ASUS Zenbook Pro 17 vs Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 2

The ASUS Zenbook Pro 17 shines in general use due to its powerful AMD Ryzen 9 processor and ample RAM, which ensure swift multitasking and applications run smoothly, accompanied by a high-quality, large screen that enhances visuals, but its size and weight compromise portability and it has a good but not top-tier battery life. In contrast, the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 2 scores lower for general use mainly because it has a less robust Intel i5 processor and less RAM, which may slow down more demanding tasks, though it boasts a high portability score and best-in-class heat management, limitations like its smaller screen and minimal storage hold back its general use capability.

The ASUS Zenbook Pro 17 is equipped with a dedicated Nvidia RTX 3050 GPU which offers superior graphics performance over the integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics in the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 2, making the ASUS more suitable for gaming and 3D tasks. Although both laptops have similar screen refresh rates, the higher-quality GPU in the ASUS is a very important factor that enhances gaming and 3D experiences.

The ASUS Zenbook Pro 17 is good for engineering and design due to its more powerful AMD Ryzen 9 processor and dedicated Nvidia RTX 3050 GPU, along with a 32 GB RAM configuration which is ideal for demanding software commonly used in these fields. Conversely, the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 2, with a less powerful Intel i5 processor, integrated Iris Xe graphics, and only 8 GB of RAM, is more suited to less intensive tasks, despite its higher portability and touch screen capability.

PerfectRec’s Content Creation Score takes into account the many different features of the laptop that make it more or less suitable for photo editing, video editing and other content creation tasks.

PerfectRec’s Software Development Score takes into account the many different features of the laptop that make it more or less suitable for software developers.

For general use, both the ASUS Zenbook Pro 17 and Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 2 offer high-resolution displays with vibrant colors and adequate brightness, ensuring a crisp and clear viewing experience for everyday tasks like web browsing and video streaming. Engineers and designers may find these laptops' displays suitable because they cover a wide range of colors, critical for precise design work and accurate color representation. However, gamers and 3D designers may be disappointed by the screens’ lower refresh rates, which could lead to less smooth visuals in fast-paced games and during 3D rendering.

PerfectRec’s Build Quality Score incorporates case materials, display and keyboard flex, hinge quality, and overall reliability.

Battery life estimate is based on a mix of common use patterns. More portable and higher performing laptops tend to have less battery life.