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Microsoft is Infuriating. - Surface Studio 2

Linus Tech Tips@LinusTechTips3.5M viewsDec 15, 201811:03
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Microsoft is Infuriating. - Surface Studio 2 reviews the refreshed all-in-one aimed at creative professionals and contrasts its impressive build quality with a set of stubborn drawbacks. The video commences by framing Microsoft’s push into the creative market, acknowledging the Surface Studio 2 as a refinement that improves on its predecessor but shines a harsh light on what remains dated inside. The host details the stellar build: a slim, solid chassis, a very large touch display, a flexible hinge that offers a draft-table angle, and the strong color accuracy and calibrated display modes that suit design work and video production. Yet the reviewer quickly pivots to the negatives that undermine its appeal, starting with the aging internals and limited upgrade paths, which dampen the perceived value for a professional workstation. Throughout, the discourse balances admiration for the display quality and craftsmanship with scrutiny over performance, I/O options, and price. The narrative builds toward a conclusion that the Studio 2 is visually spectacular and highly capable for certain tasks, but not compelling enough to justify its cost given the lack of future-proofing and upgrade flexibility. The video emphasizes the question facing potential buyers: is this a premium display with a capable computer, or a high-priced computer glued to a touchscreen display, and which scenario best fits a professional workflow? By the end, the reviewer advocates considering alternative configurations, including building a more traditional desktop with a separate high-end display, to maximize performance, upgradability, and value for money. The overall verdict is nuanced: the Surface Studio 2 excels in touch, color, and form, but falls short on performance scalability and practical connectivity for demanding professional workloads. The result is a product that impresses in guise yet underdelivers in core capabilities when stacked against the needs of creative professionals who require upgradeability and hardware parity with contemporary workstations.

Topics · technology · hardware · product_reviews · computer_hardware

Questions answered

What are the main hardware drawbacks of the Surface Studio 2 according to the video?
The video highlights an aging quad-core CPU, soldered components that limit upgrades, limited I/O ports, no Thunderbolt 3, and ultimately limited upgradeability compared to high-end desktops, all contributing to a lack of future-proofing.
Why is the price a point of contention for the Surface Studio 2?
Even though the display and build are praised, the price is seen as steep because you get last-generation internals, limited upgrade options, and the option to assemble a more capable desktop setup at a similar or lower total cost with far better performance.
Is the Surface Studio 2 recommended for professionals?
The video suggests it may be suitable for creatives who prioritize a superb touch display and color accuracy, but generally recommends considering alternative setups that pair a top-tier display with a more upgradable or powerful computer for professional workloads.