When it comes to choosing a laptop, users consider various factors such as performance, portability, and aesthetics. Among these crucial features, the keyboard plays a pivotal role in the overall user experience. For those who frequently work in dimly lit environments or are night owls, the presence of a backlit keyboard can be a game-changer. Today, we delve into one of the most sought-after features of Microsoft’s sleek and stylish device—the Surface Laptop Go 2—and answer the burning question: does the Surface Laptop Go 2 have a backlit keyboard?
A Quick Overview of the Surface Laptop Go 2
Before we analyze the keyboard features, let’s take a moment to familiarize ourselves with the Surface Laptop Go 2 itself. Introduced as an upgrade to its predecessor, the Surface Laptop Go, this device aims to strike a balance between affordability and performance while retaining Microsoft’s signature elegant design.
- Display: Featuring a 12.4-inch PixelSense touchscreen, the Surface Laptop Go 2 offers vibrant colors and sharp images, making it perfect for both work and play.
- Performance: Powered by Intel’s 11th Gen processors, users can expect a smooth multitasking experience suitable for everyday tasks.
- Portability: Weighing just 2.45 pounds, this laptop is incredibly lightweight, making it an ideal companion for those who are always on the go.
- Battery Life: With up to 13 hours of battery life, the Surface Laptop Go 2 ensures that you can work all day without frequent charging.
The Surface Laptop Go 2 is engineered to meet the demands of everyday computing. However, one critical aspect that many users inquire about is its keyboard, specifically whether it features backlighting.
Understanding Backlit Keyboards
Now that we have a basic understanding of what the Surface Laptop Go 2 offers, let’s explore the concept of backlit keyboards.
What is a Backlit Keyboard?
A backlit keyboard features illumination underneath the keys, making it easy to see and type in low-light conditions. This can be especially useful for:
- Working in dimly lit environments, such as coffee shops or airplanes.
- Typing late at night without disturbing others.
Backlit keyboards are not just about aesthetics; they significantly improve usability and accessibility.
Benefits of a Backlit Keyboard
Having a backlit keyboard can lead to several advantages, including:
Increased Productivity: Users can type with confidence, knowing that they can see the keys clearly, therefore reducing typing errors.
Enhanced Aesthetics: A backlit keyboard not only looks sleek but adds to the overall design of the laptop, making it more appealing to many users.
Adaptability: A backlit keyboard allows users to adapt to various lighting conditions effortlessly, ensuring that productivity is maintained regardless of the setting.
The Surface Laptop Go 2 and Its Keyboard
Now, let’s address the pressing question: does the Surface Laptop Go 2 have a backlit keyboard?
Surface Laptop Go 2 Keyboard Features
The Surface Laptop Go 2 comes equipped with a comfortable and responsive keyboard, which is essential for efficient typing. However, a crucial point to note is that the Surface Laptop Go 2 does not feature a backlit keyboard.
Why Microsoft Made This Choice
The decision to exclude a backlit keyboard may seem surprising to many. However, Microsoft has positioned the Surface Laptop Go 2 as a budget-friendly option within its Surface lineup. By omitting certain premium features, the company is able to lower the overall cost of the device, making it more accessible for students and budget-conscious consumers.
Despite the lack of backlighting, users still enjoy a well-spaced keyboard that allows for comfortable typing experiences, particularly during daylight hours or in well-lit environments.
Alternatives for Backlight Accessibility
Even without a backlit keyboard, Surface Laptop Go 2 users can utilize various strategies to improve their typing experience in low-light settings:
External Light Sources
Users can employ small, portable LED desk lamps or even clip-on lights to illuminate their workspace, making it easier to see the keyboard without needing built-in backlighting.
Keyboard Layout Awareness
Familiarizing oneself with the keyboard layout can help mitigate the challenges posed by insufficient lighting. As users become more adept at touch typing, they can navigate the keyboard more effortlessly, regardless of visibility.
Comparative Analysis: Backlit vs. Non-Backlit Keyboards
To further elucidate the impact of a backlit keyboard, it’s beneficial to compare the Surface Laptop Go 2 with other devices that include this feature. Below is a table comparing some popular laptops that do come with backlit keyboards against the Surface Laptop Go 2.
| Laptop Model | Backlit Keyboard | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Laptop Go 2 | No | $599 – $799 |
| Dell XPS 13 | Yes | $899 – $1,499 |
| MacBook Air (M2) | Yes | $1,199 – $1,599 |
| HP Envy 13 | Yes | $849 – $1,199 |
As indicated in the table, while budget-friendly laptops like the Surface Laptop Go 2 do not offer backlit keyboards, many higher-end models do. This trade-off between price and features is essential to consider when making a purchasing decision.
User Experience and Alternatives
Despite the absence of a backlit keyboard, the Surface Laptop Go 2 still provides an admirable user experience. Here’s how it stacks up in various scenarios.
Everyday Use
For users who primarily use their laptop in brightly lit environments — such as at home, in libraries, or within well-lit offices — the absence of a backlit keyboard may not significantly hinder their computing experience.
Professional and Creative Work
For professionals engaged in creative work, such as graphic designing or video editing, who often need to work late into the night, the lack of backlighting can be a challenge. However, by investing in external lighting solutions, such professionals can continue utilizing the Surface Laptop Go 2 without sacrificing their productivity.
Student Life
College students often find themselves studying in environments that are not always fully illuminated. While the absence of a backlit keyboard might require some adjustments, the laptop’s portability and affordable pricing make it an attractive option for students looking for a device that balances performance with cost-effectiveness.
Conclusion: Is the Surface Laptop Go 2 Right for You?
Ultimately, whether the Surface Laptop Go 2 is the appropriate choice for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. The lack of a backlit keyboard might deter some potential users, especially those who frequently work in dimly lit conditions. However, for users who prioritize a lightweight design, strong performance, and an appealing price point, the Surface Laptop Go 2 remains a top contender in the budget laptop market.
In conclusion, while it does not feature a backlit keyboard, the Surface Laptop Go 2 offers a well-rounded experience that is ideal for various applications. Users should weigh the pros and cons as they consider their preferences and how often they work in lighting conditions that necessitate backlighting. By understanding these factors, potential buyers can make an informed decision that aligns perfectly with their lifestyle and workflow.
Does the Surface Laptop Go 2 come with a backlit keyboard?
Yes, the Surface Laptop Go 2 features a backlit keyboard. This allows for easier typing in low-light environments, enhancing usability and comfort. The backlighting adjusts automatically based on the ambient light conditions, ensuring optimal visibility without straining your eyes.
The inclusion of a backlit keyboard makes the Surface Laptop Go 2 particularly appealing to students and professionals who often work late or in dimly lit spaces. It helps improve typing accuracy and comfort, making it a significant asset for those who spend extended periods on their devices.
How do I enable the backlit keyboard on the Surface Laptop Go 2?
To enable the backlit keyboard on the Surface Laptop Go 2, simply press the F4 key, which is indicated by a keyboard icon with light rays. Each press will toggle the backlight on or off, and you may also notice a subtle change in brightness levels depending on your keyboard’s settings.
If the keyboard backlight does not turn on, you may want to check your device settings. Ensure that your brightness settings are adjusted to allow for the automatic activation of the backlit feature, especially in dark environments where it should activate on its own.
Can I adjust the brightness of the keyboard backlight?
The Surface Laptop Go 2 does not have a specific setting to manually adjust the brightness of the keyboard backlight. It is designed to automatically adjust based on the ambient lighting conditions around you, striking a balance between conserving battery life and providing adequate illumination.
This feature means that in brighter environments, the backlight may be dimmed or turned off completely, while in darker settings, the backlight will brighten to provide better visibility. This automatic adjustment helps enhance user experience without requiring manual input from the user.
What should I do if the backlit keyboard isn’t working?
If the backlit keyboard on your Surface Laptop Go 2 is not functioning, first check if your device is up to date. Make sure your operating system and drivers are current to ensure all features are working correctly. You can do this by navigating to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update to check for available updates.
If the problem persists, try restarting your device. A simple reboot can resolve minor glitches that may be affecting the keyboard’s functionality. If these steps do not work, consider seeking support from Microsoft or consulting the device’s user manual for further troubleshooting advice.
Does the keyboard backlight affect battery life?
Yes, using a backlit keyboard can impact battery life on the Surface Laptop Go 2. When the backlight is activated, it consumes additional power, which may result in shorter battery life compared to using the keyboard without backlighting. The extent of this impact will vary depending on how bright the keyboard is set and how long it remains lit.
To preserve battery life, users may choose to turn off the backlight when it is not needed, especially in well-lit environments. Additionally, the automatic brightness adjustment feature helps manage power consumption by dimming or turning off the backlight when it is not necessary.
Is the backlit keyboard on the Surface Laptop Go 2 comfortable for typing?
Yes, many users find the backlit keyboard on the Surface Laptop Go 2 to be very comfortable for typing. The keys are well-spaced and offer good tactile feedback, making it easier to type for extended periods. This ergonomic design enhances the overall typing experience, making it suitable for various tasks, from casual browsing to professional work.
The addition of the backlight further improves overall usability, allowing you to type comfortably in dim lighting. This feature, combined with the quality of the key travel, contributes to a satisfying experience for most users, whether they’re students, professionals, or casual typists.
Does the Surface Laptop Go 2’s backlit keyboard have any special features?
The backlit keyboard on the Surface Laptop Go 2 does come with a few notable features, including its automatic brightness adjustment based on ambient lighting conditions. This ensures that users always have a sufficient level of illumination for typing without needing to manually control it.
In addition to the automatic adjustment, the keys themselves are designed for comfortable typing, with a crisp and responsive feel. This combination of features makes the keyboard not only aesthetically pleasing with its backlighting but also functional and user-friendly for everyday tasks.