Tablets have become essential tools for professionals, offering a blend of portability and productivity. Two of the most popular options are the iPad Pro and the Microsoft Surface Pro 9. Both devices are designed for professionals, but they cater to different workflows and preferences. In this article, we’ll compare the iPad Pro and Surface Pro 9 in terms of performance, design, software, and productivity features to help you decide which one is the better choice for your needs.
1. Design and Build Quality
iPad Pro:
The iPad Pro features a sleek and minimalist design with a slim aluminum body. It’s lightweight and easy to carry, making it ideal for professionals on the go. The device is available in two sizes: 11-inch and 12.9-inch. The 12.9-inch model includes a Liquid Retina XDR display, which offers stunning visuals with high brightness and contrast.
Surface Pro 9:
The Surface Pro 9 has a versatile design with a built-in kickstand and detachable keyboard. It’s slightly heavier than the iPad Pro but offers more flexibility in terms of usage modes. The device features a 13-inch PixelSense display with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing smooth and responsive visuals.
Verdict:
The iPad Pro is more portable and stylish, while the Surface Pro 9 offers greater versatility with its kickstand and detachable keyboard.
2. Performance
iPad Pro:
The iPad Pro is powered by Apple’s M2 chip, which delivers exceptional performance for both productivity and creative tasks. The M2 chip ensures smooth multitasking, fast app launches, and efficient power consumption. The iPad Pro is capable of handling demanding applications like video editing, 3D modeling, and graphic design with ease.
Surface Pro 9:
The Surface Pro 9 is equipped with Intel’s 12th Gen processors, offering strong performance for productivity tasks. It’s available in configurations with up to 32GB of RAM, making it suitable for multitasking and running professional software. However, it may not match the iPad Pro’s performance in creative applications.
Verdict:
The iPad Pro offers better performance, especially for creative professionals. The Surface Pro 9 is a strong contender for general productivity tasks.
3. Software and Ecosystem
iPad Pro:
The iPad Pro runs on iPadOS, which is optimized for touch and Apple Pencil input. iPadOS offers a wide range of productivity apps, but it’s still limited compared to a full desktop OS. The iPad Pro integrates seamlessly with other Apple devices, allowing for features like Handoff, AirDrop, and Universal Clipboard.
Surface Pro 9:
The Surface Pro 9 runs on Windows 11, providing a full desktop experience. It supports a wide range of professional software, including Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Cloud, and more. The device also integrates well with other Windows devices and services, offering a familiar environment for professionals.
Verdict:
The Surface Pro 9 is better for professionals who need a full desktop OS and compatibility with a wide range of software. The iPad Pro is ideal for those invested in the Apple ecosystem.
4. Productivity Features
iPad Pro:
The iPad Pro offers a range of productivity features, including the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard. The Apple Pencil provides precise input for drawing and note-taking, while the Magic Keyboard turns the iPad Pro into a laptop-like device. However, the iPad Pro’s multitasking capabilities are still limited compared to a full desktop OS.
Surface Pro 9:
The Surface Pro 9 comes with the Surface Pen and Type Cover, offering a complete productivity package. The Surface Pen is great for note-taking and drawing, while the Type Cover provides a comfortable typing experience. The device’s multitasking capabilities are superior, thanks to Windows 11.
Verdict:
The Surface Pro 9 offers better productivity features and multitasking capabilities. The iPad Pro is great for creative tasks but falls short in multitasking.
5. Display Quality
iPad Pro:
The iPad Pro features a Liquid Retina XDR display on the 12.9-inch model, offering exceptional brightness, contrast, and color accuracy. The 11-inch model has a Liquid Retina display, which is also excellent but not as advanced as the XDR display.
Surface Pro 9:
The Surface Pro 9 has a 13-inch PixelSense display with a 120Hz refresh rate. The display is bright and colorful, providing a great viewing experience for both work and entertainment.
Verdict:
The iPad Pro’s display is superior, especially the 12.9-inch model with XDR technology. The Surface Pro 9’s display is also excellent but not as advanced.
6. Battery Life
iPad Pro:
The iPad Pro offers all-day battery life, making it ideal for professionals on the go. The M2 chip’s efficiency ensures that the device can handle demanding tasks without draining the battery quickly.
Surface Pro 9:
The Surface Pro 9 also offers good battery life, but it may not last as long as the iPad Pro under heavy use. The device’s battery life is sufficient for a full workday, but it may require recharging sooner than the iPad Pro.
Verdict:
The iPad Pro has better battery life, making it more suitable for professionals who need a device that lasts all day.
7. Storage and Connectivity
iPad Pro:
The iPad Pro is available in storage options ranging from 128GB to 2TB. It supports Wi-Fi 6E and 5G connectivity, ensuring fast and reliable internet access. The device also has a USB-C port for charging and data transfer.
Surface Pro 9:
The Surface Pro 9 offers storage options from 128GB to 1TB. It supports Wi-Fi 6E and 5G connectivity, similar to the iPad Pro. The device features a Thunderbolt 4 port, providing faster data transfer speeds and support for external displays.
Verdict:
Both devices offer excellent storage and connectivity options, but the Surface Pro 9’s Thunderbolt 4 port gives it an edge in terms of versatility.
8. Price and Value
iPad Pro:
The iPad Pro is a premium device with a starting price of around $799 for the 11-inch model and $1,099 for the 12.9-inch model. The cost can increase significantly with additional storage and accessories like the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard.
Surface Pro 9:
The Surface Pro 9 starts at around $999, but the price can go up with higher configurations and accessories like the Surface Pen and Type Cover. The device offers good value for professionals who need a versatile and powerful tablet.
Verdict:
The iPad Pro offers better value for creative professionals, while the Surface Pro 9 is a better choice for those who need a full desktop experience.
9. Accessories
iPad Pro:
The iPad Pro supports the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and the Magic Keyboard. These accessories enhance the device’s functionality, making it more versatile for creative and productivity tasks.
Surface Pro 9:
The Surface Pro 9 supports the Surface Pen and Type Cover. These accessories provide a complete laptop-like experience, making the device more versatile for productivity tasks.
Verdict:
Both devices have excellent accessories, but the Surface Pro 9’s Type Cover offers a more traditional typing experience.
10. Final Verdict
Both the iPad Pro and Microsoft Surface Pro 9 are excellent tablets for professionals, but the best choice depends on your needs:
- Choose the iPad Pro if:
You prioritize portability, display quality, and performance for creative tasks. It’s also ideal for those invested in the Apple ecosystem. - Choose the Surface Pro 9 if:
You need a full desktop OS, superior multitasking capabilities, and a versatile design. It’s a great choice for professionals who need a device that can double as a laptop.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your workflow, preferences, and the ecosystem you’re invested in. Both devices are top-tier options, so choose the one that aligns with your professional needs.
