Microsoft has revealed the new affordable Surface Go tablet, just a few hours after teasing it on Twitter.
With a thickness of just 8.3mm and weighing in at 1.15 pounds (520g), the 10-inch Surface Go is aimed at portability and is perfectly placed to take on Apple’s own cheaper iPads, targeting the same student demographic.
The new Surface Go runs on an Intel Pentium Gold 4415Y processor, and comes with two different memory configurations.
The base model, with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, is priced at $399.99 / £379.99 / AU$599.99, while the more expensive model, with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, costs $549.99 / £509.99 / AU$839.99.
Technical information
The Surface Go's display supports Microsoft's Surface Pen stylus, and can register 4096 different levels of pressure. The Surface Go's 3:2 screen aspect ratio is the same as other Surface devices, and its resolution is 1800 x 1200.
Charging the device, and connecting peripherals, can be done using either Microsoft's own Surface Connector, or via USB-C 3.1, so you can easily attach devices such as mice and external hard drives to your tablet.
The Surface Go’s battery should give you up to nine hours of use, according to Microsoft, thanks to the efficiency of the Pentium Gold processor and Windows 10 S combo.
Windows 10 S is a pared-down version of Windows 10, which only allows apps to be installed from the built-in Microsoft Store. While this can help prolong battery life in some cases, Surface Go owners will be able to upgrade to the full Windows 10 for free if they wish.
Accessories and pricing
The availability of accessories globally is yet to be confirmed, but you’ll be able to get a black Surface Go Type Cover for $99 (around £75, AU$130), with red, blue or silver 'Signature' Alcantara Type Covers costing $129 (around £100, AU$170).
There’s also a new Surface Mobile Mouse for $34.99 (around £30, AU$45), which will be available in the same red, blue, or silver color options as the Signature Type Covers and the existing Surface Pen.
The Surface Go is available to pre-order now. The US will see it land on August 2, the UK August 23 while Australia and New Zealand will get it on August 27.
