Microsoft - Surface Book 2 - 15" Touch-Screen PixelSense™ - 2-in-1 Laptop - Intel Core i7 - 16GB Memory - 256GB SSD - Silver

This is the perfect laptop for any digital artist, as an animator/motion designer I really needed something that wasn’t just powerful enough to handle the heavy programs I use, but something that would allow me to fully create whether it be drawing/sketching on the screen or doing some 3D modeling on Maya. It works. I’ve had no issues, and I would recommend for someone in a similar field. One thing I do notice is that the battery life isn’t exactly what everyone raves about. But I’m going to assume it’s because of the type of programs I use.

Wanted real stereo separation and responsive bass for my garage. I didn't want the typical portable Bluetooth all in one speaker box. I also looked at modern day Boom Box's, and they were just wrong and I didn't want disco lights either. So I looked until I found this small LG Speaker bar and Subwoofer, The size was perfect for a new dedicated shelve. I didn't really get to check it out in store because they had it locked from Bluetooth connectivity. I went ahead and purchased it and took it home. RESULTS- Stupid easy to connect Bluetooth. NOTE- each speaker is Bluetooth and requires a dedicated power cord outlet. The Primary (left) speaker has an display to show functions like volume, sound modes, sub, treble, bass etc.., controlled by a wireless remote that allows me to skip a song while using Pandora from my phone (or use the phone for same) By this system having SEPERATE L/R speakers I am able to put some space between them. I found that by laying them down, it gave me the stereo separation I was wanting. All that said, I am really impressed with the overall sound. The L/R speakers have good crisp/clean mids and highs, and do not sound compressed. The SUB fills the garage with the bass I was wanting. It wont make your ears bleed or feel the bass pounding in your chest. It just sounds good! But it is plenty loud enough to hear in the driveway. This replaced my old Marantz full sized receiver and Paradigm bookshelf speakers. Well worth the 299.00 sale price. I will be purchasing another for the living room and utilize the added features this system has for A/V use and connectivity not detailed in this review.

I have now tried two different Surface Book 2 15” models. The first had a fuzz laminated into the display, and the second unit had a dead pixel, which after various home remedy fixes, would not revive. Extremely frustrating for a device meant for graphics usage. There should be absolutely no defects for the price this costs!

Untrained and Unexperienced Microsoft Technicians. The Surface devices have hardware issues do not waste your money, Here is what happen to my three months old surface straight black circle dots appear everywhere on display (LCD). Microsoft could not identify the issue and offered a certified device, my thoughts were if you can't identify the problem on this device and why would I choose a certified one, So I asked the Microsoft technician what hardware components did Microsoft replaced on the certified Surfaces. The technician replied SSD, Looks brand new, no scratches and fresh IOS. Now I do not think those replacement items or components would fix the display (LCD).

The 15 inch surface book 2 is an excellent device that marries form with function. Its innovative 2-in-1 design makes it truly stand out from the rest of the field. What I like: -The PixelSense display is absolutely stunning -Windows 10 really is the best Windows yet -Powerhouse performance thanks to a strong CPU, ample memory, and a discrete NVIDIA graphics. The Surface Book 2 will not disappoint in terms of handling pretty much anything you throw at it -Touch and pen input are a true joy to use -One of the nicest keyboards I have every typed on - great travel and responsiveness (although the backlighting could be better - see below) -Multiple configurations allow you to build a surface book that best meets your needs. -Surface Dock expands ports - I highly recommend purchasing the surface dock with this device. I wish there were more ports included on the device itself (see below) but the reasonably priced dock accessory somewhat makes up for it. What Could Be Better: -It's a shame that recently Microsoft has released two updates that caused issues and what is presumable its flagship device. The first update (May Update) caused the discrete graphics card to randomly disappear. The discrete graphics card was a major selling point for me, so this would be present an issue. Microsoft has since pulled the update while they work on a fix but it feels like releasing an update that you haven't fully vetted on a device that you manufacture is pretty sloppy and, honestly, a bit embarrassing. The second update appears to be more limited but some users have reported sever CPU throttling issues. Again, this shouldn't happen on a piece of hardware that carries the Microsoft name - if Microsoft has access to any devices to test its updates, one would think the Surface Book 2 would certainly be one of them! -I wish the track pad was slightly larger. It is an adequate size but, on the 15 inch model, there is plenty of real estate to make it even larger. -The device does tend to get pretty warm with moderate use - granted, there's a lot of power in this thing so it is not entirely unexpected. -Expensive. There's no question about it, you are paying a premium for a premium device. I was able to snag this on sale, which is the only way I would purchase it. -Limited ports - no explanation needed; there's just too few of them for a device at this price point -Pen sold separately: Again, at this price point, it would be nice not to have to shell out an additional $100 for the pen -Keyboard Backlighting: Lots of light bleed from the keyboard backlighting. This is a trivial issue but it does make the device feel cheaper/lower quality than it actually is Overall, I am very happy with the Surface Book 2. The issues I have highlighted are more than made up for by the positive aspects of this device. Microsoft has an excellent product here but, a few minor issues keep it short of perfection.

After debating (and saving) for six months, I finally purchased the Surface Book 2! Despite my previous laptop holding 650GB, I opted for the 256GB for a few reasons... 1.) Save money. I purchased a 400GB micro SD for additional storage to help save some money. 2.) Of all my files, I frequently use maybe...2 or 3 folders? Everything else stays on my 4TB external desktop hard drive, so I really have no need (currently) to dish out another $400 for the 516GB This laptop types flawlessly, which is fantastic for typing class notes and papers! I am in love with the screen, and the fact that it is detachable is wondrous for late-night reading in bed (a.k.a. homework assignments!!) In addition to wanting a laptop that is great for productivity, I also wanted one that was capable for gaming. I'm not a hard-core gamer, as I've not the time, but I do enjoy playing Final Fantasy XIV which the Surface Book 2 plays like a dream. With how well it handles gaming, I sort of wish I purchased the 516GB, but until I game a bit more frequently, I am quite content with the 256GB + 400GB micro SD. I do wish that the laptop came with the pen, though it is understandable as to why it is sold separately. I am looking forward to purchasing the pen, mostly to use for paper-editing. The Surface Book 2 is the lightest of the laptops I was looking at (HP Spectre, HP Envy, and Razer Blade 15), which is great for travelling. I am extremely satisfied with my purchase after eyeing it for six months, and I got it just in time for the new semester to begin. In all honesty, I think my next laptop after this will also be by Microsoft. I think I've finally found the PC company I like best.

cons: very expensive. lacking in ports. included charger isnt powerful enough to maintain charge wile gaming. no replaceable storage or battery. THE BIGGEST FLAW IS WHEN YOU UNDOCK YOU LOSE ALL PORTS, GRAPHIC POWER, 2ND BATTERY AND YOUR SD CARD STORAGE. Pros: high build quality lightweight great screen slim form very nice texture and feel overall great keyboard and touchpad works well with most games and applications

I LOVE LOVE LOVE my Surface Book 2. It has been nothing but a dream for my University classes and work. The pen does come separate but I had one already from a previous Surface device and it seamlessly connected to my new Surface Book 2. I can easily create PDF files and put them notebooks in MS Note for my courses and use my pen to make notes and highlight information. The screen is absolutely gorgeous and the touch tech is spot on and easy to use. The weight of the entire device is actually pretty manageable, though when the screen detaches the "tablet" screen is incredibly lightweight. Even the keyboard is amazing and types comfortably. I really have zero complaints about this device. It is a bit costly, but honestly I would buy it again in a heartbeat. If you can afford the price, I highly recommend purchasing this device. The pen is a fantastic companion to it too, so if your going to purchase the Surface Book its worth it to buckle down and buy the pen too.