Surface Go 2 leak teases big performance jump

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Microsoft's Surface Go 2 should be a lot faster than original

Surface Go 2 could see Microsoft deliver more power
(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

There's big Surface Go news today, as newly published benchmarks reveal key spec details about the next budget tablet (with optional keyboard) from Microsoft — which we expect to see soon.

Via a Windows Latest article, we've learned that a mysterious 3DMark benchmark listing tipped off a likely Surface Go 2 featuring the Intel Core m3-8100Y processor and 8GB of memory, as well as a 128GB of SSD storage. Also, expect an LTE-equipped version.

That would deliver a huge speed boost over the entry-level Surface Go's Pentium Gold 4415Y chip. And, yes, Microsoft could also be working on another Surface Go 2 that rocks an updated version of Intel’s Pentium Gold, but there are no leaked benchmarks for such a model on Geekbench and 3DMark. 

Windows Latest's post presumes that such a variant will be out there, even though the original Surface Go only came in one version. Either way, choice is king, especially for those who don't want to pay a lot more for the Surface Pro, as the Go starts at $399 and the Pro starts at $749.

Hopefully, there will be more changes in the Surface Go 2 than just the CPUs. Laptop Mag reported that the original Surface Go lasted only 6 hours and 6 minutes on its web-surfing-based battery test, which is not great, Bob.

As for when the Surface Go 2 could show up, rumors have pointed to a spring 2020 drop, and Windows Latest thinks we'll see the Surface Book 3 alongside it, at a Surface hardware event in NYC. 

That being said, coronavirus-related production slowdowns are already being rumored across the tech industry. We just learned that the Xbox Series X won't get delayed but the Microsoft Surface Duo may.

Henry T. Casey
Henry T. Casey

Henry was a managing editor at Tom’s Guide covering streaming media, laptops and all things Apple, reviewing devices and services for the past seven years. Prior to joining Tom's Guide, he reviewed software and hardware for TechRadar Pro, and interviewed artists for Patek Philippe International Magazine. He's also covered the wild world of professional wrestling for Cageside Seats, interviewing athletes and other industry veterans.