Bravo Verdict
Head to head

Apple iPad Air M2 (11") vs Microsoft Surface Pro 11

Side by side comparison of two of the best tablets on the market. Same category, different priorities.

Apple iPad Air M2 (11")
Apple

Apple iPad Air M2 (11")

4.7 (12,200)
$599

The default recommendation for most tablet buyers.

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Microsoft Surface Pro 11
Microsoft

Microsoft Surface Pro 11

4.4 (2,100)
$999

The tablet for people who actually need Windows.

Check price on Amazon

How do the Apple iPad Air M2 (11") and Microsoft Surface Pro 11 compare, spec for spec?

Spec
Apple
Apple iPad Air M2 (11")
Microsoft
Microsoft Surface Pro 11
Price$599$999
Rating
4.7 (12,200)
4.4 (2,100)
Pros
  • M2 performance
  • Apple Pencil Pro support
  • Great display
  • Reasonable price
  • Runs full Windows 11
  • ARM performance is genuinely fast
  • Excellent kickstand design
  • Great pen support
Cons
  • Only 60Hz refresh (vs. ProMotion on Pro)
  • 128GB base storage is tight
  • No Face ID (Touch ID in power button)
  • Keyboard is a $279 add on
  • Some x86 apps still slow on ARM
  • Battery life below iPad

Should you buy the Apple iPad Air M2 (11") or the Microsoft Surface Pro 11?

Both are strong picks in the tablets category. Here's how to decide:

Get the Apple iPad Air M2 (11") if...

M2 chip, Apple Pencil Pro support and a great display for half the price of the Pro. This is the tablet 90% of people should buy.

Get the Microsoft Surface Pro 11 if...

Full Windows 11 in a tablet form factor with Snapdragon X Elite performance. Runs real desktop software.