Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 12-inch Touchscreen Laptop (THH-00001)

Other Considerations

Here are a few things about this Laptop which could come as a surprise. For each point, you will find how to fix it (if it's an issue) and how much to budget for it. Not every point below will be a concern, but hopefully, we can keep your surprises to a minimum.

Restricted Version of Windows. This Laptop runs Windows 10 in S mode which means that most software from the compatibility list below won't work out of the box.
It is possible to upgrade Windows 10 to its normal, insecure mode for free. Doing so allows running programs which are not on the Microsoft App Store. The process isn't too complicated, but in essence, it involves reinstalling Windows.
This evaluation assumes that you (or a helpful friend) plan to go through that process; otherwise, Value and Versatility scores would be much lower. Most archetypes defined on TekAdvisors also could not access the software they need without it. Free

No Optical Drive. If you still use CDs, DVDs, or Blu-Ray disks on a regular basis, you will need an external drive to read them with this Laptop.$30+

No Number Pad. If you primarily work with numbers, the lack of a number pad on this laptop could be inconvenient. You have the option of using an external number pad to remedy that, especially if you only need it on occasion.$20+

Limited Workspace. The included screen has a lower resolution than the typical TV or computer monitor. This could hinder your ability to multi-task, especially if you work with multiple windows at once. On the plus side, things will tend to be displayed larger on screen if your eyesight is challenging.
This is easy to fix on a desk by connecting to an external monitor, but hard to address anywhere else.