Surface Pro vs iPad Pro - Which is the better 2-in-1 tablet
Who doesn't love the convenience of having both a tablet and a laptop in one handy device? The 2-in-1 tablet market has been booming for years, with Microsoft's Surface Pro and Apple's iPad Pro leading the pack. Both devices offer high-end specifications and sleek designs, making it a challenge to choose one over the other.
Worry not! The Flare Compare team has done the hard work to help you make an informed buying decision. We've compared the Surface Pro and the iPad Pro based on various aspects, from performance to design, and more. Let's dive in!
Design
The Surface Pro and iPad Pro both have a sleek and modern design that is aesthetically pleasing. However, Microsoft's Surface Pro takes the victory when it comes to flexibility. The Surface Pro has a kickstand that allows it to stand independently, making it ideal for typing, drawing or watching a video. The detachable keyboard of the Surface Pro also gives it the feel of a laptop, making it a more versatile option than the iPad Pro.
Display
The iPad Pro and Surface Pro both offer stunning displays that make streaming videos, playing games or browsing photos a visual treat. The iPad Pro has a larger and more vibrant display than the Surface Pro, with 11 inches and 12.9 inches screens, respectively. The Surface Pro, on the other hand, has a higher resolution than the iPad Pro, at 2736 x 1824 pixels. The Surface Pro's smaller screen size also makes it more portable as compared to the larger iPad Pro.
Performance
Both the iPad Pro and Surface Pro offer top-of-the-range performance, thanks to their strong processors and ample RAM. The iPad Pro features the A14 Bionic chip, while the Surface Pro has Intel Core processors ranging from i5 to i7. However, Microsoft's Surface Pro takes the win in this category with better performance benchmarks than the iPad Pro, and a fanless design that keeps the device quiet and cool, even during heavy usage.
Battery life
In terms of battery life, the iPad Pro has a longer battery life than the Surface Pro, giving it the edge over its competitor. The iPad Pro's battery can last up to 10 hours, while the Surface Pro has a battery life of up to 9 hours. It may not seem like a huge difference, but it can make all the difference when you're on the go.
Operating System
The Surface Pro runs on the Windows 10 operating system, which is a more versatile option for those who need a fully-featured PC operating system. The iPad Pro, on the other hand, runs on its proprietary operating system, the iPadOS, which is tailored for mobile devices primarily. The operating system of preference depends on personal preference and usage.
Price
Let's be honest, the price plays a significant role in the final decision. The Surface Pro comes with a detachable keyboard and touch pen in the box, making it a slightly pricier option than the iPad Pro. But, the Surface Pro is a more versatile option, making it a better value for your money. The base model of the Surface Pro starts at $799, and the iPad Pro begins $799.
Conclusion
Both the Surface Pro and iPad Pro are excellent 2-in-1 tablets, and choosing one over the other boils down to personal preference and usage. Those who prioritize flexibility and power may lean towards the Surface Pro, while those who value a polished user experience and a larger screen size may prefer the iPad Pro. Our recommendation is to go with the device that best fits your needs and budget.
References
- Apple. (2022). iPad Pro - Technical Specifications. Apple. https://www.apple.com/ipad-pro/specs/
- Microsoft. (2022). Surface Pro – Technical Specs. Surface. https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/devices/surface-pro/specifications