What To Know
- The battle between Microsoft Surface Go 2 and iPad rages on, as both devices cater to users seeking a versatile and portable solution for productivity and creativity.
- The Surface Go 2 runs on Windows 10 in S mode, which limits the installation of apps to the Microsoft Store.
- The Surface Go 2 is a versatile and affordable option for basic tasks and Windows users, while the iPad excels in performance and app availability, making it ideal for demanding users and those within the Apple ecosystem.
The battle between Microsoft Surface Go 2 and iPad rages on, as both devices cater to users seeking a versatile and portable solution for productivity and creativity. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key features, performance, and usability aspects of these two popular tablets to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Microsoft Surface Go 2:
The Surface Go 2 features a sleek and sturdy design with a magnesium alloy chassis. Its 10.5-inch PixelSense display boasts a resolution of 1920×1280 pixels and supports 10-point multi-touch. The 2-in-1 design allows it to transform from a tablet to a laptop with its detachable keyboard.
iPad:
The iPad comes in various sizes and configurations, with the entry-level model featuring a 10.2-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2160×1620 pixels. Its unibody aluminum construction offers durability and a premium feel. The iPad lacks a detachable keyboard, but it supports Apple’s Smart Keyboard and Magic Keyboard accessories.
Performance and Hardware
Microsoft Surface Go 2:
Powered by an Intel Core m3 processor, the Surface Go 2 provides adequate performance for basic productivity tasks and casual browsing. It comes with 4GB or 8GB of RAM and 64GB or 128GB of expandable storage via microSD.
iPad:
The iPad utilizes Apple’s A12 Bionic chip, which offers significantly faster performance than the Surface Go 2. It is available with 3GB or 4GB of RAM and storage options ranging from 32GB to 256GB.
Operating System
Microsoft Surface Go 2:
The Surface Go 2 runs on Windows 10 in S mode, which limits the installation of apps to the Microsoft Store. However, users can upgrade to Windows 10 Home for a more open app ecosystem.
iPad:
The iPad runs on Apple’s iPadOS, which is optimized for tablet use. It provides a user-friendly interface with intuitive gestures and a wide range of apps available in the App Store.
Productivity and Creativity Tools
Microsoft Surface Go 2:
The Surface Go 2 comes with Microsoft Office apps pre-installed, providing access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. It also supports a digital pen for note-taking and annotating documents.
iPad:
The iPad offers a comprehensive suite of productivity apps, including Pages, Numbers, Keynote, and iMovie. It also supports the Apple Pencil for drawing, sketching, and writing.
Connectivity and Battery Life
Microsoft Surface Go 2:
The Surface Go 2 features a USB-C port, a microSD card slot, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. It claims up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge.
iPad:
The iPad has a Lightning port, a Smart Connector for accessories, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. It offers up to 10 hours of battery life, depending on the model and usage.
Price and Availability
Microsoft Surface Go 2:
The Surface Go 2 starts at $399 for the base model with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage.
iPad:
The entry-level iPad starts at $329 for the 10.2-inch model with 32GB of storage.
Which Device is Right for You?
The choice between the Microsoft Surface Go 2 and the iPad ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Consider the Surface Go 2 if:
- You prefer a Windows-based device with access to Microsoft Office.
- You value the versatility of a 2-in-1 design.
- You want a more affordable option.
Consider the iPad if:
- You prioritize performance and a user-friendly operating system.
- You are invested in the Apple ecosystem and its apps.
- You prefer a sleek and portable design.
Verdict: A Balanced Choice
Both the Microsoft Surface Go 2 and the iPad offer compelling features and capabilities for productivity and creativity. The Surface Go 2 is a versatile and affordable option for basic tasks and Windows users, while the iPad excels in performance and app availability, making it ideal for demanding users and those within the Apple ecosystem. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific requirements and preferences.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Which device has a better display?
A: The iPad’s Retina display offers a higher resolution and wider color gamut than the Surface Go 2’s PixelSense display.
Q: Can I use the Surface Go 2 with a cellular connection?
A: Yes, the Surface Go 2 with LTE connectivity allows you to access the internet without Wi-Fi.
Q: Does the iPad come with a keyboard?
A: No, the iPad does not come with a keyboard, but it supports external keyboards such as the Smart Keyboard and Magic Keyboard.
Q: Which device is more portable?
A: The Surface Go 2 is slightly more portable than the iPad due to its smaller size and detachable keyboard.
Q: Can I use both devices for drawing and sketching?
A: Yes, both the Surface Go 2 with its digital pen and the iPad with the Apple Pencil offer excellent drawing and sketching capabilities.
