Can it be use for programming? I’m entering college and thinking about majoring in computer science. I want something light/portable that doesn’t break the banks, and this seems like a good choice. null

Question

BillG · Accepted Answer

I think it depends. I am a web/mobile developer. I have install my most common development tools on it and it works ok. I like to use it when I am on the road for very light work. It tends to be too small screen size wise and performance to be used as my primary development machine however. All that said, I didn't even think I'd be able to run Visual Studio and SQL Server on it and I have to say the performance is not that bad. That said, I would still not use it as my primary machine.

Answered by BillG 7 years ago

Richie · Answer

You can upgrade the Windows 10 S to Windows 10 Home for free and treat the Surface Go as a regular laptop. Takes a while to acclimated to the keyboard size, but if you get a USB-C dock, you can use regular peripherals. Keep in mind the default resolution on the screen is 1800x1200 with 150% text scaling

Answered by Richie 7 years ago

Verified Purchase

Brviu · Answer

Please do not attempt to use the Surface Go as your primary device if you're interested in programming. It does not have enough power to compile anything more than a very basic program. If you like the form factor then you'll need to step up to the Surface Pro with an Intel Core I5 and 8GB of RAM. 

But there are many standard laptops or 2 in 1 alternatives that are powerful enough in the same price range as the Surface Go once you add the keyboard and pen to your purchase.

Just make sure whatever you purchase has a minimum of a Core I5 processor and 8GB of RAM.

MicrosoftOutreachTeam · Answer

The Surface Go is a great selection for students headed to college. Like with any device, please be sure to check the system requirements of any programs you will need to download, and compare them to the specs of the Surface Go. This will ensure that your desired programs will run optimally. We hope this helps!

Answered by MicrosoftOutreachTeam 7 years ago

“Can it be use for programming? I’m entering college and thinking about majoring in computer science. I want something light/portable that doesn’t break the banks, and this seems like a good choice.”

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