Surface Go 64GB vs. 128GB: Which model should you buy?

Microsoft's new Surface Go is expected to launch August ii, 2022, when information technology volition be available in two different configurations (with more expected to be released in the future). Though both launch models accept the same Intel Pentium Gilt 4415Y processor (CPU), one of the main differences has to do with storage. The cheaper model has within 64GB of embedded multimedia bill of fare (eMMC) storage, while the pricier model has a 128GB solid-land bulldoze (SSD).

Wondering which model you should buy? Let's break things down to aid you make a final decision.

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How much storage do you really make it a Surface Go?

Earlier nosotros begin talking nigh storage numbers, it's best to get an idea of how much gratis space y'all'll really have the first time you lot turn on your Surface Get. Models come with Windows 10 Southward installed, and visiting the Surface Storage folio at Microsoft gives you lot an thought of what to expect. Information technology hasn't still been updated to include the Go, but by looking at other Surface devices it'south evident that you can knock off between well-nigh 20GB and 30GB for the Os and pre-installed apps.

Instead of having 64GB or 128GB of useable space, you'll instead probable have about 40GB or 100GB of space. Keep this in mind as nosotros explore further the Surface Go.

eMMC vs. SSD storage

Not only will you have less storage with the 64GB model, you lot'll also exist dealing with eMMC storage. This blazon of storage is usually soldered right onto the motherboard, and will usually operate with less retention gates than an SSD. It might deliver data at the same speed, just information technology simply won't be able to deliver as much data at the aforementioned speed.

The 128GB SSD uses a non-volatile retentiveness (NVMe) protocol, opening it up to a far larger volume of data transferred at one time. If you're going to be working with large files, y'all'll no doubt desire to stick with the SSD rather than eMMC storage. Think of information technology similar a highway — with the SSD using multiple lanes both ways and eMMC only using one lane in each direction — for a better idea of what you're dealing with.

Related: eMMC vs. SSD: Know the deviation earlier buying a laptop

How will you apply your Surface Get?

How you program on using your Surface Go will aid determine which storage you should bank check out with. While all models are indeed quite mobile, at that place are a couple of things to keep in heed.

Who should buy the 64GB Surface Get?

Starting at about $400, the 64GB Surface Go is more than geared toward anyone who doesn't mind relying heavily on cloud storage and who doesn't plan on getting into any intensive tasks.

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Considering information technology has 4GB of RAM, it volition be able to tackle light productivity tasks — word processing, web browsing, video watching — merely don't expect it to supersede your desktop. Though it's mobile, you tin can always go on an external hard drive nearby for your larger files.

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Who should buy the 128GB Surface Go?

Starting at about $549, the 128GB Surface Go as well has its RAM bumped up to 8GB for a fleck of extra power. Y'all'll no doubt notice less slowdown with multiple browser windows open, and every bit long as the CPU can keep up, you should be able to get in a bit more than multitasking.

Despite the extra storage space, yous might nonetheless arrive at a point where you need some additional cloud storage, especially if your Surface Go becomes a daily commuter. Still, the SSD will serve yous better when dealing with larger files and you won't be reaching for an external bulldoze quite as quickly.

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How to increase the storage in your Surface Become

Cheers to a microSD carte reader that supports up to 1TB of actress storage, you tin can quickly add together some space to your Surface Become for relatively cheap. We've rounded up some of the best cards for Surface Book 2, which should translate over to the Get.

Best microSD expansion cards for Surface Book 2

For those looking at cloud storage solutions, you'll become 5GB of costless OneDrive storage with your account, which can be upgraded to 50GB for near $2 a month. From there, you lot tin await into Part 365 subscriptions that include 1TB of cloud storage space for each user.

Every bit e'er, don't forget well-nigh checking out our roundup of the best external drives on the marketplace if you'd like to add together some relatively bulky (but inexpensive) physical storage.

Best external hard drives of 2022

Which Surface Go will you choose?

Have yous already preordered a Surface Go? Which configuration did yous ultimately choose? Can you lot go by with 64GB, or practice you absolutely need 128GB? Don't forget, there'due south expected to be a 256GB configuration coming one-time later this yr besides. In any case, exist sure to allow us know in the comments department what you adopt!

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