Which is Right for You: Surface Pro or MacBook Pro?
When it comes to laptops, today’s market is filled with a variety of options. Two of the biggest names are the Microsoft Surface Pro and the Apple MacBook Pro. Both offer features that provide potential buyers with choices that go beyond simple specifications. Depending on how you use your laptop, one will prove to be more beneficial than the other.
In this guide, we’ll evaluate the two options. We’ll cover core features, such as build quality and battery life, as well as more specific details like cost and software capabilities. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better idea of which laptop would best suit your needs.
MacBook Pro vs Surface Pro: Overview
When trying to decide between the two laptops, it’s important to consider all available information. Let’s start by taking a look at the general specs of both the MacBook Pro and Surface Pro.
MacBook Pro Overview
The MacBook Pro is Apple’s flagship laptop product. Its latest model supports up to 8GB of RAM, has a graphics processor ranging from Intel HD 620 to Radeon Pro 560, and a storage capacity of up to 1TB. It also features a 13-inch or 15-inch Retina display, a Force Touch trackpad and Thunderbolt ports.
Surface Pro Overview
The Surface Pro is Microsoft’s latest iteration of their hybrid tablet. Its latest version features up to 16GB of RAM and up to 1TB of SSD storage. It also has a 12.3-inch touchscreen, up to Intel HD 620 graphics, a Surface Pen and Surface Pro Type Cover.
Made From Quality Materials
One of the first and most important features you should look at when considering either laptop is build quality. As it’s a long-term investment, it’s important to make sure that you’re getting a laptop that will last. Fortunately, both the MacBook Pro and the Surface Pro are made from quality materials.
MacBook Pro
The MacBook Pro is made from an aluminum unibody design. This type of design ensures that the laptop is rugged and reliable, protecting it from damage. The hinge is also incredibly durable, allowing for a full 180-degree opening and closing of the screen.
Surface Pro
The Surface Pro has a magnesium body and metal hinge. The metal ensures that the laptop is durable and long-lasting. The metal also helps dissipate heat, ensuring that the laptop stays cool while using.
Pros and Cons of Battery Life
Another key factor to consider when looking at laptops is battery life. You want something that can get you through your entire work day without having to worry about power issues. Fortunately, both the MacBook Pro and Surface Pro have good battery life.
MacBook Pro
The MacBook Pro has an impressive 10 hours of battery life. It also supports fast charging, where you can get an additional 5 hours of battery life with just a 15 minute charge.
Surface Pro
The Surface Pro has a battery life of 13.5 hours, making it one of the longest-lasting laptops on the market. Fast charging is also included, giving you another 2 hours of battery life with just 30 minutes of charging.
Big-Screen vs. Portable Design
When looking at either laptop, consider the size of the laptop. Not only do you want something that will fit in your bag and can be brought anywhere without taking up too much space, but you also want something with a good screen size. Fortunately, both laptops come in a variety of sizes.
MacBook Pro
The MacBook Pro comes in either a 13-inch or a 15-inch size. The 13-inch model is perfect for those who are looking for something lightweight and portable, while the 15-inch model is great for those who need more screen real estate.
Surface Pro
The Surface Pro is a 12.3-inch model. It’s designed to be taken almost anywhere, as the lightweight design won’t add too much bulk to your bag. The 12.3-inch display is also a perfect size for day-to-day use.
Software Capabilities
One of the most important factors to consider when buying a laptop is its software capabilities. You want something that will be compatible with whatever programs and applications you need to use. Here’s how the two laptops compare.
MacBook Pro
The MacBook Pro is perfect for those who need it for creative work. It comes with macOS High Sierra installed, which is compatible with Adobe Creative Suite, Final Cut Pro X, Aperture, and other creative applications.
Surface Pro
The Surface Pro comes with Windows 10 installed which comes with its own suite of applications, including Microsoft Office and other popular software. You also have access to the Windows Store, where you can get more apps to use.
Cost
Finally, you should consider the cost of either laptop. While both of them offer great features, the price difference between the two can make a big impact on which laptop you end up going with. Here are the starting prices for each laptop.
MacBook Pro
The MacBook Pro starts at $1,299 for the 13-inch model, and $2,399 for the 15-inch model. The base model features 256GB of storage, 8GB of RAM and Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640.
Surface Pro
The Surface Pro starts at $799 for the base model, which features Intel HD Graphics 615, 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. For $1,199, you can get an Intel Core i7 processor, 8GB RAM, and 256GB storage.
Conclusion
So which laptop is right for you? Ultimately, it all depends on what kind of laptop you need. If you’re looking for something with more power, the MacBook Pro is the way to go. Its larger screen, powerful processor and better graphics make it a great choice for those who need it for creative work or gaming.
For those who want something lightweight and portable, the Surface Pro is the better choice. Its long battery life and lower cost make it the perfect laptop for day-to-day use.
No matter which laptop you decide to go with, keep in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. By looking at all the features, costs and specs of both the MacBook Pro and Surface Pro, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
