Surface Go vs iPad Pro: Which Tablet Reigns Supreme?
Choosing the right tablet can be a tough decision, especially when you’re caught between two giants. The Microsoft Surface Go and the Apple iPad Pro both offer compelling features and cater to different needs, making the choice a complex one.
This in-depth comparison will help you navigate the strengths and weaknesses of each device. We’ll explore everything from performance and display quality to design and price, ensuring you have all the information necessary to make an informed decision.
Whether you prioritize portability and affordability with the Surface Go or raw power and a premium experience with the iPad Pro, this guide will provide a clear understanding of which tablet best suits your needs. Get ready to discover which device will become your next go-to gadget!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Surface Go | iPad Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 10-inch | 11-inch / 12.9-inch |
| Display Resolution | 1800 x 1200 pixels | 2388 x 1668 pixels (11-inch) / 2732 x 2048 pixels (12.9-inch) |
| Processor | Intel Pentium/Core m3 | Apple M-series chip |
| RAM | 4GB / 8GB | 8GB / 16GB |
| Storage | 64GB eMMC / 128GB SSD | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TB |
| Operating System | Windows 10/11 | iPadOS |
| Connectivity | USB-C, Surface Connect, microSD | USB-C, Smart Connector |
| Front Camera | 5MP | 12MP (ultrawide) |
| Rear Camera | 8MP | 12MP |
| Stylus Support | Surface Pen | Apple Pencil (2nd gen) |
| Keyboard | Type Cover (sold separately) | Magic Keyboard (sold separately) |
| Cellular Option | Yes (select models) | Yes (select models) |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Price
- Surface Go: The Surface Go typically starts at a lower price point, making it more accessible for budget-conscious users. It offers a more affordable entry into the 2-in-1 market. However, adding accessories like the keyboard and pen can increase the overall cost.
- iPad Pro: The iPad Pro usually has a higher starting price, positioning it as a premium device. While offering a powerful experience, the initial investment is considerably more. Accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil further add to the cost.
- Winner: surface go
Operating System
- Surface Go: Runs Windows 11 in S Mode (can be upgraded), offering a full desktop operating system experience. This provides compatibility with a wide range of software. However, the S Mode restricts the app installation to the Microsoft Store by default.
- iPad Pro: Operates on iPadOS, a mobile-focused operating system optimized for touch and tablet use. It offers a user-friendly interface and a vast app ecosystem. While powerful, iPadOS has limitations compared to a full desktop OS.
- Winner: surface go
Performance
- Surface Go: Equipped with Intel Pentium or Core m3 processors, the Surface Go provides adequate performance for everyday tasks like web browsing, email, and light productivity. It may struggle with demanding applications or multitasking.
- iPad Pro: Powered by Apple’s M-series chips, the iPad Pro delivers exceptional performance, handling demanding tasks like video editing, gaming, and complex creative workflows with ease. It offers a significantly faster and more responsive experience.
- Winner: ipad pro
Display
- Surface Go: Features a smaller display with a lower resolution compared to the iPad Pro. The screen is adequate for general use, but it may not be as vibrant or detailed.
- iPad Pro: Boasts a larger, high-resolution display with ProMotion technology (120Hz refresh rate), resulting in a smoother and more immersive visual experience. The display is excellent for creative work and media consumption.
- Winner: ipad pro
Portability
- Surface Go: Surface Go is more compact and lighter, making it incredibly portable and convenient for on-the-go use. Its smaller size makes it easier to carry around.
- iPad Pro: iPad Pro is larger and heavier than the Surface Go, which impacts portability compared to Surface Go, but still quite portable for a tablet.
- Winner: surface go
Accessories
- Surface Go: Supports Microsoft’s Surface Pen and Type Cover, which transform it into a 2-in-1 device. The accessories are sold separately, adding to the overall cost.
- iPad Pro: Compatible with the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and Magic Keyboard, offering similar functionality. Accessories are also sold separately.
- Winner: Tie
Storage
- Surface Go: Surface Go offers a range of storage options, typically starting with lower capacities. The storage can be expanded via microSD card.
- iPad Pro: iPad Pro offers higher storage options, with models offering up to 2TB. It does not have an expandable storage option.
- Winner: ipad pro
Ecosystem & Software
- Surface Go: Integrates seamlessly with the Microsoft ecosystem and offers broad software compatibility due to the Windows OS. While it supports a vast number of applications, the mobile-first experience isn’t as polished.
- iPad Pro: Benefits from Apple’s robust ecosystem, including a wide array of apps optimized for iPadOS and creative applications. It offers a streamlined and user-friendly experience, but software compatibility is limited to the iPadOS app store.
- Winner: ipad pro
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Tie (Windows vs. iPadOS – Depends on preference) |
| Performance | iPad Pro |
| Portability | Tie |
| Software Ecosystem | iPad Pro |
| Keyboard and Accessories | Tie (Depends on accessories purchased) |
| Value | Surface Go (potentially) |
What They Have in Common
- Portability: Both the Surface Go and iPad Pro are designed to be highly portable, making them ideal for on-the-go use. Their compact sizes and lightweight designs make them easy to carry around.
- Touchscreen: Both devices feature responsive touchscreen displays, enabling intuitive navigation and interaction. This allows for a more natural and engaging user experience.
- Stylus Support: Both tablets offer stylus support, allowing users to take notes, draw, and create content with greater precision. This enhances productivity and creative possibilities.
- Versatile Use: Both can be used for a wide range of tasks, from web browsing and email to content creation and media consumption. This makes them suitable for both personal and professional use.
- Wi-Fi and Cellular Options: Both devices offer Wi-Fi connectivity, and some models provide cellular options for internet access on the go. This allows users to stay connected wherever they are.
Surface Go Vs iPad Pro Buying Guide
Surface Go vs. iPad Pro: Price and Value
The Surface Go generally offers a more accessible entry point, making it attractive for budget-conscious users or those seeking a secondary device. The iPad Pro, on the other hand, comes with a significantly higher price tag, reflecting its premium features and performance. Consider your budget and the features you need. If you primarily need a device for basic tasks like browsing, email, and light productivity, the Surface Go might offer better value. If you require top-tier performance and aren’t as constrained by budget, the iPad Pro will likely be the better option. Consider the cost of accessories too, such as the keyboard and pen.
Surface Go vs. iPad Pro: Performance and Power
The iPad Pro typically boasts superior processing power and graphics capabilities, making it ideal for demanding tasks like video editing, gaming, and graphic design. Its processor is generally faster, leading to quicker app loading times and smoother multitasking. The Surface Go, while capable of handling everyday tasks, may struggle with resource-intensive applications. Consider the type of work you’ll be doing. If you need a device that can handle professional workloads, the iPad Pro is the clear winner. However, if your needs are more basic, the Surface Go can still provide a satisfactory experience.
Surface Go vs. iPad Pro: Display and Design
The iPad Pro usually features a larger, more vibrant display with ProMotion technology, offering a smoother and more responsive experience. Its design is sleek and modern, and it is known for its high-quality construction. The Surface Go offers a smaller screen and a more compact design, making it more portable. However, the iPad Pro’s display quality and overall build quality are generally superior. Consider the size of the screen you prefer and the importance of display quality for your usage. Do you want a bigger screen to work on, or is portability more important?
Surface Go vs. iPad Pro: Software and Ecosystem
The iPad Pro runs on iPadOS, which is optimized for touch-based interactions and offers a vast ecosystem of apps through the App Store. The Surface Go runs on Windows, providing access to a wider range of software and the familiar Windows interface. The choice between iPadOS and Windows depends on your preferred operating system and the software you need to use. If you need access to specific Windows applications or prefer the familiarity of Windows, the Surface Go might be a better fit. If you prefer the simplicity and touch-optimized experience of iPadOS, the iPad Pro is the better choice.
Surface Go vs. iPad Pro: Accessories and Ecosystem
Both devices offer a range of accessories to enhance their functionality. The iPad Pro supports the Apple Pencil and a Smart Keyboard, which are essential accessories for creative professionals and users who need to type extensively. The Surface Go also has a Surface Pen and a Type Cover keyboard. Consider the accessories you need and the cost of the overall system. While both ecosystems offer compelling options, the iPad Pro’s accessories often come at a premium price. Think about how much you want to spend on the device including accessories to determine what fits your budget best.
Surface Go vs. iPad Pro: Portability and Battery Life
The Surface Go is known for its compact size and lightweight design, making it highly portable and easy to carry around. The iPad Pro, while still portable, is generally larger and heavier. Battery life varies, but both devices offer decent battery performance for typical usage. Consider how important portability is to you. If you need a device that you can easily slip into a bag, the Surface Go might be a better choice. Assess your daily usage patterns and determine which device offers the best balance of portability and battery life for your needs.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Surface Go If…
- You prefer a full Windows experience with access to a wide range of software.
- You need a device that can run traditional desktop applications.
- You value a more affordable entry point into the tablet market.
- You want the flexibility of a built-in kickstand.
Buy iPad Pro If…
- You prioritize a streamlined and optimized tablet experience with iPadOS.
- You need a powerful device for creative tasks like video editing and graphic design.
- You want the best performance and a vibrant display.
- You prefer a wider selection of tablet-optimized apps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences in performance?
The iPad Pro typically offers superior processing power and graphics capabilities due to its more advanced chip, resulting in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better performance in demanding tasks like video editing and gaming. The Surface Go’s performance is adequate for everyday tasks but may struggle with resource-intensive applications. It is less powerful.
Which device has a better display?
The iPad Pro usually has a superior display with a larger screen, higher resolution, and ProMotion technology, leading to a smoother and more responsive experience. The Surface Go’s display is smaller and has a lower resolution. The iPad Pro’s display also offers richer colors and better brightness, providing a better viewing experience, especially for media consumption.
What operating system does each device use?
The iPad Pro runs on iPadOS, a mobile operating system optimized for touch-based interactions and a user-friendly interface. The Surface Go runs on Windows, offering access to a wider range of software and the familiar Windows interface. The choice of operating system depends on your preferences and the software you need to use for your work.
How do the accessories compare?
Both devices offer a range of accessories. The iPad Pro supports the Apple Pencil and a Smart Keyboard, while the Surface Go offers a Surface Pen and a Type Cover keyboard. The iPad Pro’s accessories are often more expensive. Consider your accessory needs, and how much you are prepared to spend on accessories, as this should affect your decision.
Which device is better for portability?
The Surface Go is generally more portable due to its smaller size and lighter weight, making it easier to carry around. The iPad Pro is also portable, but its larger size and weight make it less convenient for some users. Consider your portability needs. If you want a device you can easily slip into a bag, the Surface Go is a better choice.
What about battery life?
Both devices offer decent battery life for typical usage scenarios, allowing you to work or play for several hours on a single charge. However, battery life can vary depending on usage patterns and the intensity of the tasks you’re performing. Check user reviews for real-world battery life estimates based on the type of work you do.
Which device is better for creative professionals?
The iPad Pro, with its powerful processor, high-quality display, and support for the Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard, is generally better suited for creative professionals like graphic designers, video editors, and illustrators. Its ecosystem of creative apps and accessories provides a comprehensive creative workflow experience. However, the Surface Go can be used for basic creative tasks.
Final Verdict
The iPad Pro emerges as the superior device for users who prioritize performance, a premium display, and a comprehensive creative ecosystem. While the Surface Go offers a more budget-friendly option and improved portability, its performance and features are not as high-end. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs and budget.
Winner: iPad Pro