What to know
- The Surface Pro 8 has a detachable keyboard that transforms it into a full-fledged laptop, while the Tab S8 Plus has a Book Cover Keyboard that provides a more traditional typing experience.
- Surface Pro 8 has a larger and higher-resolution display with a 120Hz refresh rate, while Tab S8 Plus has a slightly smaller display with an AMOLED panel.
- Surface Pro 8 has a Thunderbolt 4 port and a detachable keyboard, while Tab S8 Plus comes with an S Pen and a Book Cover Keyboard.
In the realm of 2-in-1 devices, the Microsoft Surface Pro 8 and Samsung Tab S8 Plus stand as formidable contenders. Both offer a blend of portability, power, and versatility, making them ideal for students, professionals, and creative individuals alike. But which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Microsoft Surface Pro 8 vs Samsung Tab S8 Plus, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Surface Pro 8 boasts a sleek and sophisticated design with a magnesium alloy chassis. Its slim profile and adjustable kickstand make it a versatile device for both work and play. The Tab S8 Plus, on the other hand, features a more traditional tablet design with an aluminum frame and a slightly thicker profile. Its slim bezels and premium feel give it a luxurious look.
Display
The Surface Pro 8 sports a 13-inch PixelSense Flow display with a resolution of 2880 x 1920 pixels. It offers vibrant colors, excellent contrast, and a high refresh rate of 120Hz for smooth scrolling and gaming. The Tab S8 Plus boasts a slightly larger 12.4-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 2800 x 1752 pixels. It also offers stunning visuals, with deep blacks and rich colors.
Performance
Under the hood, the Surface Pro 8 is powered by Intel’s 11th-generation Core i5 or i7 processors, while the Tab S8 Plus features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor. Both devices offer ample performance for everyday tasks, web browsing, and productivity apps. However, the Surface Pro 8 has an edge in demanding applications and multitasking due to its dedicated Intel processor.
Operating Systems
The Surface Pro 8 runs on Windows 11, providing access to a wide range of desktop applications and software. The Tab S8 Plus, on the other hand, runs on Android 12L, which is optimized for tablets and offers a more touch-centric experience. The choice of operating system depends on your personal preferences and software needs.
Connectivity and Features
Both devices offer a full range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, and USB-C ports. The Surface Pro 8 has the advantage of a Thunderbolt 4 port, which enables faster data transfer speeds and external display support. The Tab S8 Plus features an S Pen that is included in the box, providing a convenient way to take notes, draw, and interact with the device.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a 2-in-1 device. The Surface Pro 8 has a slightly larger battery capacity than the Tab S8 Plus, but both devices offer comparable battery life of around 8-10 hours on a single charge. The actual battery life may vary depending on usage patterns and screen brightness.
Accessories
Both the Surface Pro 8 and Tab S8 Plus have a range of accessories available to enhance their functionality. The Surface Pro 8 has a detachable keyboard that transforms it into a full-fledged laptop, while the Tab S8 Plus has a Book Cover Keyboard that provides a more traditional typing experience. Both devices also support stylus input, with the Surface Pro 8 using the Surface Pen and the Tab S8 Plus using the S Pen.
Which One Should You Choose?
The Microsoft Surface Pro 8 and Samsung Tab S8 Plus are both excellent 2-in-1 devices with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a summary of the key differences to help you make a decision:
- Design: Surface Pro 8 offers a more premium and versatile design, while Tab S8 Plus has a more traditional tablet form factor.
- Display: Surface Pro 8 has a larger and higher-resolution display with a 120Hz refresh rate, while Tab S8 Plus has a slightly smaller display with an AMOLED panel.
- Performance: Surface Pro 8 offers better performance for demanding applications and multitasking, while Tab S8 Plus is more optimized for touch-centric tasks.
- Operating System: Surface Pro 8 runs on Windows 11, providing access to desktop applications, while Tab S8 Plus runs on Android 12L, offering a more mobile-friendly experience.
- Features: Surface Pro 8 has a Thunderbolt 4 port and a detachable keyboard, while Tab S8 Plus comes with an S Pen and a Book Cover Keyboard.
Ultimately, the best choice between the Microsoft Surface Pro 8 and Samsung Tab S8 Plus depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance, versatility, and a laptop-like experience, the Surface Pro 8 is a great option. If you prefer a more mobile-friendly device with a stunning display and a focus on touch input, the Tab S8 Plus is a solid choice.
The Winner’s Verdict
Both the Microsoft Surface Pro 8 and Samsung Tab S8 Plus are exceptional 2-in-1 devices that offer a blend of performance, portability, and versatility. While the Surface Pro 8 has a slight edge in terms of performance and design, the Tab S8 Plus offers a more immersive display and a more affordable price point. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which device has the better camera system?
Both the Surface Pro 8 and Tab S8 Plus have decent camera systems, but the Tab S8 Plus has a slight advantage with a higher-resolution rear camera and a dedicated front-facing camera for selfies.
2. Which device is more suitable for gaming?
The Surface Pro 8 offers better performance for gaming, thanks to its dedicated Intel processor and higher refresh rate display.
3. Which device is more portable?
The Tab S8 Plus is slightly more portable due to its smaller size and weight.
4. Which device has a longer battery life?
Both devices offer comparable battery life of around 8-10 hours.
5. Which device is more affordable?
The Tab S8 Plus is generally more affordable than the Surface Pro 8, especially when considering the included S Pen.