New 15-inch Surface Book 2 configuration available sporting an Intel Core i5
What you need to know
- A new Core i5 configuration of the Surface Book 2 is available.
- It lowers the entry price of the 15-inch Surface Book 2 by $500.
- It uses Intel's integrated graphics rather than discrete graphics.
The Surface Book 2 is a unique convertible laptop thanks to its ability to have the screen detach from the laptop base and function as a tablet. Now, a new configuration of the convertible laptop is available from Best Buy (via Neowin).
The new configuration uses an Intel Core i5-8350U processor rather than the Core i7 chip that was already available on other models. It comes with 16GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD. The Core i5 variant of the Surface Book 2 is $500 cheaper than the previous cheapest version of the 15-inch Surface Book 2.
A notable difference between this version and its more expensive siblings is that it comes with Intel's integrated graphics rather than discrete graphics. This helps the price stay lower but comes at the cost of having less power.
The option to have a 15-inch version at a lower price point means that consumers have the option to get the form factor of a larger Surface Book without having to pay for discrete graphics and a core i7 processor.
The most versatile a laptop can be
The Microsoft Surface Book 2 is the best convertible you can buy thanks to its laptop-first form factor, along with its detachable display turning it into a great tablet for inking.
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Surface Precision Mouse ($77 at Amazon)
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Surface Pen (From $72 at Amazon)
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Surface Dock ($136 at Amazon)
With two Mini DisplayPorts, four USB-A 3.0 ports, an Ethernet port, and a 3.5mm audio jack, this dock gives you the ports you need to stay connected to all your favorite devices. Plus, it easily turns your Surface into a desktop power hub. We highly recommend it.
Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.