Samsung

Samsung Galaxy Book Go: The laptop that tests your patience

Samsung Galaxy Book Go appears to be a standard Windows laptop, but it lacks the essential features, despite its quite reasonable price.

Published

3 days ago

August 18, 2025

Shahbaz Ashraf

The Samsung Galaxy Book Go can be likened to a mischievous toddler who tests the patience of the babysitter through acts of disobedience. Prior to my review of this device, which I find quite intriguing, it was handled by our laboratory tester, and it posed significant challenges during its testing.

Our laboratory tester expressed disappointment that nearly all applications necessitating an additional download failed to operate due to the use of a nonstandard processor. During the evaluation, the Galaxy Book Go, equipped with a Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 ARM CPU, experienced multiple crashes.

I encountered a sense of frustration, comparable to a parent disheartened by a negative report from a teacher regarding their child, feeling compelled to exclaim “Shame on you!” towards the Samsung laptop for its inconsistent performance.

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Samsung Galaxy Book Go: Specs

Price	$349
Processor	Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c Gen 2
GPU	Qualcomm Adreno GPU
RAM	4GB
Storage	128GB
Display	14-inch, 1920 x 1080
Battery	12:49
Dimensions	12.8 x 8.9 x 0.6 inches
Weight	3.2 pounds

Samsung Galaxy Book Go: Design

The chassis features a Mystic Silver finish, with a shiny, sparkling Samsung logo positioned on the center-left of the lid.

Open the lid, and the display exudes outdated design with thick bezels and a large chin. It features an island-style keyboard with white characters on black keys. I pressed down on the deck to check its durability; it has some flex, but it’s not alarming. Overall, the laptop feels inexpensive, particularly the keyboard and touchpad, but given the $349 price, this is expected.

The display is capable of being rotated flat due to the 180-degree hinge. This feature may prove advantageous for energetic, boundary-testing children who enjoy exploring the extent to which a display can bend. The design of the Galaxy Book Go is exceedingly simple; I am uncertain as to how I managed to formulate more than ten words to describe it.

Samsung Galaxy Book Go: Ports

On the left side, you’ll see a USB Type-C port, a headset jack, and a microSD card slot, which is really handy for extra storage. The 128GB of internal storage in the Galaxy Book Go can fill up faster than you might expect.

After downloading Google Chrome, I was surprised to find that half of the space was already taken up—probably because Windows occupies a significant amount of it. Before long, those “Low Disk Space” warnings might start popping up. While you can’t upgrade the internal storage, adding an SD card with up to 1TB can help expand your storage easily.

On the right side, you’ll find another USB Type-C port, a USB 2.0 port, and a Kensington lock slot, making it convenient to connect your devices and secure your valuable equipment.

Samsung Galaxy Book Go: Display

The Samsung Galaxy Book Go features a 14-inch LED display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The colors of the panel may appear subdued, reminiscent of a faded graphic T-shirt. However, it is important to consider that this device is priced below $400, which should temper expectations.

The display seems to give off cooler tones than a typical 1080p screen, creating a slightly different viewing experience. While the sharpness is adequate, the low brightness level results in a less crisp image. If meticulousness regarding having a premium display is not a priority—particularly considering the budget-oriented nature of the laptop—the Galaxy Book Go’s screen is suitable for streaming content on platforms such as Netflix and YouTube.

The Samsung laptop has a quite subdued screen, with an average brightness of just 201 nits. That’s a bit lower compared to some other devices, like the budget laptop at 225 nits, the Ultra Slim Notebook at 246 nits, the Chromebook Detachable CM3 at 386 nits, and the Surface Go 2 at 408 nits. It’s something to keep in mind if you prefer a brighter display.

As I expected, the Galaxy Book Go’s DCI-P3 color gamut coverage stands at just 42%, which is quite limited. It’s a bit lower than the typical budget laptop at 45%, and even below the Ultra Slim Notebook at 48%. In comparison, the Surface Go 2 offers a much richer 76%, and the Chromebook detachable CM3 shines with 94%.

Samsung Galaxy Book Go: Keyboard

The Galaxy Book Go’s island-style keyboard has a bit limited key travel, but I still found myself typing as smoothly as a pianist performing on stage. Although the keys seem inexpensive, they are responsive and provide good tactile feedback. During a typing test on 10FastFingers.com, I achieved 90 words per minute with a 99.7% accuracy, surpassing my usual 87 wpm average.

Incidentally, this keyboard lacks backlighting; therefore, unless you possess night vision capabilities, you will need to strain your eyes significantly in low-light conditions.

The 3 x 4.7-inch touchpad is a stubborn devil. If it could talk, it’d probably say “No!” as the cursor often refuses to respond to gestures. After frantic swipes, it moves again, as if it’s saying, “I’ll move when I want!” When responsive, it’s like a slow three-year-old struggling to keep up.

Samsung Galaxy Book Go: Performance

With a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 CPU and 4GB of RAM, it struggled a bit when I had many Chrome tabs open. Even opening a new Google Docs document to test multitasking, it lagged quite a bit—reminding me of those busy, cluttered MySpace pages from way back in 2006.

Disregard the 30 tabs. I have encountered performance slowdowns while using Chrome with a single tab. Presently, Windows-on-ARM devices support only the 32-bit version of Chrome, which operates via a Microsoft x86 emulator. With the emulator functioning as an intermediary, I observed some decline in performance. For instance, when I attempted to run the 10FastFingers.com test on Chrome, the system experienced significant lag.

If you’re a Chrome enthusiast, I hate to tell you, but the Galaxy Book Go isn’t designed for you. You’ll need to use Microsoft Edge or Mozilla Firefox, both of which have native versions for Windows-on-ARM devices.

When conducting the Geekbench 5.4 performance evaluation, the Samsung Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 processor achieved a score of 1,653, equivalent to the average score of budget laptops. The Galaxy Book Go also surpassed the Surface Go 2’s Intel Core m3-8100Y CPU, which scored 1,617, as well as the Chromebook Detachable CM3’s MediaTek 8183 processor, with a score of 1,412. However, it was unable to contend with the Gateway’s Intel Core i5-1035G1 CPU, which scored 3,369.

Samsung Galaxy Book Go: Battery

The Galaxy Book Go finally has an opportunity to demonstrate its qualities after experiencing considerable setbacks during this review — its battery life is remarkably impressive. This outcome was anticipated, however, as the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 chip is renowned for its energy efficiency.

The Samsung laptop pleasantly surprised us with an impressive battery life of 12 hours and 49 minutes during the Laptop Mag battery test, which involves continuous web browsing over Wi-Fi at 150 nits of brightness. Not only did the Galaxy Book Go outperform the average budget laptop (8:48), but it also outshined the Ultra Slim Notebook (7:57), the Chromebook Detachable CM3 (11:41), and the Surface Go 2 (11:39).

Samsung Galaxy Book Go: Verdict

I would only suggest the Galaxy Book Go to a particular group of users: budget-minded Samsung Galaxy fans who prefer non-Chrome browsers like Edge and Firefox for simple, low-demand tasks.

You might consider giving this laptop to someone you’d prefer not to see often—perhaps your mother-in-law. It’s a playful way to keep things interesting while pretending it’s a heartfelt gift.

If you’re looking for a reliable sub-$500 laptop without app incompatibility issues, consider the Gateway Ultra Slim Notebook. Similar to the Galaxy Book Go, it features a 14-inch display but is powered by a 10th Gen Intel processor, reducing concerns about app compatibility. Currently, the Gateway laptop is priced at $299 at Walmart. However, a drawback is that it is less power-efficient than the Galaxy Book Go, offering about 8 hours of battery life.

Samsung

Samsung Galaxy Book 5 Pro: Best Windows Laptop?

The Samsung Galaxy Book 5 Pro is a solid business laptop, but it doesn’t have the necessary features to truly deserve the ‘Pro’ designation.

Published

4 days ago

August 17, 2025

Shahbaz Ashraf

I was eager to review the new Samsung Galaxy Book 5 Pro that arrived at my door, but its price sets high expectations, and the competition remains intense. Would I be impressed once more?

The Galaxy Book 5 Pro has many appealing features: the touchscreen AMOLED display meets the high standards expected from Samsung, and the 16-inch laptop is impressively lightweight at 3.44 pounds. Gaming and graphics see a clear improvement thanks to the new Intel Arc integrated graphics. Additionally, Samsung enhances the experience with dual AI support: its own Galaxy AI combined with Microsoft Copilot+.

Nevertheless, several drawbacks hinder the Galaxy Book 5 Pro from attaining a leading position in our list of top laptops: The multitasking performance of the Intel Lunar Lake processor does not meet anticipated standards. Although user experiences regarding the limited keyboard key travel may differ, the webcam and absence of facial recognition for Windows Hello login are notably unsatisfactory.

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Samsung Galaxy Book 5: Specs

Price	$1,449 (Starting); $1,649 (As reviewed)
Processor	Intel Core Ultra 7 256V
GPU	Intel Arc 140v (8GB) integrated graphics
RAM	16GB
Storage	1TB SSD
Display	16-inch, 2880 x 1800, AMOLED touchscreen
Battery	12:25
Dimension	14 x 9.93 x 0.5 inches
Weight	3.44 pounds

Samsung Galaxy Book 5: Design

The Galaxy Book 5 Pro showcases a sleek, dark grey minimalist design that exudes elegance. Without the prismatic Samsung logo on the lid, it’s easy to blend in with other laptops at a quick glance, making it a subtle yet sophisticated choice.

While this might seem like a critique, it’s understandable why Samsung prefers to maintain a familiar design that users are accustomed to. It simply works well. The laptop is quite slim and lightweight, making it easy to carry around. Its gently beveled bottom edge provides a comfy feel, so you can enjoy using it on your lap even when a desk isn’t nearby. If you’re tired of the exterior color, you might want to try a laptop skin to add some flair.

Internally, the display features relatively narrow bezels at the top and sides; however, the bottom bezel appears disproportionately thicker. While I acknowledge that engineering or cost considerations may have influenced this design decision, Samsung could have potentially reduced the bottom bezel and the lower part of the laptop by approximately half an inch.

Samsung Galaxy Book 5: Ports

The Galaxy Book 5 Pro is likely to meet most users’ needs, though I wish there had been a single adjustment to its layout.

2 x Thunderbolt 4/USB 4 Type-C
1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A
1 x HDMI 2.1
1 x headphone mic/jack
1 x microSD card slot

While you might have your own opinions about whether a full-size SD card slot is better than a microSD, I really wish there was a Thunderbolt 4 port on both sides of the laptop for even more charging options. As it stands, Samsung placed both on the left side, which means when you’re out and about, you might have to stretch the cord around the back of your laptop just to keep charging.

The Galaxy Book 5 Pro provides a sufficient selection of ports for a non-gaming laptop. However, if you require additional ports, our guides on the best USB Type-C hubs and top laptop docking stations can assist.

Samsung Galaxy Book 5: Display

The Samsung Galaxy Book 5 Pro offers a stunning 16-inch, WQXGA+ (2880 x 1800) touchscreen AMOLED display. Known for their high-quality screens, Samsung delivers vibrant colors that really pop off the screen when I turned on the Book 5 Pro, making it a delightful viewing experience.

Clearly, this is most beneficial when viewing videos. I checked out the new 2025 Superman trailer to see how accurately it reflected the brighter Superman that appeared in theaters this summer. The iconic blue and red costume was vividly contrasted against the snowy background. More impressively, I observed how effectively the Galaxy Book managed gradients. In darker scenes, my other monitors showed some awkward color blending, but the Galaxy Book rendered everything smoothly.

The brightness level was comparably high, averaging 381 nits, effectively performing well against all lighting conditions except direct sunlight. I conducted my work directly adjacent to a window at a local coffee shop on a sunny day (an uncommon occurrence in Wisconsin during February), and I encountered no difficulties in viewing the display.

Samsung Galaxy Book 5: Keyboard & Touchpad

The Samsung Galaxy Book 5 Pro features an extensive touchpad and a full-sized keyboard equipped with a number pad, thereby optimally utilizing the larger chassis provided by a 16-inch laptop.

The thin chassis limits key travel, affecting accuracy and slowing typing. I achieved 82 wpm at 97% accuracy testing on 10fastfingers.com, below my usual 88 wpm at 99%. Improvement is likely over time, but for a better typing experience, consider our best laptops for writers.

The sizable touchpad, measuring 4.4 by 6.1 inches, offers smooth navigation and a pleasing click, making your experience comfortable and enjoyable. It offers an ample surface for Windows 11 gestures, making four-finger swipes effortless. While you might still consider a wireless mouse for certain tasks, this trackpad delivers one of the best experiences you’ll find.

Samsung Galaxy Book 5: Performance

A Samsung Galaxy Book 5 Pro is powered by an Intel Lunar Lake processor, specifically the Intel Core Ultra 7 256V. After testing multiple laptops with this chipset, we understand what to expect from Lunar Lake after its 2024 launch. Performance is secondary to battery life, but it still handles tasks adequately. I used the Galaxy Book 5 Pro for several days, completing my work, though there are some considerations to keep in mind.

The primary compromise of Lunar Lake is reduced multi-core performance, which impacts demanding applications like Photoshop and multitasking. If you use one app at a time or mainly browse and do productivity tasks, you’ll avoid slowdowns. I tested with a dozen Chrome tabs across two windows, with no issues. But with five YouTube videos at 1080p and YouTube Music playing, some stuttering occurred.

If you’re looking for a laptop to handle more intensive tasks like content creation, such as Photoshop or video editing, it’s worth exploring some of the best options out there. The Galaxy Book 5 Pro is capable of these tasks, so if you only need to do them occasionally, you’ll be comfortable using it. However, there are other laptops at similar or lower prices that might be even better suited for that kind of work. Remember, choosing the right tool can make a big difference in your creative projects!

Samsung Galaxy Book 5: AI Features

The Galaxy Book 5 Pro benefits from two AI enhancements: Samsung’s Galaxy AI and Microsoft’s Copilot+ PC AI features.

The adoption of AI is increasingly prevalent; however, even if it is not integrated into your current workflow, it is advantageous to examine some of its features. While it is unlikely that all features will be utilized, it is reasonable to assume that at least one or two could significantly save time, regardless of whether this laptop is intended for professional or personal use.

Initially, consider Samsung’s Galaxy AI functionalities, which are exclusive to Samsung laptops. For photographers, Photo Remaster utilizes Galaxy AI to enhance and clarify blurred photographs that might have been deemed irretrievable. Additionally, AI Select is another Galaxy AI feature that facilitates faster and more efficient web searches through an AI-powered search activated by selecting text, images, or QR codes.

Samsung Galaxy Book 5: Battery Life

The Galaxy Book 5 Pro, introduced last autumn, features the Intel Core Ultra 7 256V “Lunar Lake” processor. This chip is engineered for energy efficiency, thereby enhancing battery longevity.

Samsung installed a 76.1Wh battery in the Galaxy Book 5 Pro, presumably to preserve a lightweight and compact form factor relative to many 16-inch competitors, which are equipped with 99.9Wh batteries. Nevertheless, this compromise is likely justifiable, as users should still be able to comfortably complete a typical day with this device. My usual workday involves managing numerous Chrome tabs, Photoshop, Asana, and Slack. Even at maximum brightness, I retain ample battery life to conclude my day.

Samsung Galaxy Book 5: Webcam

Don’t delay in getting one of the top webcams if you’re purchasing the Galaxy Book 5 Pro and frequently join video calls. Even with ample lighting in my office, the image appeared grainy and somewhat blurry. Despite trying several AI features, none enhanced the picture—though the blur detection was notably effective. However, my slight blur diminishes the overall improvement.

If you rarely do video calls, this won’t be a problem. However, if you frequently appear on video and want to present yourself well, investing in an external webcam is advisable.

Samsung Galaxy Book 5: Verdict

The Galaxy Book 5 Pro is a reliable laptop with many positives, but it has a few notable shortcomings for its price range. The Samsung brand definitely adds value, especially for those already integrated into the Samsung ecosystem.

Partially, this is attributed to the performance peaks of the Book 5 Pro being inadequate to outweigh its disadvantages. The display features a bright and vivid presentation; however, it is not overwhelmingly so, especially when compared to options such as the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x, which surpasses it in both brightness and color fidelity at a significantly lower cost.

The device offers a battery life of twelve hours and twenty-five minutes, which is sufficient but does not rank among the leading tablets in 2025, where numerous competitors achieve fifteen hours or more. The additional Galaxy AI features may hold some interest; nevertheless, the most advanced AI-equipped PCs generally include similar features to those found in Copilot+ PCs.

The negatives are not too severe. While performance isn’t on par with top competitors, it remains responsive for most common tasks. The keyboard isn’t my preferred choice, but I believe I would get used to it with time. The webcam is the only aspect I find questionable, though not everyone relies on theirs.