Microsoft Surface Pro 2 Review: A Versatile 2-in-1 Device
The Microsoft Surface Pro 2, released in October 2013, was a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the original Surface Pro. It aimed to combine the functionality of a tablet with the performance of a laptop, making it an appealing option for both professionals and casual users. With enhancements in design, performance, and battery life, the Surface Pro 2 sought to establish itself as a capable productivity device.
Design & Build
The Surface Pro 2 maintained a similar design to the original, featuring a sleek magnesium alloy chassis that offered durability and a premium feel. It measured 10.81 x 6.81 x 0.53 inches and weighed approximately 2 pounds (without the keyboard), making it relatively portable for a device with laptop capabilities.
The device included a kickstand that allowed for multiple viewing angles, improving usability for both typing and media consumption. The Surface Pro 2 was available in various configurations, and users could choose between different color options for the Type Cover, which added to the personalization aspect.
Display
The Surface Pro 2 featured a 10.6-inch ClearType Full HD display with a resolution of 1920×1080 pixels. The display offered excellent color accuracy and sharpness, making it suitable for various tasks such as document editing, web browsing, and media consumption. The touchscreen was responsive and supported multi-touch gestures, enhancing the overall user experience.
Performance
Powered by an Intel Haswell processor (options included i5 or i7), along with 4GB or 8GB of RAM, the Surface Pro 2 delivered solid performance for a wide range of tasks. It was capable of running full desktop applications, making it a suitable alternative to traditional laptops. The performance improvements over the original Surface Pro were noticeable, especially in multitasking and handling demanding applications.
Battery Life
One of the standout features of the Surface Pro 2 was its improved battery life. Microsoft claimed up to 7-8 hours of usage, which was a significant enhancement over the original Surface Pro. While real-world usage could vary based on tasks and settings, users generally found the battery life to be adequate for a full day of work or study.
Camera
The Surface Pro 2 featured a front-facing 720p HD camera and a rear-facing 5MP camera. The cameras were decent for video calls and casual photography, but they were not designed for high-quality photography or video recording. The front camera was particularly useful for Skype calls and other video conferencing applications.
Storage Options
The Surface Pro 2 offered several storage configurations, ranging from 64GB to 512GB of solid-state storage (SSD). The use of SSD technology provided fast read and write speeds, enhancing overall performance and boot times. However, users should note that the storage was non-expandable, so choosing the right capacity was crucial based on individual needs.
Connectivity
The Surface Pro 2 included a range of connectivity options, such as:
- USB 3.0 port
- Mini DisplayPort for external displays
- MicroSD card slot for expandable storage
- Headphone jack
The device also featured built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for easy connections to peripherals and networks.
Software
The Surface Pro 2 ran Windows 8.1, providing access to the full desktop experience. This meant users could run traditional Windows applications alongside modern apps from the Windows Store. The interface was designed to be touch-friendly, but it also supported keyboard and mouse input, making it versatile for different use cases.
Accessories
Microsoft offered various accessories to enhance the Surface Pro 2 experience, including:
- Type Cover: A detachable keyboard that provided a comfortable typing experience.
- Surface Pen: A stylus that allowed for precise input, note-taking, and drawing capabilities.
Conclusion
The Microsoft Surface Pro 2 was a versatile 2-in-1 device that effectively combined the functionalities of a tablet and a laptop. With its improved performance, enhanced battery life, and solid design, it was well-suited for both productivity and entertainment.
Pros:
- Solid build quality with a premium feel
- Versatile kickstand for multiple viewing angles
- Good performance for desktop applications
- Improved battery life over its predecessor
- Touchscreen with excellent color accuracy
Cons:
- Non-expandable storage options
- Cameras were average and not ideal for high-quality photos
- Weight could be a concern for prolonged handheld use
Overall, the Surface Pro 2 was a strong contender in the 2-in-1 market, offering a good balance of performance and portability, making it a solid choice for users looking for a device that could handle both work and play.