Microsoft has quietly upgraded its Surface Book 2 offering, adding a newer processor to its 13.5-inch model. It’s also cut the price on the older Surface Book 2 model that it’s replacing.
The change isn’t a huge one, but it’s bound to be welcomed by those who have been waiting for the entry-level Surface Book 2 to get a current generation Intel processor.
Microsoft hasn’t added anything else to the line-up, but with a dedicated Surface event on the 17th of April, we could see new products soon.
Entry-Level Surface Book 2 Gets 8th-Gen Chip
While the 13.5-inch Surface Book 2 was already available with with an 8th generation Intel Core Processor in its premium (and more expensive version), owners of the entry-level device had to make do with a 7th generation Intel Core i5 processor. In 2019, asking customers to pay out $1,500 for this slightly dated tech doesn’t seem to make much sense. hence, why Microsoft has now upgraded the 13.5-inch model with a newer processor.
The good news is that the new model has kept the same price as its predecessor – $1,499.
Microsoft has kept the 7th generation model available, and dropped the price, meaning it now starts at $1,149. This could be a great way to grab a Surface Book 2 if you’re not too worried about having the very latest chip inside.
Microsoft’s 15-inch Surface Book 2 range remains unaffected. This larger model offered 8th gen processors anyway.
A Good Time to Buy a Surface Book 2?
There’s a lot to like about the Surface Book 2, and we’ve sung its praises in the past. Sure, they’re pricey, but the detachable screen that doubles as a Windows tablet is one of the best of its kind, and the solid keyboard keeps it sturdy and helps the device feel like a proper laptop when you’re using it in docked mode.
The addition of the 8th generation processor to the entry-level Surface Book 2 means you get more for your money. And, the price cut for the 7th generation model means you could snap up a bargain.
Even so, you might want to hold fire on that purchase button for a couple of weeks.
Microsoft is holding a Surface Event on the 17th of April, where we can expect some new tech. Whether or not that includes a Surface Book 3 remains to be seen – we may only see updates to the Surface tablet range, for example.
The original Surface Book was released in October 2015. The Surface Book 2 follow-up was released in October 2017. So, needless to say, the smart money is on a winter release if there’s to be a number 3. But, we still think it’s worth waiting until after the 17th April event before buying a Surface Book.
