The Apple iPad Pro vs Surface Pro 8. For general comparison, let’s go over the raw stats.
External Design and Features
First, let’s go over the externals. The iPad Pro starts at $800 for the small version and $1,100 for the larger one, while the Surface Pro 8 just starts at $1,100. Both of these are also eligible for student discounts to varying extents, so keep that in mind.
Display Comparison
Now, for sizes, the iPad Pro has 2: The 11 inch and the 12.9 inch. And, with these two different versions, we also have two different screens. Both versions of the iPad Pro come with 120Hz displays, but the top of the line version comes with MiniLED and high peak brightness, while the Surface Pro 8 only has one size, 13 inches and also 120Hz, but it does not come with MiniLED or that high of peak brightness. But, it does have a helpful kickstand.
Connectivity and Camera
And, for connectivity, the iPad Pro only has one single USB port, meaning, yeah, you’ll probably need a dongle if you want to have a few accessories, while the Surface Pro 8 is a bit better with: a couple USB ports, a headphone jack, and the Surface Connect Port.
For cameras, the iPad Pro comes with three different lenses, a wide, and ultrawide, and a LIDAR scanner, which allow for it to be able to record at 4k and cover a large space and also be helpful for those who want to use the AR technology. And, on top of that, it also has a pretty good camera up front. It also comes with Apple’s Center Stage feature, which keeps you in frame as you move around, while the Surface Pro 8 only has two cameras, with the rear being able to record at 4k. So, all in all, for the externals. The iPad Pro has a better display and camera setup, while the Surface Pro 8 has better connectivity and a few neat features.
Internal Specifications and Software
Now, for internal specs, the iPad Pro sports the M1 Chip, while the Surface Pro can either have an Intel Core i5 or i7. And here are the single-core performances of these device configuration: And here are the multi-core: As you can see, the iPad Pro is a bit faster.
And, for storage, both devices start with 128 gigabytes, But, they can be configured with more at an increasing price. And they both have facial recognition software, with the iPad Pro sporting FaceID and the Surface Pro using Windows Hello. And, lastly, for the operating systems, The iPad Pro runs iPadOS while the Surface Pro uses Windows 11, which are two completely different softwares that will guide much of my verdict. But, in summary, the iPad Pro has faster internal specs.
Reviewer Feedback
And, now before getting on to my verdict, let’s go over some reviewer acclaims and criticisms of both devices. The iPad Pro was praised for its processor, battery life, and center stage feature. And it was criticized for its operating system, lack of a built-in kickstand, and front camera placement. The Surface Pro 8, on the other hand, was praised for its design, kickstand, and overall typing experience. And it was critiqued for its accessories sold separately, connectivity, and price.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
So, let’s discuss which one you should buy. Firstly, in these types of apples to oranges comparisons, the decision always comes down to your needs. Specifically, will you be taking a lot of notes or drawing? Or will you be running a lot of different computer-esque programs?. In other words, do you want a primarily tablet experience? Or more of a computer one?.
This is because, as stated previously, both these devices runs different operating systems. The iPad Pro runs iPadOS, which is based off of the iPhone mobile operating system, which means you’ll be limited in things, such as multitasking. But, you will have a far superior tablet experience with iPadOS’s inherent touchscreen integration.
But, on the other hand, the Surface Pro 8 runs full 64 bit Windows 11, meaning you’ll be able to do anything a typical computer can, but not everything a specialized tablet can. So, as you can tell, there are advantages and disadvantages with either choice. But, as it stands, my recommendation is: If you have another computer, get the iPad Pro. It’s faster, has more note taking apps, and is meant to be a companion to your main device.
But, on the other hand, if you don’t have another computer, I recommend getting the Surface Pro 8. Even though it doesn’t have all the cool and neat features of the iPad Pro, The Surface Pro more than makes up for it with its greater functionality, being that it’s a 2-in-1 and it runs the Windows 11 operating system. At this moment, you still can do more with Windows 11 than you can with iPadOS, and that greater freedom is needed for your primary device.
Despite all of this, though, I recommend checking both out at your local Best Buy just to make sure you get what you want, and, especially, what you need. But, ultimately, all of this is your decision based on your preferences. My name is Cyrus. It’s spelled like “Cyrus,” pronounced like “See Rooster,” just take out the “ter”. Thank you very much for reading, good luck with your purchase, and have a wonderful day.
