- This article originally appeared on Windows Central and has been inducted into our Back to School guide.
Your Microsoft Surface Book 2 is a fantastic Ultrabook as is, but a few accessories could make your life easier. Whether you're looking for a new way to play games, a little protection for the body, or some new headphones, these are the best accessories for Surface Book and Surface Book 2.
Editor's choice The latest Surface Pen has 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity as well as tilt support, so it really feels like you're using a real pen. An eraser button on the top can be programmed a number of ways, and there are four colors to choose from: platinum, burgundy, black, and cobalt blue. $70 at Amazon
Add some space: BaseQi microSD adapter
Staff pick With this adapter, you can add microSD storage to your Surface Book 2 without having anything stick out the side of your device, reducing the risk of accidental damage. It's made from aluminum, you can use any microSD card with it, and it's available in two sizes to fit 13.5- and 15-inch models. $25 at Amazon
Affordable microSD: Samsung EVO Select 128GB
Samsung's EVO Select microSD cards offer fast read and write speeds of up to 100MB/s and 90MB/s, respectively, and they even come with a full-size adapter for other devices. These Class 10 cards can handle 4K video and hi-res photos, which makes them perfect for your Surface Book 2. Samsung also offers a 10-year warranty. $21 at Amazon
Wireless audio: Surface Headphones
For wireless audio to match your Surface Book 2, check out the new Surface Headphones. They're pricey, but you get active noise cancellation, deep audio, touch controls on the earcup, and a premium build with wireless Bluetooth connectivity. Whether in a casual or professional setting, these headphones will make a great fit. $249 at Amazon
Gaming peripheral: Xbox wireless controller
The Surface Book 2 has the hardware for gaming, so add a comfortable wireless Xbox controller with haptic feedback for a great experience. When you're gaming on an external monitor across the room, you can plug headphones directly into the controller instead of snaking a long cord between you and your Surface Book 2. $60 at Microsoft
Portable pointer: Surface Arc Mouse
This mouse connects via Bluetooth, it has about a 10-meter range, and batteries last up to about six months on a single charge. Its unique design allows it to fold flat, but it naturally curves to fit your hand. Need some style? Choose from three colors, including light gray, burgundy, and cobalt blue. $80 at Microsoft
Comfortable typing: Surface Ergonomic Keyboard
If you type a lot, this ergonomic keyboard should immediately prove its worth. The palm rest is covered with Alcantara fabric, and it has a gentle curve and arched design that will keep your wrists from aching after hours at a desk. This keyboard connects with Bluetooth 4.0 and is a perfect companion to your other Surface accessories. $112 at Amazon
Add HDMI: Surface USB-C to HDMI adapter
If you're keen on using your Surface Book 2 with Windows Mixed Reality (WMR), this USB-C to HDMI adapter is guaranteed to work. It supports HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2, and it doesn't take up much space; you should be able to fit in pretty much any pocket on your laptop bag. Even if you're not using WMR, this adapter is a great way to add an HDMI port for an external display. $40 at Microsoft
Extra connectivity: Surface Dock
The Surface Book and Surface Book 2 think they're desktop PCs, so treat them like it with a Surface Dock. Plug in two external monitors with Mini DisplayPorts, and use four USB-A 3.0 ports to charge devices or connect a printer. An Ethernet port gives your Surface Book access to wired internet, and a 3.5mm audio jack lets you stay connected to speakers. $140 at Amazon
USB-A ports: Anker Ultra Slim USB hub
The Surface Book 2 now comes with more ports than ever, but you still might be looking to expand your USB-A connectivity. This Anker hub is slim enough to fit into your sleeve, laptop bag, or even your pocket, but delivers 5Gbps transfer speeds for whatever peripherals you connect. $11 at Amazon
Hundreds of designs: DecalGirl Surface Book skins
The standard metallic finish of the Surface Book 2 is the right choice for many people, but some like to add flair and personal touch to their devices. DecalGirl has an enormous selection of skins to choose from, and you can even make your own from scratch. These skins cover the lid and inside surface area around the touchpad and keyboard. From $25 at DecalGirl
Premium protection: WaterField Surface Sleevecase
This sleeve is made primarily from your choice of ballistic nylon or waxed canvas, and has full-grain leather accents on the flap and bottom. The inside pocket is lined with soft neoprene to prevent scratches, and a padded flap keeps everything in place. This bag is available in horizontal and vertical orientation, so you're sure to get something you're happy with. $69 at WaterField
Third-party inking: Bamboo Ink smart stylus
The Bamboo Ink smart stylus is quite a bit cheaper than the Surface Pen, but still offers 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity. You get three different fine-point nibs — soft, medium, and firm — so that you can find something that suits your drawing and writing style. It also works with multiple devices thanks to AES and MPP support. $44 at Amazon
Natural look: Toast wood cover
The silvery finish on your Surface Book is undoubtedly attractive, but it's not for everyone. If you'd rather have a wooden look, you need to check out these covers from Toast. Choose from four different colors, choose your laptop (there are covers for all Surface Book and Surface Book 2 models), and add a bit of customization, including custom etched text. From $69 at Toast
Protect your glass: Megoo screen protector
The Surface Book 2's screen is relatively durable, but for added protection, add a Megoo tempered glass protector. Cutouts ensure you can still use the speakers and cameras, and an oleophobic coating helps keep off smudges. The protector is thin enough that it won't interfere with the touch function, and each pack comes with a lifetime warranty. From $18 at Amazon
If we're picking some accessories
Why you can trust TechRadar
All of the above accessories can complement your Surface Book or Surface Book 2, but if we're picking a few to get started, stick with the Surface Pen for an excellent inking experience. You'll be able to use it with just the tablet or while connected as a complete laptop, and its 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity and tilt support offer a natural feel.
In order to add some storage to the Surface Book 2 without risk of seeing your SD card damaged, the BaseQI microSD adapter can be used. You pop a microSD card into the adapter before inserting it into the side of the Surface Book 2, where it sits flush. It's practical, it's affordable, and it's the best way to add some space to a laptop that's not easily upgraded.
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