What To Know
- The Surface Studio 2 features a sleek and modern design with a 28-inch PixelSense display that tilts and lowers to a near-flat position.
- The iMac Pro boasts a high-performance Xeon processor with up to 18 cores and an AMD Radeon Pro Vega 64 graphics card.
- The choice between the Microsoft Surface Studio 2 and the iMac Pro ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
In the realm of professional-grade creative computing, two titans stand out: the Microsoft Surface Studio 2 and the Apple iMac Pro. Both devices boast impressive hardware, innovative features, and robust software ecosystems. But which one reigns supreme for digital artists, designers, and content creators? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Microsoft Surface Studio 2 vs iMac Pro, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Surface Studio 2:
The Surface Studio 2 features a sleek and modern design with a 28-inch PixelSense display that tilts and lowers to a near-flat position. Its sturdy base provides excellent stability, while the Zero Gravity Hinge allows for effortless adjustments.
iMac Pro:
The iMac Pro exudes a minimalist aesthetic with its all-in-one design. Its 27-inch Retina display offers vibrant colors and sharp details. The sleek aluminum chassis and thin bezels give it a premium look and feel.
Display
Surface Studio 2:
The Surface Studio 2’s PixelSense display boasts a resolution of 4500 x 3000 pixels, delivering stunning visuals. Its 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and animations. The 3:2 aspect ratio provides ample vertical space for creative tasks.
iMac Pro:
The iMac Pro’s Retina display offers a resolution of 5120 x 2880 pixels, resulting in exceptional sharpness and detail. Its P3 wide color gamut and True Tone technology provide accurate and lifelike colors.
Performance
Surface Studio 2:
The Surface Studio 2 is powered by up to an 8th-generation Intel Core i7 processor and an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 graphics card. This configuration provides ample power for demanding creative applications.
iMac Pro:
The iMac Pro boasts a high-performance Xeon processor with up to 18 cores and an AMD Radeon Pro Vega 64 graphics card. This powerhouse delivers exceptional performance for complex tasks such as video editing and 3D rendering.
Stylus and Touch Support
Surface Studio 2:
The Surface Studio 2 comes with the Surface Pen, which offers pressure sensitivity and tilt detection for natural and precise drawing and writing. The display also supports touch input, allowing for intuitive gestures and navigation.
iMac Pro:
The iMac Pro does not come with a stylus, but it supports the Apple Pencil (sold separately). The Pencil offers similar pressure sensitivity and tilt detection, but it lacks the Surface Pen‘s eraser. The iMac Pro’s display does not support touch input.
Operating System and Software
Surface Studio 2:
The Surface Studio 2 runs on Windows 10, which provides a familiar and versatile operating system for creative professionals. It comes pre-installed with Microsoft Office and other essential software.
iMac Pro:
The iMac Pro runs on macOS, which is known for its stability and ease of use. It includes Apple’s suite of creative apps, such as Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, and Xcode.
Connectivity and Ports
Surface Studio 2:
The Surface Studio 2 offers a variety of ports, including four USB 3.0 ports, two USB-C ports, a Gigabit Ethernet port, and a Mini DisplayPort. It also supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity.
iMac Pro:
The iMac Pro features four Thunderbolt 3 ports, four USB 3.0 ports, a Gigabit Ethernet port, and an SDXC card slot. It also supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity.
Price
Surface Studio 2:
The Surface Studio 2 starts at $3,499 for the base model and can go up to $4,799 for the top-of-the-line configuration.
iMac Pro:
The iMac Pro starts at $4,999 for the base model and can go up to $13,999 for the fully loaded configuration.
Which One is Right for You?
The choice between the Microsoft Surface Studio 2 and the iMac Pro ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Surface Studio 2:
- Ideal for artists and designers who prioritize stylus input and a flexible display
- Offers a versatile operating system with a wide range of software options
iMac Pro:
- Suitable for professionals who require exceptional performance and a streamlined workflow
- Features a premium design and a stunning display
- Provides a closed ecosystem with optimized software and hardware
Alternatives to Consider
If neither the Surface Studio 2 nor the iMac Pro meets your exact requirements, here are some alternatives to consider:
- Dell XPS 15: A powerful laptop with a high-resolution display and a stylus option
- Wacom Cintiq Pro 24: A professional-grade drawing tablet with a large and accurate display
- Apple Mac Mini: A compact and affordable desktop computer that can be paired with a separate monitor
What You Need to Know
Q: Which device has a better display?
A: The iMac Pro has a slightly higher resolution and a wider color gamut than the Surface Studio 2. However, both displays offer exceptional image quality.
Q: Can I use a Surface Pen with the iMac Pro?
A: No, the iMac Pro does not support the Surface Pen. You can use the Apple Pencil instead, but it is sold separately.
Q: Which device is more portable?
A: The Surface Studio 2 is more portable than the iMac Pro due to its smaller size and weight. However, both devices are not designed to be frequently moved.
Q: Which device has a better operating system?
A: Both Windows 10 and macOS are excellent operating systems for creative professionals. Windows 10 offers more flexibility and customization options, while macOS is known for its stability and ease of use.
Q: Which device is better for video editing?
A: The iMac Pro is generally better for video editing due to its superior performance and optimized software. However, the Surface Studio 2 can also handle video editing tasks with its powerful graphics card.
