At this point, it's pretty clear that Microsoft can build some solid laptops. (If you would have told me that when the terrible Surface RT debuted, I would have laughed in your face.) The Surface Book 2 continues that trend, with sturdy and smooth metal cases that simply scream high-end. And, just like before, you can hit a button on the keyboard to "unlock" the screen to remove it and use as a tablet. Alternatively, you can just flip the display around and plug it back into its base to use the laptop in "studio" mode. It's a similar experience to what you can get from two-in-one convertible notebooks but without being able to flip the screen a full 360-degrees.

The real magic behind the Surface Book 2 is its revamped fulcrum hinge. It's certainly sturdier than before -- I picked it up and tried to shake the screen, but it wouldn't budge. And it was steady as a rock while I tried to type with both notebooks in the air and on my lap. Paradoxically, it's easier to remove the displays as well. Everything around plugging the display and keyboard base together simply works more smoothly, thanks to improved connectors. Unfortunately, the hinge still adds a rounded bump to the Surface Book 2's profile. I don't mind it much, but it could be annoying if you prefer slimmer notebooks.