Design and Build Quality
The design and build quality of a device play a crucial role in its overall appeal and usability. When it comes to comparing the Surface Go and Surface Pro, they both offer a premium look and feel, but there are some notable differences.
The Surface Go is the smaller and more compact option, weighing only 1.15 pounds and measuring 9.65 x 6.9 x 0.33 inches. It features a magnesium alloy body that feels sturdy and durable. The device has rounded edges and a sleek, modern design, making it easy to slip into a bag or carry around with ease. The kickstand on the back can be adjusted to multiple angles, providing versatility when using the device in different positions.
On the other hand, the Surface Pro is a bit larger and heavier, weighing around 1.7 pounds and measuring 11.5 x 7.9 x 0.33 inches. It also sports a magnesium alloy build, but its larger size makes it better suited for desktop use or as a laptop replacement. The Surface Pro features a built-in kickstand that is adjustable to almost any angle, allowing for comfortable typing or drawing experiences.
Both devices have a similar aesthetic, with the iconic Microsoft logo on the back and bezels surrounding the display. They also have a built-in camera on the front for video calls and a rear camera for capturing photos and videos. The build quality of both devices is top-notch, ensuring a premium experience.
Overall, while the Surface Go is more portable and compact, the Surface Pro offers a larger display and more desktop-like experience. The choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize portability and flexibility, the Surface Go is a great option. However, if you require a larger screen and more power, the Surface Pro is worth considering.
Display
The display is a crucial component of any device, as it determines the visual experience and usability. When comparing the Surface Go and Surface Pro, there are some differences to consider.
The Surface Go features a 10-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1800 x 1200 pixels. The smaller size makes it more portable and ideal for on-the-go usage. The display is sharp and vibrant, offering excellent color reproduction and clarity. Additionally, the Surface Go supports touch input and works seamlessly with the Surface Pen, providing a smooth and accurate writing and drawing experience.
On the other hand, the Surface Pro boasts a larger 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824 pixels. The larger display size is perfect for tasks that require more screen real estate, such as photo editing, watching videos, or multitasking. The display offers excellent contrast, sharpness, and color accuracy, making it a great choice for professionals who rely on accurate visuals.
Both devices incorporate Microsoft’s PixelSense technology, which ensures impressive viewing angles and exceptional clarity. The displays are also touch-enabled, allowing for intuitive navigation and interaction with the device. Whether you’re using gestures, tapping, or using the Surface Pen, both devices deliver a responsive and enjoyable touch experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Surface Go and Surface Pro’s displays will depend on your specific needs. If you prefer a compact and highly portable device, the Surface Go’s smaller display size may be sufficient. However, if you require a larger canvas for productivity or media consumption, the Surface Pro’s 12.3-inch display is a better fit.
Performance and Power
When it comes to performance and power, the Surface Go and Surface Pro offer different levels of capability to cater to various user needs.
The Surface Go is powered by an Intel Pentium Gold processor, which provides sufficient performance for everyday tasks such as web browsing, email, and document editing. It comes with either 4GB or 8GB of RAM, allowing for smooth multitasking and efficient performance. The integrated Intel HD Graphics 615 provides adequate graphical performance for casual gaming and media consumption. While the Surface Go may not be suitable for resource-intensive applications or heavy multitasking, it performs admirably for its intended target audience.
On the other hand, the Surface Pro offers more power and versatility. It is available with a range of processor options, including Intel Core i3, i5, and i7. These processors provide more processing power, making the Surface Pro suitable for demanding tasks such as photo and video editing, 3D modeling, and running multiple resource-intensive applications simultaneously. The Surface Pro also offers a choice of RAM configurations, ranging from 4GB to 16GB, providing ample memory for handling complex workflows. Additionally, the integrated Intel HD Graphics or Iris Graphics enables better graphical performance, allowing for smoother gaming and enhanced multimedia experiences.
Both devices run on the Windows operating system, allowing users to access a wide range of software and applications. However, it is important to note that the Surface Pro’s higher-performance hardware makes it better suited for professional and power users who require more computational power.
In terms of storage, both the Surface Go and Surface Pro offer various options, including solid-state drive (SSD) configurations with capacities ranging from 64GB to 1TB. The SSDs ensure faster boot times, quicker application launches, and overall snappy performance.
Ultimately, the choice between the Surface Go and Surface Pro will depend on your specific needs and tasks. If you require a device primarily for light productivity and casual usage, the Surface Go’s performance capabilities will suffice. However, if you need a more powerful machine for demanding tasks, the Surface Pro’s higher-performance options will be better suited to your requirements.
Operating System and Software
The operating system and software play a crucial role in the overall user experience and functionality of a device. When comparing the Surface Go and Surface Pro, there are some key differences to consider.
Both devices run on the Windows operating system, providing familiar and user-friendly interfaces. The Surface Go typically comes pre-installed with Windows 10 in S Mode, which is a streamlined and secure version of Windows that only allows apps from the Microsoft Store. However, you have the flexibility to switch out of S Mode and install traditional desktop applications if needed. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of software and applications, giving users the freedom to use their preferred tools.
On the other hand, the Surface Pro also runs on Windows 10 but is not limited to S Mode. Users have full access to the Windows ecosystem, including the ability to install and run both Microsoft Store apps and traditional desktop applications. This flexibility is ideal for professionals and power users who require access to a vast array of software for their work or personal needs.
Microsoft also provides a suite of software and services specifically designed for Surface devices, such as Microsoft Office Suite, OneNote, and Microsoft Edge. These applications are optimized to work seamlessly with the Surface lineup, offering enhanced productivity and collaboration features.
Another notable difference is the inclusion of Windows Hello facial recognition technology on the Surface Pro, which allows for quick and secure login by scanning your face. While this feature may not be available on all Surface Go models, it is a handy addition for those who prioritize convenience and security.
Overall, the Surface Go and Surface Pro offer a similar software experience, running the Windows 10 operating system and providing access to a wide range of software and applications. The key difference lies in the flexibility of the Surface Pro, allowing users to install and use both Microsoft Store apps and traditional desktop applications, making it a more suitable choice for users who require a broader software ecosystem.
Keyboard and Trackpad
The keyboard and trackpad are essential components for productivity and efficient workflow on a laptop or 2-in-1 device. When comparing the Surface Go and Surface Pro, there are some differences to consider in terms of their keyboard and trackpad options.
The Surface Go offers a detachable keyboard, known as the Surface Go Type Cover, which is sold separately. This keyboard attaches magnetically to the device and provides a comfortable typing experience. The keys on the Type Cover are slightly smaller than those of a traditional laptop keyboard, but they still offer good feedback and responsiveness. It also features a trackpad that supports gestures for smooth navigation, allowing users to easily scroll, zoom, and perform other actions without the need for a mouse.
On the other hand, the Surface Pro also offers a detachable keyboard, known as the Surface Pro Type Cover. This keyboard is also sold separately and attaches magnetically to the device, providing a more laptop-like typing experience. The keys on the Type Cover are well-spaced and have good travel, allowing for comfortable and accurate typing. The trackpad is larger on the Surface Pro Type Cover, offering more surface area for gestures and precise tracking.
Both devices offer a backlit keyboard, allowing for easy typing in dimly lit environments. In addition, the Type Cover keyboards are available in various colors, allowing users to personalize their device to match their style and preferences.
It’s important to note that while the Type Cover keyboards enhance the usability of both devices, they do come at an additional cost. However, the added functionality and convenience they provide make them worth considering, especially for users who prioritize productivity and frequently type for extended periods.
If you require an even more premium typing experience, Microsoft also offers the Surface Pro X with the option of the Surface Pro X Signature Keyboard. This keyboard features a slightly different design with a more spacious trackpad and a comfortable key layout, delivering a typing experience comparable to that of a traditional laptop.
Pen and Touch Support
The pen and touch support on a device can greatly enhance its versatility and user experience, especially for creative professionals or those who prefer a more natural input method. When comparing the Surface Go and Surface Pro, both devices offer excellent pen and touch capabilities.
The Surface Go is compatible with the Surface Pen, which is sold separately. The Surface Pen provides a seamless and precise writing and drawing experience on the device’s touchscreen. With 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, it allows for detailed and accurate strokes, making it ideal for artists, note-takers, and designers. The Surface Go’s compact size and lightweight design also make it convenient for on-the-go digital creativity or taking handwritten notes.
Similarly, the Surface Pro is also compatible with the Surface Pen, offering the same level of precision and responsiveness. The larger screen size of the Surface Pro provides a more spacious canvas for drawing and sketching, allowing for more intricate and detailed artworks. The Surface Pro’s more powerful hardware also enables smoother and more fluid pen input, making it a preferred choice for professional artists or those requiring more computing power for creative tasks.
In addition to the pen input, both devices support touch gestures on their respective touchscreens. The touchscreens are highly responsive and accurately translate touch inputs, making navigation and interaction with the device intuitive and effortless. Whether it’s tapping, swiping, or pinching to zoom, the touchscreens on the Surface Go and Surface Pro provide a fluid and enjoyable touch experience.
Both the Surface Go and Surface Pro also support palm rejection, which means that when using the Surface Pen, the device will ignore accidental touches of your palm on the screen, allowing for a more natural and uninterrupted writing or drawing experience.
Overall, the pen and touch support on both the Surface Go and Surface Pro is exceptional, providing users with the ability to create and interact with the device in a more intuitive and personalized way. Whether you’re an artist, designer, or simply prefer the tactile experience of writing and drawing, both devices offer an excellent pen and touch experience.
Ports and Connectivity
Ports and connectivity options are essential considerations when choosing a device, as they determine its compatibility with other devices and accessories. When comparing the Surface Go and Surface Pro, there are some differences in terms of the ports and connectivity they offer.
The Surface Go features a USB Type-C port, a Surface Connect port, and a microSD card reader. The USB Type-C port provides versatility and allows for connecting various peripherals and accessories, including external displays, USB hubs, and charging cables. The Surface Connect port is used for charging the device and connecting the Surface Dock for expanded connectivity options. Additionally, the microSD card reader provides extra storage expansion, allowing users to easily transfer files or access media from SD cards.
On the other hand, the Surface Pro offers a USB Type-A port, a USB Type-C port, a Surface Connect port, and a microSD card reader. The presence of a USB Type-A port allows for direct connectivity with legacy devices and accessories without the need for adapters. The USB Type-C port on the Surface Pro offers the same versatility as the Surface Go, providing compatibility with a wide range of peripherals and accessories. The Surface Connect port and microSD card reader functions are the same as the Surface Go.
Both devices also have a headphone jack, which allows for connecting wired headphones or external audio devices. This is especially useful for those who prefer wired audio connectivity or have devices that do not support wireless options.
In terms of wireless connectivity, both the Surface Go and Surface Pro offer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. This allows for wireless internet access and seamless connection with compatible Bluetooth devices such as keyboards, mice, speakers, and headphones.
It’s worth noting that if you require additional ports and connectivity options, Microsoft offers various adapters and docks that can expand the capabilities of both the Surface Go and Surface Pro, allowing for seamless integration into a working or entertainment setup.
Ultimately, the choice between the Surface Go and Surface Pro will depend on your specific needs for ports and connectivity. If you require a more compact and portable device with a USB Type-C port, the Surface Go’s offering may be sufficient. However, if you need additional connectivity options, such as a USB Type-A port, the Surface Pro provides a more comprehensive selection.
Battery Life
Battery life is an important consideration, especially for users who are constantly on the go and rely on their devices for extended periods. When comparing the Surface Go and Surface Pro, there are some differences in terms of their battery performance.
The Surface Go is equipped with a smaller battery compared to the Surface Pro, which reflects its smaller and more compact form factor. However, it still offers decent battery life for its size. With regular usage, including web browsing, document editing, and media consumption, the Surface Go can last up to 8-10 hours on a single charge. This makes it ideal for users who require a device that can withstand a full day of work or entertainment without needing to be constantly plugged in.
On the other hand, the Surface Pro boasts a larger battery capacity to support its more powerful hardware and larger display. With typical usage, the Surface Pro can provide battery life of around 9-12 hours, depending on the specific model and usage patterns. This is suitable for users who need a device with longer battery endurance, especially for tasks that require more processing power, such as video editing or running resource-intensive software applications.
Both the Surface Go and Surface Pro also support fast charging, allowing users to quickly recharge their devices. This is particularly useful for those on the move or who have short breaks between tasks and need to top up their battery quickly.
It’s important to note that battery life can vary depending on various factors, such as screen brightness, usage intensity, background applications, and power management settings. Adjusting these settings and optimizing usage can help prolong battery life and ensure optimal performance.
While both devices offer respectable battery life, the Surface Pro’s larger battery capacity provides a slight advantage in terms of endurance. However, the Surface Go’s smaller form factor and efficient hardware still offer reliable battery life for everyday usage, making it a suitable choice for users who prioritize portability and versatility.
Price and Value for Money
Price and value for money are crucial factors to consider when choosing a device, as they determine the affordability and overall worth of the investment. When comparing the Surface Go and Surface Pro, there are some differences in terms of pricing and the value they offer.
The Surface Go is the more budget-friendly option, with a starting price lower than that of the Surface Pro. It provides a great entry point into the Surface lineup, offering a compact and portable device with decent performance. The Surface Go’s lower price point makes it suitable for students, casual users, or those who prioritize portability and cost-effectiveness. It offers a value-for-money option for basic productivity tasks, web browsing, and media consumption.
On the other hand, the Surface Pro is positioned as a more premium and high-performance device. With its larger display, more powerful processors, and enhanced capabilities, the Surface Pro commands a higher price tag. It is designed for professionals, creatives, and power users who require a device that can handle resource-intensive tasks. The Surface Pro offers a higher value for those who need the added performance, versatility, and functionality that it provides.
In terms of storage and RAM configurations, both the Surface Go and Surface Pro offer various options at different price points, allowing users to choose the configuration that best suits their needs and budget. The pricing will vary depending on factors such as the processor, storage capacity, RAM, and additional accessories like the Surface Pen and Type Cover keyboard.
When considering the price and value of the Surface Go and Surface Pro, it’s important to evaluate your specific requirements and use cases. If you require a more affordable and portable device for basic tasks, the Surface Go offers good value for the price. However, if you need a high-performance device with advanced features and capabilities, the Surface Pro’s higher price may be justified for the added value it provides.
