The Ultimate Guide: Surface Laptop Go vs. iPad – Which is Right for You?
What To Know
- If you prefer a lightweight, portable device with a touch-friendly interface and access to a wide range of apps, the iPad is a more suitable choice.
- The Microsoft Surface Laptop Go offers a more traditional laptop experience with a keyboard and trackpad, making it better suited for students who need to type and navigate documents.
- With the addition of the Magic Keyboard, the iPad can be used as a laptop, but it may not be as convenient as a traditional laptop for extended typing sessions.
When choosing between the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go and the iPad, it’s crucial to consider your specific needs and preferences. Both devices offer unique advantages and drawbacks, making it essential to evaluate them thoroughly before making a decision. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each device to help you make an informed choice.
Design and Display
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go:
- 12.4-inch PixelSense display with a 1536 x 1024 resolution
- Weighs 2.38 pounds
- Thin and portable design with a magnesium chassis
- Comes in Platinum, Sandstone, Ice Blue, and Black
iPad:
- 10.2-inch Retina display with a 2160 x 1620 resolution
- Weighs 1.07 pounds (Wi-Fi) or 1.09 pounds (Wi-Fi + Cellular)
- Sleek and lightweight design with an aluminum unibody
- Available in Silver, Space Gray, Rose Gold, and Sky Blue
Verdict: The iPad has a slightly better display but is significantly lighter and more portable.
Performance
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go:
- Intel Core i5-1035G1 processor
- 4GB or 8GB of RAM
- 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB of SSD storage
iPad:
- Apple A13 Bionic chip
- 4GB or 8GB of RAM
- 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of storage
Verdict: The iPad offers superior performance with its faster processor and more storage options.
Operating System and Apps
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go:
- Runs Windows 10 Home or Pro
- Supports Microsoft Office apps and other Windows-compatible software
iPad:
- Runs iPadOS 14
- Access to the App Store with millions of apps optimized for touchscreens
Verdict: Windows 10 provides a more traditional desktop experience, while iPadOS offers a more mobile-centric interface. The availability of apps depends on your specific needs.
Connectivity
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go:
- Wi-Fi 6
- Bluetooth 5.0
- USB-A port
- USB-C port
- Surface Connect port
iPad:
- Wi-Fi 6
- Bluetooth 5.0
- Lightning port
Verdict: The Microsoft Surface Laptop Go offers more connectivity options, including a USB-C port for charging and data transfer.
Battery Life
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go:
- Up to 13 hours of battery life
- Charges via Surface Connect or USB-C port
iPad:
- Up to 10 hours of battery life
- Charges via Lightning port
Verdict: The Microsoft Surface Laptop Go has a slightly longer battery life.
Accessories
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go:
- Surface Pen (optional)
- Surface Dock 2 (optional)
iPad:
- Apple Pencil (optional)
- Magic Keyboard (optional)
Verdict: Both devices offer optional accessories to enhance functionality, but the iPad has a wider range of accessories available.
Cost
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go:
- Starts at $549.99
iPad:
- Starts at $329.00
Verdict: The iPad is more affordable than the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go.
Which Device is Right for You?
The choice between the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go and the iPad depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance, storage, and connectivity, the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go is a better option. If you prefer a lightweight, portable device with a touch-friendly interface and access to a wide range of apps, the iPad is a more suitable choice.
Alternatives
If neither the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go nor the iPad meets your needs, consider these alternatives:
- Apple MacBook Air: A premium laptop with a thin and light design, long battery life, and a powerful M1 chip.
- Google Pixelbook Go: A Chromebook with a lightweight design, long battery life, and a premium build quality.
- Samsung Galaxy Book Flex 2 Alpha: A 2-in-1 laptop with a touchscreen display, S Pen support, and a long battery life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which device is better for students?
A: The Microsoft Surface Laptop Go offers a more traditional laptop experience with a keyboard and trackpad, making it better suited for students who need to type and navigate documents.
Q: Which device is better for artists and designers?
A: The iPad with the Apple Pencil provides a more intuitive and natural drawing experience, making it a better choice for artists and designers.
Q: Can I use the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go as a tablet?
A: No, the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go does not have a touchscreen display and cannot be used as a tablet.
Q: Can I use the iPad as a laptop?
A: With the addition of the Magic Keyboard, the iPad can be used as a laptop, but it may not be as convenient as a traditional laptop for extended typing sessions.
Q: Which device has better sound quality?
A: Both devices have decent sound quality, but the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go has slightly better speakers.
