The Google Pixelbook Go is a highly anticipated update to the original Pixelbook, and it’s clear that Google has made significant improvements in various areas. As a premium Chrome OS laptop, the Pixelbook Go offers an impressive combination of performance, battery life, and features, making it an attractive option for users who need a compact device for work or play.

Design and Display

The Pixelbook Go retains its predecessor’s sleek and lightweight design, but with some notable changes. The new model is available in two sizes: 13-inch (Pixelbook Go) and 14-inch (Pixelbook Go with i5 processor). Both versions feature a durable aluminum body and a robust hinge that allows for comfortable typing and viewing angles.

The display on the Pixelbook Go is one of its strongest assets. The PixelSense touchscreen boasts a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, which provides crisp and vibrant visuals. Colors are accurate, and the screen’s brightness is suitable for indoor use, although it may struggle in extremely bright environments. For added protection, the display features Gorilla Glass 3.

Performance

The Pixelbook Go is powered by Intel’s latest Core i5 or Core i7 processors, depending on your configuration choice. The former provides a more budget-friendly option with 8GB of RAM and 64GB of eMMC storage, while the latter offers improved performance with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of SSD storage.

For general tasks such as web browsing, email, and document editing, the Pixelbook Go performs admirably. However, demanding applications like video editing or gaming may require some patience due to the device’s limitations. Google has also included a dedicated Trusted Platform Module (TPM) for added security features like Chrome OS’ built-in virus protection.

Battery Life

One of the key selling points of the Pixelbook Go is its impressive battery life. According to Google, users can expect up to 12 hours of web browsing or 10 hours of video playback on a single charge. In our testing, we achieved around 11-12 hours of mixed usage, which is still quite respectable.

Connectivity and Ports

The Pixelbook Go features a generous selection of ports, including two USB-C ports with support for Power Delivery and DisplayPort, and a headphone jack. The device also supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.0 for seamless connectivity.

Camera and Audio

The Pixelbook Go boasts an improved front-facing camera with 1080p resolution and 60fps video recording capabilities. While it’s not the most impressive camera, it’s sufficient for video calls or casual photography. On the rear, you’ll find a single 8-megapixel camera that captures decent photos in good lighting conditions.

For audio enthusiasts, the Pixelbook Go features dual speakers with Google’s proprietary Smart Sound technology, providing an immersive listening experience.

Google Assistant and Android Apps

One of the unique selling points of the Pixelbook Go is its seamless integration with Google Assistant. Users can easily access information, set reminders, and control their smart home devices using voice commands. Additionally, the device supports a wide range of Android apps through the Google Play Store, allowing users to enjoy their favorite mobile games and productivity tools on a larger screen.

Conclusion

The Google Pixelbook Go is a formidable Chrome OS laptop that checks most of the right boxes. Its compact design, impressive display, and robust performance make it an excellent option for users who need a lightweight device for everyday tasks or on-the-go productivity.

While it may not be the best choice for demanding applications or gaming enthusiasts, the Pixelbook Go is an attractive alternative to traditional laptops or tablets. With its competitive pricing starting at $649 (base model) and going up to $1,399 (high-end configuration), the Pixelbook Go is definitely worth considering for those in search of a reliable and feature-packed portable device.

Technical Specifications:

• Processor: Intel Core i5 or Core i7
• RAM: 8GB or 16GB
• Storage: 64GB eMMC or 256GB SSD
• Display: 13.3-inch (Pixelbook Go) or 14-inch (Pixelbook Go with i5 processor), PixelSense touchscreen, 1920 x 1080 pixels
• Battery Life: Up to 12 hours web browsing or 10 hours video playback
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C (with Power Delivery and DisplayPort support)
• Camera: Front-facing 1080p camera with 60fps video recording, Rear-facing 8-megapixel camera
• Operating System: Chrome OS