At brightness levels of 50% or lower, we measure PWM flickering at a frequency of 9.7 kHz, but this should not lead to any problems. On the other hand, the black value and resulting contrast ratio turn out worse, and the new Surface Laptop Go 2 barely misses a contrast of 1000:1. In our measurements with the professional CalMAN software (X-Rite i1 Pro 2), the average brightness is 400 cd/m², which is about 50 cd/m² brighter than the predecessor, even though the same panel is used. Thanks to a brightness sensor, the brightness of the panel can be adjusted automatically. The resolution of the IPS panel continues to be a relatively low 1,536 x 1,024 pixels (148 DPI), but the subjective image impression is still okay in terms of the image sharpness. However, those who like to watch movies or series have to live with some larger black bars on top and bottom, compared to 16:9 or 16:10 displays.

The 12.4-inch display with the 3:2 format offers some advantages in productivity, since you have more vertical space to work with. However, it continues to remain a large disadvantage that it is practically impossible (by design) for the end user to perform any maintenance at all. But overall, the Surface Laptop Go 2 remains an attractive device. Only the display bezels (particularly below the display) look a bit wide. We like the visual impression of the compact device with its tapered base unit. Alternatively, Platin, Sage, and Sandstone are also available. The color of our test unit is called Ice Blue and looks good. The maximum opening angle is 135 degrees. The stability of the metal case (aluminum lid and base unit made of both aluminum and plastic) is very good, only the hinge could have turned out slightly stiffer, since it is unable to prevent some wobbling completely.

There are also no differences to the more expensive Surface models in this regard. It continues to be a high-quality product that can easily compete with significantly more expensive competitors. Microsoft kept the case design of the Surface Laptop Go without making any changes.

Microsoft go 2 surface