If you’re in the market for a powerful tablet, two of the top contenders are the iPad Pro and the Surface Pro. These devices both offer high-end features and impressive performance, but they have distinct differences that could make one a better fit for your needs.
In this article, we’ll compare the iPad Pro vs Surface Pro in various categories, including design, display, performance, battery life, and more, to help you make an informed decision on which tablet is right for you.
Apple iPad Pro Standout Features
The Apple iPad Pro is a powerful and versatile device that stands out from other tablets on the market. Here are some of its standout features.
First and foremost, the iPad Pro’s display is truly stunning. With its Liquid Retina XDR display technology, it delivers incredible color accuracy and brightness that makes everything from streaming videos to editing photos and videos a pleasure to do. The display is also incredibly responsive to touch and the Apple Pencil, which makes drawing and taking notes feel natural and effortless.
Another standout feature of the iPad Pro is its powerful A14 Bionic chip. This chip delivers lightning-fast performance that can handle even the most demanding tasks. Whether you’re editing 4K video, playing graphics-intensive games, or multitasking with multiple apps, the iPad Pro won’t miss a beat.
The iPad Pro is also incredibly versatile thanks to its range of accessories. The Magic Keyboard, for example, transforms the iPad Pro into a laptop-like device, complete with a full-sized keyboard and trackpad. The Apple Pencil is another essential accessory for artists, designers, and note-takers, providing a natural and intuitive way to draw and write on the iPad Pro.
Finally, the iPad Pro’s camera system is truly impressive. With its 12MP wide and 10MP ultra-wide lenses, it can capture stunning photos and videos with incredible detail and clarity. The iPad Pro’s camera is also great for video conferencing and taking selfies, thanks to its TrueDepth camera that enables Face ID and Portrait mode.
Overall, the iPad Pro is a standout device that offers an unparalleled combination of performance, versatility, and stunning design. Whether you’re a professional artist, designer, or simply someone who loves to stream videos and play games, the iPad Pro is a device that is sure to impress.
Microsoft Surface Pro Standout Features
The Microsoft Surface Pro is a sleek and versatile device that has quickly become a favorite among professionals and creative types. Here are some of its standout features.
One of the most impressive features of the Surface Pro is its design. The tablet is incredibly thin and lightweight, making it easy to take on the go. Despite its slim profile, the Surface Pro still manages to pack a powerful punch. It’s perfect for professionals who need a device that can keep up with their busy lifestyle.
Another standout feature of the Surface Pro is its display. The tablet features a high-resolution display that is perfect for everything from streaming movies to editing photos and videos. The touchscreen is incredibly responsive and supports the Surface Pen, which is perfect for artists and designers.
The Surface Pro is also incredibly versatile. It can be used as a tablet, laptop, or studio, depending on the user’s needs. This versatility makes it a great choice for professionals who need a device that can adapt to different work environments.
Another standout feature of the Surface Pro is its performance. The tablet is powered by an Intel Core processor, which delivers lightning-fast performance that can handle even the most demanding tasks. The Surface Pro is perfect for everything from running intensive applications to multitasking with multiple programs.
Finally, the Surface Pro’s battery life is impressive. The tablet can last up to 13.5 hours on a single charge, which is great for professionals who need a device that can keep up with their busy schedules.
Overall, the Microsoft Surface Pro is a standout device that offers an impressive combination of design, versatility, and performance. Whether you’re a professional who needs a device that can keep up with your busy lifestyle or a creative type who wants a device that can handle everything from drawing to video editing, the Surface Pro is a device that is sure to impress.
iPad Pro vs Surface Pro Specs comparison
Discover the key differences between iPad Pro and Surface Pro in our in-depth comparison. From design and display to battery life and connectivity, find out which tablet reigns supreme.
Both devices offer a versatile computing experience, combining the portability and convenience of a tablet with the power and functionality of a laptop. However, despite these similarities, there are several key differences between the two devices that set them apart from one another. In this article, we will explore the main differences between the iPad Pro and Surface Pro.
Design and Build quality
- iPad Pro Design and Build Quality
The iPad Pro features a sleek, minimalist design with a slim profile and rounded edges. The latest model, the iPad Pro 2022, features an aluminum unibody construction that is both lightweight and durable. The iPad Pro also features a magnetic connector that allows you to attach accessories such as the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard. - Surface Pro Design and Build Quality
The Surface Pro also features a minimalist design, with a slim profile and a magnesium body. The latest model, the Surface Pro 7, has a kickstand that can be adjusted to different angles, making it more versatile than the iPad Pro. The Surface Pro also features a magnetic connector that allows you to attach accessories such as the Surface Pen and Type Cover. - Portability and Weight
The iPad Pro and Surface Pro are both portable, but the iPad Pro is slightly lighter than the Surface Pro. The 11-inch iPad Pro weighs in at 1.03 pounds, while the 12.9-inch iPad Pro weighs in at 1.5 pounds. The Surface Pro 7, on the other hand, weighs in at 1.7 pounds. The difference in weight may not seem significant, but it can make a difference in terms of portability and comfort during prolonged use. - Durability
Both the iPad Pro and Surface Pro are built to last, with high-quality materials and construction. However, the iPad Pro may be more durable due to its aluminum unibody construction, which is less prone to dents and scratches than the magnesium body of the Surface Pro. - Ergonomics
The ergonomics of a tablet can also affect the user experience. The iPad Pro has a comfortable and natural grip, thanks to its rounded edges and slim profile. The Surface Pro, on the other hand, may require a bit of adjustment to find a comfortable grip, due to its kickstand and thicker body.
Screen and display
- iPad Pro Screen and Display
The iPad Pro comes with a high-resolution Retina display that delivers clear, vibrant colors and sharp text. The latest model, the iPad Pro 2022, comes in two sizes: an 11-inch model with a resolution of 2388 x 1668 and a 12.9-inch model with a resolution of 2732 x 2048. Both models feature ProMotion technology, which adjusts the display refresh rate based on the content to provide smoother scrolling and better responsiveness. - Surface Pro Screen and Display
The Surface Pro also features a high-resolution display, with the latest model, the Surface Pro 7, featuring a 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824. The PixelSense display delivers accurate colors and excellent contrast, making it ideal for watching videos or working on creative projects. The Surface Pro also supports the Surface Pen, which can be used to draw, take notes, or annotate documents. - Display Technology
The iPad Pro uses a Liquid Retina display, which is a type of LCD display that uses advanced technologies to provide sharp, clear images with a wide color gamut. The Surface Pro, on the other hand, uses a PixelSense display, which is also an LCD display that delivers accurate colors and excellent contrast.
Operating System
When it comes to the operating system, the iPad Pro and Surface Pro have significant differences. The iPad Pro runs on Apple’s iOS, while the Surface Pro runs on Microsoft’s Windows 10.
The iOS operating system is specifically designed for Apple devices, and it’s known for its user-friendly interface and smooth performance. It’s optimized for touch-screen use and offers a simple and intuitive design. Apple’s App Store has a vast selection of apps, including many that are optimized for the iPad’s large display and Apple Pencil.
On the other hand, the Surface Pro’s operating system, Windows 10, is a full desktop operating system that’s been optimized for touch-screen devices. While it’s a more complex operating system than iOS, it offers users more flexibility and the ability to run traditional desktop applications like Microsoft Office. Additionally, Windows 10 has a built-in file manager, which can be a significant advantage for professionals who work with a lot of files.
Overall, both operating systems have their strengths and weaknesses, and the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re already comfortable with iOS and primarily use your tablet for creative work and media consumption, the iPad Pro may be the best choice. However, if you require a more versatile device that can function as a laptop replacement and run traditional desktop applications, the Surface Pro may be the way to go.
Performance
When it comes to performance, both the iPad Pro and Surface Pro are powerful devices that can handle demanding tasks with ease.
The iPad Pro is equipped with Apple’s A-series processors, which are some of the most powerful mobile processors on the market. The latest iPad Pro models come with the A14 Bionic chip, which provides blazing-fast performance and smooth multitasking capabilities. The iPad Pro also has up to 16GB of RAM, which is more than enough for most users.
The Surface Pro, on the other hand, comes with Intel’s 11th-generation processors, which are powerful enough to handle demanding desktop applications. The Surface Pro 7, for example, comes with the 10th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processor, which provides plenty of power for running desktop applications and multitasking. The Surface Pro 7 also has up to 16GB of RAM, making it a capable multitasking machine.
Overall, both devices offer excellent performance, and the choice between them may come down to personal preference. If you’re looking for a tablet that’s optimized for creative work and media consumption, the iPad Pro may be the better choice. However, if you require a more versatile device that can handle desktop applications and multitasking, the Surface Pro may be the way to go.
Battery life
- iPad Pro Battery Life
The iPad Pro comes with a built-in rechargeable lithium-polymer battery that can provide up to 10 hours of web browsing, video playback, or music playback on a single charge. The battery life can vary depending on the specific usage, but Apple claims that the device can last up to 9 hours when using cellular data. - Surface Pro Battery Life
The Surface Pro comes with a built-in lithium-ion battery that can provide up to 13.5 hours of local video playback on a single charge. The battery life can vary depending on the specific usage, but Microsoft claims that the device can last up to 8.5 hours of typical device usage. - Battery Test Results
In battery life tests conducted by various technology websites, the Surface Pro generally outperforms the iPad Pro. For example, in a battery test conducted by Laptop Mag, the Surface Pro lasted for 9 hours and 20 minutes while web browsing, compared to 8 hours and 59 minutes for the iPad Pro. In a video playback test, the Surface Pro lasted for 13 hours and 40 minutes, compared to 10 hours and 16 minutes for the iPad Pro. - Battery Saving Features
Both the iPad Pro and Surface Pro come with battery saving features that can help prolong the battery life. The iPad Pro has a Low Power Mode that can be activated when the battery level drops below 20%, which reduces the device’s performance and turns off some features to save battery life. The Surface Pro has a Battery Saver mode that can be activated when the battery level drops below a certain percentage, which reduces the device’s performance and turns off some features to save battery life. - Charging Time
The charging time for both devices is also an important consideration. The iPad Pro can be charged using the included 18W USB-C power adapter and takes approximately 2 hours to fully charge. The Surface Pro can be charged using the included 44W power supply and takes approximately 2.5 hours to fully charge.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Surface Pro generally has better battery life than the iPad Pro. However, the difference may not be significant enough to sway your decision, especially if you prioritize other features such as portability or software options. Both devices also have battery saving features that can help prolong the battery life, and charging time is similar for both devices. Ultimately, the choice between the iPad Pro and Surface Pro will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Sound Quality
- iPad Pro Sound Quality
The iPad Pro features a quad-speaker system that provides clear and rich sound. The speakers are located on each corner of the device, which helps to create a surround sound effect. The iPad Pro also features advanced audio technologies such as Dolby Atmos and Spatial Audio, which enhance the sound quality and create a more immersive listening experience. - Surface Pro Sound Quality
The Surface Pro features a dual-speaker system that provides clear sound, but it may not be as rich and immersive as the sound on the iPad Pro. The speakers are located on the front of the device, which can be a disadvantage if you are using the device in tablet mode, as the speakers may be covered by your hands. - Audio Accessories
Both the iPad Pro and Surface Pro support external audio accessories such as headphones and speakers. The iPad Pro features a 3.5mm headphone jack, which allows you to connect any standard headphones or earbuds. The Surface Pro, on the other hand, does not have a headphone jack, but it does have a USB-C port that can be used to connect headphones or external speakers. - Microphone Quality
Both the iPad Pro and Surface Pro feature high-quality microphones that provide clear and crisp sound during video calls and recordings. However, the iPad Pro may have a slight advantage in this area, as it features five studio-quality microphones that can capture sound from any direction.
Camera Quality
Tablets are not typically thought of as primary devices for photography, but they can be useful for taking photos and videos on the go. The iPad Pro and Surface Pro are two of the most popular tablets on the market, but how do they compare when it comes to camera quality? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the camera features of the iPad Pro and Surface Pro to help you make an informed decision.
- iPad Pro Camera
The iPad Pro features a 12MP wide-angle camera and a 10MP ultra-wide camera, which allows you to capture a wide range of photos and videos. It also includes a TrueDepth camera on the front, which is used for Face ID and selfies. The rear cameras support 4K video recording at up to 60fps, and the front camera supports 1080p video recording at up to 60fps. The camera also features optical image stabilization, which helps to reduce camera shake and improve image quality. - Surface Pro Camera
The Surface Pro features an 8MP rear camera and a 5MP front camera. The rear camera supports 1080p video recording at up to 30fps, and the front camera supports 1080p video recording at up to 60fps. The camera also features autofocus and a built-in microphone, which can be useful for video calls and other applications. - Additional Camera Features
Both the iPad Pro and Surface Pro include a range of additional camera features such as:
Live Photos: The iPad Pro supports Live Photos, which captures a short video clip along with your photo.
Portrait Mode: The iPad Pro features a Portrait Mode, which allows you to take professional-looking photos with a blurred background.
Night Mode: The iPad Pro also includes a Night Mode, which uses advanced software algorithms to capture high-quality photos in low-light conditions.
Windows Hello: Some models of the Surface Pro include a Windows Hello camera, which allows you to log in to your device using facial recognition.
Conclusion
When it comes to camera quality, the iPad Pro is the clear winner thanks to its dual-lens rear camera system and additional camera features such as Portrait Mode and Night Mode. The Surface Pro’s camera may be suitable for basic photography needs, but it cannot compete with the camera quality of the iPad Pro. Ultimately, your choice between the two should be based on your personal needs and preferences beyond the camera, such as the operating system, apps, and other features.
Storage Space
One of the most important considerations when choosing a tablet is storage space. The iPad Pro and Surface Pro are both powerful tablets with a range of storage options, but how do they compare? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the storage options available for the iPad Pro and Surface Pro to help you make an informed decision.
- iPad Pro Storage
The iPad Pro is available in four storage sizes: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB. The base model comes with 128GB of storage, which should be sufficient for most users. However, if you plan on storing a lot of media or large files, you may want to opt for a larger storage option. - Surface Pro Storage
The Surface Pro is available in six storage sizes: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB. The base model comes with 64GB of storage, which may not be enough for many users. However, the Surface Pro also includes a microSD card slot, which allows you to expand the storage capacity up to an additional 1TB. - Cloud Storage
Both the iPad Pro and Surface Pro also offer cloud storage options. The iPad Pro comes with iCloud, which provides up to 5GB of free storage and additional storage options for a fee. The Surface Pro includes OneDrive, which provides up to 5GB of free storage and additional storage options for a fee. - External Hard Drives
If you need more storage than what is available on your tablet or through cloud storage, you can also use external hard drives. The iPad Pro and Surface Pro both support external hard drives through their respective USB-C ports.
Conclusion
When it comes to storage space, the Surface Pro offers more options with six storage sizes and a microSD card slot for expansion. However, the iPad Pro still provides a decent amount of storage with four available sizes, and it also offers the convenience of iCloud for cloud storage. Ultimately, your choice between the two should be based on your personal needs and preferences beyond storage, such as the operating system, apps, and other features.
Connectivity
When it comes to choosing a tablet, connectivity is an important factor to consider. The iPad Pro and Surface Pro are two of the most popular tablets on the market, but how do they compare when it comes to connectivity? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the connectivity features of the iPad Pro and Surface Pro to help you make an informed decision.
- iPad Pro Connectivity
The iPad Pro features a Lightning port, which is used for charging and data transfer. It also includes a USB-C port, which allows you to connect to a wide range of accessories such as external displays, cameras, and storage devices. The iPad Pro also supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, and some models include cellular connectivity for on-the-go use. - Surface Pro Connectivity
The Surface Pro features a USB-C port, which is used for charging and data transfer. It also includes a Surface Connect port, which can be used to connect to accessories such as docking stations and power adapters. The Surface Pro also supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, and some models include cellular connectivity for on-the-go use. - Additional Connectivity Features
Both the iPad Pro and Surface Pro include a range of additional connectivity features such as:
Wi-Fi 6: Both tablets support the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard, which provides faster and more reliable wireless connectivity.
Bluetooth 5.0: Both tablets support the latest Bluetooth 5.0 standard, which provides faster and more reliable wireless connectivity.
GPS: Some models of both tablets include GPS connectivity, which can be used for navigation and location-based apps.
NFC: Some models of both tablets include NFC connectivity, which can be used for contactless payments and other applications.
Conclusion
When it comes to connectivity, both the iPad Pro and Surface Pro offer a range of features that make them versatile and convenient devices. However, the iPad Pro may have a slight advantage thanks to its inclusion of a USB-C port and lightning port, which provides a wider range of connectivity options. Ultimately, your choice between the two should be based on your personal needs and preferences beyond the connectivity, such as the operating system, apps, and other features.
Ports
When it comes to ports, the iPad Pro and Surface Pro have different approaches.
The iPad Pro comes with a single USB-C port, which can be used for charging, data transfer, and connecting external devices. However, you’ll need to purchase a separate dongle or adapter if you want to connect peripherals like a keyboard or mouse.
The Surface Pro, on the other hand, comes with a full-sized USB 3.0 port, a mini DisplayPort, and a microSD card slot. This makes it easy to connect a wide range of peripherals and accessories, including external hard drives, monitors, and memory cards.
In addition to these ports, the Surface Pro also has a proprietary Surface Connect port, which can be used to connect to the Surface Dock. The Surface Dock provides additional ports, including two high-definition video ports, a Gigabit Ethernet port, four USB 3.0 ports, and an audio output.
Overall, the Surface Pro offers more ports and connectivity options than the iPad Pro. If you need to connect a lot of peripherals and accessories to your device, the Surface Pro may be the better choice. However, if you’re comfortable with using adapters and dongles, the iPad Pro’s single USB-C port may be sufficient for your needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the iPad Pro and Surface Pro are both excellent devices that offer a unique combination of portability and power. However, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific use case. If you’re looking for a tablet-first device with a mobile operating system and a focus on portability, the iPad Pro may be the better choice. If, however, you need a full-fledged laptop with a desktop operating system and a wide range of ports, the Surface Pro is likely the way to go.
iPad Pro or Surface Pro? Verdict
In conclusion, both the iPad Pro and Surface Pro are powerful and versatile devices that are capable of handling a wide range of tasks. However, they have different strengths and weaknesses that make them better suited for different types of users.
The iPad Pro excels in areas like portability, display quality, and app selection, making it an excellent choice for creative professionals and casual users who prioritize a sleek and user-friendly interface. The Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard Folio also provide an unmatched level of precision and convenience for artists and writers.
On the other hand, the Surface Pro shines in areas like productivity, connectivity, and versatility, making it an ideal choice for business users and power users who need to run multiple apps and connect to a wide range of peripherals. The Surface Pen and Type Cover also provide a high level of precision and productivity for users who need to take notes, sketch, or type on the go.
Ultimately, the decision between the iPad Pro and Surface Pro comes down to personal preferences and needs. If you prioritize portability, display quality, and user-friendliness, the iPad Pro may be the better choice. If you prioritize productivity, connectivity, and versatility, the Surface Pro may be the better choice.
