Microsoft Stops Support For Four-Year-Old Surface Device

Microsoft has officially concluded support for the most affordable option in the Surface series, the Surface Laptop Go, just four years after its launch. While users can still upgrade to Windows 11 24H2, the device will no longer receive any new firmware or driver updates, although it will continue to receive security updates.

The first-generation Surface Laptop Go stands out not only as an economical choice but as an exceptionally budget-friendly laptop. Back in 2020, it was introduced at a price of just $550—achievable due to its limited RAM, small storage capacity, and relatively low-resolution display.

Critics frequently commented on the laptop’s constrained specifications, particularly its 4GB of RAM, which struggled to run Windows 10 or Windows 11 seamlessly. Nevertheless, it found a niche market among those with very tight budgets, making the cessation of support particularly disappointing.

A four-year servicing period for drivers and firmware is not entirely unprecedented for laptops, although it falls short of the average six years. For Windows-based Surface products, devices released prior to January 1, 2021, receive a minimum of four years of updates, whereas those launched after that date are guaranteed at least six years of support.

This implies that if you own a Surface Laptop Go 2 or Surface Laptop Go 3, your device will continue to receive updates until 2028 and 2029, respectively.

Consumers who purchased the original Surface Laptop Go were likely aware they were investing in a device with minimal specifications. However, many probably did not realize they’d be tied to a similarly minimal support timeframe. Not every laptop user anticipates needing an upgrade every four to five years, especially considering that with proper care, these machines can remain functional for up to a decade.

With support ending, any issues or bugs that arise due to the disparity between the outdated firmware and newer Windows updates may leave Surface Laptop Go users without assistance. Hopefully, they will still enjoy a few more years of decent performance from their devices before feeling compelled to upgrade.