Samsung Galaxy Book Pro 2s

Basic Information

The Samsung Galaxy Book2 Pro is a series of ultra-portable laptops, including a traditional clamshell model and a 2-in-1 convertible variant, the Galaxy Book2 Pro 360. The series was officially announced in February 2022, with pre-orders beginning on March 18, 2022, and general availability starting April 1, 2022. These devices primarily run on Windows 11 Home, with drivers optimized for this operating system, though Windows 10 is also supported. A "Galaxy Book 2 Pro SE" variant, released in 2023, features 13th Gen Intel processors, and a 2024 refresh includes Intel Core Ultra processors. Samsung extends security update support for its Galaxy devices, including this series, for up to 7 years as of January 2024, implying support until approximately 2029 for the 2022 models. The license type is typically an OEM license for Windows 11 Home, and the deployment model is a standard laptop or 2-in-1 convertible.

Technical Specifications

• Processor: 12th Gen Intel Core i5-1240P or i7-1260P (Intel Evo Platform). Later "SE" variants feature 13th Gen Intel or Intel Core Ultra processors.
• RAM: 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB LPDDR5.
• Storage: 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB NVMe SSD. The 15.6-inch model may include a second SSD slot for expansion.
• Display: 13.3-inch or 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) Super AMOLED panel with up to 500 nits brightness (HDR), 120% DCI-P3 color volume, and 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio. Features a 60Hz refresh rate.
• Graphics: Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics.
• Ports:
  • Galaxy Book2 Pro: 1x Thunderbolt 4, 1x USB Type-C, 1x USB 3.2 Type-A, 3.5mm Headphone/Mic combo jack, MicroSD slot. The 15.6-inch model also includes an HDMI port.
  • Galaxy Book2 Pro 360: 1x Thunderbolt 4, 2x USB Type-C, 3.5mm Headphone/Mic combo jack, MicroSD slot.
• Operating System: Windows 11 Home.
• Dimensions:
  • 13.3-inch Galaxy Book2 Pro: 304.4 x 199.8 x 11.2mm.
  • 13.3-inch Galaxy Book2 Pro 360: 302.5 x 202 x 11.5mm.
  • 15.6-inch Galaxy Book2 Pro: 355.4 x 225.8 x 11.7mm (internal graphics) or 355.4 x 225.8 x 13.2mm (external graphics).
  • 15.6-inch Galaxy Book2 Pro 360: 354.85 x 227.97 x 11.9mm.
• Weight:
  • 13.3-inch Galaxy Book2 Pro: 0.87kg.
  • 13.3-inch Galaxy Book2 Pro 360: 1.04kg.
  • 15.6-inch Galaxy Book2 Pro: 1.11kg (internal graphics) or 1.17kg (external graphics).
  • 15.6-inch Galaxy Book2 Pro 360: 1.41kg.
• Battery: 63Wh (13.3-inch models) or 68Wh (15.6-inch models).
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth v5.1 (some models v5.2), and optional 5G on select models.

The Samsung Galaxy Book2 Pro series emphasizes extreme portability, evident in its remarkably thin and light chassis, particularly for the 13.3-inch variants. The integration of 12th Gen Intel Core P-series processors (and newer generations in subsequent refreshes) provides a robust balance of performance and power efficiency, suitable for demanding mobile workflows. A standout feature is the vibrant Super AMOLED display, delivering excellent color reproduction and deep blacks, although its 60Hz refresh rate and FHD resolution might not satisfy users accustomed to higher refresh rates or pixel densities on larger screens. The port selection is comprehensive for an ultrabook, including versatile Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, though the number of USB-A ports is limited on some models. The Galaxy Book2 Pro 360 further enhances versatility with its 2-in-1 convertible design and included S Pen support.

Support & Compatibility

• Latest Version: Runs Windows 11.
• OS Support: Optimized for Windows 11, with compatibility for Windows 10.
• End of Support Date: Samsung provides security updates for Galaxy devices for up to 7 years as of January 2024.
• Localization: Available globally, with variations in keyboard layouts and color options depending on the market.
• Available Drivers: Drivers are provided by Samsung via their dedicated Windows 11 application and through Windows Update.

The Samsung Galaxy Book2 Pro series offers robust support and compatibility. Samsung's commitment to long-term security updates, extending up to 7 years for Galaxy devices, ensures sustained protection and functionality. The device is fully integrated into the Windows 11 ecosystem, with Samsung providing dedicated tools for driver management. Furthermore, its seamless integration with the broader Samsung Galaxy ecosystem, including features like Quick Share, SmartThings, and Second Screen, enhances its appeal and utility for users who own other Samsung devices.

Security Status

• Security Features: The Galaxy Book2 Pro series is the first consumer PC lineup to meet Microsoft's Secured-core PC requirements, offering enhanced hardware, firmware, and software protection against cyber-attacks. This includes Trusted Platform Module 2.0 (TPM), virtualization-based security (VBS), and Windows hypervisor code integrity (HVCI).
• Known Vulnerabilities: No specific known vulnerabilities are publicly highlighted in the provided information.
• Blacklist Status: Not applicable.
• Certifications: Microsoft Secured-core PC, Intel Evo Platform, GREENGUARD-certified AMOLED displays (for some models), and MIL-STD-810H certification (for Galaxy Book2 Pro 360).
• Encryption Support: Implied through Windows 11 features and Secured-core PC compliance (e.g., BitLocker).
• Authentication Methods: Fingerprint sensor integrated into the power key.
• General Recommendations: Users are advised to maintain up-to-date operating system and driver installations for optimal security.

The Samsung Galaxy Book2 Pro series achieves a high security rating, being the first consumer PC to fulfill Microsoft's rigorous Secured-core PC requirements. This designation signifies enterprise-grade protection, integrating hardware, firmware, and software to defend against sophisticated cyber threats. Key security components include TPM 2.0, VBS, and HVCI. User authentication is streamlined and secure via a fingerprint sensor. Additionally, features like Private Share, utilizing blockchain technology for secure document sharing, and SmartThings Find for device location, further enhance data security and user peace of mind.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores:
  • Cinebench R20 Multi-core: 3,482.
  • GeekBench 5: 1,490 (single-core); 7,511 (multi-core). (Galaxy Book2 Pro 360 multi-core: 9,067).
  • PCMark 10 (Home test): 5,101.
  • Cinebench R23 CPU (multi-core): 8,526 (Galaxy Book2 Pro 360).
• Real-world Performance Metrics: Provides smooth and reliable performance for general productivity, video conferencing, light gaming, photo editing, and heavy multitasking. The thermal management system is efficient, allowing the device to remain quiet even under significant workload.
• Power Consumption: The 12th Gen Intel P-series processors offer higher wattage (28W) compared to U-series chips, contributing to enhanced performance.
• Battery Life:
  • Up to 21 hours (video playback in lab tests).
  • PCMark 10 (Battery Life test): 14 hours 16 minutes.
  • TechRadar movie test: 16 hours 38 minutes.
  • Real-world usage typically ranges from 7-8 hours under heavy use, or approximately 5-7 hours for moderate to heavy workloads.
  • The Galaxy Book2 Pro 360 achieved 11 hours 59 minutes in web surfing tests.
• Charging: Supports fast charging via a 65W USB-C adapter, capable of charging from 0% to 100% in approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
• Carbon Footprint: Features GREENGUARD-certified AMOLED displays, indicating environmental considerations in manufacturing.

The Samsung Galaxy Book2 Pro series delivers robust performance for its ultraportable category, driven by 12th Gen Intel P-series processors. Benchmark results and real-world usage confirm its capability to handle daily productivity, multitasking, and moderate creative tasks efficiently. A key strength is its exceptional battery life, often extending beyond a typical workday, complemented by convenient fast-charging capabilities. The device's thermal management is effective, ensuring quiet operation even when under load.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback for the Samsung Galaxy Book2 Pro series generally highlight its strengths in portability, display quality, and battery life, while noting some areas for improvement.

Strengths:

• Design and Portability: Consistently praised for its incredibly thin, lightweight, and portable design, making it ideal for mobile professionals and students.
• Display: The Super AMOLED display receives high acclaim for its vibrant colors, deep blacks, and overall visual quality, making it excellent for content consumption and creative work.
• Performance: Users report strong performance for everyday productivity, multitasking, video calls, and even light photo editing, attributing this to the capable Intel processors.
• Battery Life: A significant advantage, with many users experiencing all-day battery life, often exceeding expectations for such a thin device. Fast charging is also appreciated.
• Keyboard and Trackpad: The backlit keyboard is noted for its comfortable typing experience, and the large, precise trackpad is well-received for supporting multi-touch gestures.
• Webcam and Audio: The 1080p webcam with features like Auto Framing and AI noise canceling is a notable improvement for video conferencing. Audio quality, enhanced by AKG and Dolby Atmos, is also generally positive for a thin laptop.
• Ecosystem Integration: Strong integration with the Samsung Galaxy ecosystem is a major draw for users with other Samsung devices.
• S Pen (Pro 360): The inclusion of the S Pen with the Pro 360 models is a valued feature for creative tasks and note-taking.

Weaknesses:

• Display Refresh Rate and Aspect Ratio: The 60Hz refresh rate is considered basic by some, and the 16:9 aspect ratio can feel less modern compared to taller displays on competing laptops.
• Build Quality Concerns: While lightweight, some users note that the base unit and lid can exhibit some flex or warping, and hinges on the Pro 360 might show slight wobble. The use of plastic in some chassis