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

A Surface device designed to be (relatively) affordable, this laptop by Microsoft can handle everyday tasks in style.
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.
Who it's For
- Casual Worker
- Audio Editor
Specs
Screen
12.45", 1536×1024 (1536 × 1024, 1.6MP), Touch Screen
Operating System
Windows 10, S Edition
CPU
Intel Core i5-1035G1, 4 cores clocked from 1 to 3.6 GHz
GPU
Intel UHD Graphics
Memory
8 GB, Dual-Channel
Storage
128 GB total, Solid State (very fast)
Battery
39.7Wh, 5403mAh
Dimensions and Weight
Dimensions (cm): w27.82 × d20.57 × h1.57
Dimensions (in): w10.95 × d8.1 × h0.62
Weight (kg): 1.11
Weight (lbs.): 2.45
Features
- Paired Memory
- Fixed storage: Solid State (very fast)
- Webcam / Front-Facing Camera / Selfie Cam
- Touch Screen
- USB 3
- USB Type-C
- USB Type-A
- Fingerprint Sensor
- TPM & other Encryption Hardware
- Built-In Keyboard
- 3.5mm Headphone+Microphone combo jack
- Built-in Microphone
- Built-in Speakers
- Bluetooth 5
- Wi-Fi a
- Wi-Fi b
- Wi-Fi g
- Wi-Fi n
- Wi-Fi ac
- Wi-Fi 6 ax
Maintenance and Upgrades
I do not have much insight to offer regarding this product.
Additional Ressources
Pricing and Current Offers
No Offers found in Canada.
Software Compatibility
Here's how you can expect this laptop to fare with popular software based on developpers specified system requirements. For reference, a 1-star rating means minimal requirements are met and a 3-stars rating means recommended specs are met. Ratings beyond the 3-stars point could be advisable for uncommon scenarios like modding, working with very large and complex documents, etc.
Browse the software library for more options and find compatible hardware
Accessories you might need
Other laptops in the same price range

AMD 17-inch Laptop (17-cp0007ca)
ranked #4 among Laptops priced $400-1000
This large laptop is a compelling computer if you need a computer at home but do not have room to dedicate to a PC. As one of the larger laptops out t
Who it's For
- Serious Multitasker
- Aspiring Creative
- Photo Editor
- Productivity-Focused User
Compared Overall
Bang for the Buck | |
---|---|
Versatility | |
Power | |
Storage Space | |
Portability | |
Battery Autonomy |
Specs
Operating System
Windows 11, Home Edition
Screen
17", 1920×1080(FHD, 1080p, 2.1MP), IPS Display (incl. PLS, AHVA, etc.), Multiple Monitor Support
CPU
AMD Ryzen 3 5300U
GPU
AMD Radeon Vega 6 Graphics
Memory
12 GB
Storage
1.25 TB total, Solid State (very fast), 54000 RPM hard drive (slow)
Pricing

HP x360 14-inch Chromebook (14c-ca0020ca)
ranked #7 among Laptops priced $400-1000
This Chromebook can fold onto itself for those times a keyboard would get in the way, making it an attractive solution if you've been looking for a la
Who it's For
- Multitasker
- Casual Worker
Compared Overall
Bang for the Buck | |
---|---|
Versatility | |
Power | |
Storage Space | |
Portability | |
Battery Autonomy |
Specs
Operating System
Linux, Android, Chrome OS
Screen
14", 1920×1080(FHD, 1080p, 2.1MP), IPS Display (incl. PLS, AHVA, etc.), Multiple Monitor Support, Touch Screen
CPU
Intel Core i3-10110U
GPU
Intel UHD Graphics
Memory
4 GB
Storage
64 GB total, Media Card Reader, eMMC Storage (slow)
Pricing

HP 14-inch Laptop (14-fq0038ca)
ranked #9 among Laptops priced $400-1000
This cost-efficient laptop could be a compelling option for everyday tasks and entertainment. It's not the most powerful PC out there, but it has a qu
Who it's For
- Multitasker
- Casual Worker
Compared Overall
Bang for the Buck | |
---|---|
Versatility | |
Power | |
Storage Space | |
Portability | |
Battery Autonomy |
Specs
Operating System
Windows 10, Home Edition
Screen
14", 1920×1080(FHD, 1080p, 2.1MP), IPS Display (incl. PLS, AHVA, etc.), Multiple Monitor Support
CPU
AMD Ryzen 3 3250U
GPU
AMD Radeon Vega 3 Graphics
Memory
8 GB
Storage
512 GB total, Media Card Reader, Solid State (very fast)
Pricing

Lenovo ThinkPad E15 Gen 3 Business Laptop (20YG003EUS)
ranked #3 among Laptops priced $400-1000
This business-focused laptop is a natural fit for anyone with an appetite for productivity thanks to its powerful specs and speedy storage.
Who it's For
- Aspiring Creative
- Photo Editor
- Multitasker
- Productivity-Focused User
Compared Overall
Bang for the Buck | |
---|---|
Versatility | |
Power | |
Storage Space | |
Portability | |
Battery Autonomy |
Specs
Operating System
Windows 10, Pro Edition
Screen
15", 1920×1080(FHD, 1080p, 2.1MP), IPS Display (incl. PLS, AHVA, etc.), Multiple Monitor Support
CPU
AMD Ryzen 5 5500U
GPU
AMD Radeon RX Vega 7
Memory
8 GB
Storage
256 GB total, Solid State (very fast)
Pricing

Google Pixelbook Go (GA00519-US)
ranked #11 among Laptops priced $400-1000
This premium Chromebook comes with a few extras like an FHD touchscreen, extended battery life and some additional horsepower.
Who it's For
- Multitasker
- Casual Worker
Compared Overall
Bang for the Buck | |
---|---|
Versatility | |
Power | |
Storage Space | |
Portability | |
Battery Autonomy |
Specs
Operating System
Android, Chrome OS
Screen
13", 1920×1080(FHD, 1080p, 2.1MP), Multiple Monitor Support, Touch Screen
CPU
Intel Core m3-8100Y
GPU
Intel UHD Graphics 615
Memory
8 GB
Storage
64 GB total
Pricing

Asus M509 Laptop (M509DA-MB52-CB)
ranked #8 among Laptops priced $400-1000
This no-frills laptop should be able to efficiently handle most homework scenarios for a reasonable price.
Who it's For
- Aspiring Creative
- Photo Editor
- Multitasker
- Productivity-Focused User
Compared Overall
Bang for the Buck | |
---|---|
Versatility | |
Power | |
Storage Space | |
Portability | |
Battery Autonomy |
Specs
Operating System
Windows 10, Home Edition
Screen
15", 1920×1080(FHD, 1080p, 2.1MP), Multiple Monitor Support
CPU
AMD Ryzen 5 3500U
GPU
AMD Radeon Vega 8 Mobile
Memory
8 GB
Storage
256 GB total, Solid State (very fast)