This slim and compact computer would likely suit a student or similar user who values portability and doesn't need heavyweight processing power (or a heavyweight price tag).

But wireless connectivity includes Bluetooth 5.1 and Wi-Fi 6, and you can expect all-day battery life. Connection ports are limited though, with just one USB Type-C port (non-Thunderbolt) and one Type-A port, plus the magnetically-attached Surface Connect power port.

Performance is good for a lightweight and relatively low-cost laptop – the screen, full-size keyboard and large trackpad are all good, and audio output is surprisingly impressive. We tried out the $1299 upper-end model, courtesy of Microsoft, featuring an 11th-generation Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM and 256GB SSD, and found it to be a capable yet compact everyday carry. Weighing just over 1kg, this 12.4-inch touchscreen notebook with traditional clamshell casing is the entry-point for the Surface Laptop range both in price and features.

If you're travelling light, you'll appreciate Microsoft's ultra-compact Surface Laptop Go 2, which puts the emphasis on portability for go-everywhere convenience.

Microsoft surface go 2 i5