Should I buy a used Surface Go 2 or Lenovo Duet 5?

The choice mostly comes down to Windows compatibility vs. portability and battery life.

• Buy the Surface Go 2 if you need full Windows for desktop apps, local file management, or a more traditional PC experience. It’s also the smaller, more compact option.
• Buy the Lenovo Duet 5 if most of your use is web-based, streaming, or light productivity. It’s the larger device and is generally the better pick for media use and longer unplugged sessions.

Key differences

• Operating system: The Surface Go 2 runs Windows. The Duet 5 runs ChromeOS, which is great for web apps and lighter workloads, but it’s not the same as having a full Windows laptop.
• Screen & portability: The Duet 5 has a larger OLED display on many configurations, which is nice for video and split-screen use. The Surface Go 2 is smaller and easier to carry.
• Battery life: The Duet 5 is generally the stronger choice if battery matters. Real-world battery life can vary a lot with brightness, workload, and battery wear on a used unit, but it should usually outlast the Surface Go 2.

My take

If you need a tiny Windows machine, get the Surface Go 2. If you want the better all-around device for casual use, media, and longer unplugged sessions, get the Duet 5.

When buying used, check the condition of the battery and whether the keyboard/charger are included, since that can change the value a lot. Also verify the exact configuration, because features and accessories can vary by listing.