As you determine hardware standards for devices used by your employees on the go, you must balance the need for portability with the need for productivity in varied work environments. In late 2015, Apple and Microsoft both introduced compelling devices in the hopes of winning over enterprise IT buyers. The Apple iPad Pro and Microsoft Surface Pro 4 each have unique advantages that make their device a leader in the hybrid tablet category. But which is distinctly better for business productivity in your organization?
While researching relevant reviews and analyses, we feel the article and video review from CIO.com’s Sarah White does a great job of analyzing and reporting on the strengths and weaknesses of each for business use. Not only is it important to consider the technical features and capabilities of each device, but also how the OS, available applications and specific use case fits your needs, recognizing that this can differ across departments and job roles.
The chart below provides a side-by-side comparison of many of the specs summarized in the article.
iPad Pro vs. Surface Pro 4
| Apple iPad Pro | Microsoft Surface Pro 4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Design | .27” thick, 1.57 pounds | .33” thick, 1.69 pounds |
| Display | 12.9” display, 264 ppi | 12.3” display, 267 ppi |
| Connectivity | Lightning connector for charging, Smart Connector for keyboard; dongles or converters required otherwise for extra cost | full-sized USB 3.0 port, microSD card reader, Mini DisplayPort, SurfaceConnect port |
| Peripherals | Smart Keyboard, Apple Pencil both sold separately | Type Cover Keyboard with trackpad sold separately, Surface Pen included |
| Operating System | iOS 9 | Windows 10 Pro |
| Specs and Price | A9X chip and 4GB of RAM; 32GB $799, 128GB $949, 128GB $1,079 with cellular connectivity | 128GB/Intel Core m3 – 4GB RAM $899 128GB/Intel Core i5 – 4GB RAM $999 256GB/Intel Core i5 – 8GB RAM $1,199 256GB/Intel Core i7 – 8GB RAM $1,599 256GB/Intel Core i7 – 16GB RAM $1,799 |
In summary, White shares:
Overall, unless you are working in an environment where you focus on design or are entrenched in the Apple ecosystem, you will most likely get the most bang for your buck and productivity out of the Surface Pro 4. While both offer a lot in the way of functionality and portability, the Surface Pro 4 brings more to the table with connectivity and productivity. The capability to use a mouse, connect to multiple displays and have access to the full Windows 10 operating system gives it a slight edge over the competition. Also, when it comes to price, if you’re looking for a business focused device over an entertainment device, that extra $50 will get you a lot further with the Surface Pro 4.
If you have questions about selecting the right productivity devices for your organization or are looking for other tips on mobile workforce optimization, we can help. Please feel free to contact us to determine the best way to use of mobility in your workplace and how to best plan for, deploy and secure the devices and data that your mobile workforce needs to excel.
