Microsoft Surface Duo 2 (2021)

Much better camera ; Faster chipset ; Gorgeous design

Still has some UI bugs ; Very expensive ; Only 8GB RAM

Excellent performance ; Impressive displays ; Above-average cameras ; Great for multitasking

Some software inconsistencies remain ; Slow charging ; Can’t replace most people’s smartphone

Several software updates and a price drop make the Duo 2 a far more compelling device now than at launch. But Microsoft still has work to do to convince people that this foldable form factor has a long-term future.

Premium, pocket-friendly form factor ; Regular updates have stabilised performance ; Capable rear camera trio

Undeniably pricey ; Missing features expected of premium phones

It had a rough launch, much like its predecessor, but Microsoft has streamlined the Surface Duo 2 with regular updates. It’s still a niche device, but absolutely nails its multitasking and productivity brief.

Significant performance uplift ; Beautifully constructed ; Cameras are much improved

Very expensive ; Non-Microsoft apps can be buggy ; No dual SIM or microSD slots

It’s quite obvious that the Surface Duo 2 is an enticing upgrade. The sort of phone I was hoping to use when the original model first launched in 2020, Microsoft finally has a foldable worth buying on its second attempt – even if it is stonkingly...

Eye-catching design ; Flexible hinge is great for reading and playing games ; 90Hz refresh rate makes scrolling feel smooth ; Optimized apps feel innovative and new

Not many apps are optimized for both screens ; Some software glitches still exist ; Size makes it feel cumbersome as an everyday phone ; Camera could be better

Marked camera upgrade over predecessor ; Large aspect ratio for reading and multitasking ; Software is largely fixed ; Top-tier flagship specifications ; Superior multitasking capabilities

Poor lowlight camera performance ; Awkward to hold for camera use ; Still a few software bugs to work out

“The Microsoft Surface Duo 2 addresses almost every qualm we had with the original. It's a quirky phone that's fun to use.”

Unique multitasking abilities ; Razor-sharp screens ; Solid 4G and 5G reception

Poor cameras for the price ; So-so battery life ; Unpredictable software

No other handheld device multitasks like the dual-screen Microsoft Surface Duo 2, but it lives in a category of its own. It's not quite phone, not quite tablet.

Dual-screen experience is exemplary ; Surprisingly good daytime shots ; Very good battery life ; Great performance

Dual-screen experience is exemplary ; Surprisingly good daytime shots ; Very good battery life ; Great performance

Microsoft still believes in its dual-screen phone/tablet hybrid. Its vision is coming closer, but isn’t quite there. Hold out for the Surface Duo 3.

Head-turning, futuristic design ; Excellent multitasking ability ; Useful pen support

Frustrating bugs ; Lousy camera ; Expensive ; Awkward form factor to actually use

The Microsoft Surface Duo 2 is the company’s second attempt at a folding phone. It corrects a lot of the problems of the first generation, but still doesn’t justify its $1,500 asking price.