Microsoft's Surface Go is the cheapest way to buy into the Surface ecosystem, but sluggish performance keeps it from competing with Apple's iPads.

Excellent build quality , Sharp , bright display , Windows Hello support , Built-in microSD card slot

Sluggish performance , Janky touchscreen for some apps like Chrome , Keyboard and stylus sold separately , Huge , thick bezels around display

“The Surface Go successfully shrinks Microsoft’s stellar design, but it’s not for everyone.”

The new Microsoft Surface Go is the perfect size for casual coffee-shop computing, but getting the full experience quickly drives up the price.

The Surface Go delivers Microsoft's great Surface design and accessories at a lower price and in a smaller size.

The Pentium processor isn't suited for all tasks. A keyboard cover is a must-have add-on but still sold separately. And you'll probably want to pay extra for more storage and RAM, too. Battery life is lacking for a go-anywhere PC.

This is the first Microsoft device Ive ever had. It is extremely user friendly

The Microsoft Surface Go is a pro-level tablet computer that successfully breaks into the market traditionally dominated by the Apple iPad Pro and Samsung Galaxy Tab ranges. It doesn't quite match the slickness of its rivals, but then again its rivals don't have the flexibility of Windows.

Brilliant ergonomics, Fantastic pen and keyboard, Can run full fat Windows 10

Not as slick app experience compared to rivals

I reviewed the 128GB + 8GB model here, which is the top-end Surface Go. The only difference with this device and the cheaper version are the amount of RAM and storage.

Windows 10 gives users plenty of freedom, Extremely portable, Kick-stand offers versatility

Pricey considering Type Cover isn’t bundled in, Low-powered performance, Dated design

The Surface Go is a super portable 2-in-1 that's great as a second go-anywhere machine. Unfortunately, battery life isn't great and once you've added the accessories it's not cheap. But for a portable machine there's little else to take it on.

Highly portable, MicroSD slot and USB-C welcome, Robust kickstand, Excellent optional keyboard

Accessories up the price a lot, Battery life is middling, Massive bezels, S Mode will be limiting for many

By rights, the Surface Go shouldn't be that impressive. It's an undersized and under-equipped device that one would assume would be suited mainly to students, but spend some time with it and you'll discover that it's a deceptively versatile little device.

USB-C support; Super versatile; Great value

Underwhelming battery life; TypeCover keyboard is expensive

A surprise hit, the Surface Go is a brilliant machine for those who seek a highly portable work companion

Excellent keyboard, Superb screen, Well-priced

Performance can be slow at times, Battery life isn't as good as iPad Pro

The Surface Go is not without its issues, but slap on a keyboard and it’s a genuine gamechanger