Microsoft Surface Go 2 vs iPad: Which Is Best for Students and Professionals?
What To Know
- The Microsoft Surface Go 2 claims to offer up to 10 hours of battery life, while the iPad boasts up to 10 hours of browsing and 9 hours of video playback.
- The base model of the Surface Go 2 starts at $399, while the base model of the iPad starts at $329.
- However, it’s important to note that the Surface Go 2 includes a Windows 10 license, while the iPad requires a separate purchase of iPadOS.
In the realm of mobile computing, two giants stand tall: Microsoft Surface Go 2 and Apple iPad. Both devices cater to the needs of professionals on the go, offering a blend of portability, versatility, and performance. But which one reigns supreme in the battle of Microsoft Surface Go 2 vs. iPad? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their key features, strengths, and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Display
The Microsoft Surface Go 2 boasts a 10.5-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels. Its 3:2 aspect ratio provides ample screen space for multitasking and productivity. The iPad, on the other hand, offers a slightly larger 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 2360 x 1640 pixels. Its 4:3 aspect ratio is better suited for media consumption and browsing.
Operating System
One of the fundamental differences between the Surface Go 2 and the iPad lies in their operating systems. The Surface Go 2 runs on Windows 10, providing users with access to a wide range of desktop applications, including Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, and countless others. The iPad, in contrast, runs on Apple’s iPadOS, which is optimized for touch-based interactions and offers a more streamlined experience.
Performance
Under the hood, the Microsoft Surface Go 2 is powered by an Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y processor with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. The iPad, meanwhile, features an Apple A13 Bionic chip with 3GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. In terms of raw performance, the iPad has a slight edge, especially when it comes to graphics-intensive tasks. However, the Surface Go 2’s Windows 10 operating system provides better support for legacy applications and multitasking.
Battery Life
Battery life is crucial for mobile professionals. The Microsoft Surface Go 2 claims to offer up to 10 hours of battery life, while the iPad boasts up to 10 hours of browsing and 9 hours of video playback. Both devices perform well in this regard, providing ample power for a full day’s work or entertainment.
Connectivity
When it comes to connectivity, the Microsoft Surface Go 2 has the upper hand. It features a USB-C port, a microSD card slot, and a headphone jack. The iPad, on the other hand, only has a USB-C port and a Lightning port. This means that the Surface Go 2 offers more flexibility when it comes to connecting peripherals and external storage.
Accessories
Both the Surface Go 2 and the iPad have a range of accessories available to enhance their functionality. The Surface Go 2 can be paired with the Type Cover keyboard and Surface Pen for a more laptop-like experience. The iPad, similarly, can be paired with the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil for improved typing and drawing capabilities.
Price
Pricing is an important factor to consider when comparing the Microsoft Surface Go 2 and the iPad. The base model of the Surface Go 2 starts at $399, while the base model of the iPad starts at $329. However, it’s important to note that the Surface Go 2 includes a Windows 10 license, while the iPad requires a separate purchase of iPadOS.
Final Verdict
The choice between the Microsoft Surface Go 2 and the iPad ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize versatility, desktop application support, and connectivity, the Surface Go 2 is the better choice. However, if you prioritize portability, media consumption, and a streamlined touch-based experience, the iPad is the way to go.
Alternatives to Consider
In addition to the Surface Go 2 and the iPad, there are other alternatives to consider in this category:
- Lenovo Yoga Book C930: A 2-in-1 laptop with a unique e-ink display on the side for note-taking and sketching.
- HP Spectre x360 14: A premium 2-in-1 laptop with a stunning display and powerful performance.
- Samsung Galaxy Book S: A thin and light 2-in-1 laptop powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processor.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which device has a better display for productivity?
A: The Surface Go 2’s 3:2 aspect ratio provides more screen space for multitasking and productivity.
Q: Which operating system is more versatile?
A: Windows 10 on the Surface Go 2 offers a wider range of desktop applications and better support for legacy software.
Q: Which device has a longer battery life?
A: Both devices offer similar battery life of around 10 hours, depending on usage.
Q: Which device has more connectivity options?
A: The Surface Go 2 has a USB-C port, a microSD card slot, and a headphone jack, while the iPad only has a USB-C port.
Q: Which device is more affordable?
A: The base model of the iPad starts at $329, while the base model of the Surface Go 2 starts at $399.
