Microsoft Surface Studio 2 (2018)

Better GPU options than before ; Screen is still gorgeous ; Its unique screen hinge is still unmatched ; Faster storage

CPU could be more modern ; No GTX 1080 ; No Thunderbolt 3 for external GPUs

So is the Surface Studio 2 worth it? For a certain type of creative consumer, one who demands a flexible display and powerful hardware, it could be. But at the very least, it's an easier sell than before.

Exceptional design, build quality, The best screen we’ve ever tested, Great graphics performance, Super-fast SSD, Starts at 16GB of RAM

Overpriced for an older processor, Niche appeal

The Surface Studio 2 is meant for a very specific group of people, namely creative professionals who’ve been dissuaded by Apple’s recent moves. Though it looks the same on the outside, the updated components and display make for a much-improved overall...

Elegant all-in-one digital creation solution. Snappy performance. Super-thin, spectacular display that reclines. Accurate touch input for art/design work. USB-C support. Bundled Surface Pen.

Expensive. CPU could be beefier, considering separated base. Video out via USB-C, not a dedicated port.

Microsoft's Surface Studio 2 is a beautiful, pricey all-in-one desktop for artists, content creators, and professionals wedded to pen input. It packs components peppier than the original's, and a downright stunning screen.

Gorgeous, bright high-resolution display, Fast performance, Can run modern AAA games with ease, Compact footprint with built-in support for pen input

Has a generation-old laptop processor, High price tag, No Thunderbolt 3 support, Limited upgradeability options

But overall, it’s really hard to not instantly want a Surface Studio 2 from the first time you sit down in front of it. It’s a visually stunning, highly capable desktop computer with a versatility you won’t find anywhere else. I can use it to write,...

Do you need the Microsoft Surface Studio 2 for your day-to-day work? Probably not, unless you’re a serious multimedia professional. Even then, you’ll have to make a critical choice between the Mac and Windows ecosystem, and for some people, that’s a...

High-definition display with 3:2 aspect ratio ; 'Zero gravity hinge' with drawing-board mode ; Surface Pen included ; Stronger CPU, GPU and SSD performance

Expensive ; Only one CPU option available ; Limited build-to-order options ; No expansion slots

Fantastic, high-resolution display ; Great-looking and versatile design ; Intuitive, accurate stylus

Outdated components ; Extremely expensive ; Mediocre peripherals

The Microsoft Surface Studio 2 has one of the best displays on the market. Combine that with the versatile stand and stylus and you’ve got a stylish PC that’s ideal for creative workloads. Older components mean more power is available elsewhere,...