Microsoft Says New Surface Pro is Faster Than 15" M3 MacBook Air
Surface Pro Tops MacBook Air: Fact or Fiction?
Microsoft has launched its new Surface Pro, claiming it outperforms Apple's 15" M3 MacBook Air in both processing power and battery life. The Surface Pro, featuring Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite processor, is part of Microsoft's new AI-focused Copilot+ PCs lineup. It boasts up to 58% better performance than the MacBook, according to Cinebench benchmarks, and superior video playback time.
The Surface Pro also features an OLED display and supports Wi-Fi 7, with prices starting at $1,000. Microsoft aims to compete strongly against Apple’s offerings, leveraging Qualcomm technology to enhance performance and battery efficiency. The new devices will be available to customers from June 18.
How does the processing power of the new Surface Pro compare to the 15-inch M3 MacBook Air according to Microsoft's marketing materials?
According to Microsoft's marketing materials, the new Surface Pro, equipped with Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite processor, exhibits superior processing power compared to the 15-inch M3 MacBook Air1. Microsoft claims that the Surface Pro and other Copilot+ PCs, which feature 12-core and 10-core processors, deliver 58 percent better sustained multithreaded performance compared to the MacBook Air's 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU. This comparison is based on Cinebench benchmarks, which are used to assess the performance of computer processors.
What are some of the key features of the new Surface Pro, such as display type and connectivity options?
The new Surface Pro introduced by Microsoft features several key upgrades and enhancements. Notably, it includes an OLED display option, which is known for providing superior contrast and deeper blacks compared to traditional LCD screens5. This type of display also supports HDR output, enhancing the visual experience by offering more vivid colors and greater brightness range1.
In terms of connectivity, the Surface Pro is equipped with Wi-Fi 7, ensuring faster and more reliable internet access. It also includes multiple USB ports: two USB 4 Type-C ports and one USB Type-A connector, facilitating a wide range of connections with other devices and peripherals4. Additionally, the Surface Pro supports the connection of up to three external 4K displays, expanding its usability for professional and creative tasks6. These features, combined with its 2-in-1 design and lightweight form factor, make the new Surface Pro a versatile and powerful device for a variety of users.