The Microsoft Surface Go is a powerful, portable, and versatile 2-in-1 device that has captured the hearts of many users. With its sleek design, impressive display, and robust performance, it’s an ideal choice for work, play, and everything in between. However, one question that often pops up in the minds of Surface Go users is: can you expand memory on Surface Go? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Surface Go’s memory, explore the possibilities of expansion, and provide you with valuable insights to help you make the most of your device.
Understanding Surface Go’s Memory
Before we dive into the expansion possibilities, it’s essential to understand how the Surface Go’s memory works. The device comes with two types of memory: RAM (Random Access Memory) and storage. RAM is responsible for temporarily storing data that the device is currently using, while storage refers to the permanent storage of files, programs, and the operating system.
The Surface Go comes with 4GB or 8GB of RAM, depending on the model you choose. While 4GB might be sufficient for basic tasks like browsing, emailing, and word processing, 8GB is recommended for more demanding activities like photo editing, video streaming, and gaming.
RAM Expansion: Is it Possible?
Unfortunately, the answer is no. The Surface Go’s RAM is soldered to the motherboard, making it impossible to upgrade or expand. This means that if you opt for the 4GB model, you’re stuck with it, and if you choose the 8GB model, you can’t upgrade to 16GB or more.
However, there are some workarounds to help you optimize your Surface Go’s RAM usage:
- Close unnecessary apps and background processes to free up RAM.
- Use the Task Manager to monitor RAM usage and identify memory-hungry apps.
- Consider using a RAM-friendly operating system, such as Windows 10 in S mode.
Storage Expansion: Your Best Bet
While RAM expansion might not be possible, you can expand your Surface Go’s storage capacity. The device comes with a microSD card slot, which allows you to add up to 1TB of external storage. This is a great way to store files, photos, and videos, freeing up space on your internal storage.
To expand your storage, follow these steps:
- Purchase a microSD card compatible with your Surface Go.
- Insert the microSD card into the slot on the top of the device.
- Format the microSD card using the built-in Disk Management tool.
External Storage Options
In addition to microSD cards, you can also use external storage devices to expand your Surface Go’s storage capacity. Some popular options include:
- USB flash drives: Plug-and-play devices that offer up to 1TB of storage.
- External hard drives: Larger storage devices that connect via USB-C or USB-A.
- Cloud storage: Services like OneDrive, Google Drive, and Dropbox offer cloud-based storage solutions.
When choosing an external storage device, consider the following factors:
- Compatibility: Ensure the device is compatible with your Surface Go.
- Speed: Opt for devices with fast transfer speeds, such as USB 3.0 or USB-C.
- Capacity: Choose a device that meets your storage needs.
Upgrading Your Surface Go’s Storage
If you’re looking to upgrade your Surface Go’s internal storage, you might be in luck. The device’s storage is not soldered to the motherboard, making it possible to replace the SSD (solid-state drive) with a larger one.
However, this process requires technical expertise and can void your warranty. If you’re not comfortable with DIY upgrades, it’s recommended to seek the help of a professional.
To upgrade your Surface Go’s storage, follow these steps:
- Purchase a compatible SSD replacement.
- Disassemble the device (be careful, as this can be tricky).
- Remove the existing SSD and replace it with the new one.
- Reassemble the device and reinstall the operating system.
Things to Consider Before Upgrading
Before upgrading your Surface Go’s storage, consider the following:
- Warranty: Upgrading your storage may void your warranty.
- Compatibility: Ensure the new SSD is compatible with your Surface Go.
- Cost: Upgrading your storage can be expensive, especially if you opt for a high-capacity SSD.
Conclusion
While expanding your Surface Go’s RAM might not be possible, you can expand your storage capacity using microSD cards, external storage devices, or by upgrading the internal SSD. By understanding your device’s memory and storage options, you can optimize your Surface Go’s performance and make the most of your investment.
Remember to always consider compatibility, speed, and capacity when choosing external storage devices, and be cautious when upgrading your internal storage to avoid voiding your warranty.
By following these tips and insights, you’ll be able to boost your Surface Go’s brainpower and enjoy a seamless user experience.
Can I upgrade the RAM on my Surface Go?
The Surface Go’s RAM is soldered to the motherboard, which means it cannot be upgraded or replaced by the user. This is a common design choice for many modern laptops and tablets, including the Surface Go. As a result, users are limited to the amount of RAM that comes with their device.
While this may be a limitation for some users, it’s worth noting that the Surface Go’s RAM is still sufficient for many everyday tasks, such as browsing the web, checking email, and using office software. However, users who need more RAM for demanding tasks like video editing or gaming may need to consider a different device.
How much RAM does the Surface Go come with?
The Surface Go comes with either 4GB or 8GB of RAM, depending on the configuration. The base model comes with 4GB of RAM, while the higher-end model comes with 8GB. It’s worth noting that the 8GB model is recommended for users who plan to use their device for more demanding tasks.
In general, 8GB of RAM is considered a good amount for most users, as it provides a good balance between performance and price. However, users who need more RAM may need to consider a different device or look into other ways to boost their device’s performance.
Can I add more storage to my Surface Go?
Yes, the Surface Go has a microSD card slot that allows users to add more storage to their device. This is a great option for users who need more storage space for their files, photos, and videos. The microSD card slot supports cards up to 1TB in size, providing plenty of room for expansion.
Adding a microSD card is a relatively simple process that can be done by the user. Simply insert the card into the slot, and the device will automatically recognize it. From there, users can transfer files to the card or use it to store new files.
How do I know if I need more RAM or storage on my Surface Go?
If you’re unsure whether you need more RAM or storage on your Surface Go, there are a few things to consider. If you’re experiencing slow performance or crashes when running multiple apps at once, you may need more RAM. On the other hand, if you’re running out of space for your files and photos, you may need more storage.
A good way to determine which one you need is to check your device’s usage. If you’re consistently running low on RAM, you may need to consider a device with more RAM. If you’re consistently running low on storage space, a microSD card may be the way to go.
Can I upgrade the processor on my Surface Go?
No, the processor on the Surface Go cannot be upgraded. The processor is soldered to the motherboard, making it impossible for users to replace or upgrade it. This is a common design choice for many modern laptops and tablets, including the Surface Go.
While this may be a limitation for some users, it’s worth noting that the Surface Go’s processor is still sufficient for many everyday tasks. However, users who need more processing power for demanding tasks like video editing or gaming may need to consider a different device.
Are there any other ways to boost my Surface Go’s performance?
Yes, there are several other ways to boost your Surface Go’s performance. One option is to close unnecessary apps and background processes, which can help free up RAM and improve performance. Another option is to use a solid-state drive (SSD) instead of a traditional hard drive, which can greatly improve loading times and overall performance.
Additionally, users can try updating their device’s software and drivers to the latest versions, which can often improve performance and fix bugs. Finally, users can try using a task manager to monitor their device’s performance and identify areas for improvement.
Will upgrading my Surface Go’s storage improve its performance?
Upgrading your Surface Go’s storage can potentially improve its performance, but it depends on the specific circumstances. If you’re using a traditional hard drive, upgrading to a solid-state drive (SSD) can greatly improve loading times and overall performance. However, if you’re already using an SSD, adding more storage may not necessarily improve performance.
In general, adding more storage can help improve performance by providing more room for files and apps, which can reduce clutter and improve loading times. However, it’s worth noting that storage upgrades will not improve performance in the same way that RAM upgrades can.