What To Know
- 9-inch sizes and offers a Liquid Retina XDR display with a resolution of 2388 x 1668 pixels for the 11-inch model and 2732 x 2048 pixels for the 12.
- In terms of peripherals, the Surface Go 3 is compatible with a wide range of Windows accessories, including the Surface Pen and Surface Keyboard.
- The iPad Pro offers a higher level of performance and a better display, but the Surface Go 3 is a more affordable option for those on a budget.
In the realm of portable computing, two devices stand out as formidable contenders: the Microsoft Surface Go 3 and the iPad Pro. Both offer a unique blend of portability and functionality, catering to professionals, students, and creatives alike. But which one emerges as the superior choice for hybrid productivity and creativity? Let’s dive into a comprehensive comparison to find out.
Performance: Intel vs Apple Silicon
The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is powered by Intel’s Pentium Gold or Core i3 processor, while the iPad Pro boasts Apple’s M1 or M2 chip. The M1 and M2 chips offer superior performance in both single-core and multi-core tasks, making the iPad Pro the clear winner for demanding applications such as video editing, graphic design, and 3D modeling.
Display: Pixel Density and Aspect Ratio
The Surface Go 3 features a 10.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels. The iPad Pro, on the other hand, comes in 11-inch and 12.9-inch sizes and offers a Liquid Retina XDR display with a resolution of 2388 x 1668 pixels for the 11-inch model and 2732 x 2048 pixels for the 12.9-inch model. The iPad Pro’s display has a higher pixel density, resulting in sharper images and text. Additionally, the iPad Pro’s 4:3 aspect ratio is more suitable for reading and document editing, while the Surface Go 3’s 3:2 aspect ratio is better for watching videos and browsing the web.
Operating System: Windows vs iPadOS
The Surface Go 3 runs Windows 11, while the iPad Pro runs iPadOS. Windows 11 offers a familiar desktop experience with full support for x86-64 applications. This makes it ideal for users who need to run legacy software or specialized programs. iPadOS, on the other hand, is a more touch-centric operating system with a focus on simplicity and ease of use. It offers a wide range of apps optimized for the iPad’s touchscreen interface, including professional-grade creative tools such as Procreate and LumaFusion.
Battery Life: Endurance vs Portability
The Surface Go 3 promises up to 10 hours of battery life, while the iPad Pro offers up to 10 hours of video playback or 9 hours of web browsing. Both devices have fast charging capabilities, with the iPad Pro supporting USB-C Power Delivery and the Surface Go 3 supporting Surface Connect. However, the Surface Go 3’s smaller size and weight make it a more portable option for on-the-go productivity.
Connectivity and Peripherals
The Surface Go 3 features a USB-C port, a Surface Connect port, and a microSD card slot. The iPad Pro offers two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports and a USB-C port. Both devices support Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and the Surface Go 3 also includes an optional LTE modem for cellular connectivity. In terms of peripherals, the Surface Go 3 is compatible with a wide range of Windows accessories, including the Surface Pen and Surface Keyboard. The iPad Pro supports the Apple Pencil and the Magic Keyboard.
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 128GB of storage and $1,099 for the 12.9-inch model with 128GB of storage. The iPad Pro offers a higher level of performance and a better display, but the Surface Go 3 is a more affordable option for those on a budget.
In a nutshell: The Best Choice for Your Needs
The choice between the Microsoft Surface Go 3 and the iPad Pro ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance and a desktop-like experience, the iPad Pro is the clear winner. If you value portability, affordability, and the ability to run Windows applications, the Surface Go 3 is an excellent option. Both devices offer their own unique strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to consider your individual requirements before making a decision.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which device is better for students?
A: Both devices are suitable for students, but the Surface Go 3 is a more affordable option and offers the flexibility of running Windows applications.
Q: Which device is better for artists and designers?
A: The iPad Pro offers a better display and a wider range of professional-grade creative apps, making it the ideal choice for artists and designers.
Q: Can the Surface Go 3 run Photoshop?
A: Yes, the Surface Go 3 can run Photoshop, but it may not be as performant as on a more powerful device.
Q: Can the iPad Pro run Microsoft Office?
A: Yes, the iPad Pro can run Microsoft Office through the Microsoft Office for iPad app.
Q: Which device has better battery life?
A: Both devices offer similar battery life, with the Surface Go 3 having a slight edge in terms of portability.
