Quick summary
- However, if you prefer a more portable device with a vibrant display and access to Android apps, the Tab S8 Plus is a great option.
- If you seek a versatile 2-in-1 device with the full capabilities of a laptop, the Surface Pro 8 is an excellent pick.
- Both the Surface Pro 8 and Tab S8 Plus have excellent displays, but the Tab S8 Plus has a slightly higher resolution and a more vibrant Super AMOLED panel.
In the realm of 2-in-1 devices, the Microsoft Surface Pro 8 and Samsung Tab S8 Plus stand as formidable contenders. Both devices offer a blend of tablet and laptop functionality, but they differ in key aspects that can influence your choice. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the specifications, features, and performance of the Surface Pro 8 and Tab S8 Plus, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Surface Pro 8:
- Premium magnesium alloy chassis
- Sleek and lightweight at 891 grams
- Detachable Type Cover for a laptop-like experience
Tab S8 Plus:
- Aluminum unibody construction
- Slightly heavier at 572 grams
- No detachable keyboard included
Display
Surface Pro 8:
- 13-inch PixelSense Flow display
- 2880 x 1920 resolution
- 120Hz refresh rate
Tab S8 Plus:
- 12.4-inch Super AMOLED display
- 2800 x 1752 resolution
- 120Hz refresh rate
Performance
Surface Pro 8:
- Up to 11th-generation Intel Core i7 processor
- 8GB to 32GB of RAM
- 128GB to 1TB of storage
Tab S8 Plus:
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor
- 8GB to 16GB of RAM
- 128GB to 512GB of storage
Operating System
Surface Pro 8:
- Windows 11 Pro
- Full desktop experience
- Extensive software compatibility
Tab S8 Plus:
- Android 12L with One UI 4.1
- Limited desktop experience
- Access to Google Play Store apps
Pen and Input
Surface Pro 8:
- Surface Slim Pen 2 with tilt and pressure sensitivity
- Optional Type Cover for keyboard and trackpad
Tab S8 Plus:
- S Pen included
- Bluetooth keyboard and trackpad sold separately
Battery Life
Surface Pro 8:
- Up to 16 hours of battery life
- Fast charging with Surface Connect port
Tab S8 Plus:
- Up to 13 hours of battery life
- Fast charging with USB-C port
Connectivity
Surface Pro 8:
- Thunderbolt 4 ports
- Surface Connect port
- Wi-Fi 6
- Bluetooth 5.1
Tab S8 Plus:
- USB-C ports
- Wi-Fi 6
- Bluetooth 5.2
Price
Surface Pro 8:
- Starting at $1,099
Tab S8 Plus:
- Starting at $899
Which is Right for You?
The choice between the Surface Pro 8 and Tab S8 Plus depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a full desktop experience, Windows compatibility, and pen support, the Surface Pro 8 is a solid choice. However, if you prefer a more portable device with a vibrant display and access to Android apps, the Tab S8 Plus is a great option.
Takeaways: The Verdict
Both the Microsoft Surface Pro 8 and Samsung Tab S8 Plus offer unique advantages and drawbacks. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual requirements. If you seek a versatile 2-in-1 device with the full capabilities of a laptop, the Surface Pro 8 is an excellent pick. If you prioritize portability, Android compatibility, and a stunning display, the Tab S8 Plus is a compelling choice.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Which device has a better display?
A: Both the Surface Pro 8 and Tab S8 Plus have excellent displays, but the Tab S8 Plus has a slightly higher resolution and a more vibrant Super AMOLED panel.
Q: Which device has better performance?
A: The Surface Pro 8 has the edge in performance with its Intel Core i7 processor, while the Tab S8 Plus is no slouch with its Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor.
Q: Which device is more portable?
A: The Tab S8 Plus is significantly lighter and more compact than the Surface Pro 8, making it more suitable for on-the-go use.