What To Know
- To help you make an informed decision, we present a comprehensive comparison of the Microsoft Surface Pro vs Samsung Tab S8.
- The Tab S8 runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, which offers comparable performance to the Surface Pro.
- The Surface Pro offers a more traditional laptop-like experience with Windows 11, while the Tab S8 is more compact and portable with Android 12L.
In the realm of 2-in-1 devices, the Microsoft Surface Pro and Samsung Tab S8 stand as formidable contenders. Both offer a blend of laptop and tablet functionality, but they differ significantly in design, performance, and features. To help you make an informed decision, we present a comprehensive comparison of the Microsoft Surface Pro vs Samsung Tab S8.
Design and Build Quality
Microsoft Surface Pro:
The Surface Pro boasts a sleek and sophisticated design with a magnesium alloy body. Its 2-in-1 form factor allows it to be used as a laptop, tablet, or drawing canvas. The built-in kickstand provides a stable surface for both typing and drawing.
Samsung Tab S8:
The Tab S8 features a more traditional tablet design with an aluminum body. It is slightly thicker and heavier than the Surface Pro but offers a more compact and portable form factor. The included S Pen magnetically attaches to the back of the device for easy storage and charging.
Display
Microsoft Surface Pro:
The Surface Pro comes with a 13-inch PixelSense Flow display with a resolution of 2880 x 1920 pixels. It supports Dolby Vision HDR and offers excellent color accuracy and brightness levels.
Samsung Tab S8:
The Tab S8 boasts a slightly larger 14.6-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 2960 x 1848 pixels. It also supports HDR10+ and features a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling and video playback.
Performance
Microsoft Surface Pro:
The Surface Pro is powered by Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, depending on the model. These processors provide ample power for everyday tasks, including web browsing, office applications, and light photo editing.
Samsung Tab S8:
The Tab S8 runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, which offers comparable performance to the Surface Pro. However, the Tab S8 comes with a dedicated GPU, providing an edge in gaming and graphics-intensive applications.
Operating System
Microsoft Surface Pro:
The Surface Pro runs on Windows 11, providing a familiar and versatile desktop operating system. It supports a wide range of software applications and offers a seamless integration with other Microsoft products.
Samsung Tab S8:
The Tab S8 uses Android 12L, which is optimized for larger screens and includes features such as split-screen multitasking and drag-and-drop functionality. The Android ecosystem offers a vast selection of apps and games, but it may not be as suitable for desktop-like tasks.
Battery Life
Microsoft Surface Pro:
The Surface Pro offers a claimed battery life of up to 15 hours on a single charge. However, real-world usage may vary depending on the workload and screen brightness.
Samsung Tab S8:
The Tab S8 boasts a slightly longer battery life, with Samsung claiming up to 16 hours of video playback. Again, actual battery performance can vary based on usage patterns.
Accessories and Features
Microsoft Surface Pro:
The Surface Pro supports the Surface Pen, which is included with some models. The pen provides a precise and natural writing and drawing experience. Other accessories include the Surface Keyboard and Surface Mouse, which enhance productivity.
Samsung Tab S8:
The Tab S8 comes with the S Pen, which offers similar functionality to the Surface Pen. The device also supports the Samsung Book Cover Keyboard, which transforms it into a more laptop-like experience.
Price and Availability
The Microsoft Surface Pro and Samsung Tab S8 are both premium devices with comparable price ranges. The Surface Pro starts at $999, while the Tab S8 starts at $849. Both devices are widely available through online and retail stores.
In a nutshell: Choosing the Right Device for You
The Microsoft Surface Pro and Samsung Tab S8 are both excellent 2-in-1 devices with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Surface Pro offers a more traditional laptop-like experience with Windows 11, while the Tab S8 is more compact and portable with Android 12L. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which device has a better display?
A: Both devices offer excellent displays, but the Samsung Tab S8 has a slightly larger and higher-resolution screen with a 120Hz refresh rate.
Q: Which device is more powerful?
A: The Microsoft Surface Pro and Samsung Tab S8 offer comparable performance, but the Tab S8 has a dedicated GPU for enhanced graphics capabilities.
Q: Which device has longer battery life?
A: The Samsung Tab S8 has a slightly longer claimed battery life of up to 16 hours, while the Surface Pro offers up to 15 hours.
Q: Which device is better for drawing?
A: Both devices support their respective pens, but the Surface Pen is generally regarded as having a more precise and natural writing experience.
Q: Which device is more versatile?
A: The Microsoft Surface Pro runs Windows 11, which provides a wider range of software compatibility and desktop-like functionality.
