Microsoft Surface 3 Vs iPad Air 2: A Detailed Comparison of Specifications, Features and Performance
When it comes to choosing a tablet for your daily use, there are two big players in the market: the Microsoft Surface 3 and the iPad Air 2. Both devices offer fantastic features and capabilities that make them a popular choice for consumers worldwide. But which one is the best option for you? In this article, we will compare and contrast these two tablets, examining their specifications, strengths and weaknesses, and price points. By the end of this article, you will have a clearer understanding of which tablet suits your needs best.
Firstly, let's take a closer look at the specifications of each tablet. The Microsoft Surface 3 boasts a 10.8-inch Full HD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels, while the iPad Air 2 has a slightly smaller 9.7-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels. In terms of processing power, the Surface 3 comes equipped with a quad-core Intel Atom x7-Z8700 processor, whereas the iPad Air 2 is powered by Apple's A8X chip. As for storage capacity, the Surface 3 offers a maximum of 128GB of internal storage, while the iPad Air 2 goes up to 256GB.
Despite the differences in specifications, both tablets offer impressive performance. The Surface 3 runs on Windows 10, which provides a more traditional desktop experience, and is compatible with a range of software applications and accessories. The iPad Air 2, meanwhile, runs on iOS 12 and offers access to the extensive library of apps available on the App Store.
One of the main advantages of the Surface 3 over the iPad Air 2 is its versatility. With its detachable keyboard cover, users can easily turn the tablet into a laptop-like device, allowing for more comfortable typing and increased productivity. The Surface 3 also comes with a stylus pen, making it an excellent device for artists and graphic designers. On the other hand, the iPad Air 2 offers a sleek and lightweight design, making it more portable and easier to carry around.
When it comes to battery life, both tablets offer impressive performance. The Surface 3 boasts up to 10 hours of video playback on a single charge, while the iPad Air 2 offers up to 10 hours of web browsing or video playback. However, the Surface 3 takes longer to charge than the iPad Air 2, with a full charge taking around four hours.
Another factor to consider when choosing between the Surface 3 and the iPad Air 2 is their price points. The Surface 3 is generally more affordable than the iPad Air 2, with prices starting at around $499 for the base model. In contrast, the iPad Air 2 starts at $399 for the 32GB model and goes up to $899 for the 256GB model with cellular connectivity.
In conclusion, both the Microsoft Surface 3 and the iPad Air 2 are excellent tablets that offer impressive technology and features. The Surface 3 is a more versatile device, with its detachable keyboard cover and stylus pen, making it an excellent option for those who need to work on the go. The iPad Air 2, meanwhile, is a sleek and lightweight tablet that offers access to the extensive library of apps available on the App Store. Ultimately, the choice between these two tablets depends on your personal needs and preferences, so be sure to consider all factors before making a decision.
Introduction
The Microsoft Surface 3 and the iPad Air 2 are two of the most popular tablets in the market. Both have their own unique features and specifications that make them stand out from each other. In this article, we will compare and contrast the Microsoft Surface 3 and the iPad Air 2 to help you make an informed decision on which one to buy.
Design and Build Quality
The Microsoft Surface 3 has a sleek and modern design with a magnesium alloy body that gives it a premium look. It has a 10.8-inch display with a resolution of 1920x1280 pixels. The iPad Air 2, on the other hand, has a thinner and lighter design with an aluminum body that makes it easier to carry around. It has a 9.7-inch display with a resolution of 2048x1536 pixels.
Winner: iPad Air 2
The iPad Air 2 wins in terms of design and build quality due to its thinner and lighter design. However, the Microsoft Surface 3 has a larger display which may be more suitable for some users.
Performance
The Microsoft Surface 3 is powered by an Intel Atom x7 processor and has 4GB of RAM. It runs on Windows 10 which allows users to run desktop applications. The iPad Air 2 is powered by an A8X chip and has 2GB of RAM. It runs on iOS which has a wide range of apps available on the App Store.
Winner: Microsoft Surface 3
The Microsoft Surface 3 wins in terms of performance due to its powerful processor and ability to run desktop applications. However, the iPad Air 2 is still a very capable device and can handle most tasks with ease.
Battery Life
The Microsoft Surface 3 has a battery life of up to 10 hours while the iPad Air 2 has a battery life of up to 9 hours. Both devices have similar battery life and should last a full day on a single charge with moderate use.
Winner: Microsoft Surface 3
The Microsoft Surface 3 wins in terms of battery life due to its slightly longer battery life. However, the difference is minimal and both devices should last a full day on a single charge.
Storage
The Microsoft Surface 3 comes with either 64GB or 128GB of storage with the option to expand storage through a microSD card slot. The iPad Air 2 comes with either 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, or 128GB of storage with no option to expand storage.
Winner: Microsoft Surface 3
The Microsoft Surface 3 wins in terms of storage due to its expandable storage option. However, the iPad Air 2 still offers a wide range of storage options to choose from.
Camera
The Microsoft Surface 3 has an 8-megapixel rear camera and a 3.5-megapixel front camera. The iPad Air 2 has an 8-megapixel rear camera and a 1.2-megapixel front camera.
Winner: Microsoft Surface 3
The Microsoft Surface 3 wins in terms of camera quality due to its higher megapixel count on the front-facing camera. However, both devices are capable of taking decent photos and videos.
Connectivity
The Microsoft Surface 3 has a full-size USB 3.0 port, a microUSB charging port, a mini DisplayPort, and a headphone jack. The iPad Air 2 has a Lightning connector and a headphone jack.
Winner: Microsoft Surface 3
The Microsoft Surface 3 wins in terms of connectivity due to its wide range of ports. However, the iPad Air 2 is still a very capable device and can connect to other devices using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
Price
The Microsoft Surface 3 starts at $499 while the iPad Air 2 starts at $399. Both devices have various configurations that can increase the price.
Winner: iPad Air 2
The iPad Air 2 wins in terms of price due to its lower starting price. However, the Microsoft Surface 3 offers more value for money with its expandable storage option and ability to run desktop applications.
Conclusion
Both the Microsoft Surface 3 and the iPad Air 2 are excellent tablets with their own unique features and specifications. The Microsoft Surface 3 is a better choice for users who need to run desktop applications and require expandable storage. The iPad Air 2 is a better choice for users who want a thinner and lighter device with a lower starting price. Ultimately, the choice between the two devices will depend on the user's specific needs and preferences.
When comparing the Microsoft Surface 3 vs iPad Air 2, there are several factors to consider. One of the most noticeable differences is the display. The Surface 3 boasts a 10.8-inch Full HD screen, while the iPad Air 2 has a 9.7-inch Retina display. Both screens are high-quality, but the Surface 3 offers a larger viewing area.Another major difference is the operating system. The Microsoft Surface 3 runs on Windows 10, while the iPad Air 2 uses iOS 9. While both have their benefits and drawbacks, the Surface 3’s Windows 10 offers more compatibility with traditional desktop apps. This can make it a better option for those who need to use specific software for work or personal use.When it comes to security, the iPad Air 2’s Touch ID is a reliable feature. However, the Surface 3 one-ups it with a built-in TPM (Trusted Platform Module) chip, making it better suited for business use. This added security feature may be important for those who need to keep sensitive information protected.Accessories are another factor to consider. Microsoft’s Surface 3’s detachable keyboard and stylus accessories are practically essential, while the iPad Air 2 relies on third-party options for similar additions. This can make the Surface 3 a more convenient option for those who need to use their device for work or school.Battery life is also an important consideration. The iPad Air 2 features a longer battery life than the Surface 3, with up to 10 hours compared to 6-7 hours. This can be a major factor in choosing which device best suits your needs.The processor is another aspect that can affect device speed and multitasking capabilities. The Surface 3 features a quad-core processor, while the iPad Air 2 has a more efficient dual-core. Depending on your usage, this could be an important factor to consider.Storage is also a key consideration. The Surface 3 offers both 64GB and 128GB storage options, expandable via a microSD card slot. The iPad Air 2 has three storage options: 16GB, 64GB, and 128GB, but no expansion options. This can make the Surface 3 a better option for those who need more storage space.Price is always a major factor, and in this case, the Surface 3 generally costs less than the iPad Air 2. With a starting price of $499, the Surface 3 is a more budget-friendly option.Portability is another aspect to consider. The iPad Air 2 is lighter and thinner than the Surface 3, making it more ideal for reading and browsing on the go. However, the Surface 3’s keyboard and larger screen make it a better option for productivity and desktop applications.Finally, connectivity options are important. The Surface 3 features a standard USB 3.0 port, which the iPad Air 2 doesn’t have. The iPad Air 2 does have a headphone jack, however, which was removed from the Surface 3. Connectivity options will depend on your personal needs and preferences.In conclusion, when comparing the Microsoft Surface 3 vs iPad Air 2, there are several factors to consider. Display, operating system, security, accessories, battery life, processor, storage, price, portability, and connectivity are all important considerations. Each device has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to consider your specific needs before making a decision.
Microsoft Surface 3 Vs iPad Air 2: The Battle of Tablets
The Features
When it comes to features, the Microsoft Surface 3 and iPad Air 2 both have their own strengths. Here's a quick rundown:
- Display: The Surface 3 has a larger display (10.8 inches) compared to the iPad Air 2 (9.7 inches), but the latter has a higher resolution (2048 x 1536 pixels) than the former (1920 x 1280 pixels).
- Processor: The iPad Air 2 has a faster processor than the Surface 3, with Apple's A8X chip compared to the Intel Atom x7 processor in the Surface 3.
- Operating System: The iPad Air 2 runs on iOS, while the Surface 3 uses Windows 10.
- Storage: Both tablets have different storage options, with the Surface 3 offering up to 128GB of internal storage and the iPad Air 2 offering up to 64GB.
- Accessories: The Surface 3 comes with a detachable keyboard and stylus, while the iPad Air 2 requires separate purchases for these accessories.
The Experience
Using both the Surface 3 and iPad Air 2, there are noticeable differences in the user experience:
- Productivity: The Surface 3's detachable keyboard and stylus make it easier to use the tablet for work-related tasks, while the iPad Air 2 is more geared towards media consumption and entertainment.
- Multitasking: While both tablets allow for multitasking, the Surface 3's split-screen capabilities make it easier to use multiple applications at once.
- Battery Life: The iPad Air 2 has a longer battery life compared to the Surface 3, with up to 10 hours of usage on a single charge.
The Verdict
Ultimately, choosing between the Microsoft Surface 3 and iPad Air 2 comes down to personal preferences and needs. If you prioritize productivity and want a more versatile tablet, the Surface 3 is the way to go. On the other hand, if you're looking for a sleek and powerful tablet for media consumption, the iPad Air 2 is the better choice.
| Keywords | Description |
|---|---|
| Microsoft Surface 3 | A tablet made by Microsoft with detachable keyboard and stylus, powered by Windows 10. |
| iPad Air 2 | A tablet made by Apple with a focus on media consumption and entertainment, powered by iOS. |
| Features | The specifications and capabilities of each tablet. |
| Experience | The user experience and usability of each tablet. |
| Productivity | The ability to use the tablet for work-related tasks. |
| Multitasking | The ability to use multiple applications at once on the tablet. |
| Battery Life | The amount of time the tablet can be used on a single charge. |
Closing Message: Microsoft Surface 3 Vs iPad Air 2
Thank you for taking the time to read our comparison of the Microsoft Surface 3 and the iPad Air 2. We hope that this article has helped you gain a better understanding of the two devices and which one is the better fit for your needs.
Both the Microsoft Surface 3 and the iPad Air 2 are excellent options for those looking for a tablet. However, they both have their strengths and weaknesses that make them suitable for different users.
If you are looking for a device that is ideal for work or productivity, the Microsoft Surface 3 is the clear winner. Its detachable keyboard, stylus support, and full Windows operating system make it a powerful tool that can be used for more than just browsing the web or watching videos.
The iPad Air 2, on the other hand, is an excellent choice for those who want a device that is perfect for entertainment and media consumption. With its crisp Retina display, powerful speakers, and huge selection of apps, the iPad Air 2 is a great device for streaming movies, playing games, and reading books.
Another factor to consider when choosing between the two devices is price. The Microsoft Surface 3 is generally more expensive than the iPad Air 2, but it also comes with more features and capabilities. If you are willing to pay a premium for a device that can do more, then the Surface 3 is the way to go.
However, if you are on a tight budget and are looking for a device that is affordable yet still capable, then the iPad Air 2 may be the better choice. It offers a great user experience at a lower price point compared to the Surface 3.
In terms of design, both devices are sleek, modern, and well-built. The Microsoft Surface 3 has a slightly more industrial look with its magnesium casing, while the iPad Air 2 is all about minimalism and elegance with its aluminum body.
Ultimately, the decision between the Microsoft Surface 3 and the iPad Air 2 comes down to your specific needs and preferences. We recommend considering factors such as price, features, and design before making a final decision.
We hope that this article has been helpful in guiding you towards the device that is right for you. Whether you choose the Microsoft Surface 3 or the iPad Air 2, both devices offer excellent user experiences and are worthy investments.
Thank you again for reading our comparison of the Microsoft Surface 3 and the iPad Air 2. We wish you the best of luck in your search for the perfect tablet.
People Also Ask About Microsoft Surface 3 Vs iPad Air 2
What are the differences between Microsoft Surface 3 and iPad Air 2?
1. Operating System: Microsoft Surface 3 runs on Windows, while iPad Air 2 runs on iOS.
2. Processor: Microsoft Surface 3 has a quad-core Intel Atom processor, while iPad Air 2 has a triple-core A8X chip.
3. RAM: Microsoft Surface 3 has either 2GB or 4GB of RAM, while iPad Air 2 has 2GB of RAM.
4. Storage: Microsoft Surface 3 has either 64GB or 128GB of storage, while iPad Air 2 has options of 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, or 128GB.
5. Display: Microsoft Surface 3 has a 10.8-inch display with a resolution of 1920 x 1280, while iPad Air 2 has a 9.7-inch display with a resolution of 2048 x 1536.
6. Ports: Microsoft Surface 3 has a USB 3.0 port, a mini DisplayPort, and a microSD card reader, while iPad Air 2 has a Lightning port only.
7. Battery life: Microsoft Surface 3 has up to 10 hours of battery life, while iPad Air 2 has up to 10 hours of battery life as well.
8. Price: Microsoft Surface 3 starts at $499, while iPad Air 2 starts at $399.
Which is better, Microsoft Surface 3 or iPad Air 2?
It depends on your needs and preferences. If you need a device that runs full desktop applications and has more ports, Microsoft Surface 3 may be the better option. If you prefer a simpler and more intuitive interface, and don't require as much processing power or storage, iPad Air 2 may be a better fit for you.
Can I use Microsoft Office on iPad Air 2?
Yes, you can download and use Microsoft Office apps on iPad Air 2, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote. However, these apps have limited functionality compared to their desktop versions and may require a Microsoft 365 subscription for some features.
Can I use Apple Pencil on Microsoft Surface 3?
No, Apple Pencil is designed specifically for iPad Pro models and is not compatible with Microsoft Surface 3 or any other non-Apple device.