Which Entry Level Tablet is Right for you?
Our Flex 10B and Surface Go 2 have a considerable amount of similarities but also have some key differences. Users choose these devices as they are looking for a device with Windows 10 Pro plus the benefits of durable construction but without the high costs associated with IP65 sealed high performance tablets.
Nether of the base devices were designed to be rugged but using the MobileDemand rugged case technology we have made them both equally durable in a wide variety of mobile applications.
Surface Go vs Flex 10B
Physically the Flex 10B & Surface Go are on a level playing field. Their protective case is MIL-STD-810G which means the tablets have been dropped up to 26 times onto plywood over concrete successfully. Additionally, both tablets have great portability thanks to their smart built-in features, briefcase handle backhand strap and snap mount. This means, as well as the suitably rugged case preventing damage, you’ll also decrease the chances of dropping the device whilst making it easy to mount on a forklift on a wall or desk in a factory or retail environment.
Main Differences?
Processor – Memory – Communications.
Flex 10B features an Intel Intel Celeron N4100 Quad-Core processor giving you all-day productivity and has $Gb of RAM and 128GB of storage with Wi-Fi and BT but no internal 4G/LTE capability. So if you need WWAN capability you will need a plug in module or tether to a smartphone.
More choice on Surface Go 2 which offers versions with Pentium 4425Y or Core m3 processors and either 4GB or 8GB of RAM and 64GB 128GB or 256GB Drive capability. Surface has Wi-FI and BT across all models and two specifically with with an LTE option.
Battery
Depending on your usage will effect how long the battery will last. In both cases primary charging is via a proprietary charger. Batteries are not accessible to the user or hot swappable.
Flex sports a 21.46Wh battery which we rate at around 6 hours in normal use. Microsoft rate the Surface Go 2 battery at 9-10 hours life base on Wi-Fi usage. Although not specified officially numerous bloggers and tear-down sites rate the battery at around 26.8Wh.
Display
Flex 10B has a 10.1″, 800p resolution with 250 nits brightness. Surface Go 2 10.5″ 1280p resolution display with 408 nits brightness. The Surface supports tilt shading and 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, which is great for digital art and heavy-duty notetaking alike. Flex ships with a standard glass screen protector whilst Surface Go we offer either Glass or impact resistant film versions.
Ports
Both devices have headphone jacks. Unlike more complex rugged tables neither support any sort of connectivity through the keyboard connection port.
Flex 10B; Has a traditional PC style layout with Type A 3.0 USB, Type A 2.0 USB, Micro USB 2.0, Mini HDMI ports. In contrast Surface has a single USB-C port.
Surface Go vs Flex 10B Accessories
When extending the capabilities of the device we can start to acknowledge the differences between the Flex & Surface.
Accessories Common To Both Devices
Note: May be different part numbers in each case.
- Detachable keyboard.
- Type cover keyboard support kit.
- Payment Module for a variety of leading Chip and PIN brands.
- Magnetic stripe reader – due Q4 2020.
- Intel RealSense Depth 3D camera and mount.
- Screen protectors: Glass/ Anti-shock/ Anti-glare.
- Variety of mounting solutions through the snap mount.
- Fork-lift and vehicle power kits.
- Customisation of client logo on hand strap and screen protector.
Surface Go 2 Only
- Integral Barcode Scanner
- Active Surface Pen
Who Comes Out on Top?
The processor and communications options on Surface Go 2 are quicker, the device connects to 4G, which could be useful to those who are on the go and working in multiple locations. It also has longer battery life. Surface also has a larger and higher resolution display which means a better quality of image. If you’re working in the outdoors with the sun shining down maybe the Surface Go 2 would be a better option?
But ! Flex 10B has a lower initial cost and if you need an array of USB ports it may well be the device for you. Note there is an Android version as well!
If you would like to find out more about the Surface Go 2 or Flex 10B, speak to one of our experts today. We’re happy to offer any guidance and support when choosing the best device to meet your needs.
