Are Surface Pros Good Compared To Macbook Pro? This is the question that many professionals ask when trying to decide between these two popular devices, and the answer lies in understanding their differences and how they align with your specific needs. At COMPARE.EDU.VN, we aim to offer a detailed comparison of these devices, covering everything from performance and software to design and price, ultimately helping you determine which device is the right fit for you. By examining key aspects such as processing power, operating system compatibility, build quality, and pricing, we empower you to make an informed choice tailored to your unique requirements.
1. MacBook Pro vs Surface Pro: Performance
When comparing the Surface Pro and MacBook Pro in terms of processing power, the MacBook Pro generally outperforms the Surface Pro, especially the 14-inch and 16-inch models. (Image credit: Future)
1.1 Surface Pro Performance
The Surface Pro 8 is equipped with quad-core Intel 11th Gen processors, supporting HyperThreading for eight virtual cores. Users can upgrade from a Core i5 to a Core i7 for enhanced processor and graphics capabilities.
The Surface Pro 9, a newer model released in October 2022, provides a modest upgrade with 12th Gen Intel Core i5 1235U / i7 1255U processors. A Microsoft SQ 3 version is also available; however, its performance may be slower than the Intel versions, especially when running emulated apps.
For graphics, the processors integrate Intel Xe graphics, suitable for basic photo and video editing, and comparable to the GPU in the Apple M1 processor in the 13-inch MacBook Pro. However, the larger MacBook Pros significantly exceed this power. The Surface Pro 8 and 9 offer options for 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB of RAM and storage choices of 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB SSD.
The Surface Pro 7, a more economical option, is available with an Intel dual-core i3 processor in its base configuration, though this is not recommended for creative tasks. The quad-core Core i5 or i7 options are preferable. These models feature Intel 10th Gen processors, with the Surface Pro 8 and 9 delivering superior performance and battery life. The Intel Iris Plus graphics in the Surface Pro 7 are about 33% less powerful than the Intel Xe chip in the Surface Pro 8, making it significantly less powerful than the Apple options. The Surface Pro 7 provides options for 4GB (not recommended), 8GB, or 16GB of RAM, along with storage choices of 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB SSD.
1.2 MacBook Pro Performance
The 13-inch MacBook Pro features the Apple M1 processor, an eight-core processor with 8GB of RAM standard (16GB optional). It is approximately 10% faster than the Surface Pro 8 with Core i7 for single-core tasks and up to 40% faster for multi-core tasks due to its doubled physical cores. The GPU power is similar, if not slightly better.
The 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros include the M1 Pro processor, available in eight-core or 10-core CPU configurations, with 16GB of memory standard (configurable to 32GB). The M1 Pro delivers similar single-core performance to the standard M1 but superior multi-core performance, especially the 10-core model. The eight-core M1 Pro is around 30% faster for multi-core tasks than the standard M1, while the 10-core M1 Pro is up to 60% faster, doubling the power of the top-end Surface Pro 8. The M1 Pro’s GPU doubles the power of the M1’s GPU, far surpassing any Surface Pro model.
The Apple M1 Max processor, also available in the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros, maintains CPU power at the same level (only available in the 10-core version) but comes with 32GB of memory standard, upgradeable to 64GB. More notably, it doubles the GPU’s capability again, providing around 10TFLOPS of raw graphics computation power.
The 13-inch MacBook Pro offers storage options of 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB. The 14-inch and 16-inch models feature 512GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, or 8TB of fast flash storage.
1.3 Optimized Operation
Both devices are designed for efficient operation on the go. The Surface Pro 8 uses Intel’s Evo platform for strong performance with low energy and heat, while Apple’s processors are among the most efficient professional-grade processors available. All models minimize heat and fan noise, with the more powerful 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros being the most likely to increase fan noise, though they remain remarkably quiet even under demanding 3D rendering tasks.
2. MacBook Pro vs Surface Pro: Software
The Surface Pro runs on the Windows operating system, offering broad software compatibility for professionals. (Image credit: Microsoft)
2.1 Operating Systems
The Surface Pro 8 and 9 come with Windows 11 Home, while the Surface Pro 7 includes Windows 10 with a free upgrade to Windows 11. The MacBook Pros are equipped with macOS Monterey.
2.2 Software Compatibility
The Apple M1 Pro or Max chips may cause compatibility issues with some software. While many professional software applications have been updated to run natively on these chips, not all have. Non-updated software can still run through a conversion process that causes minimal slowdown, estimated at around 20% on average. However, Apple’s processors are generally faster than the competition, mitigating this speed reduction.
Potential compatibility problems may arise with plugins, and some professional apps may lack full functionality in their M1 versions, including Photoshop and Pro Tools. While missing features are typically minor, users should verify that their essential software runs as needed before purchasing. Most users will not encounter software issues, but it is advisable to confirm compatibility with critical software before making a decision.
3. MacBook Pro vs Surface Pro: Design and Keyboard
The MacBook Pro features a full-size keyboard and trackpad, offering a traditional laptop experience (Image credit: Future)
3.1 Design Differences
The primary distinction between the Surface Pro and MacBook Pro is that the Surface Pro is essentially a tablet that runs Windows. Users can attach a keyboard to transform it into a laptop-like device, though it may not feel as solid as a traditional laptop.
3.2 Dimensions and Weight
The Surface Pro 8 and 9 measure 287 x 208 x 9.3mm (11.3 x 8.2 x 0.37 in) and weigh 891g (1.96 lb) without the Type Cover keyboard, which adds 310g (0.68 lb). The Surface Pro 7 measures 292 x 201 x 8.5 mm (11.5 x 7.9 x 0.33 in) and weighs 790g (1.74 lb), also without the Type Cover. All three models have a kickstand for upright positioning when not held.
3.3 MacBook Pro Models
The MacBook Pros are traditional laptops. The 13-inch MacBook Pro maintains a design used for about a decade, while the 14-inch and 16-inch versions feature a newer design. All models have a full-size keyboard and a spacious trackpad. The MacBook Pro 13-inch measures 304 cm x 21.2 x 16 mm (11.97 x 8.36 x 0.61 in) when closed and weighs 1.4kg (3 lb). The MacBook Pro 14-inch measures 313 x 221 x 16 mm (12.31 x 0.61 x 8.71 in) and weighs 1.6 kg (3.5 lb). The MacBook Pro 16-inch measures 356 x 248 x 17 mm (14.01 x 9.77 x 0.66 in) and weighs 2.1 kg (4.7 pounds).
4. MacBook Pro vs Surface Pro: Display
The Surface Pro’s touchscreen capability offers a unique advantage for drawing and interactive tasks, a feature not available on the MacBook Pro (Image credit: Microsoft)
4.1 Surface Pro Display Features
The Surface Pro 8 and 9 feature a 13-inch display with a resolution of 2,880 x 1,920 and a 3:2 aspect ratio, which is more square than the standard 16:9 or 16:10 screens. This aspect ratio is beneficial for document viewing, as it allows more content to be displayed vertically. It is also suitable for image adjustments due to its closer alignment with camera outputs. However, it can result in larger bars at the top and bottom of the screen when viewing videos and may be less ideal for multitasking due to reduced width for side-by-side windows.
Both Surface Pro models support full multi-touch and Surface Pen for stylus input. The Surface Pro 8 includes Dolby Vision HDR support, although its limited maximum brightness (around 450 nits) makes this feature more suitable for video. It also features an ambient color sensor that adjusts the display’s color temperature to match the room’s lighting.
The Surface Pro 8 and 9 have a maximum refresh rate of 120Hz, enhancing input latency, especially beneficial for drawing and gaming. The Surface Pro 9 also adds Dolby Vision IQ support and Gorilla Glass 5 for enhanced screen durability.
4.2 MacBook Pro Display Features
The 13-inch MacBook Pro has a 13.3-inch screen with a resolution of 2560×1600 and a 16:10 aspect ratio. It has a brightness of 500 nits and supports the P3 wide color gamut. The device also features Apple’s True Tone technology, which adjusts color temperature based on ambient light.
The 14-inch MacBook Pro features a resolution of 3024×1964, also with a 16:10 aspect ratio. It supports the P3 gamut and Apple’s True Tone tech, along with 120Hz refresh rates and a mini-LED panel for higher brightness and HDR performance. It is capable of a full-screen brightness of 1,000 nits, with a peak brightness of 1,500 nits in small areas when displaying HDR content, including Dolby Vision HDR and HDR-supported apps. In general use, it maintains a brightness of 500 nits to save battery.
The 16-inch MacBook Pro has a similar display to the 14-inch model but with a resolution of 3456×2234. Both screens feature a notch at the top center for the camera, which the OS seamlessly works around.
Overall, the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros offer superior image quality and screen space, though they lack touch support. The choice depends on whether touch and stylus support are essential for the user’s workflow.
5. MacBook Pro vs Surface Pro: Connectivity
The MacBook Pro offers a variety of ports, catering to the needs of creative professionals (Image credit: Future)
5.1 Surface Pro Connectivity
The Surface Pro models provide excellent connectivity for tablet-style devices. The Surface Pro 8 and 9 have two USB-C/Thunderbolt 4 ports, Surface Connect, and Type Cover ports. The Pro 8 includes a 3.5mm jack, which is absent in the newer Pro 9. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1. The SQ 3 5G version of the Pro 9 also has a nano-SIM slot.
The Surface Pro 7 has one USB-C port, one USB-A port, a 3.5mm audio jack, a microSDXC card reader, Surface Connect, and a Surface Type Cover Port. It also supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.0.
5.2 MacBook Pro Connectivity
The 13-inch MacBook Pro offers two USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 ports, a 3.5mm jack, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0. The 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros feature three USB-C/Thunderbolt 4 ports, an HDMI 2.0 port, a full-size SDXC card reader, and a 3.5mm jack with high-power output, along with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0.
6. MacBook Pro vs Surface Pro: Battery Life
6.1 Surface Pro Battery Life
The Surface Pro 8 provides up to 16 hours of “typical” use, according to Microsoft, which typically includes video and light web browsing. Real-world tests show around eight hours of medium to heavy use, including photo editing and video calling, nearly double that of the Surface Pro 7. The Surface Pro 9 offers slightly less at up to 15.5 hours of typical use, but the SQ 3 configuration with 5G can achieve 19 hours.
6.2 MacBook Pro Battery Life
The 13-inch MacBook Pro offers up to 17 hours of wireless web browsing and 20 hours of video playback, the highest among the compared devices. The 14-inch MacBook Pro provides up to 11 hours of wireless web browsing and 17 hours of video playback. The 16-inch MacBook Pro is rated for 14 hours of web browsing and 17 hours of video playback, though it can exceed the web browsing figure in practice.
7. MacBook Pro vs Surface Pro: Price
7.1 Surface Pro Pricing
The Surface Pro 8 starts at $1099 / £999 for the 128GB storage and Intel Core i5 version. The recommended version with 256GB storage and the upgraded Intel ‘Evo’ Core i5 processor, including 8GB of RAM, costs $1199 / £1,099.
Configurations can be customized with more storage, a faster processor, or more RAM. For example, a version with a Core i7 Evo processor, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage costs $1,899 / £1,799. The top-end version with a Core i7 chip, 32GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage is priced at $2,599 / £2,459.
Pricing is similar for the Surface Pro 9, starting at $999 in the US, with higher configurations slightly increased in the UK due to inflation and exchange rate changes. Upgrading to 16GB of RAM is recommended for photo or video editing on both models.
The Surface Pro 7 starts at $799 / £899 for the recommended minimum configuration with a Core i5 processor and 256GB of RAM. This is a discounted price as Microsoft reduces stock. All Surface Pro models require the Type Cover keyboard, priced at $129 / £149. The Surface Slim Pen for drawing costs $129 / £119.
7.2 MacBook Pro Pricing
The 13-inch MacBook Pro starts at $1,299 / £1,299 with 256GB of storage and 8GB of memory. Memory can be upgraded to 16GB, and storage to 2TB. The 14-inch MacBook Pro starts at $1,999 / £1,899 with an 8-core CPU and 14-core GPU, 16GB of memory, and 512GB of storage. A model with a 10-core CPU and 16-core GPU, 16GB memory, and 1TB of storage costs $2,499 / £2,399.
Upgrades include up to 8TB of memory and the option to switch to the M1 Max, significantly increasing GPU power and offering up to 64GB of memory. The 16-inch MacBook Pro starts at $2,499 / £2,399 with an M1 Pro 10-core CPU/16-core GPU, 16GB memory, and 512GB storage. A version with the 10-core CPU/32-core GPU M1 Max, 32GB memory, and 1TB of storage costs $3,499 / £3,299. Memory can be upgraded to 64GB, and storage to 8TB.
8. MacBook Pro vs Surface Pro: Which Should I Buy?
Choosing between the Surface Pro and MacBook Pro hinges on whether you prioritize a laptop/tablet hybrid or a high-performance laptop. The Surface Pro range offers considerable computing power in a portable frame suitable for drawing. The MacBook Pro range delivers a substantial performance boost in a traditional laptop form factor. The MacBook Pro is ergonomically superior for extended typing sessions, and the 14-inch and 16-inch models feature top-tier screens for creative work. Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific priorities and requirements.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
9.1 What are the primary differences between the Surface Pro and MacBook Pro?
The Surface Pro is a tablet-laptop hybrid with a touchscreen, while the MacBook Pro is a traditional laptop focused on performance.
9.2 Which device offers better performance for creative tasks?
The MacBook Pro, particularly the 14-inch and 16-inch models, generally offers superior performance for demanding creative tasks.
9.3 Does the Surface Pro come with a keyboard?
No, the Type Cover keyboard for the Surface Pro is sold separately.
9.4 Which device is more portable?
The Surface Pro is generally more portable due to its lighter weight and smaller form factor.
9.5 What operating systems do these devices use?
The Surface Pro uses Windows, while the MacBook Pro uses macOS.
9.6 Can the MacBook Pro be used for drawing?
The MacBook Pro does not have a touchscreen, so it is not ideal for drawing without additional equipment.
9.7 What are the storage options for the Surface Pro and MacBook Pro?
Both devices offer a range of storage options, from 128GB to 8TB, depending on the model.
9.8 Which device has better battery life?
The 13-inch MacBook Pro generally has the best battery life, offering up to 17 hours of wireless web browsing.
9.9 Which device is more affordable?
The Surface Pro 7 is typically the most affordable option, though the Surface Pro 8 and 9 also offer competitive pricing.
9.10 Where can I find more detailed comparisons of these devices?
For more in-depth comparisons and to make an informed decision, visit COMPARE.EDU.VN at COMPARE.EDU.VN.
10. Make the Right Choice with COMPARE.EDU.VN
Choosing the right device can significantly impact your productivity and creative workflow. Whether you’re leaning towards the versatile Surface Pro or the powerful MacBook Pro, understanding their nuances is crucial.
Ready to make an informed decision? Visit COMPARE.EDU.VN today for detailed comparisons, user reviews, and expert insights to help you choose the perfect device for your needs. Don’t just compare – decide with confidence.
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For a versatile tablet experience with optional keyboard, the Surface Pro is an excellent choice for those needing portability and touch screen capabilities.(Image credit: Microsoft)
