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Microsoft is SO CLOSE - Surface Laptop 2 Review

Linus Tech Tips@LinusTechTips2.5M viewsNov 3, 20188:24
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Check out the available position at Memory Express at lmg.gg Microsoft has created almost the prefect thin and light laptop with the Surface Laptop 2, but then they stumbled at the last hurdle. Buy the Surface Laptop 2 On Amazon: geni.us On Newegg: geni.us Discuss on the forum: linustechtips.com Our Affiliates, Referral Programs, and Sponsors: linustechtips.com Get Private Internet Access today at geni.us Linus Tech Tips merchandise at designbyhumans.com Linus Tech Tips posters at crowdmade.com Our Test Benches on Amazon: amazon.com Our production gear: geni.us Twitter - twitter.com Facebook - @LinusTech Instagram - @linustech Twitch - twitch.tv Intro Screen Music Credit: Title: Laszlo - Supernova Video Link: youtube.com iTunes Download Link: itunes.apple.com Artist Link: soundcloud.com Outro Screen Music Credit: Approaching Nirvana - Sugar High youtube.com Sound effects provided by freesfx.co.uk

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The Surface Laptop 2 review centers on the laptop being a near perfect blend of portability and performance, with Linus Torvalds Tips highlighting how the device finally hits a sweet spot in power for a sleek, thin-and-light form factor. The keyboard remains a standout feature, praised for its tactile feedback and the Alcantara wrist rest that adds comfort during long typing sessions. The reviewer notes that the touchpad is solid and accurate, though a larger surface would be nicer for multitouch gestures. Performance is a major talking point, as the switch to an 8th generation quad-core processor significantly improves responsiveness for on-the-road tasks and light photo editing, while the entry level model reshuffle makes the machine easier to recommend in many scenarios. The display earns high marks for color accuracy, deep blacks, and the 3:2 aspect ratio that favors productivity tasks like writing and browsing. While the webcam and Windows Hello integration perform well, the review acknowledges some compromises in the design, particularly around the port selection. The lack of Thunderbolt 3 and the reliance on a mini DisplayPort are repeated sticking points, especially for users who want broader docking and external GPU options. Overall, the Surface Laptop 2 is praised for its build quality and screen, with a clear caveat that the price and limited ports keep it from a slam-dunk recommendation. The verdict leans toward a strong recommendation for buyers prioritizing keyboard feel and display quality, while acknowledging that a more versatile port setup would push it over the edge for power users.

Topics · technology · hardware · laptops · product-review

Questions answered

What is the main hardware upgrade that differentiates the Surface Laptop 2 from the previous model?
The Surface Laptop 2 switches to an 8th generation quad-core processor, significantly improving performance for on-the-road use and light photo editing.
What is the primary drawback noted in the review regarding the Surface Laptop 2?
The main downside is the limited port selection, including the absence of USB-C and Thunderbolt 3, which reduces expandability and docking options.
Who would most benefit from choosing the Surface Laptop 2 according to the review?
Users who prioritize a superior keyboard feel, strong display quality, and portable form factor will benefit, especially if they can accept the limited ports and do not need heavy external peripherals.