Can You Get Apps On Microsoft Surface Go Full Guide

Yes, you can get apps on Microsoft Surface Go. The device runs full Windows 10 or Windows 11, giving you access to the Microsoft Store and millions of desktop applications. Whether you need productivity tools, creative software, or entertainment apps, your Surface Go can handle them all with a few simple steps.

Key Takeaways

• Full Windows Compatibility: The Surface Go runs complete Windows 10 or Windows 11, so you can install almost any desktop app available for the platform.
• Microsoft Store Access: You get direct access to the Microsoft Store with thousands of apps designed specifically for touch-screen devices.
• Desktop Apps Work Too: Unlike tablets with restricted operating systems, the Surface Go supports full desktop programs like Microsoft Office, Chrome, and Spotify.
• Some Limitations Exist: Certain heavy-duty apps and games may not run smoothly due to the device’s hardware constraints and ARM processor variants.
• Easy Installation Process: Getting apps on your Surface Go is straightforward through the Store, direct downloads, or third-party sources.
• Optimization Tips Help: Following a few simple tips can improve app performance and make the most of your device’s capabilities.

Can You Get Apps On Microsoft Surface Go? Here Is Everything You Need To Know

If you own a Microsoft Surface Go or are thinking about buying one, you probably have one big question. Can you actually get apps on it? The short answer is yes. The longer answer is even more exciting. The Surface Go is not a limited tablet. It is a full Windows device that gives you access to a massive world of software. Whether you use the Surface Go for work, school, or fun, you will find that the app options are surprisingly wide.

Many people assume that because the Surface Go is small and lightweight, it must have limited app support. That is a common misconception. The device runs the same operating system as larger Surface devices and traditional laptops. This means you get the full Windows experience. You can browse the web, edit documents, watch videos, play games, and much more. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about getting apps on your Microsoft Surface Go. We will cover where to find them, how to install them, and what to watch out for.

Understanding The Surface Go Operating System

Before diving into apps, it helps to understand what makes the Surface Go tick. The device runs either Windows 10 Home or Windows 11 Home, depending on the model and configuration you choose. This is important because it determines what kind of apps you can run. Unlike iPadOS or ChromeOS, Windows gives you a full desktop environment. You are not locked into a walled garden of apps.

Windows 10 vs Windows 11 On The Surface Go

Older Surface Go models come with Windows 10. Newer ones ship with Windows 11. Both operating systems support a huge library of applications. The main difference is the user interface and some new features in Windows 11. But when it comes to app compatibility, both are very similar. You can install the same apps on either version. The process is nearly identical too.

Intel vs ARM Processors

Here is something worth knowing. Some Surface Go models use Intel processors. Others use ARM-based chips. Intel models run virtually all desktop apps without issues. ARM models are more energy efficient but may have compatibility issues with some older applications. If you are buying a new Surface Go, the Intel version gives you the widest app support. However, Microsoft is constantly improving ARM compatibility, so the gap is shrinking fast.

Where To Find Apps For Your Surface Go

Now that you know the Surface Go can run apps, let us talk about where to find them. There are several sources for Surface Go software. Each has its own strengths. Let us break them down so you know exactly where to look.

The Microsoft Store

The Microsoft Store is the built-in app marketplace for Windows. It is the easiest and safest way to download apps for your Surface Go. You can browse by category, search for specific apps, and read reviews before installing. The store includes both universal apps and traditional desktop programs.

Some popular categories in the Microsoft Store include:

• Productivity: Microsoft Office, Notion, Evernote, and Trello
• Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok
• Entertainment: Netflix, Spotify, YouTube, and Hulu
• Utilities: VLC Media Player, Zoom, and Slack
• Games: Candy Crush, Minecraft, and various casual titles

Direct Download From Websites

Because the Surface Go runs full Windows, you can also download apps directly from developer websites. This is how you get programs like Google Chrome, Adobe Reader, and Discord. Simply visit the official website of the app you want, download the installer, and run it. The process is just like installing software on any other Windows PC.

Third-Party App Stores

There are also third-party sources for downloading apps on Surface Go. Sites like Softpedia, FileHippo, and MajorGeeks offer safe downloads of popular software. Just be careful and only use trusted sources. Avoid sketchy websites that might bundle unwanted software or malware with their downloads.

Best Apps For The Microsoft Surface Go

Not all apps are created equal when it comes to the Surface Go. Because the device has a smaller screen and sometimes limited processing power, some apps work better than others. Here are some of the best Surface Go apps that we recommend.

Productivity Apps

If you are using your Surface Go for work or study, these apps will make your life much easier:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Word, Excel, and PowerPoint all run beautifully on the Surface Go. They are optimized for touch input and the smaller screen.
• Microsoft Edge: The built-in browser is fast, lightweight, and supports all the extensions you need.
• Google Chrome: A great alternative browser with excellent sync across devices.
• OneNote: Perfect for taking notes with the Surface Pen or your fingers.
• Zoom: Video conferencing works smoothly on the Surface Go for meetings and classes.

Entertainment Apps

The Surface Go is a great media consumption device. These apps make the most of its display:

• Netflix: Stream your favorite shows in high definition.
• Spotify: Listen to music or podcasts on the go.
• YouTube: Watch videos with the touch-friendly interface.
• Kindle App: Read books on a bright, crisp display.
• Disney Plus: Enjoy your favorite movies and series.

Creative Apps

If you are into creative work, the Surface Go supports some impressive tools:

• Adobe Photoshop Express: A lighter version of Photoshop that works well on the Surface Go.
• Paint 3D: A fun built-in tool for simple 3D creations.
• Procreate (via workaround): Some artists use remote desktop solutions to run Procreate on their Surface Go.
• Canva: Great for designing social media posts and presentations.

How To Install Apps On Your Surface Go

Getting apps onto your Microsoft Surface Go is simple. There are a few different methods depending on where the app comes from. Let us walk through each one.

Method 1: Installing From The Microsoft Store

This is the easiest method. Open the Microsoft Store app from your taskbar. Use the search bar to find the app you want. Click on the app listing, then hit the Install or Get button. The app will download and install automatically. Once it is done, you can find it in your Start menu. This method is the safest because all apps in the Microsoft Store are verified by Microsoft.

Method 2: Installing Desktop Apps From Websites

For apps not in the Microsoft Store, you need to download them directly. Visit the official website of the software you want. Look for the download button. Save the installer file to your computer. Then double-click the file to run the installer. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation. This method gives you access to the full range of Windows desktop applications.

Method 3: Using The Winget Command Line Tool

Windows 11 includes a powerful tool called Winget. It lets you install apps from the command line. Open the Terminal or Command Prompt and type a command like winget install [app name]. The tool will find the app and install it for you. This is a great option for tech-savvy users who prefer a faster, more streamlined approach to installing multiple apps.

Method 4: Sideloading Apps

Advanced users can sideload apps by enabling developer mode in Windows settings. This allows you to install apps from outside the Microsoft Store. However, this method is not recommended for most users. It can pose security risks if you are not careful about where you get the app files from.

Limitations And Things To Watch Out For

The Surface Go is a versatile device, but it is not without limitations. Being aware of these helps you set realistic expectations and make the most of your device.

Performance With Heavy Apps

The Surface Go is a compact device. It has limited RAM and processing power compared to full-sized laptops. Heavy applications like video editing software or 3D modeling tools may run slowly or not at all on lower-end models. If you need to run demanding software, consider getting a model with more RAM and an Intel Core processor.

ARM Compatibility Issues

ARM-based Surface Go models have improved a lot over the years. However, some older desktop applications still do not work on ARM processors. Before downloading an app, check if it is compatible with ARM64 architecture. Most modern apps have been updated to support ARM, but legacy software may still have issues.

Screen Size And App Layouts

The Surface Go has a 10.5-inch or 11-inch display. Some desktop apps are designed for larger screens. You might find that certain apps look cramped or have tiny interface elements on the smaller display. Many apps now support scaling and responsive layouts, but older programs may not adapt as well.

Storage Space

Base models of the Surface Go come with 64GB of storage. That fills up fast when you start installing multiple apps. Consider using cloud storage for files and only keeping essential apps installed locally. You can also use a microSD card to expand storage capacity.

Tips To Get The Most Out Of Apps On Your Surface Go

Want your apps to run better on the Surface Go? Here are some practical tips that make a real difference.

Keep Windows Updated

Regular Windows updates include performance improvements and security patches. They also help ensure better app compatibility. Go to Settings and check for updates frequently. Keeping your system current is one of the simplest ways to maintain smooth app performance.

Close Unused Apps

The Surface Go has limited memory compared to larger devices. If you have many apps running at the same time, performance can suffer. Get in the habit of closing apps you are not using. Use the Task Manager to see which apps are consuming the most resources and close the ones you do not need.

Use Touch-Optimized Apps When Possible

The Microsoft Surface Go shines as a touch-screen device. Apps designed with touch interfaces in mind will feel much more natural to use. Look for apps labeled as touch-friendly or universal Windows apps in the Microsoft Store. These are specifically designed to work well on smaller, touch-screen devices.

Adjust Display Scaling

If apps look too small or too large on your screen, adjust the display scaling settings. Go to Settings, then Display, and change the scale and layout percentage. A scaling setting of 125% or 150% often works best for the Surface Go’s display. This makes text and interface elements easier to read and interact with.

Use Cloud Storage

Since storage space is limited, take advantage of cloud services. OneDrive, Google Drive, and Dropbox all have excellent apps for the Surface Go. Store your files in the cloud and access them whenever you need them. This frees up local storage for apps and keeps your device running smoothly.

Restart Your Device Regularly

A simple restart can work wonders for app performance. It clears temporary files, refreshes system memory, and closes background processes that might be slowing things down. Try restarting your Surface Go at least once a week for the best experience.

Surface Go Vs Other Tablets For App Access

How does the Surface Go compare to other popular tablets when it comes to apps? Let us look at a quick comparison.

Feature	Microsoft Surface Go	Apple iPad	Samsung Galaxy Tab
Operating System	Windows 10/11	iPadOS	Android
App Store	Microsoft Store + Desktop Apps	App Store	Google Play Store
Desktop App Support	Yes, full support	Limited	Limited
Touch Optimization	Good	Excellent	Excellent
App Compatibility	Very High	High (App Store only)	High (Play Store only)
Price Range	Starting around $400	Starting around $330	Starting around $200

The Surface Go stands out because it offers the most open app ecosystem. You are not restricted to a single app store. You can install apps from the Microsoft Store, download them from websites, and even run full desktop programs. This flexibility is a major advantage over iPadOS and Android tablets, which are more locked down.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Installing Apps

To keep your Surface Go running smoothly, avoid these common mistakes.

1. Downloading from untrusted sources: Only download apps from official websites or the Microsoft Store. Third-party sites can sometimes bundle malware with their downloads.
2. Ignoring system requirements: Check the system requirements before installing any app. Some desktop apps need more RAM or processing power than the Surface Go can provide.
3. Installing too many apps at once: Cramming your device with apps slows it down. Install only what you need and use cloud services for the rest.
4. Skipping updates: Outdated apps can have security vulnerabilities and performance issues. Keep all your apps updated for the best experience.
5. Not checking ARM compatibility: If you have an ARM-based Surface Go, verify that apps work with ARM64 before downloading them.

Expert Insights On Surface Go App Usage

According to tech experts, the Surface Go is one of the most versatile 2-in-1 devices in its price range. The ability to run full desktop applications sets it apart from most tablets in the same category. Users who need a portable device for light work, browsing, and media consumption will find the app ecosystem more than sufficient.

However, experts also caution that the Surface Go is not meant to replace a high-performance laptop. If your workflow depends on resource-heavy applications like video rendering or complex data analysis, you may find the device limiting. For everyday tasks and most common applications, the Surface Go delivers a smooth and satisfying experience.

One tip from seasoned Surface Go users: Invest in a good keyboard cover and the Surface Pen. These accessories transform the device from a tablet into a productive workstation. Combined with the right apps, you get a surprisingly capable machine for work and play alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Download Any App On The Microsoft Surface Go?

Almost any app designed for Windows can be installed on the Surface Go. The device runs full Windows 10 or Windows 11, which supports a vast library of desktop applications. However, some heavy-duty apps may not run well due to hardware limitations. Always check the app’s system requirements before downloading.

Is The Microsoft Store The Only Way To Get Apps?

No, the Microsoft Store is not the only way. You can download apps directly from developer websites and install them just like on any Windows PC. You can also use the Winget command line tool or third-party sources. The Surface Go gives you the freedom to install apps from multiple sources.

Do All Apps Work On The ARM Version Of The Surface Go?

Most modern apps work on ARM-based Surface Go models. Microsoft has made significant progress in improving ARM compatibility. However, some older or specialized desktop applications may not be compatible with ARM64 architecture. Always check the developer’s website for ARM support details before installing.

Can You Play Games On The Microsoft Surface Go?

Yes, you can play games on the Surface Go. The Microsoft Store has many casual games available. You can also download PC games from platforms like Steam. However, the Surface Go is not designed for demanding AAA games. Lightweight and mid-tier games will run well, but very graphically intensive titles may struggle.

How Much Storage Do You Need For Apps On The Surface Go?

The base model comes with 64GB of storage, which can fill up quickly with multiple apps. For a comfortable experience with several apps installed, 128GB or more is recommended. You can also use a microSD card or cloud storage to manage space effectively.

Are There Free Apps Available For The Surface Go?

Yes, many apps in the Microsoft Store are completely free. Popular free apps include Microsoft Edge, OneNote, Spotify (with ads), and various social media apps. You can also find free versions of paid software or free trials that let you test apps before committing to a purchase.

Conclusion

The answer to can you get apps on Microsoft Surface Go is a resounding yes. This little device punches well above its weight when it comes to app support. With access to the Microsoft Store, full desktop application compatibility, and the ability to download from the web, the Surface Go offers one of the most flexible app ecosystems in the tablet category.

Whether you need productivity tools, entertainment apps, creative software, or games, the Surface Go has you covered. Just keep the tips and guidelines from this guide in mind. Choose apps that suit the device’s capabilities, keep your system updated, and manage your storage wisely.

The Microsoft Surface Go is a fantastic device for anyone who wants a portable, versatile, and app-rich computing experience. Now that you know exactly how to get apps on your Surface Go, you are ready to make the most of it. Explore the Microsoft Store, try out new programs, and discover just how much this little device can do.