, stands out from the crowd, and adds style to a machine you’ll be seen carrying out and about. One of four color options (the others are ice-blue, sandstone, and platinum), it’s quite Apple-like in style, as the Surface devices have always represented Windows alternatives to the MacBook and iPad concepts.

PROS

• Competitive performance from updated CPU

• Stylish, colorful design

• Quality build and comfortable keyboard