M4 iPad Pro vs Surface Pro 11 | Make it SImple

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Ark
November 18, 2024

A Comprehensive Comparison of Apple’s M4 iPad Pro and Microsoft’s Surface Pro 11

Laptop-Tablet Versus Tablet-Laptop

The Apple M4 iPad Pro versus the Microsoft Surface Pro 11: which is better? Let’s go over the raw stats first.

Starting with the externals, the M4 iPad Pro is Apple’s flagship laptop-tablet, offering many features. The smaller version starts at $1,000, while the larger one costs $1,300. The Surface Pro 11, Microsoft’s tablet-laptop, starts at $1,000 for the regular model and $1,500 for the OLED version. Both devices have accessories that are often purchased together, so their prices are worth noting as well.

Size-wise, the iPad Pro comes in two versions, 11 inches and 13 inches, both sporting 120 Hz refresh rates and OLED displays, with the primary difference being their sizes. The Surface Pro is 13 inches with a 120 Hz display, available in either LCD or OLED, the latter costing more. Thus, while the iPad Pro’s consistent use of OLED is advantageous, the Surface Pro’s starter model is larger.

In terms of connectivity, both devices have their shortcomings, but the Surface Pro comes out ahead. The iPad Pro has only one Thunderbolt USB-C port, likely necessitating a dongle for most users. In contrast, the Surface Pro has two USB-C ports and a Surface Connect Port, offering better connectivity overall.

When it comes to cameras, both devices are impressive. The iPad Pro features a wide rear camera, a LiDAR scanner, and an ultrawide front camera, allowing for 4K recording, extensive front coverage, and AR imagery projection. The Surface Pro has an excellent ultrawide front camera and a wide rear camera, with the rear capable of 4K recording and the front at 1440p. While both are strong contenders, the iPad’s LiDAR scanner gives it a slight edge.

Internally, the iPad Pro sports the new M4 chip, a speedy computer processor adapted for the tablet. The Surface Pro 11 features the latest Snapdragon ARM chips, with the Snapdragon X+ for the starter model and the X Elite for the OLED version. Both chips provide excellent performance and battery life. Benchmark tests show the iPad Pro is slightly ahead in both single-core and multi-core performance. Additionally, both devices support their respective NPUs for AI functionality.

For storage, both devices offer 256 GB, tying in this regard. However, the Surface Pro’s SSD is upgradeable, giving it an advantage. Battery life is promising for both, with previous iterations showing solid performance, though the Surface has shown some variability. Expect improvements in battery performance with these new models, potentially lasting a full workday. Both devices also have solid security features, with the iPad Pro using Face ID and the Surface Pro utilizing Windows Hello.

Regarding operating systems, the iPad Pro runs iPadOS, while the Surface Pro operates on Windows 11. This difference translates to varied use cases, which we will discuss in the verdict.

In summary, the iPad Pro has faster internal specs, while the Surface Pro offers an upgradeable SSD. Now, onto my verdict.

The M4 iPad Pro versus the Surface Pro 11: two solid devices that are tough to choose between. However, the choice depends on your needs. The iPad Pro is a “laptop tablet,” a tablet that can act like a laptop. It’s ideal for note-taking, photo or video editing, and content consumption, making it a great companion to your existing computer setup. The Surface Pro, on the other hand, is a “tablet-laptop,” a laptop that can function as a tablet. It’s compatible with nearly everything on the internet and suitable for gaming, emailing, and recordkeeping, potentially serving as your main computer.

While there’s some overlap — the iPad can handle emails, and the Surface can be used for note-taking — each has its strengths and weaknesses. The iPad excels as a tablet but falls short as a laptop due to iPadOS’s limitations. Conversely, the Surface Pro is a great computer but lacks the native tablet experience, as Windows is not a tablet OS.

So, which is right for you? If you already have a computer and are okay with iPadOS, get the M4 iPad Pro. If you need a standalone computer and prefer Windows, go for the Surface Pro 11. Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific needs. Both devices are excellent, so focus on what suits you best, and you’ll be satisfied with either.

That was the M4 iPad Pro versus the Surface Pro 11—two fantastic devices sure to please anyone. I hope this comparison helped. Catch you in the next one. My name is Cirus, spelled like Cyrus but pronounced C-rooster without the T.