Microsoft Surface Pro Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
The Microsoft Surface Pro 5 offers a quiet, fanless design with up to 13.5 hours of video playback.
What this report covers
- Last updated
- 3 Nov 2026
Figures above are read from the product listings for the models named below. Scores are out of 10, based on listed specifications and buyer feedback.
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The Microsoft Surface Pro 5 offers a quiet, fanless design with up to 13.5 hours of video playback. It provides a 10-point multi-touch display and a 7th generation Intel Core M processor for light productivity. You might look for microsoft surface pro alternatives if you need a different screen size, a different operating system, or a lower price point. The original model is a solid choice for portable media consumption, but its specific hardware configuration may not suit every user.
We selected these alternatives because their specifications overlap with the Surface Pro 5 in key areas like storage and portability. The list includes options with varying screen sizes, from 10.2 inches to 12.9 inches, and different connectivity options like Wi-Fi and 5G. You can compare these picks based on their exact dimensions, weight, and storage capacity. This guide helps you find a tablet that matches your specific needs for display real estate or processing power without sacrificing the portability that defines the Surface Pro experience.
How Apple iPad Models Differ
Apple iPad 10.2-inch 128GB Silver
The Apple iPad 10.2-inch (2019) weighs 1.09 pounds, which is significantly heavier than the Surface Pro 5’s 20-gram frame. You get a 9.8 by 6.8 inch footprint compared to the Surface’s 11.5 by 7.9 inch layout. This model offers 128GB of storage, matching the Surface Pro. However, it lacks the fanless quiet operation and all-day video playback claims of the Microsoft device. It suits budget buyers who do not mind the extra weight and wired audio connections over portability. The thicker 0.29-inch profile also contrasts with the Surface’s slim 0.33-inch design, though the iPad feels more substantial in hand.
Apple 2020 iPad 10.2-inch 128GB
This 2020 iPad 10.2-inch model shares the 128GB storage capacity of the Surface Pro 5 but uses a 10-inch screen. It measures 10.3 by 7.27 inches, offering a different aspect ratio for media consumption. At 1.1 pounds, it is much heavier than the lightweight Surface tablet. You gain Apple Pencil support, which the Surface data does not explicitly highlight in this comparison. The 0.29-inch height is similar to the Surface’s 0.33-inch thickness. This pick fits users who prioritize stylus input and familiar iOS interfaces over the Windows-based productivity features and fanless cooling of the Microsoft device.
Apple iPad 11-inch (A16, 5G Cellular)
The Apple iPad 11-inch with 5G connectivity adds mobile data access, a feature not mentioned for the Surface Pro 5. It weighs 1.06 pounds, far exceeding the Surface’s 20 grams. The 11-inch screen is larger than the Surface’s 13.5-inch display in width but shorter in length. You get Wi-Fi 6 support and an A16 chip for faster performance than the Intel Core M processor. This model suits users who need constant internet access and a compact form factor. It gives up the Surface’s fanless design and longer battery life claims in favor of modern cellular connectivity and processing speed.
Apple 2020 iPad 10.2-inch 128GB Silver
This 2020 iPad 10.2-inch variant matches the Surface Pro 5’s 128GB storage but features a 10-inch display. It weighs more than the Surface tablet, offering a traditional port layout including a headphone jack. The 9.8 by 6.8 inch dimensions provide a compact handheld experience. You trade the Surface’s fanless quiet operation and 13.5-hour video playback for a more familiar tablet ecosystem. This option fits buyers who want a smaller screen and wired audio options. It lacks the Surface’s specific productivity tools and lighter weight, making it better for casual media use rather than mobile office work.
Apple 2025 iPad 11-inch (Wi-Fi, 128GB)
The 2025 iPad 11-inch uses an A16 chip, offering more processing power than the Surface Pro 5’s Intel Core M. It weighs 1.05 pounds, significantly heavier than the 20-gram Surface device. The 11-inch Liquid Retina display provides a different visual experience compared to the Surface’s 13.5-inch multi-touch screen. You get modern connectivity and a compact 9.79 by 7.07 inch frame. This model suits users who value the latest Apple silicon and screen quality. It gives up the Surface’s fanless design and claimed battery longevity, focusing instead on performance and display clarity for media consumption and light tasks.
Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro (M1, Wi-Fi)
The 12.9-inch iPad Pro features an M1 chip, delivering substantially more power than the Surface Pro 5’s Intel Core M processor. It weighs 10.4 ounces, which is heavier than the Surface’s 20 grams. The 12.9-inch XDR display offers much larger screen real estate than the Surface’s 13.5-inch panel. You get a 10 by 11 inch footprint for professional work. This model suits users who prioritize screen size and raw performance over portability. It lacks the Surface’s fanless cooling and all-day battery claims, instead focusing on high-end display quality and processing speed for demanding creative tasks.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Microsoft Surface Pro 5 128GB Best overall | light productivity and media consumption | |
| 2 | Apple iPad 10.2-inch 128GB Silver Best budget | Budget buyers needing portable media tablets | |
| 3 | Apple 2020 iPad 10.2-inch 128GB Also great | Users needing 128GB storage and Pencil support | |
| 4 | Apple iPad 11-inch (A16, 5G Cellular) Best premium | portable productivity with 5G connectivity | |
| 5 | Apple 2020 iPad 10.2-inch 128GB Silver Also great | Users wanting a compact 10.2-inch tablet with 128GB storage | |
| 6 | Apple 2025 iPad 11-inch (Wi-Fi, 128GB) Also great | Media consumption and light productivity | |
| 7 | Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro (M1, Wi-Fi) Best 12.9-inch | large screen tasks and M1 performance |
Microsoft Surface Pro 5 128GB
Best for: light productivity and media consumption
- Internal Storage
- 128 GB
- Processor
- Intel Core M
- RAM
- 4 GB
- Battery Life
- up to 13.5 hours
- Color
- Silver
- Dimensions
- 11.5 × 7.9 × 0.33 inches
The Microsoft Surface Pro 5 offers a 13.5-inch touch display and a 7th generation Intel Core M processor. It includes 4 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage. The device provides up to 13.5 hours of video playback. This model suits users who need a lightweight tablet for basic tasks. It delivers all-day power on the go with a fanless cooling system.
- 7th generation Intel Core M processor
- Up to 13.5 hours of video playback
- 128 GB of internal storage
- Fanless cooling system for quiet operation
- Only 4 GB of RAM limits multitasking
- 128 GB storage fills up quickly
- Heavier and bulkier than modern alternatives
- You need a lightweight tablet for reading and web browsing
- You want a device with long battery life for travel
- You prefer a fanless design for quiet operation
- You require heavy multitasking with many apps open
- You need high performance for video editing or gaming
- You want the latest processor technology
Verdict: Microsoft Surface Pro 5 128GB is a solid choice for light users who prioritize battery life and portability over raw power. It fits those who need a reliable, quiet tablet for everyday tasks.
Apple iPad 10.2-inch 128GB Silver
Best for: Budget buyers needing portable media tablets
- Screen Size
- 10.2''
- Internal Storage
- 128GB
- Processor
- A10 Fusion
- Connectivity
- WiFi Only
- Color
- Silver
- Dimensions
- 6.8 × 9.8 × 0.29 inches
This 10.2-inch iPad offers a practical entry point for basic computing tasks. It features an A10 Fusion chip and 128GB of storage. The device includes a Touch ID sensor for secure access. It weighs 1.09 pounds and measures 0.29 inches thick. You get stereo speakers and a 3.5 mm headphone jack. It suits users who need a lightweight tablet for media and light work.
- 128GB storage capacity for ample local files
- A10 Fusion chip for standard performance
- Touch ID sensor for quick login
- 3.5 mm headphone jack for wired audio
- Lightweight 1.09-pound build
- Older A10 Fusion chip lags behind newer processors
- 10.2-inch display is smaller than 11-inch competitors
- 1.09-pound weight is slightly heavier than some thin tablets
- You need a reliable tablet for media consumption
- You prefer a physical headphone jack
- You want a lightweight device for travel
- You require the latest high-performance chip
- You need a large 11-inch or larger screen
- You prioritize the thinnest possible profile
Verdict: Apple iPad 10.2-inch (2019) 128GB Silver fits budget-conscious buyers who value portability and wired audio options over cutting-edge speed or large screens. It delivers solid everyday performance for students and casual users.
Apple 2020 iPad 10.2-inch 128GB
Best for: Users needing 128GB storage and Pencil support
- Screen Size
- 10.2-inch
- Internal Storage
- 128GB
- Processor
- A12 Bionic
- Display Type
- Retina
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, 802.11ac Wi-Fi
- Battery Life
- Up to 10 hours
This 10.2-inch iPad uses the A12 Bionic chip and includes 128GB of storage. It features a Retina display and supports the Apple Pencil 1st generation. The device weighs 1.1 pounds and measures 10.3 inches long. It offers up to 10 hours of battery life. This model suits you if you want a reliable tablet with standard connectivity and solid performance for everyday tasks.
- A12 Bionic chip with Neural Engine
- 128GB storage capacity
- 10.2-inch Retina display
- Support for Apple Pencil 1st generation
- Up to 10 hours of battery life
- 10.2-inch screen is smaller than the 11-inch models listed
- 1.1-pound weight is heavier than the Surface Pro
- A12 chip is an older processor than the A16 in newer iPads
- You need 128GB of storage for apps and media
- You want a device that supports the Apple Pencil 1st generation
- You prefer a 10.2-inch display size
- You require the latest A16 chip performance
- You need an 11-inch or larger screen
- You want a lighter device under 1 pound
Verdict: Apple 2020 iPad 10.2-inch 128GB fits you if you prioritize storage and Pencil support over screen size and latest chip speed.
Apple iPad 11-inch (A16, 5G Cellular)
Best for: portable productivity with 5G connectivity
- Screen Size
- 11-inch
- Internal Storage
- 128GB
- Processor
- A16
- Display Type
- Liquid Retina
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi 6 + 5G Cellular
- Color
- Silver
This 11-inch iPad features the A16 chip and a Liquid Retina touchscreen. It includes 128GB of storage and supports Wi-Fi 6 and 5G cellular connectivity. The device weighs 1.06 pounds and measures 0.28 inches thick. It suits users who need portable power with mobile data options for work or media consumption on the go.
- A16 chip delivers fast performance for apps and games
- 11-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone technology
- Wi-Fi 6 and 5G cellular connectivity for flexible internet access
- 12MP Wide back camera and 12MP Center Stage front camera
- 128GB storage is the base capacity compared to higher options
- 1.06-pound weight is heavier than some lightweight competitors
- 0.28-inch thickness is bulkier than ultra-slim tablets
- You need reliable 5G cellular connectivity away from Wi-Fi
- You want a powerful A16 chip for creative tasks
- You prefer an 11-inch screen for media and productivity
- You require more than 128GB of internal storage
- You need a larger 12.9-inch display for professional work
- You prioritize the lightest possible tablet under 1 pound
Verdict: Apple iPad 11-inch A16 Wi-Fi 6 + 5G offers a balanced mix of portability and mobile connectivity. It fits users who need 5G access and a capable A16 chip in a compact 11-inch form factor.
Apple 2020 iPad 10.2-inch 128GB Silver
Best for: Users wanting a compact 10.2-inch tablet with 128GB storage
- Screen Size
- 10.2-inch
- Internal Storage
- 128GB
- Connectivity
- WiFi
- Color
- Silver
- Dimensions
- 6.8 × 9.8 × 0.29 inches
This Apple iPad 10.2-inch offers 128GB of storage in a silver finish. It measures 9.8 inches wide, 6.8 inches long, and 0.29 inches thick. The device includes a Smart Connector, 3.5 mm headphone jack, and stereo speakers. It suits users who want a compact tablet with ample storage and standard connectivity options for everyday tasks.
- 128GB internal storage capacity
- Includes 3.5 mm headphone jack
- Features Smart Connector for accessories
- Stereo speakers for audio
- 10.2-inch screen is smaller than the 11-inch and 12.9-inch models on this list
- 0.29-inch thickness is bulkier than many modern thin tablets
- You need 128GB of local storage
- You prefer a 10.2-inch display size
- You want a device with a headphone jack
- You require a screen larger than 10.2 inches
- You need the thinnest possible tablet design
- You want a model with an A16 chip
Verdict: Apple 2020 iPad 10.2-inch 128GB fits buyers who prioritize a smaller 10.2-inch screen and traditional ports like a headphone jack over larger displays or newer chips. It is a solid choice for media consumption and light productivity.
Apple 2025 iPad 11-inch (Wi-Fi, 128GB)
Best for: Media consumption and light productivity
- Screen Size
- 11-inch
- Internal Storage
- 128GB
- Processor
- A16
- Display Type
- Liquid Retina
- Connectivity
- Wi-Fi 6
- Color
- Silver
The Apple 2025 iPad 11-inch (128GB) uses the A16 chip and an 11-inch Liquid Retina display. It measures 9.79 by 7.07 inches and weighs 1.05 pounds. Wi-Fi 6 connects you to files. iPadOS lets you run multiple apps. This model suits those who want a capable tablet for media and light work without cellular hardware.
- A16 chip boosts performance for games and editing
- 11-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone
- Wi-Fi 6 provides fast connectivity
- iPadOS supports multitasking and Scribble
- 128GB storage is the base capacity
- 1.05 pounds is heavier than some competitors
- Wi-Fi only model lacks cellular options
- You want a portable tablet for media
- You prefer the iPadOS ecosystem
- You need Wi-Fi 6 speed
- You require cellular connectivity
- You need more than 128GB storage
- You want the thinnest possible device
Verdict: Apple 2025 iPad 11-inch 128GB fits users who value the A16 chip and Liquid Retina display in a compact form. It is a solid choice for media consumption and light productivity on Wi-Fi.
Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro (M1, Wi-Fi)
Best for: large screen tasks and M1 performance
- Screen Size
- 12.9"
- Internal Storage
- 128 GB
- Processor
- Apple M1
- Display Type
- Liquid Retina XDR
- Color
- Silver
- Dimensions
- 11 × 10 × 6 inches
This 12.9-inch iPad Pro uses the Apple M1 chip for strong performance. It features a Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology. The device weighs 10.4 ounces and includes a LiDAR scanner. It comes in Silver with 128GB of storage. You will like this tablet if you need a large, high-resolution screen for creative work or media consumption.
- Apple M1 chip delivers high performance
- 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion
- Includes LiDAR Scanner for AR applications
- TrueDepth camera system with Center Stage
- Ultrafast Wi-Fi connectivity
- 128GB storage is lower than the 128GB capacity found in many competitors
- 10.4-ounce weight is heavier than the 10-inch and 11-inch iPad models on this list
- Wi-Fi only model lacks cellular connectivity options
- You need a large 12.9-inch screen for detailed work
- You want the processing power of the M1 chip
- You prefer a high-resolution XDR display
- You require cellular connectivity for internet access on the go
- You prefer a lighter tablet under 10 ounces
- You need more than 128GB of internal storage
Verdict: Apple 2021 12.9-inch iPad Pro offers a powerful M1 chip and a large XDR display for users who prioritize screen real estate and performance. It fits buyers who do not need cellular data or extra storage capacity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Microsoft Surface Pro 5 128GB | Apple iPad 10.2-inch 128GB Silver | Apple 2020 iPad 10.2-inch 128GB | Apple iPad 11-inch (A16, 5G Cellular) | Apple 2020 iPad 10.2-inch 128GB Silver | Apple 2025 iPad 11-inch (Wi-Fi, 128GB) | Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro (M1, Wi-Fi) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | – | 10.2'' | 10.2-inch | 11-inch | 10.2-inch | 11-inch | 12.9" |
| Internal Storage | 128 GB | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB | 128 GB |
| Processor | Intel Core M | A10 Fusion | A12 Bionic | A16 | – | A16 | Apple M1 |
| RAM | 4 GB | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Display Type | – | – | Retina | Liquid Retina | – | Liquid Retina | Liquid Retina XDR |
| Connectivity | – | WiFi Only | Wi-Fi, 802.11ac Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 + 5G Cellular | WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 | – |
| Battery Life | up to 13.5 hours | – | Up to 10 hours | – | – | – | – |
| Storage | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB |
| Display | – | – | – | Touchscreen | – | – | – |
| Color | Silver | Silver | Silver | Silver | Silver | Silver | Silver |
| Dimensions | 11.5 × 7.9 × 0.33 inches | 6.8 × 9.8 × 0.29 inches | 10.3 × 7.27 × 2.02 inches | 9.79 × 7.07 × 0.28 inches | 6.8 × 9.8 × 0.29 inches | 9.79 × 7.07 × 0.28 inches | 11 × 10 × 6 inches |
| Weight | 20 grams | 1.09 pounds | 1.1 pounds | 1.06 pounds | – | 1.05 pounds | 10.4 ounces |
| Size | 4GB+128GB | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi | 128GB | 128GB | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi |
| Model | Microsoft Surface Pro 5 | A2197 | MYLE2LL/A-cr | MD7F4LL/A | A2270 | MD3Y4LLA | MHNG3LL/A |
Frequently asked questions
Which Surface Pro alternative has the best battery life for light users?
The Microsoft Surface Pro 5 128GB is the top pick for light productivity and media consumption. It offers up to 13.5 hours of video playback. This fanless design ensures quiet operation. It fits users who prioritize portability over raw processing power.
What is the most affordable iPad option for students?
The Apple iPad 10.2-inch 128GB Silver is the best budget choice. It weighs 1.09 pounds and measures 9.8 by 6.8 inches. This model provides solid everyday performance. It includes wired audio options, making it suitable for casual users and students on a tight budget.
Which tablet supports the Apple Pencil for note-taking?
The Apple 2020 iPad 10.2-inch 128GB supports the Apple Pencil. It features a 10-inch screen and 128GB of storage. This model is ideal if you prioritize drawing or note-taking capabilities. It offers a compact form factor with traditional ports like a headphone jack.
Is there a Surface Pro alternative with 5G connectivity?
Yes, the Apple iPad 11-inch with A16 chip includes 5G cellular connectivity. It also supports Wi-Fi 6. This model balances portability with mobile internet access. It fits users who need reliable connectivity on the go without sacrificing a compact 11-inch screen size.
Which iPad offers the largest screen for creative work?
The Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro with M1 chip provides the largest display in this list. It features an XDR screen for high-quality visuals. The M1 chip delivers powerful performance for demanding tasks. This model is best for users who prioritize screen real estate and processing speed.
How do the dimensions of the Surface Pro 5 compare to iPads?
The Surface Pro 5 measures 11.5 by 7.9 inches, while most iPads are smaller. The iPad 10.2-inch models measure around 9.8 by 6.8 inches. The iPad 11-inch models measure 9.79 by 7.07 inches. The Surface Pro 5 offers a larger footprint for document viewing.
