As it turns out Microsoft must be on to a good thing with the Surface Pro 3, because Apple reinterpreted a number of features we're already used to for it's new, larger iPad. There's a keyboard dock, a pen, sorry, Pencil and the ability to run apps side by side to name a few.
The iPad Pro isn't set to hit store shelves until November, so real-world comparisons will have to wait. And hopefully by then there'll be a new Surface Pro to talk about.
In any case, here's a quick look at the two spec-to-spec. As is often the way with Apple products, there's still some unknown factors right now. But here's what it looks like so far.
| Category | Surface Pro 3 | iPad Pro |
|---|---|---|
| OS | Windows 10 Pro | iOS 9 |
| Display | 12-inches 2160x1440 | 12.9-inch 2732x2048 |
| Processor | Intel Core i3/i5/i7 | Apple A9X |
| Storage | 64/128/256/512GB | 32/128GB |
| RAM | 4GB or 8GB | unknown |
| LTE | No cellular version | LTE version available |
| microSD | Yes | No |
| Front camera | 5MP | 1.2MP |
| Rear camera | 5MP | 8MP |
| Battery | 42Wh | 3850mAh |
| Dimensions | 292 mm x 201.3 mm x 9.1 mm | 305.7 mm x 220.6 mm x 6.9 mm |
| Weight | 800 grams | 713 grams (723 grams for LTE) |
| Wifi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac |
| Bluetooth | 4.0 | 4.2 |
| Pen | Yes (Included) | Yes ($99 extra) |
| Keyboard | Yes ($129 extra) | Yes ($169 extra) |
| Price | from $799 | from $799 |
The biggest difference has to be right at the top: The operating system. One runs a mobile OS, one a full desktop OS. You're also going to be spending over $1000 to get the 'full' iPad Pro experience with Pencil and keyboard, which is a lot, however you look at it. The Surface Pro 3 is at least marginally cheaper.
We'll be able to talk more when the iPad Pro is on sale. Maybe against the Surface Pro 3, maybe it's successor. Time will tell. Be sure to sound off in the comments with your own thoughts!
