Apple iPad 3 with Retina Display vs. Microsoft Surface Pro

Attribute	Apple iPad 3 with Retina Display	Microsoft Surface Pro
Operating System	iOS	Windows
Display	Retina Display	Full HD Display
Screen Size	9.7 inches	10.6 inches
Processor	Apple A5X	Intel Core i5
Storage	16GB, 32GB, 64GB	64GB, 128GB
RAM	1GB	4GB, 8GB
Camera	5MP Rear, 0.3MP Front	5MP Rear, 3.5MP Front
Battery Life	Up to 10 hours	Up to 9 hours
Weight	1.44 pounds	1.96 pounds

Design and Build

The Apple iPad 3 with Retina Display features a sleek and slim design, measuring just 9.4mm thick and weighing around 652 grams. It has an aluminum unibody construction that feels premium and sturdy in hand. The device has a 9.7-inch Retina Display with a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels, offering incredibly sharp and vibrant visuals.

On the other hand, the Microsoft Surface Pro has a more utilitarian design, with a slightly thicker profile of 13.5mm and a weight of 907 grams. It features a magnesium alloy body that gives it a solid and durable feel. The Surface Pro sports a 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a resolution of 2736 x 1824 pixels, providing excellent color accuracy and clarity.

Both devices have their own unique design aesthetics, with the iPad 3 focusing on elegance and portability, while the Surface Pro leans towards a more professional and robust look.

Performance and Power

The iPad 3 is powered by Apple's A5X chip, which includes a dual-core processor and quad-core graphics. It delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks, multimedia consumption, and light gaming. The device also offers a battery life of up to 10 hours, ensuring all-day usage without the need for frequent charging.

In comparison, the Surface Pro packs a more powerful punch with its Intel Core i5 processor, providing desktop-like performance in a tablet form factor. It can handle demanding tasks such as video editing, graphic design, and multitasking with ease. However, this increased power comes at the cost of reduced battery life, with the Surface Pro offering around 5-6 hours of usage on a single charge.

While the iPad 3 is suitable for casual users and those who prioritize battery life, the Surface Pro caters to professionals and power users who require a high-performance device for intensive tasks.

Operating System and Software

The iPad 3 runs on Apple's iOS operating system, which is known for its user-friendly interface and extensive app ecosystem. iOS offers a seamless and intuitive user experience, with access to a wide range of apps optimized for the iPad's larger display. The App Store provides a vast selection of apps for productivity, creativity, entertainment, and more.

On the other hand, the Surface Pro runs on Microsoft's Windows operating system, specifically Windows 10. This allows users to take advantage of the full desktop experience, with support for traditional desktop applications. The Microsoft Store also offers a growing selection of touch-optimized apps, although it may not be as extensive as the App Store.

Both operating systems have their own strengths, with iOS excelling in simplicity and ease of use, while Windows 10 provides a more versatile and familiar computing environment.

Input Methods and Accessories

The iPad 3 primarily relies on touch input, with its responsive and accurate touchscreen. It also supports the Apple Pencil, a stylus that enhances productivity and creativity by offering precise input for drawing, note-taking, and more. Additionally, the iPad 3 can be paired with a Smart Keyboard, providing a physical keyboard for those who prefer a more traditional typing experience.

On the other hand, the Surface Pro offers a more versatile input experience. It features a responsive touchscreen, but also includes a detachable keyboard cover called the Type Cover. The Type Cover provides a comfortable typing experience and protects the device when not in use. The Surface Pro also supports the Surface Pen, which offers pressure sensitivity and tilt functionality for a more natural writing and drawing experience.

Both devices offer unique input methods and accessories, allowing users to choose the option that best suits their needs and preferences.

Connectivity and Ports

The iPad 3 offers Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity options, allowing users to stay connected wherever they go. It includes a Lightning port for charging and data transfer, as well as a 3.5mm headphone jack for audio output. However, it lacks a dedicated USB port, which may limit the ability to connect external devices directly.

On the other hand, the Surface Pro provides Wi-Fi and optional LTE connectivity, ensuring seamless internet access. It offers a full-size USB port, a microSD card slot for expandable storage, a Surface Connect port for charging and docking, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. These additional ports make it easier to connect peripherals and expand the device's capabilities.

The Surface Pro's range of ports gives it an advantage in terms of connectivity and versatility, especially for users who require frequent external device connections.

Price and Availability

The iPad 3 with Retina Display is no longer available for purchase directly from Apple, as it has been succeeded by newer models. However, it may still be available through third-party sellers or in the refurbished market. The price of the iPad 3 varies depending on the storage capacity and cellular connectivity options.

On the other hand, the Microsoft Surface Pro is readily available from various retailers and the official Microsoft Store. It comes in different configurations, with varying amounts of storage, RAM, and processor options. The price of the Surface Pro is generally higher than that of the iPad 3, reflecting its more powerful hardware and additional features.

Ultimately, the choice between the iPad 3 and the Surface Pro depends on individual preferences, budget, and specific requirements.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Apple iPad 3 with Retina Display and the Microsoft Surface Pro are both impressive devices with their own unique strengths. The iPad 3 offers a sleek design, excellent battery life, and a user-friendly interface, making it ideal for casual users and those who prioritize portability. On the other hand, the Surface Pro provides a more powerful performance, a versatile input experience, and a full desktop computing environment, catering to professionals and power users.

While the iPad 3 excels in simplicity and ease of use, the Surface Pro offers more flexibility and productivity options. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences, specific needs, and budget constraints. Both devices have their place in the market, and it's up to the consumer to decide which one suits them best.