Which Should I Choose iPad or Surface

Shawn · October 15, 2024, 11:58pm

Right now, I am looking at second-hand iPad Pros and a Surface Pro X SQ2 because of their screen sizes, but these could be overkill.

Any suggestions would be really appreciated

If you mainly want to take notes with a pen and draw, pick the iPad.

If you want a computer that can also function as a tablet, then choose the Surface.

Azriel · October 15, 2024, 11:58pm

Right now, I am looking at second-hand iPad Pros and a Surface Pro X SQ2 because of their screen sizes, but these could be overkill.

Any suggestions would be really appreciated

Procreate on the iPad is fantastic for drawing and the Pencil feels great. If you already have a good laptop, I suggest going with the iPad.

Max · October 15, 2024, 11:58pm

Right now, I am looking at second-hand iPad Pros and a Surface Pro X SQ2 because of their screen sizes, but these could be overkill.

Any suggestions would be really appreciated

Procreate on the iPad is fantastic for drawing and the Pencil feels great. If you already have a good laptop, I suggest going with the iPad.

I agree, Procreate is the best app for art and there are other decent options. I suggest getting the cheapest iPad that runs Procreate, maybe a second-hand or refurbished Air, to save money. Pros are overkill and iPadOS is pretty limited. Remote desktop can help if that’s an option.

Azriel · October 15, 2024, 11:59pm

Right now, I am looking at second-hand iPad Pros and a Surface Pro X SQ2 because of their screen sizes, but these could be overkill.

Any suggestions would be really appreciated

Procreate on the iPad is fantastic for drawing and the Pencil feels great. If you already have a good laptop, I suggest going with the iPad.

I agree, Procreate is the best app for art and there are other decent options. I suggest getting the cheapest iPad that runs Procreate, maybe a second-hand or refurbished Air, to save money. Pros are overkill and iPadOS is pretty limited. Remote desktop can help if that’s an option.

I use the base iPad with Procreate and it works great for drawing. I’ve tried various Surface, Wacom and other devices, but the iPad has been the easiest and most stress-free drawing tool. I don’t think you need the iPad Pro unless you really need the extra layers in Procreate.

Ash · October 15, 2024, 11:59pm

Right now, I am looking at second-hand iPad Pros and a Surface Pro X SQ2 because of their screen sizes, but these could be overkill.

Any suggestions would be really appreciated

These products are different, even if people often compare them. If you need desktop extensions, gaming, or other desktop-only software, or want to use two monitors, an iPad won’t work for you. I can’t use a Safari-based browser and uBlock. An iPad will feel limited due to these software issues.

But if desktop extensions aren’t crucial for you, and you don’t use uBlock, sponsor block, etc, then consider whether you’re looking for ARM or x86. The Surface gives you much more flexibility with external monitors.

The iPad has its advantages too. It’s well-built and has endless accessory options.

You can often find them at decent entry-level prices. If you mainly want a content device and don’t need ad blocking or side loading, many people find it works well.

I used to ignore desktop extensions, so they wouldn’t have bothered me. But I’ve paid attention to them lately, and I definitely notice the difference now.

Vann · October 15, 2024, 11:59pm

Right now, I am looking at second-hand iPad Pros and a Surface Pro X SQ2 because of their screen sizes, but these could be overkill.

Any suggestions would be really appreciated

If you already have a good laptop, the iPad is the right choice.

Koa · October 15, 2024, 11:59pm

Right now, I am looking at second-hand iPad Pros and a Surface Pro X SQ2 because of their screen sizes, but these could be overkill.

Any suggestions would be really appreciated

I don’t think you can use your iPad as a second screen for your Windows laptop.

Reilly · October 15, 2024, 11:59pm

Right now, I am looking at second-hand iPad Pros and a Surface Pro X SQ2 because of their screen sizes, but these could be overkill.

Any suggestions would be really appreciated

I don’t think you can use your iPad as a second screen for your Windows laptop.

You can, but you’ll need to buy software to do it.

Carson · October 15, 2024, 11:59pm

Right now, I am looking at second-hand iPad Pros and a Surface Pro X SQ2 because of their screen sizes, but these could be overkill.

Any suggestions would be really appreciated

If you’re getting a tablet, make it the iPad.

Reilly · October 15, 2024, 11:59pm

Right now, I am looking at second-hand iPad Pros and a Surface Pro X SQ2 because of their screen sizes, but these could be overkill.

Any suggestions would be really appreciated

Why is nobody talking about how the Surface can act as a second monitor wirelessly and easily? The iPad needs special software and some options only work wired. If there’s a way to do it without extra software that isn’t buggy, please let me know since my company gave me a PC and an iPad, but I’d love to use the iPad as a second screen sometimes.

Ash · October 15, 2024, 11:59pm

Right now, I am looking at second-hand iPad Pros and a Surface Pro X SQ2 because of their screen sizes, but these could be overkill.

Any suggestions would be really appreciated

I own an iPad M1 and use it rarely. The battery life is about the same as my Surface Pro 8, which is surprising. The pen is better on Surface. I mostly watch shows on my iPad. I feel like Apple has neglected this product. I have always liked the iPhone and have bought high-end models for 10 years.

The MacBook devices have their quirks too. I got a MacBook Air 13 last year but returned it. I’ve been using Surface devices since 2014 and can’t go back to 16:10 screen ratios or lacking Face ID. I don’t believe MacOS is much better than modern Windows 11.

I wish Apple would come out with something innovative for the iPad because it feels like a missed chance.

Zen · October 15, 2024, 11:59pm

Right now, I am looking at second-hand iPad Pros and a Surface Pro X SQ2 because of their screen sizes, but these could be overkill.

Any suggestions would be really appreciated

I have an iPad, Surface Go 2, and Android tablets and phones in different sizes.

YouTube is better on non-Windows devices, but it’s okay on Windows in emergency situations.

Windows has worse battery life and a clunky interface but there are workarounds.

I’ve read and written books on Surface Go 2. I wouldn’t recommend it for anything other than a laptop.

Streaming on Steam works well, as do other features.

It all depends on what your needs are. I needed a thin computer for everything and didn’t plan on buying a tablet. I ended up with tablets and use Surface Go 2 often.

It’s my external screen and a backup device when needed. The software compatibility is excellent, and everything syncs with OneDrive. I’ve set it up well for use as a tablet or with a keyboard.

If you can, check out the Robo and Kala ARM Windows tablet which is great and lets you use Android apps until 2025.

My switch to the M2 MacBook Pro 13.6 inch changed my computer experience. Having the Surface Go 2 and Onyx Nova Air C has been perfect for my trading needs and versatility. I use Synergy and some apps to support my iPad and Android tablets, and I’m very happy.

The only issue with the MacBook is that I can’t seem to use one Wi-Fi network while creating a hotspot for other devices, but overall it’s pretty good.

Sorry for going off track, but you need to find what works for you.

Francis · October 15, 2024, 11:59pm

Right now, I am looking at second-hand iPad Pros and a Surface Pro X SQ2 because of their screen sizes, but these could be overkill.

Any suggestions would be really appreciated

I actually use an iPad for notes daily and carry a laptop since I’m in college, also taking lots of classes over Zoom so a Surface doesn’t work for my needs where I need to jot down notes while watching Zoom lectures. I’d choose based on whether you’d need a computer to do something separate from note-taking, like if you’re in an online meeting, or if one device is enough. I’d go with the Surface if you don’t need to attend Zoom meetings since it’s easier to carry.

Fay · October 15, 2024, 11:59pm

Right now, I am looking at second-hand iPad Pros and a Surface Pro X SQ2 because of their screen sizes, but these could be overkill.

Any suggestions would be really appreciated

I own both and they serve different purposes. I prefer my iPad for casual use or when I’m not working because it acts like a big phone with a great interface. I use the iPad more than the Surface. But for more serious tasks, I highly prefer my Surface. Writing or editing documents and office-related work is where I like using the Surface. Games are fun on both devices. Mobile games feel better on the iPad, while the Surface can run full-scale games.

When it comes to taking handwritten notes, both devices are good. Both pens are fantastic and the apps perform well. The iPad is easier and quicker for simple handwritten notes. The Surface works better for multitasking during note-taking, like copying from the web or other documents.

For drawing, full software performs well on my Surface. Photoshop and 3D graphics software run great too. I know the iPad has excellent drawing apps, though I have not used them before.

For design, at least in engineering, the Surface is far superior. It runs vital software like SolidWorks. I’m not sure how effective either would be as a second screen.

Basil · October 15, 2024, 11:59pm

Right now, I am looking at second-hand iPad Pros and a Surface Pro X SQ2 because of their screen sizes, but these could be overkill.

Any suggestions would be really appreciated

A Samsung Tab S6 Lite would fulfill your note-taking needs at a lower cost and provide better battery life.

Oli · October 15, 2024, 11:59pm

Right now, I am looking at second-hand iPad Pros and a Surface Pro X SQ2 because of their screen sizes, but these could be overkill.

Any suggestions would be really appreciated

A Samsung Tab S6 Lite would fulfill your note-taking needs at a lower cost and provide better battery life.

Salty Surface owners downvoting the right answer. I swapped my iPad Pro for a Galaxy Tab Ultra and I have no regrets.

It’s just as effective as an iPad and can serve as a laptop in a pinch, way better than an iPad due to DeX. It also has far superior battery life than my previous iPad, while the Surface can’t even compare.

Basil · October 15, 2024, 11:59pm

Right now, I am looking at second-hand iPad Pros and a Surface Pro X SQ2 because of their screen sizes, but these could be overkill.

Any suggestions would be really appreciated

A Samsung Tab S6 Lite would fulfill your note-taking needs at a lower cost and provide better battery life.

Salty Surface owners downvoting the right answer. I swapped my iPad Pro for a Galaxy Tab Ultra and I have no regrets.

It’s just as effective as an iPad and can serve as a laptop in a pinch, way better than an iPad due to DeX. It also has far superior battery life than my previous iPad, while the Surface can’t even compare.

Thanks for your perspective.

I used to be loyal to specific brands or computer programs, but now I want devices that just work, especially if they come at a much lower price and provide better battery life.

I’ve had several Windows tablets (Surface, Lenovo, and more) … all had poor battery lives, plus the fast boot drain issues. It’s funny how when I installed Linux on those tablets, battery life improved dramatically.

So, I still own a Windows tablet that I’m deciding whether to buy new batteries for or just put it away for now.

Maybe ARM on Surface will finally narrow the gap.

Kei · October 15, 2024, 11:59pm

Right now, I am looking at second-hand iPad Pros and a Surface Pro X SQ2 because of their screen sizes, but these could be overkill.

Any suggestions would be really appreciated

A Samsung Tab S6 Lite would fulfill your note-taking needs at a lower cost and provide better battery life.

I’ve owned two Samsung tablets, and sadly they only lasted a couple of years before becoming outdated.

Adley · October 15, 2024, 11:59pm

Right now, I am looking at second-hand iPad Pros and a Surface Pro X SQ2 because of their screen sizes, but these could be overkill.

Any suggestions would be really appreciated

I do not recommend the iPad. I tried it with the Magic Keyboard and everything for years, and it felt close to useless. I just switched to Surface.

Kei · October 15, 2024, 11:59pm

Right now, I am looking at second-hand iPad Pros and a Surface Pro X SQ2 because of their screen sizes, but these could be overkill.

Any suggestions would be really appreciated

I do not recommend the iPad. I tried it with the Magic Keyboard and everything for years, and it felt close to useless. I just switched to Surface.

My Magic Keyboard broke a few months after I got my iPad.