 |
| Microsoft updates the Surface Laptop Go 2 |
Microsoft has announced an update to the Surface Laptop Go 2, the smallest and most affordable device in its Surface Laptop lineup, which adds a newer chip and an improved webcam.
The Surface Laptop Go 2 is powered by an 11th generation Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor (10th generation on the previous model). Models with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage start at $600.
The original Surface Laptop Go was released in 2020 as part of Microsoft's attempt to compete with Chromebooks. It's more affordable than the rest of the Surface Laptop range and has a smaller 12.4-inch touchscreen that maintains a 3:2 aspect ratio (1536 x 1024 pixels).
Its successor hasn't changed much, measuring 10.95 x 8.12 x 0.62 inches. However, the Surface Laptop Go 2 has some improvements.
The initial price went up by $50, likely because the company dropped the base version with 64GB of storage.
It's also available in a new gray and green, joining the existing blue and platinum options. Expected battery life increased from 13 hours to 13.5 hours. This time the laptop also comes with Windows 11 operating system.
The company says the Surface Laptop Go 2 has more interchangeable components, including the keyboard, trackpad, display, and battery. Although it is designed to be replaced by a Microsoft authorized repairer.
There are less specific details about other promotions. The company's press release explains that the Surface Laptop Go 2 offers improved, quieter temperatures for easier focusing and an improved HD camera.
But the webcam is still 720p, like the previous model, which indicates that this upgrade is more about image processing than resolution.
Microsoft adds the eleventh generation of Intel processors
Otherwise, this laptop is very similar to its predecessor. Some models also have a fingerprint sensor built into the power button. The ports are the same, too, and it still offers two microphones and Wi-Fi 6. And there's no mention of the backlit keyboard, which was the main complaint with the first Surface Laptop Go.
All laptop models are equipped with the same Intel Core i5 processor. However, a number of different RAM and storage settings are available.
Prices start at $600 for the consumer 4/128GB model, go up to $700 for the 8/128GB version and go up to $800 for the 8/256GB version. The 16/256GB model costs $1,100. Pre-orders are open today. Shipping is expected to begin on June 7.