Apple iPad Pro 2 News & Features: Next-Generation Tablet Better Than the Upcoming Microsoft Surface Pro 5?
Two powerful tablets are set to compete against each other in 2017 -- the Apple iPad Pro 2 and the Microsoft Surface Pro 5. Here are some comparisons between the two models to help potential users decide which one to get.
The Apple iPad Pro 2 is the successor of the iPad Pro, the supersize variant of the iPad. This came in two models, with one sporting a 12.9-inch and the other a 9.7-inch screen. The next-generation iPad Pro is set to run iOS, instead of MacOS.
The Surface Pro 5, on the other hand, is the successor of the Microsoft Surface Pro 4, which showcases a complete desktop OS. The Surface Pro 5 will have an edge in terms of the OS, although Apple is expected to present a more robust version of its mobile OS, powered by an A10X processor, to remain competitive. The new iPad Pro may feature specific and exclusive enterprise-grade apps, powerful multitasking features and multi-screen computing, allowing it to function like a laptop.
The original iPad Pro previously beat the Surface Pro 4 in terms of battery life and mobile internet. The iPad Pro is capable of running for about 10 hours, compared to the Surface Pro 4, which only had a battery life of five to six hours. The Apple iPad Pro 2 is also expected to do the same against the Surface Pro 5 by providing several more hours of battery life and internet connectivity even without a Wi-Fi connection.
The Apple iPad Pro 2 is also expected to feature better accessories, based on a CNET report. The next version may come with a new magnetic Apple Pencil, a stylus that will help users work more efficiently. It may also arrive with the Smart Keyboard, although the Surface Pro 5 is expected to present a better keyboard, similar to its predecessor.
Other specifications to expect on the iPad Pro 2 include a smart connector, four speakers, 12-megapixel iSight camera with True Tone Flash, True Tone displays, a significantly reduced bezel and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The tablet will reportedly come in three size variants, including a 7.9-inch, 12.9-inch and 10.5 or 10.9-inch model.
According to CNet, the Microsoft Surface Pro 5 will come in at least three variants. The entry-level model will feature an Intel Core M3 processor, 128GB of internal memory and 4GB of RAM. The next-level model features an Intel Skylake processor while upgrading the internal storage to 256GB and RAM to 8GB will cost more. The top-end model may showcase even more powerful specifications. More updates and details on the Apple iPad Pro 2 and Surface Pro 5 are expected soon.