Microsoft Surface Laptop GovsAcer Chromebook Vero 514

We compare these two popular phones to help you decide which one fits your needs and budget better.

Microsoft
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go
Surface Laptop Go

Quick Stats

The Microsoft Surface Laptop Go's mediocre performance is its most notable and disappointing drawback overall.
The Surface Laptop Go's build is a mixed bag, prioritizing affordability over premium feel and quality.
The Microsoft Surface Laptop Go's standout feature is its high-quality display with good color accuracy and brightness.
The Microsoft Surface Laptop Go has a metal lid, deck, and USB-C ports, with no Thunderbolt 3.
Acer
Acer Chromebook Vero 514
Chromebook Vero 514

Quick Stats

The Acer Chromebook Vero 514 offers rapid and satisfying performance with its 12th gen Intel Core i7 processor inside.
The Acer Chromebook Vero 514 boasts a firm and reassuring textured all-plastic exterior with sustainable build features prominently.
The Acer Chromebook Vero 514's display is decent, covering 100% of the sRGB color space, though not exceptional overall.
The Acer Chromebook Vero 514 features a powerful 12th-gen Intel Core i7 processor and up to 16GB of RAM.
Key Differences

No significant specification differences found between these devices.

Rank
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go
Winner
#733
Acer Chromebook Vero 514
#736
Scores by Category
Rankings
Connectivity
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go
#835
Acer Chromebook Vero 514
#432
Winner
Display
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go
#532
Acer Chromebook Vero 514
#475
Winner
Performance
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go
#812
Acer Chromebook Vero 514
#721
Winner
Build
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go
#78
Winner
Acer Chromebook Vero 514
#129
Features
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go
#588
Winner
Acer Chromebook Vero 514
#663

Note: Lower rank number indicates a better position in category.

Specifications Comparison
Specification
Microsoft Microsoft Surface Laptop Go
Acer Acer Chromebook Vero 514
up to 16GB
up to 16GB
up to 512GB SSD
up to 256GB SSD
Intel Core i5-1035G1
Intel Core i7-1255U
Intel UHD Graphics G1
Intel UHD Graphics Xe G4 (48EU)

Note: Highlighted specifications show differences between the two devices.

Pros and Cons

Microsoft Surface Laptop Go

Strengths

The Surface Laptop Go has a unique aspect ratio that makes its display feel bigger than it really is.
The laptop's compact size, with a 12.45-inch screen, is easy to carry around and fits perfectly in a bag.
Despite reducing the price point, Microsoft still used high-quality materials, such as metal lids and decks.
The keyboard experience is just as good as on the Surface Laptop 3, with amazing typing quality.
Battery life is exceptional, lasting over 12 hours before needing to charge.
Fan noise is low, never exceeding 45 decibels even at best performance.
The laptop's sound comes through the keyboard, providing decent audio quality.
The Surface Laptop Go is a special product in its own category of 12-inch laptops with a unique aspect ratio.

Weaknesses

The base model with 4GB RAM and 64GB EMCC slow storage is not adequate for Windows performance.
The touchpad feels too quick and inaccurate, especially compared to the Surface Laptop 3.
There's no fingerprint sensor on the base model, requiring an upgrade to get it.
Windows Hello facial recognition and a higher resolution webcam are missing from this laptop.
Performance is conservative, not pushing as much as an ultrabook would.
The display is not as pixel-dense as the Surface Laptop 3, with around 140 ppi.
You can't upgrade anything inside the laptop, including RAM or storage.
There's better value to performance out there if you're looking for specs and speed.

Acer Chromebook Vero 514

Strengths

The textured all-plastic build feels different and unique, with a reassuring firmness to it.
The laptop's weight is about as expected at just under 1.49 kg (3.28 lb), making it very slightly heavier than recent 14-inch Chromebooks.
The Chromebook Plus update means you get a full HD camera, extra lighting, and background blur controls.
Performance is rapid with the 12th gen Core i7 processor, and everyday browsing, Android apps, and Linux programs ran great.
Battery life seems good, with up to 8 hours of mixed use before needing a charge, and fast charging capabilities.
The laptop can run extended displays on multiple monitors and use its own screen as a third display if needed.
The speakers get fairly loud when on a flat surface like a desk, even if they lack richness in the sound.
The laptop's design is unique and visually appealing, making it stand out from other Chromebooks.

Weaknesses

The brightness of the screen may be lower than claimed at up to 300 nits, although it's still fine for indoor use.
The webcam has a manual privacy slider due to meeting the Chromebook Plus spec, but this can be seen as a slight drawback.
Some models may have an optional fingerprint reader on the keyboard deck, which could be inconvenient if not included.
The plastic touchpad is made from Ocean-bound plastic and feels smooth, but some users may find it lacking in tactile feedback.
The laptop's clamshell design means it can't lie flat like convertible Chromebooks, which might be a drawback for some users.
Fan noise and heat were not significant issues during use with the Intel Core i7 processor.
Real Racing 3 did not display correctly on this Chromebook, although other apps ran smoothly.
The speakers' sound quality could benefit from more richness and bass, but they are still fairly loud.
Read Full Reviews

Microsoft Surface Laptop Go

The Microsoft Surface Laptop Go is an intriguing device that sparks debate among tech enthusiasts. While some argue that its four gigabyte model with 64GB storage is underpowered, others appreciate its compact design and value proposition. With a unique 3x2 aspect ratio display and familiar surface ports, this laptop promises to deliver a premium experience despite its modest specs. Is it worth considering for those seeking a smaller, budget-friendly Surface product? This review will delve into the pros and cons of this device, helping readers make an informed decision about its place in their tech arsenal.

Acer Chromebook Vero 514

The Acer Chromebook Vero 514 is a unique 14-inch clamshell laptop that launched in late 2022 and now benefits from the Chromebook Plus update. This eco-friendly device boasts 30% post-consumer recycled plastics, making it an attractive option for those who prioritize sustainability. With its textured plastic build, firm chassis, and impressive specs, this Chromebook is sure to turn heads. In this review, we'll delve into its features, performance, and design to see if it's a viable choice for users in 2024.

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