Microsoft Surface Book 2 13.5" Review

Are you seeking a versatile laptop that combines power and elegance, suited for both work and play? The Microsoft Surface Book 2 13.5″ (Intel Core i7, 8GB RAM, 256GB) could be the solution you’re looking for. In this comprehensive review, we’ll cover every aspect of this device, dissecting its features to see if it truly lives up to its reputation as a powerhouse laptop.

Design and Build Quality

The Microsoft Surface Book 2 boasts an impeccable design, representing a seamless blend of aesthetics and functionality. Constructed primarily from magnesium alloy, it exudes a robust yet refined feel that is both lightweight and durable. Its distinctive hinge allows you to detach the screen from the keyboard, effectively transforming your laptop into a tablet within seconds.

Elegance and Portability

The compact 13.5-inch size grants it exceptional portability without compromising on screen real estate. This size is often a sweet spot for those who want a device that’s easy to transport but still big enough for productivity tasks. You can easily slip it into your backpack and take it wherever your work or adventures demand.

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Performance

A laptop’s performance is a pivotal aspect that can make or break your experience. The Microsoft Surface Book 2 13.5″ stands out with its impressive specifications, ensuring it can handle everything from everyday tasks to more demanding applications and games.

Processor and RAM

The heart of the Surface Book 2 is the 8th Gen Intel Core i7-8650U processor. This quad-core processor offers remarkable speed with a Max Turbo of up to 4.20 GHz, providing a swift and responsive experience. Coupled with 8GB of RAM, it tackles multitasking with ease, allowing you to run multiple applications simultaneously without a hitch.

Storage

Storage speed and capacity are key to overall system responsiveness, and the 256GB Solid State Drive in the Surface Book 2 ensures quick boot times and speedy access to your files and programs. However, if you tend to hoard large amounts of data, such as heavy video files or an extensive photo library, you may find yourself needing additional external storage solutions.

Graphics Capability

The discrete NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 GPU with 2GB of GDDR5 graphics memory opens the door to a range of possibilities, particularly for creative professionals and gamers. Whether you’re editing photos and videos or engaging in light to moderate gaming, this laptop manages it with aplomb.

Specification	Details
Processor	8th Gen Intel Core i7-8650U
RAM	8GB 1866Mhz LPDDR3
Storage	256GB Solid State Drive
Graphics	NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 with 2GB GDDR5 graphics memory

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Display

When it comes to the display, the Surface Book 2 excels with its stunning 13.5-inch PixelSense Display. This touch-sensitive screen offers a resolution of 3000×2000, resulting in 267 pixels per inch—a clarity that is virtually unmatched.

Multi-Touch

The 10-point multi-touch capability invites you to interact with your device in intuitive ways. You can swipe, pinch, and tap your way through tasks quickly, which is especially beneficial for those who often work with creative software.

Vibrant Colors and Sharp Details

Color reproduction is vibrant and lifelike, making it a fantastic choice for photographers and designers who require precise color accuracy. The sharp details ensure text is crisp and images are detailed, enhancing your experience whether you’re watching movies or working on elaborate design projects.

Operating System

Running on Windows 10 Pro 64-Bit, the Surface Book 2 combines Microsoft’s latest in software advancements with hardware optimization. This operating system is well-suited for business environments with its security features and productivity tools.

User Experience

You’ll find the interface intuitive and straightforward, with Cortana, Windows Hello, and other Windows 10 features enhancing your productivity. Whether you’re drafting documents, conducting video meetings, or browsing the web, the operating system complements the hardware to provide a quality experience.

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Battery Life

Battery life can be a deal-breaker for many when choosing a laptop for on-the-go use. The Surface Book 2 impressively runs up to 17 hours with continuous video playback, surpassing many competitors in its class.

Work All Day

This long battery life ensures you won’t be tied to your charger throughout the day, making it ideal for travel and long working hours. Whether you’re using it as a laptop or tablet, you’ll have the power you need to get your tasks done without frequent interruptions for recharging.

Connectivity and Ports

A modern device must offer a range of connectivity options to function effectively across different scenarios. The Surface Book 2 provides several ports that keep you connected with ease to various devices and accessories.

Versatile Ports

With two USB 3.0 ports, one USB-C port, an SD card reader, and a Surface Connect port, you are equipped to connect to a variety of external devices, boosting your productivity. The inclusion of a USB-C port is particularly notable, offering faster data transfer speeds and expanded peripheral connectivity.

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Keyboard and Trackpad

A comfortable typing experience can significantly enhance your productivity, and the Surface Book 2 delivers with a well-designed keyboard and trackpad.

Typing Experience

The backlit keyboard provides good tactile feedback, making typing a pleasure even during extended sessions or in low-light environments. You won’t find yourself straining to see the keys when working late into the night.

Responsive Trackpad

The trackpad is equally impressive, offering a smooth and responsive experience as you navigate through tasks. Multi-finger gestures work seamlessly, adding to the intuitive nature of the device.

Sound Quality

Good audio quality is essential whether you’re hosting a virtual meeting or enjoying a movie. The Surface Book 2 delivers sound that is clear and immersive, despite its compact size.

Improved Audio Experience

The speakers, situated at the sides of the display, provide a surprisingly robust audio experience with balanced sound levels and rich bass. Voice and video calls sound clear, ensuring you never miss a word or detail.

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Pricing and Value

Understanding the value proposition is essential when making a significant investment in a laptop. The Microsoft Surface Book 2 13.5″ carries a premium price tag, but it justifies this with its wealth of features and performance.

Worth the Investment?

When you consider its versatility, performance, and build quality, the Surface Book 2 stands out as a worthwhile investment for professionals who demand both power and flexibility. While it may require a larger initial outlay than some competitors, the device’s longevity and capabilities provide excellent value over time.

Conclusion

The Microsoft Surface Book 2 13.5″ (Intel Core i7, 8GB RAM, 256GB) is much more than just a laptop—it’s a versatile computing powerhouse capable of adapting to various needs, whether professional or personal. From its robust design and incredible display to its exceptional battery life and seamless performance, it is designed to cater to those who require a reliable, high-performance device.

By choosing the Surface Book 2, you invest in a tool that enhances your productivity and creativity without compromising on portability and style. Its powerful performance and innovative design make it a standout choice for anyone seeking a high-quality laptop for work and entertainment.