At a Glance
- In the ever-evolving world of portable computing, the Microsoft Surface Go 3 and the Apple iPad Pro stand out as two exceptional devices that cater to the needs of both professionals and consumers alike.
- The Surface Go 3 offers up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge, making it a reliable companion for extended use.
- In terms of connectivity, the Surface Go 3 offers a USB-C port, a microSD card slot, and a 3.
In the ever-evolving world of portable computing, the Microsoft Surface Go 3 and the Apple iPad Pro stand out as two exceptional devices that cater to the needs of both professionals and consumers alike. However, choosing between these two formidable contenders can be a daunting task. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences and similarities between the Microsoft Surface Go 3 and the iPad Pro, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your specific requirements.
Design and Build Quality:
The Surface Go 3 boasts a sleek and versatile design, featuring a magnesium alloy body that exudes durability and portability. It is available in two vibrant color options: Platinum and Cobalt Blue. The device’s 10.5-inch PixelSense display offers a sharp and immersive viewing experience.
In contrast, the iPad Pro showcases an equally impressive design, with an aluminum unibody construction that is both lightweight and robust. It comes in four elegant color options: Silver, Space Gray, Gold, and Sky Blue. The iPad Pro’s 11-inch or 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display provides exceptional color accuracy and contrast, making it ideal for creative professionals and media enthusiasts.
Performance and Hardware:
The Surface Go 3 is powered by Intel’s Pentium Gold 6500Y processor, which delivers adequate performance for basic tasks such as web browsing, email, and light productivity. It is available with 4GB or 8GB of RAM and 64GB or 128GB of SSD storage.
The iPad Pro, on the other hand, features Apple‘s powerful M1 chip, which offers unmatched performance for demanding applications such as video editing, graphic design, and gaming. It is available with 8GB or 16GB of RAM and 128GB to 2TB of SSD storage.
Operating System and Software:
The Surface Go 3 runs on Windows 11, providing access to a wide range of desktop applications, including Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, and countless others. It also supports pen input with the Surface Pen, enabling note-taking, sketching, and digital annotations.
The iPad Pro runs on iPadOS, which offers a user-friendly and intuitive interface designed specifically for touch-based devices. It has access to a vast library of apps in the App Store, including Procreate, Affinity Photo, and LumaFusion.
Battery Life and Portability:
The Surface Go 3 offers up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge, making it a reliable companion for extended use. It weighs approximately 1.2 pounds, making it easy to carry around all day.
The iPad Pro provides up to 10 hours of battery life for the 11-inch model and up to 12 hours for the 12.9-inch model. It weighs approximately 1.04 pounds for the 11-inch model and 1.5 pounds for the 12.9-inch model, making it even more portable than the Surface Go 3.
Accessories and Connectivity:
Both the Surface Go 3 and the iPad Pro support a range of accessories, including keyboards, mice, and styluses. The Surface Go 3 features a built-in kickstand that allows for flexible viewing angles. The iPad Pro has a magnetic connector that enables easy attachment of the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil.
In terms of connectivity, the Surface Go 3 offers a USB-C port, a microSD card slot, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The iPad Pro provides a Thunderbolt/USB 4 port, a USB-C port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Price and Value:
The Surface Go 3 starts at $399 for the base model with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. The iPad Pro starts at $799 for the 11-inch model with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. The 12.9-inch iPad Pro starts at $1,099 for the same configuration.
While the Surface Go 3 is more affordable, the iPad Pro offers significantly better performance and a more premium overall experience.
Which Device is Right for You?
The best choice between the Microsoft Surface Go 3 and the iPad Pro ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly device that can handle basic tasks and offers decent portability, the Surface Go 3 is a solid option.
However, if you prioritize performance, a premium display, and a vast ecosystem of apps, the iPad Pro is the clear winner. Its superior hardware and software make it an exceptional choice for creative professionals, students, and anyone who demands the best from their portable device.
Summary:
The Microsoft Surface Go 3 and the iPad Pro are both excellent devices that cater to different user needs. The Surface Go 3 offers a balance of affordability, portability, and versatility, while the iPad Pro excels in performance, display quality, and app ecosystem. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this comparison, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your specific requirements and budget.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Which device has a better camera?
The iPad Pro features a superior camera system with a 12MP wide-angle lens and a 10MP ultrawide lens. The Surface Go 3 has a more modest 5MP front-facing camera and an 8MP rear-facing camera.
2. Can I use both devices for gaming?
The iPad Pro is a more capable gaming device due to its powerful M1 chip. However, the Surface Go 3 can handle casual games and older titles with reduced settings.
3. Which device has a longer lifespan?
Both devices are expected to have a lifespan of several years with proper care and maintenance. However, the iPad Pro may have a slight advantage due to Apple’s continued software support for its devices.