Microsoft Surface Laptop Go - 12.4″, Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD

83%

Value for Money

Portability/Size/Weight

Battery Life

Display Quality

Performance

Build Quality/Durability

Keyboard & Trackpad

Software/Operating System

Heat Management

Customer Support/Warranty

Storage Space

Security Features

Sound Quality

Overview

The Microsoft Surface Laptop Go - 12.4″, Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD offers a highly portable and efficient computing solution for those on the go. At just 2.45 pounds, this lightweight device features a compact 12.4″ touchscreen that brings vibrant visuals and smooth interactions. Powered by an Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM, it delivers a solid performance for everyday tasks like browsing, light productivity, and media consumption. Running on Windows 10 S, this laptop provides a secure and streamlined environment with a focus on performance and simplicity.

Features & Benefits

The Surface Laptop Go is equipped with a 12.4″ PixelSense touchscreen display that provides clear and vibrant visuals, ideal for browsing, media, and productivity. Powered by the Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM, this laptop ensures smooth multitasking and quick performance for everyday tasks. The 128GB SSD offers fast boot times and ample storage for casual use. With Windows Hello, users enjoy secure and convenient sign-ins. Additionally, its impressive battery life of up to 13 hours makes it a reliable choice for long workdays or study sessions.

Best For

The Surface Laptop Go is an excellent choice for students, professionals, and casual users who need a balance of performance and portability. Its lightweight design and solid battery life make it a great option for those who need a laptop for studying, light work, or entertainment on the go. Whether you're streaming videos, browsing the web, or handling basic office tasks, this device offers great value. It's especially well-suited for users who are looking for a budget-friendly laptop without compromising on quality or brand reliability.

User Feedback

User reviews of the Surface Laptop Go highlight its portability, sleek design, and reliable performance for everyday tasks. Many appreciate its lightweight feel, making it easy to carry around all day. However, some users have expressed a desire for a higher-resolution display and more storage options, as the 128GB SSD may feel limiting for those with larger file storage needs. Battery life, on the other hand, receives consistent praise, with many reporting that it easily lasts a full day of work or study without needing a recharge.

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Pros

This laptop's compact size and lightweight design make it highly portable, ideal for students or professionals on the go.
The 12.4″ PixelSense touchscreen provides vibrant and sharp visuals, enhancing the user experience for media consumption and basic tasks.
Up to 13 hours of battery life allows for all-day productivity without worrying about charging, perfect for long study sessions or travel.
The Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM offer smooth performance for everyday tasks like browsing, word processing, and streaming.
Windows Hello provides an easy, secure way to sign in, ensuring a hassle-free experience when accessing your device.
At 2.45 pounds, this device is light enough for daily commuting or working in cafes without feeling cumbersome.

Cons

The 128GB SSD may feel restrictive for users who store large files or install numerous programs.
The resolution of 1536 x 1024 pixels may not satisfy those needing higher screen clarity for creative work or detailed tasks.
Windows 10 S limits the ability to install non-Microsoft Store apps, which may be a dealbreaker for users seeking more flexibility.
Some users may find the 12.4″ screen size too small for multitasking or more intensive work, especially compared to larger laptops.
Though lightweight, the build quality may not feel as premium as other laptops in the same price range.
The lack of additional storage or upgrade options can be a drawback for professionals who need more space for their work.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple platforms and languages, we found that the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go - 12.4″, Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD offers a balanced performance for everyday tasks and entertainment. Feedback was thoroughly reviewed to filter out spam, bots, and exaggerated claims, ensuring that only authentic, high-quality reviews informed our ratings. Both strengths and pain points were considered in these ratings, reflecting the true user experience across diverse sources and regions.

Value for Money

92%

Many users find this laptop a great deal for the price, especially considering its compact size and performance. Its ability to handle everyday tasks smoothly, combined with a solid build, makes it an excellent value for those on a budget. The battery life and portability are often highlighted as key strengths in delivering good value.

However, some buyers feel that the base storage capacity is a bit limiting, especially for those who need more space for files and apps. Others mention that while the performance is good, it may not be enough for users with more intensive needs, such as gaming or heavy multitasking.

Portability/Size/Weight

96%

The lightweight design and compact 12.4″ screen make this laptop incredibly portable. Users often praise how easy it is to carry around, whether it's for commuting, travel, or working from various locations. At just 2.45 pounds, it's one of the most portable laptops in its class, which is perfect for students or professionals on the go.

On the downside, a few users find the smaller screen size less ideal for those who prefer larger displays for multitasking or media consumption. While portable, it might not be the most comfortable option for those who regularly work with complex tasks requiring multiple windows.

Battery Life

89%

The laptop’s battery life is one of its standout features, with many users reporting up to 13 hours of use on a single charge. This extended battery life makes it perfect for long workdays, classes, or travel, eliminating the need for constant recharging. It’s especially appreciated by those who use it for all-day study or work sessions.

Despite the positive reviews, some users find that the battery life falls short during high-intensity tasks, such as streaming or running multiple programs. There are also reports of faster-than-expected battery drain after a few months of use, though this seems to vary depending on individual usage patterns.

Display Quality

81%

19%

The 12.4″ PixelSense display provides vibrant colors and crisp details, offering a solid visual experience for everyday tasks, from browsing to watching videos. Users particularly like the bright and sharp screen for such a small form factor, making it great for portable use in different lighting conditions.

However, the display resolution (1536 x 1024) falls short compared to some other laptops in this price range. A few users wish for a higher resolution or better color accuracy, especially for those who work with images or videos. The screen size also limits its usefulness for multi-window productivity tasks.

Performance

84%

Many buyers report that the Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB RAM offer smooth performance for everyday tasks like browsing, word processing, and light multitasking. The laptop handles most tasks without slowdowns, making it ideal for students or casual users who need a reliable machine for day-to-day use.

Some users find that the performance lags when running more resource-heavy applications like video editing or gaming. While it’s well-suited for everyday use, heavy multitaskers or those requiring specialized software might find it lacking in power and speed.

Build Quality/Durability

86%

The build quality of this laptop is generally praised for being solid and premium, despite its affordable price. The materials used feel sturdy, and the design is sleek and modern, making it a pleasure to carry around. Many users also appreciate its long-lasting durability, with reports of minimal wear and tear even after extended use.

However, a few users have noted that the keyboard and trackpad could be more responsive and durable. Some feel that the plastic body, while lightweight, could be more resilient to minor impacts and scratches over time, though this issue is not widely reported.

Keyboard & Trackpad

80%

20%

The keyboard provides a comfortable typing experience for everyday tasks, with well-spaced keys and a decent amount of travel. The trackpad is responsive and smooth, making navigation easy for casual users. It’s a decent setup for light work and study sessions.

On the downside, a few users feel that the keyboard could be more responsive, especially for long typing sessions. Some find the trackpad a bit too small for comfortable multi-finger gestures and precision navigation, especially for those who are used to larger trackpads on higher-end laptops.

Software/Operating System

82%

18%

The laptop comes with Windows 10 S, which is streamlined and secure, ensuring a fast and reliable user experience for those who need a simple, no-frills operating system. It’s easy to set up, and many users appreciate the added security benefits, especially in educational environments.

However, some users find Windows 10 S restrictive since it only allows apps from the Microsoft Store. This limitation can be frustrating for those who need access to third-party software or prefer using alternative programs that are not available through the store.

Heat Management

76%

24%

The laptop remains relatively cool even during light to moderate use, with most users reporting minimal heat buildup. The compact design allows for decent airflow, keeping temperatures manageable during typical tasks like browsing and working on documents.

When pushed to its limits with heavier tasks, users report that the laptop heats up noticeably. This can be uncomfortable when using the device on your lap for extended periods, and some feel the cooling system could be more efficient to handle intensive workloads.

Customer Support/Warranty

78%

22%

Microsoft’s customer support generally receives praise for being responsive and helpful when issues arise. Many users report positive experiences when reaching out for troubleshooting or warranty support, with the company often providing timely resolutions.

However, a few users have complained about delays in support response times, especially during peak periods. Additionally, some feel that the warranty coverage could be more comprehensive, with a few incidents of repair or replacement issues not being fully addressed under the standard warranty.

Storage Space

70%

30%

The 128GB SSD offers fast boot times and efficient storage for basic tasks, making the laptop quick to start up and respond. This is particularly appreciated by users who need a device that boots up quickly and runs apps smoothly.

However, several users note that the storage is limited, especially as applications and files grow over time. This might pose an issue for those who require more space for media, large projects, or even a large number of documents, leading some to seek additional cloud storage or external drives.

Security Features

88%

Many users appreciate the built-in security features, particularly Windows Hello with fingerprint recognition, which offers quick and secure login options. This is particularly useful for students and professionals who prioritize security and convenience.

Despite the positive feedback, some users find that the fingerprint sensor occasionally struggles to recognize their fingerprints accurately. While not a widespread issue, it can be frustrating for those who rely on this feature for seamless access to their device.

Sound Quality

72%

28%

The sound quality of this laptop is sufficient for everyday use, with clear audio for video calls and light media consumption. It’s not a premium sound system, but it works well for users who need basic audio capabilities without external speakers or headphones.

On the downside, the audio quality is not particularly loud or rich. Some users find it lacking in bass, and the volume may not be sufficient in noisy environments. Those seeking an immersive sound experience may need to invest in external speakers or headphones.

Suitable for:

The Microsoft Surface Laptop Go - 12.4″, Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD is an ideal choice for students, casual users, and professionals who prioritize portability and long battery life over raw performance power. Its lightweight design, weighing just 2.45 pounds, makes it perfect for those constantly on the move, such as commuters or frequent travelers. The device's 12.4″ PixelSense touchscreen offers good visual quality for basic tasks like web browsing, document editing, and media consumption. Students and casual workers will appreciate the balance of productivity features and entertainment capabilities, making this laptop an excellent budget-friendly option for daily use, study, and light work-related tasks.

Not suitable for:

This laptop may not be the best choice for users who need more processing power or storage for demanding tasks. Those who require more intensive computing for tasks like video editing, gaming, or running complex software may find its performance limited. While the laptop is adequate for everyday computing, its 128GB SSD might feel restrictive for users who store large files or prefer having numerous programs installed. Additionally, professionals needing a high-resolution display for creative work or multi-tasking may find the 1536 x 1024 resolution and smaller screen size limiting for detailed work. Finally, users who prefer a more open and customizable operating system might find Windows 10 S too restrictive.

Specifications

Display Size: The device features a 12.4-inch PixelSense touchscreen display with vibrant colors and responsive touch input.
Processor: Powered by the Intel Core i5-1035G1 processor, this laptop offers solid performance for everyday tasks.
RAM: Equipped with 8GB LPDDR4 RAM, providing smooth multitasking and efficient performance for light productivity.
Storage: The laptop comes with a 128GB SSD, ensuring fast boot times and quick access to your files and applications.
Graphics: Integrated Intel UHD Graphics handle basic graphics tasks, including video playback and light gaming.
Battery Life: With up to 13 hours of battery life, the laptop is capable of supporting all-day productivity on a single charge.
Operating System: Runs on Windows 10 S, offering a streamlined and secure operating system with access to apps from the Microsoft Store.
Weight: The device is lightweight at 2.45 pounds, making it easy to carry around for work or study.
Dimensions: Measuring 10.95 x 8.10 x 0.62 inches, this laptop has a compact and slim design that fits easily into bags and backpacks.
Security: Features Windows Hello with a fingerprint power button, offering secure and convenient password-free sign-ins.
Connectivity: Supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) for fast and reliable wireless internet connectivity, along with Bluetooth 5.0.
USB Ports: Includes 2 USB 3.0 Type-A ports for connecting peripherals and external devices.
Audio: Equipped with stereo speakers and a 3.5mm headphone jack for audio output.
Webcam: The laptop features a 720p HD webcam for video conferencing and online communication.
Color Options: Available in multiple color options, including Ice Blue and Platinum, to suit different user preferences.
Expandable Storage: Supports external storage expansion via the USB ports or SD card reader for additional file storage.
Warranty: Comes with a 1-year limited warranty, providing coverage for any hardware defects.
Fingerprint Sensor: The integrated fingerprint sensor in the power button offers enhanced security and quick user authentication.
Touchscreen: The 12.4-inch PixelSense display is fully touchscreen-enabled, supporting multi-touch gestures for easy navigation.

FAQ

This laptop offers a lightweight, portable design at just 2.45 pounds, making it ideal for students who need a device for studying and carrying around campus. With solid performance from the Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM, it handles daily tasks like note-taking, browsing, and video calls with ease.

The Surface Laptop Go features a 12.4″ PixelSense display with a resolution of 1536 x 1024 pixels. While the display is clear and vibrant for everyday use, users looking for high-end detail or color accuracy for graphic design or video editing may find the resolution limiting.

The Microsoft Surface Laptop Go offers up to 13 hours of battery life on a full charge, making it a reliable option for all-day use at school, work, or while traveling without needing to recharge frequently.

Unfortunately, the RAM and storage on the Surface Laptop Go are not upgradeable. It comes with 8GB of RAM and a 128GB SSD, so you may want to consider your storage needs carefully before purchasing, especially if you need more space for larger files.

The Surface Laptop Go runs on Windows 10 S, which is a streamlined, secure version of Windows 10. This means it only allows apps from the Microsoft Store. If you need to install programs from other sources, you can switch to Windows 10 Home, but this may require some setup.

While the Surface Laptop Go is built with a sturdy metal frame, it's designed to be lightweight, not rugged. It should withstand daily wear and tear, but it may not hold up as well in more demanding environments like construction sites or extreme outdoor conditions.

This laptop is equipped with an Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM, which provides smooth performance for everyday tasks such as web browsing, streaming, and light productivity. It can handle multitasking without noticeable lag, making it suitable for casual users.

The Surface Laptop Go has integrated Intel UHD Graphics, which can handle some light gaming, but it's not designed for demanding games or high-performance gaming setups. Casual gamers may be able to enjoy less graphics-intensive titles, but for high-end gaming, a more powerful laptop would be necessary.

Yes, the Surface Laptop Go includes Windows Hello with a fingerprint power button, allowing for quick and secure login without needing to type in a password. This is particularly useful for those who prioritize security and convenience.

The 128GB SSD is fast, but it may not offer enough space for users who store large files, such as videos, photos, or many applications. You may need to rely on cloud storage or external drives for additional space if you tend to keep many large files on your laptop.