Main points
- The Microsoft Surface Go 2 and the Apple iPad Air are two of the most popular tablets on the market, offering a blend of portability, performance, and versatility.
- The Surface Go 2 features a 5-megapixel front-facing camera and an 8-megapixel rear-facing camera, while the iPad Air offers a 7-megapixel front-facing camera and a 12-megapixel rear-facing camera.
- In terms of battery life, the Surface Go 2 lasts up to 10 hours on a single charge, while the iPad Air can last up to 10 hours for web browsing and up to 11 hours for video playback.
The Microsoft Surface Go 2 and the Apple iPad Air are two of the most popular tablets on the market, offering a blend of portability, performance, and versatility. However, choosing between these two devices can be a daunting task. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Surface Go 2 and the iPad Air, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Display
The Surface Go 2 features a sleek and lightweight design, weighing in at just 1.2 pounds. Its 10.5-inch PixelSense display boasts a resolution of 1920 x 1280, providing sharp and vibrant visuals. On the other hand, the iPad Air is slightly heavier at 1.3 pounds but offers a larger 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 2360 x 1640, resulting in even more detailed images.
Performance
Both devices are powered by efficient processors, with the Surface Go 2 utilizing an Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y or Core m3-8100Y processor, while the iPad Air features an Apple A14 Bionic chip. In terms of benchmark scores, the iPad Air generally outperforms the Surface Go 2, providing faster app loading times and smoother multitasking.
Operating System
The Surface Go 2 runs on Windows 10 in S mode, which offers a simplified and secure experience. However, it can be upgraded to Windows 10 Home or Pro for greater flexibility and access to a wider range of software. The iPad Air, on the other hand, runs on Apple’s iPadOS, which is optimized for tablet use and offers a user-friendly interface with intuitive gestures.
Connectivity and Features
Both devices offer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, but the Surface Go 2 also includes a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. The iPad Air, however, features a faster Thunderbolt 3 port, allowing for high-speed data transfers and external display connectivity. Additionally, the Surface Go 2 has a microSD card slot for expandable storage, while the iPad Air does not.
Stylus and Keyboard
The Surface Go 2 is compatible with the Surface Pen, which offers pressure sensitivity and tilt support for drawing and note-taking. The iPad Air supports the Apple Pencil (2nd generation), which has similar capabilities and provides a seamless writing and drawing experience. Both devices can be paired with a detachable keyboard, but the Surface Go 2’s keyboard is included in the box, while the iPad Air’s keyboard is sold separately.
Camera and Battery Life
The Surface Go 2 features a 5-megapixel front-facing camera and an 8-megapixel rear-facing camera, while the iPad Air offers a 7-megapixel front-facing camera and a 12-megapixel rear-facing camera. In terms of battery life, the Surface Go 2 lasts up to 10 hours on a single charge, while the iPad Air can last up to 10 hours for web browsing and up to 11 hours for video playback.
Price and Value
The Microsoft Surface Go 2 starts at $399 for the base model, while the iPad Air starts at $499. However, the Surface Go 2 includes a keyboard in the box, which would cost an additional $179 for the iPad Air. Considering the overall features and performance, the iPad Air offers a better value for money due to its superior display, processor, and operating system.
Final Thoughts
The Microsoft Surface Go 2 and the iPad Air are both excellent tablets, but they cater to different needs and preferences. The Surface Go 2 is ideal for those who prioritize Windows compatibility, stylus support, and a lightweight design. The iPad Air, on the other hand, offers a more powerful processor, a larger and higher-resolution display, and a more user-friendly operating system. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific requirements and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which device has a better camera?
A: The iPad Air has a better rear-facing camera with 12 megapixels, while the Surface Go 2 has a better front-facing camera with 5 megapixels.
Q: Which device has more storage options?
A: The Surface Go 2 has a microSD card slot for expandable storage, while the iPad Air does not.
Q: Which device is more portable?
A: The Surface Go 2 is slightly lighter and thinner than the iPad Air, making it more portable.
Q: Which device has better multitasking capabilities?
A: The iPad Air has a more powerful processor and more RAM, resulting in better multitasking capabilities.
Q: Which device has a longer battery life?
A: Both devices have similar battery life, lasting up to 10 hours for web browsing.