The Microsoft Surface Pro 11 is a noteworthy contender in the premium tablet market. It introduces an OLED panel and Qualcomm Snapdragon X processors, both new to the Surface Pro lineup.
With these advancements, the Surface Pro isn’t just sporting new hardware—it’s shaping up to be a transformative figure in how you interact with technology on the go.
Equally ambitious, the Apple iPad Pro 2024 debuts with the M4 processor, marking it as the first to house an upgraded Neural Engine. This instigates another chapter in the ongoing competition between Surface Pro and iPad Pro, focusing on their respective AI capabilities.
Although it’s early to judge the full extent of how Microsoft’s and Apple’s latest tech stacks up, the disclosed features hint at a compelling battle for superiority that awaits your judgment.
Specs Comparison: Microsoft’s Latest Vs Apple’s Newest Pro Tablets
| Feature | Surface Pro 11 | iPad Pro 2024 (11″/13″) |
|---|---|---|
| Base Price | $999 | $999 (11″) / $1,299 (13″) |
| Processor | Snapdragon X Plus | Apple M4 (9 or 10-core CPU) |
| Memory | 16GB | 8GB or 16GB |
| Storage Options | 256GB, 512GB | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB |
| Display Type | 13-inch LCD (2880 x 1920) | 11″/13″ 120Hz OLED (2420 x 1668 / 2752 x 2064 pixels) |
| Graphics | Qualcomm Adreno | Apple M4 (10-core GPU) |
| Connectivity | 2x USB-C/USB 4, Wi-Fi 7 | 1x USB-C, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, 5G |
| Battery Performance | 10 hours web, 14 hours video | Tested at 13 hours for 13-inch model |
| Dimensions | 11.3 x 8.2 x 0.37 inches | 9.83 x 6.99 x 0.21 inches |
| Weight | 1.97 pounds | 0.98 pounds |
Your choice between the Surface Pro 11 and the iPad Pro 2024 might hinge on various factors from internal specs to external build.
With its Snapdragon X Plus CPU and a solid 16GB of RAM, the Surface Pro holds its own. In contrast, the iPad Pro 2024 boasts the Apple M4 chip and offers a wider range of RAM and storage options, inviting you to customize your device according to your needs.
Both tablets have high-resolution displays, but the iPad Pro steps up with its 120Hz OLED panel, promising a more vivid visual experience.
Connectivity options include robust Wi-Fi 7 on the Surface Pro, while the iPad brings additional features like 5G support to the table.
In terms of stamina, the iPad’s tested 13 hours of battery life for the larger model is commendable against Surface’s rated performance. The iPad also makes a statement with its thinner and lighter design, making it an attractive option for those valuing portability.
Pricing Comparison: Surface Pro 11 and iPad Pro 2024
When choosing between the Surface Pro 11 and the iPad Pro 2024, your budget will play a critical role. Here’s how their prices stack up, starting with the basics and moving on to the higher specs and accessories.
Starting Prices:
- Surface Pro 11:
- The basic version starts at $999
- Features: 13-inch touchscreen, Snapdragon X Plus chip, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD
- iPad Pro 2024:
- 11-inch version also starts at $999
- 13-inch version begins at $1,299
High-End Models:
- Surface Pro 11 with OLED:
- Commences at $1,499
- Upgrades include: Snapdragon X Elite chip, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD
- Top-tier configuration: 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD for $2,099
- iPad Pro 2024 Upgrades:
- Nano-texture glass with 1TB storage: 11-inch at $1,699, 13-inch at $1,999
- Offers the M4 chip with 1TB or 2TB storage
External Add-Ons:
- Surface Pro Accessories:
- Surface Pro Flex keyboard: $349, or $449 with Slim Pen
- iPad Pro Accessories:
- Magic Keyboard: $349
- Magic Pencil Pro: $129
To sum up, peripherals for the iPad Pro cost an additional $29 compared to the Surface Pro, but considering these peripheral prices, either option represents a significant extra investment.
In assessing the overall value, keep in mind that while the Surface Pro starts cheaper, Apple’s top-tier tablet has an OLED option at a lower entry cost compared to Microsoft’s version.
Upgrades can escalate the prices quite quickly, especially for the iPad Pro with options like nano-texture glass demanding a hefty premium. Deciding on the better value depends on your specific needs and the importance of certain features and performance benchmarks for your tasks.
Comparing the Designs: Surface Pro 11 and iPad Pro 2024
When you set your eyes on the Surface Pro 11, you’ll recognize its silhouette—sleek, slender, and crafted to cater to those desiring portability without sacrificing the power of Windows 11.
This iteration retains the elegance its lineage is known for, while incorporating a significant enhancement: an OLED screen option.
Encountering this display, you’re treated to a visual feast of deep colors and stark contrasts, courtesy of a staggering 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio.
Both OLED and LCD versions support Dolby Vision HDR and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring a highly responsive and vivid viewing experience.
In contrast, the iPad Pro 2024 maintains its signature unibody aluminum construction and large screen, exuding familiarity with a modern twist.
This iteration feels substantially different to hold—an “all-new device,” one might say, as it’s undergone a substantial weight reduction. Here are some notable changes:
- 11-inch iPad Pro: Noticeably lighter than its M2 predecessor.
- 13-inch iPad Pro: Slimmer profile, enabling longer, more comfortable usage.
Despite the differences, both the Surface Pro 11 and the iPad Pro 2024 stand out as champions of portability and elegance in the tablet world.
You’ll find them equally easy to carry and a delight to use on the go. Whether you’re waiting to experience the Surface Pro 11’s hand-feel or if you’re already familiar with the lightweight charm of the iPad Pro, both devices promise a harmonious blend of design and functionality.
Display Characteristics: Surface Pro 11 vs iPad Pro 2024
When considering the Surface Pro 11, you’ll find that it retains the 13-inch LCD display with a 2880 x 1920 pixel resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate from previous models. More notably, it includes support for Dolby Vision HDR, enhancing your visual experience.
A significant upgrade comes in the form of an OLED screen option, though this addition comes with a higher price tag. The OLED model stands out sharply with its deeper blacks and more vibrant colors, especially when compared to LCD screens, such as those on the Surface Laptop 7.
On the other hand, the iPad Pro 2024 sports an impressive OLED display renowned for its brightness, color range, and contrast. The visuals are striking, with the 120Hz refresh rate presenting smooth motion, making it a potentially strong contender in the high-end tablet market.
- Surface Pro 11
- Standard 13-inch LCD
- 2880 x 1920 resolution
- 120Hz refresh rate
- Optional OLED upgrade
- iPad Pro 2024
- OLED display
- High brightness and contrast
- 120Hz refresh rate
Whether for professional creative work or personal entertainment, the screens on both the Surface Pro 11 and the iPad Pro 2024 are structured to provide an exceptional viewing experience.
Opting for the OLED display on the Surface Pro 11 will cost extra but could significantly enhance your screen time.
The competition between these two displays has yet to reach a conclusion as both promise high-quality visuals, but the OLED technology in the iPad Pro 2024 sets a formidable benchmark in tablet displays.
Performance Comparison: Surface Pro 11 versus iPad Pro 2024
When you consider the Microsoft Surface Pro 11, it’s equipped with the latest Snapdragon X Plus and Elite processors, setting a new standard for Windows tablet performance.
These chips are designed to elevate the Surface Pro 11 to premium tablet status, providing the power and efficiency needed for both work and play.
Initial uses suggest that the device operates swiftly, comparably to current high-performance laptops, which is promising for the everyday user. However, comprehensive benchmark testing will provide a definitive comparison to its rivals.
Key Features of Surface Pro 11:
- Snapdragon X Plus and Elite processors
- Capable of handling day-to-day work smoothly
- Quick response with Windows 11 operations
The 13-inch iPad Pro 2024, on the other hand, boasts an M4 chip with substantial processing capabilities. This includes a 10-core CPU and GPU along with a state-of-the-art Neural Engine.
The M4 chip introduces new features like hardware-accelerated mesh shading, ray tracing, and Dynamic Caching, which are a first for Apple’s iPad line.
Aspects of the 2024 iPad Pro:
- M4 chip with a 10-core CPU and GPU
- Easily manages multitasking and media playback
- Impressive benchmark performance, significantly outperforming previous generations
Handling Heavy Workloads:
- Surface Pro 11: Shows no lag with demanding tasks and Windows 11 features.
- iPad Pro 2024: Sustains performance with multiple apps, tabs, and media without slowing down.
Benchmark Insights:
- iPad Pro 2024: Achieves nearly double the CPU performance of its predecessor in tests.
- Gaming Performance: While not reaching 60 FPS, the iPad Pro provides a smooth gaming experience with current titles.
Comparing Peripherals for Surface Pro 11 and iPad Pro 2024
When turning your tablet into a more laptop-like experience, the add-on keyboards for both the Surface Pro 11 and the iPad Pro 2024 are significant but come at a cost.
- Surface Pro Flex Keyboard
- Redesigned detachable keyboard for the Surface Pro 11
- Built-in battery allows for usage separate from the tablet, lasting up to 41 hours
- Priced at $349, or $449 bundled with the Slim Pen
- Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro
- Features a sleek aluminum touchpad and palm rests
- Designed with a flatter hinge, similar in style to Apple’s laptops
- Enhanced portability, adding minimal weight to the tablet
- Retailing at $349
For stylus enthusiasts, the Apple Pencil Pro offers a rich experience. It boasts a rollable barrel for nuanced control over line thickness and provides sensory feedback, along with new input options such as a squeeze function.
- Apple Pencil Pro
- Advanced features including haptic feedback and barrel roll for style switching
- Costs $129
Alternatively, a more budget-friendly option is the Standard Apple Pencil, compatible with USB-C, available for $79. Keep in mind that it lacks some of the more advanced features of the Pro version, such as wireless magnetic charging.
Outlook on Surface Pro 11 versus iPad Pro 2024
Further Insights from Tom’s Guide
Testing the Surface Pro 11 will reveal its full potential and help us assess whether it stands up to the iPad Pro with the M4 chip. It might come down to personal preference, whether you’re more at home with Apple’s integrated environment or prefer the flexibility of Windows.
In the display department, the Surface Pro 11’s OLED screen is poised to be put to the test against the iPad Pro’s display, which has set high standards for OLED quality on tablets.
Performance-wise, the Snapdragon chipset in the new Surface Pro promises enhanced speed and efficiency. It’ll be interesting to determine which device ultimately proves to be the superior substitute for a traditional laptop.
- Tune into the Microsoft Build 2024 LIVE coverage for insights on Copilot, the new Surface Pro 11, and the Surface Laptop 7 details.
- Discover all there is to the Surface Pro 11 in our in-depth explainer.
- Find out why the rollout of Sky voice within ChatGPT was put on hold, following comparisons to Scarlett Johansson’s voice.
Stay Ahead with Top Tech Insights
Subscribe Today:
- Tech Trends: Get insights on the latest tech innovations.
- Lifestyle Tips: Discover life-enhancing tech tips.
- Exclusive Reviews: Read in-depth analysis from leading experts.
Meet Our Contributors:
- Tony: Expert insights from the tech and gaming worlds.
- Experience More: Dive into everything tech outside 9-5.
Why Subscribe?
- Be the first to grab deals and hear about new gadgets.
- Expand your tech knowledge with expert articles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Comparing Specs: Surface Pro 11 vs. iPad Pro
The Surface Pro 11 and the iPad Pro have distinct specifications that cater to different needs.
The Surface Pro typically includes multiple ports, a kickstand, and runs Windows OS, which may offer more diverse software compatibility. The iPad Pro is known for its iOS optimization and sleek design, often featuring fewer ports but a more integrated ecosystem with other Apple products.
Microsoft Surface Pro 11:
- Different configurations of processors and memory.
- Possibly more ports for connectivity.
- Runs on Windows OS.
- Typically includes a kickstand.
iPad Pro 2024:
- May start with a higher base price.
- Features Apple’s M4 chip.
- Runs on iOS.
- Less port variety but may have better ecosystem integration.
User Experience for Professional Tasks
Your user experience will vary depending on the device you choose.
The Microsoft Surface Pro 11’s Windows OS accommodates desktop applications seamlessly, which might be preferable for certain professional software. The iPad Pro’s iOS, on the other hand, is efficient and offers a smooth user interface that works well with touch and pen input.
Surface Pro 11:
- Better suited for traditional desktop applications.
- Can be used as a laptop replacement.
iPad Pro 2024:
- Smooth interface with intuitive touch controls.
- Good for design and creative tasks.
Microsoft Office Efficiency
Both devices can run Microsoft Office applications efficiently, but the experience may differ.
The Surface Pro will provide a more familiar desktop-like experience, while the iPad Pro offers a touch-optimized interface which may be more intuitive for some users.
Surface Pro 11:
- Desktop-like Microsoft Office experience.
iPad Pro 2024:
- Touch-optimized Microsoft Office applications.
Lifespan Comparisons
The lifespan of each device will depend on the build quality, battery cycles, and usage.
Typically, both devices are built to last a number of years, but the iPad Pro may have an advantage in battery health management through iOS.
Surface Pro 11:
- Solid build quality.
- Battery life dependent on usage patterns.
iPad Pro 2024:
- Strong build, possibly superior battery management.
Processor Performance
Looking at processor performance, each chip brings its strengths.
The Surface Pro’s processor options are varied, allowing for customization based on your needs. The iPad Pro’s M4 chip is designed specifically for the device, which may lead to more efficient performance.
Value for Money
Determining better value for money will depend on your specific use case and preferences.
The Surface Pro can be a full laptop replacement, which might be seen as more value-oriented.
The iPad Pro offers a high-quality display and a seamless ecosystem that adds to its value.
Surface Pro 11:
- Laptop replacement capabilities.
- Pricing varies with configurations.
iPad Pro 2024:
- High-end display quality.
- Cost includes the benefit of integration with Apple ecosystem.