What to know
- Both devices offer a blend of style, power, and functionality, catering to the needs of creative professionals and demanding users alike.
- Sleek and adjustable design with a hinge that allows the display to be tilted into a drafting mode.
- The iMac, on the other hand, offers a wider color gamut, more RAM and storage options, and a more affordable starting price.
In the realm of premium all-in-one computers, the Microsoft Surface Studio 2 and Apple iMac stand out as formidable contenders. Both devices offer a blend of style, power, and functionality, catering to the needs of creative professionals and demanding users alike. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Surface Studio 2 and the iMac, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements.
Display:
Surface Studio 2:
- 28-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 4500 x 3000
- 3:2 aspect ratio, providing a larger vertical workspace
- Supports 10-point multi-touch and the Surface Pen
- 100% sRGB color accuracy
iMac:
- 27-inch Retina display with a resolution of 5120 x 2880
- 16:9 aspect ratio, offering a wider viewing area
- Supports P3 wide color gamut
- 100% sRGB and 99% DCI-P3 color accuracy
Performance:
Surface Studio 2:
- Intel Core i7 or i9 processor
- Up to 32GB of RAM
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 or 1060 graphics card
- 1TB or 2TB SSD storage
iMac:
- Intel Core i5, i7, or i9 processor
- Up to 128GB of RAM
- AMD Radeon Pro 5700XT or 5700 graphics card
- 256GB to 8TB SSD storage
Design:
Surface Studio 2:
- Sleek and adjustable design with a hinge that allows the display to be tilted into a drafting mode
- Zero Gravity Hinge provides smooth and effortless transitions
- Aluminum and fabric construction
iMac:
- Thin and minimalist design with a unibody aluminum enclosure
- 21.5-inch and 27-inch models available
- Space Gray or Silver color options
Input Devices:
Surface Studio 2:
- Surface Pen with 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity
- Supports tilt and eraser functionality
- Surface Dial for intuitive workflow enhancement
iMac:
- Magic Keyboard with Touch ID
- Magic Mouse 2 or Magic Trackpad 2
- Supports third-party pen and touch inputs
Operating System:
Surface Studio 2:
- Windows 10 Professional
iMac:
- macOS Big Sur or later
Features:
Surface Studio 2:
- Built-in webcam and microphone
- Dual front-facing speakers
- USB-C and USB-A ports
- Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
iMac:
- FaceTime HD camera
- Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support
- Thunderbolt 3 ports
- Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
Price:
The Surface Studio 2 starts at $3,499, while the iMac starts at $1,799. The price varies depending on the configuration and storage options.
Final Thoughts:
The Microsoft Surface Studio 2 and Apple iMac are both exceptional all-in-one computers with unique strengths and weaknesses. The Surface Studio 2 excels with its adjustable display, Surface Pen support, and Windows 10 operating system. The iMac, on the other hand, offers a wider color gamut, more RAM and storage options, and a more affordable starting price. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which device has a better display for creative work?
A: The Surface Studio 2’s adjustable display and Surface Pen support make it ideal for artists and designers.
Q: Which device is more powerful for video editing?
A: The iMac’s AMD Radeon Pro graphics card provides better performance for video editing tasks.
Q: Which device is more portable?
A: The iMac’s unibody design makes it easier to move around, while the Surface Studio 2’s adjustable hinge limits its portability.
Q: Which device is better for gaming?
A: Both devices are not primarily designed for gaming, but the Surface Studio 2’s NVIDIA GeForce graphics card offers slightly better performance for casual gaming.
Q: Which device has a better warranty?
A: Both devices come with a one-year limited warranty from the manufacturer.