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Do Microsoft 365 Desktop Apps Work on Surface Go Tablets?
Question details
The user wants to know if they can run the full desktop versions of Microsoft 365 applications on a Surface Go tablet without feature limitations.
- Product
- Microsoft 365
- Device & OS
- Windows 10 or 11 (S Mode)
- Scenario
- Evaluating the purchase of a Surface Go tablet for full desktop productivity and software compatibility.
- Observed behavior
- The user requires the full desktop experience rather than mobile or web apps, but is concerned about Windows S mode restrictions preventing desktop software installation.
Before attempting to install desktop applications on your Surface Go, check your system settings to verify if the device is running Windows in S mode, which restricts app installations solely to the Microsoft Store.
Switch Out of Windows S Mode to Install Microsoft 365
Because the Surface Go often ships with Windows in S mode by default, you must switch out of this mode to install the full desktop versions of Microsoft 365 apps from the web.
Surface Go runs the full Windows operating system, meaning it possesses the capability to run traditional desktop software. However, S mode is often enabled for security and performance reasons.
Once you switch out of S mode, you can download and install the exact same Microsoft 365 desktop applications that you would on a standard PC or laptop.
On your Surface Go, navigate to Settings > System > About. Scroll down to the 'Windows specifications' section to see if it says 'Windows 10 (or 11) Home in S mode'.
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation on your device.
Look for the 'Switch to Windows Home' or 'Switch to Windows Pro' section. Click on the 'Go to the Store' link provided there.
On the 'Switch out of S mode' page that opens in the Microsoft Store, click the 'Get' button. Wait for the confirmation message indicating that you have stepped out of S mode.
Open your web browser, visit office.com, sign in with your Microsoft account, and select 'Install Office' to download and install the full desktop versions.
Use WPS Office for a Lightweight Desktop Experience on Surface Go
While the Surface Go can run Microsoft 365, the desktop apps can be resource-heavy on entry-level tablet hardware. WPS Office provides a complete, lightweight, and highly optimized alternative that effortlessly handles all your document needs without draining system resources.
- 1. Visit the official website: Open your browser on the Surface Go and navigate to the official WPS Office website.
- 2. Download the installer: Click the 'Free Download' button to obtain the Windows installation file.
- 3. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded executable file and follow the quick on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Microsoft 365 apps on Surface Go different from a regular PC?
No. Once you switch out of Windows S mode, you install the exact same desktop versions of Microsoft 365 applications, offering identical full-featured functionality as on any other Windows computer.
Does switching out of Windows S mode on a Surface Go cost money?
Switching out of S mode to the standard version of Windows (e.g., Windows Home in S mode to standard Windows Home) is completely free.
Will Microsoft 365 run slowly on a Surface Go?
The Surface Go features entry-level processors. While it performs perfectly well for basic document editing and typical tasks in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, extremely complex spreadsheets or large presentations may load and operate slower compared to a high-end desktop PC.
Can I use Office Mobile apps on Surface Go instead?
Yes. If you prefer to keep your device in S mode for security and performance, you can download the lighter Office Mobile apps directly from the Microsoft Store, or use Microsoft Office on the web via your browser.
