Any alternatives?

In some ways the Surface Go is in a product category of its own, making it hard to compare to others. It’s certainly the best Windows 2-in-1 at this price point, though that’s not saying a lot. The Qualcomm-powered PCs like the Asus NovaGo and Lenovo Miix 620 are a bit bigger but offer similar functionality. They’re also more expensive.

　　Our favorite Chromebook, the Samsung Chromebook Pro, is a 2-in-1 device with a similar starting price. Though it isn’t as light as the Surface Go, it performs betters and has a rich library of touch-ready apps, thanks to the Google Play Store. You could also spring for the base model Pixel Slate, which starts at $599. The tablet experience is more full-featured there, even though the software is still a bit unrefined.

　　The best alternative, though, is the iPad. At $330, it’s a far superior tablet than the Surface Go. While the keyboard and productivity experience isn’t nearly as robust, the recent updates to multitasking make it a more feasible workstation.

　　

How long will it last?

The Surface Go’s processor isn’t the most capable and might feel a bit outdated within a few years.

　　Microsoft provides a standard one-year warranty, which matches nearly every other PC manufacturer out there. If you’re near a Microsoft Store, you have access to additional support such as 12 months of technical assistance and a free training session with your device.

　　

Should you buy it?

The Surface Go will appeal to a small, niche group of people who are looking for a cheap, portable PC. An average shopper, though, will be better off choosing between a budget Windows 10 laptop or an iPad.