Microsoft Surface Laptop Go Announced

Microsoft has just announced new Surface Go laptops and you can find these online at Best Buy. Right around this time last year, Microsoft launched the new Surface Laptop 3. One of the big developments was size. In addition to the 13.5-inch original size, the company also introduced a 15-inch Surface Laptop. For 2020, the Surface Laptop lineup gets another big announcement based on size, but this time Microsoft is going the opposite direction. The new Surface Laptop Go offers the familiar, premium design, but with a smaller, 12.4-inch PixelSense display. It’s not only the thinnest and lightest Surface Laptop ever, it’s also the most affordable. And it looks to be the perfect laptop choice for students.

With the current focus on remote learning and working from home, the Surface Laptop Go couldn’t have arrived at a better time. 

Surface Laptop Go: premium Surface design at an exceptional value

Microsoft has been designing its own PC hardware for eight years now, and the company clearly knows not to mess with a good thing. And make no mistake, the Surface Laptops have always been a good thing, a combination of premium materials, sleek design, and high performance.

Microsoft Surface Laptop Go AnnouncedThe Surface Laptop Go may be smaller and more affordable, but it lives up to that Surface reputation.

The top of the Surface Laptop Go is aluminum, with a base made from a combination of polycarbonate composite resin (with glass fiber), and 30% post-consumer recycled. It’s upscale, and green! It’s just 15.7 mm thin, and weighs only 1.11 kg.

Inside is a 10th generation Intel Core i5 CPU, 4GB or 8GB of DDR4 RAM,  and a choice of 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB of solid state storage. The 12.4-inch PixelSense multi-touch display has a resolution of 1536 x 1024 pixels. There are both USB-C and USB Type-A ports, plus a Surface Connect port, and a headphone jack. Wireless connectivity is the latest Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5. Several models even include a fingerprint reader on the power button for instant sign-on. The keyboard is full-sized and includes a large, precision trackpad.

Microsoft Surface Laptop Go Announced

Remote access is on everyone’s mind and the Surface Laptop Go is equipped to deliver. The fast Wi-Fi 6 connectivity will support a high speed wireless connection. There is also a 720p HD webcam, omnisonic speakers with Dolby Audio, and dual far-field microphones.

The laptop comes equipped with Windows 10 Home in S mode.

Microsoft Surface Laptop Go AnnouncedA perfect laptop for students

Looking at the Surface Laptop Go, it feels as though Microsoft put considerable effort into insuring this laptop would hit a sweet spot for students—many of whom find themselves in a remote learning scenario.

The new laptop is small and light enough to be easily carried, and it’s built with durable materials. A choice of colours is perfect for those who want to personalize their experience. The 10th generation Intel CPUs have the power needed to make the most of Microsoft 365. 13-hour battery life means the little laptop can be carried and set up anywhere there’s space, for all-day use without needing access to a power outlet. It’s also equipped with a built-in webcam that’s ideal for Zoom sessions.

And parents will appreciate the fact that all this comes in a package that is surprisingly affordable.

When will the Surface Laptop Go be available?

Microsoft says the Surface Laptop Go will launch on October 13. You can pre-order yours now!

Whether you’re looking for a laptop for school, to use as a compact home PC for updating social media or streaming Netflix, or as an ultra-portable productivity option, you’ll be able to take the new Surface Laptop Go for a spin in matter of days.  

Brad Moon
Editor Computing solutions
I’m a long-time electronics and gadget geek who’s been fortunate enough to enjoy a career that lets me indulge this interest. I have been writing about technology for several decades for a wide range of outlets including Wired, Gizmodo, Lifehacker, MSN, About.com, Kiplinger, and GeekDad. I’m in my 10th year as a senior contributor for Forbes with a focus on reviewing music-related tech, Apple gear, battery power stations and other consumer electronics. My day job is with the Malware Research Center at AI-native cybersecurity pioneer CrowdStrike.