Apple iPad (10th generation) vs Microsoft Surface Go 3
The Verdict
Apple's iPad 10 delivers superior tablet performance with the A14 Bionic chip, sharper 2360x1640 display, and excellent front camera for video calls (12MP ultrawide). Microsoft's Surface Go 3 counters with Windows 11 versatility, longer battery life (11 vs 10 hours), microSD expansion, and built-in kickstand,advantages for productivity workflows. iPad excels at media consumption and creative apps; Surface Go 3 wins for traditional computing tasks and multitasking. Both support styluses and weigh similarly. At $449 vs $399, the iPad offers better raw performance and display quality. Choose iPad for multimedia and gaming; select Surface Go 3 if you need Windows software compatibility or expandable storage.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple iPad (10th generation) if…
- →Affordable entry point into the iPad lineup
- →Modern all-screen design with Touch ID in the power button
- →Landscape front camera great for FaceTime
Buy the Microsoft Surface Go 3 if…
- →Most portable Windows device at 544 g with built-in kickstand
- →Full Windows 11 runs desktop apps not available on iPad or Android
- →Affordable entry into the Surface ecosystem at $399
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple iPad (10th generation)
Pros
- Affordable entry point into the iPad lineup
- Modern all-screen design with Touch ID in the power button
- Landscape front camera great for FaceTime
- Solid A14 Bionic performance for everyday use
- Long iPadOS software support
Cons
- Only supports 1st gen Apple Pencil with awkward USB-C adapter
- 60Hz display feels dated
- Just 64GB on the base model
- USB-C limited to slow USB 2.0 speeds
- No laminated display or anti-reflective coating
Microsoft Surface Go 3
Pros
- Most portable Windows device at 544 g with built-in kickstand
- Full Windows 11 runs desktop apps not available on iPad or Android
- Affordable entry into the Surface ecosystem at $399
- LTE option for always-connected productivity
- MicroSD expansion and headphone jack included
Cons
- Pentium/i3 processors struggle with anything beyond light tasks
- 64 GB eMMC base storage is painfully slow and limited
- 10.5" screen feels cramped for Windows desktop apps
- 4 GB RAM base model is barely usable with modern Windows
- Type Cover and pen still sold separately
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple iPad (10th generation) | Microsoft Surface Go 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | iPadOS 16 | Windows 11 Home (S Mode) / Pro |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 477 g (Wi-Fi) | 544 g |
| Dimensions | 248.6 x 179.5 x 7.0 mm | 245 x 175 x 8.3 mm |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours web on Wi-Fi | Up to 11 hours (typical usage) |
| Capacity | — | 28 Wh |
| Cameras | ||
| Rear | 12 MP wide | — |
| Front camera | 12 MP ultrawide (landscape) | — |
| Display | ||
| Size | 10.9 inches | 10.5 inches |
| Type | Liquid Retina LED-backlit IPS | PixelSense IPS |
| Resolution | 2360 x 1640 | 1920 x 1280 |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 60Hz |
| Storage | ||
| Storage options | 64 GB, 256 GB | 64 GB eMMC, 128 GB SSD |
| Expandable storage | ||
| Processor | ||
| RAM | 4 GB | 4 GB / 8 GB |
| Chipset | Apple A14 Bionic | Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y / Intel Core i3-10100Y (Dual-core) |
| Connectivity | ||
| USB | USB-C (USB 2.0) | 1x USB-C |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Cellular | ||
| Stylus Support | ||
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This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
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