MacBook Air Vs Surface Pro 3

[SMDBill]

This goes a long way as well. I prefer OSX, but to be honest, I work in windows and I use Office more then anything so a windows machine in my case as certain advantages even though my proclivity is towards OSX

I was recently looking at both but with the understanding I already have an iPad mini and I was replacing a Chromebook. I played with the SP3 at a couple places and just never felt it to be a laptop replacement, although a very nice tablet replacement if one doesn't mind its size vs. ipad mini.

I like to use my device in my lap so the SP3 just wouldn't meet my needs. It's not often I put a laptop on a desktop surface so flexibility in seating position was mandatory. I'm not a fan of touch if I'm being productive so having a touch interface also made the SP3 less desirable. I'm much more efficient with a trackpad than with a touch interface and it limits my arm motions when much of what I'm doing is on a keyboard. I chose the 4GB/128GB 13" Macbook Air and couldn't be happier. Amazing device for sure and a 12" screen in the upcoming model isn't desirable to me since I was moving from a smaller 11.6" Chromebook and wanted more real estate space (size) for my 40+ year old eyes.

 

[C. Robert]

I've typed many papers on my Surface Pro 2, and many papers on my MacBook Air. I notice very little difference between "keyboard fatigue".

So I do not know what you are saying, as my personal experience completely contradicts what you claim.

Thats pretty much nonsense. You are saying that a cloth keyboard is comparable to the industry leader in keyboard fit, finish, and feel. You need to check some reviews, any reviews of the keyboards on both these devices. Your personal experience must be from someone who pecks at their keyboard.

 

[mortenandersen]

Exactly...

Raffi wrote:

"It's just not good at anything but bad at everything. No one wants to carry a 12 inch tablet or a laptop with minimal lapability (what a word) that needs to be set up like a transformer going from a car to a robot."

And you also pointed out that this contraption is top heavy (not good).

As SMDBill points out:

"I like to use my device in my lap so the SP3 just wouldn't meet my needs. It's not often I put a laptop on a desktop surface so flexibility in seating position was mandatory. I'm not a fan of touch if I'm being productive so having a touch interface also made the SP3 less desirable. I'm much more efficient with a trackpad than with a touch interface and it limits my arm motions when much of what I'm doing is on a keyboard."

I agree with you both.

The MS idea of making a laptop-like device that is not good or easy to use on one's laptop is a bad idea. And also the W8 idea of having a touchscreen for this kind of devices is a bad idea, probably conceived out of desperation when MS saw the iPad success, and not realizing that that success cannot and should not be tried to be transferred to laptops (or desktops), which much better are used with a trackpad (or trackpoint) or mouse.

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It's not junk. The SP3 has some nice features and is a unique product in some ways BUT BUT BUT
Microsoft is loosing its plot so bad it's not even funny. They used to try go after iPads but now they changed their slogan to
"The sp3 is a better laptop than an iPad and a better tablet than a laptop". That statement is so stupid it's beyond believe that they said this on their keynote.
That basically means the sp3 is not as good as an iPad or as good as a proper laptop. It is literally the most stupid thing I ever heard to describe a product.
I know it's not the best example but it would be the same if BMW would say that the m3 " is a better city car than a ferrari and a better sports car than a ford fiesta". (Bad example as m3 is an awesome car, but the comparison I think is still valid)
As they say better to master one thing than be a jack of all trades.

This combo-eagerness is just not working. It would have been much better to make a better traditional clamshell laptop AND a (separate) better tablet, not something "in between" that is just NOT GOOD TO USE either as a tablet (unless you like or need a big and heavy tablet) or as a laptop.

 

[Mac.User]

I just don't know about all the hype with the SP3. If you buy the mid range one with I5/ 8gb /256/ and get the keyboard cover before tax you hit the $1430 mark. The same configuration with the Dell Venue Pro 11 with a keyboard and pen can be purchased New on the Dell Outlet site for $875 or $500 less in price. How much better must it be for $500? Then You look at a Macbook Air and the comparable 11" / 4gb / 256 would be $1099 or $330 less.

I have played with the SP3 at a local Microsoft store and even though it is nice it isn't great. You have to watch the windows button on the right side and the pen had some lag to it. I agree it is very sturdy and feels nice but I still question the price. Myself I would go for the Macbook Air but to each his own.

Have you looked at the Dell specs?

The surface has a much better touch screen, better resolution, and is NOT Dell. That last point alone is a reason why not to get it to me I have not trusted Dell since any machine after the D620 laptop.

Again, vs the air it has a touch screen, and tablet abilities and higher than 1080p display.

 

[EthanNixon]

Thats pretty much nonsense. You are saying that a cloth keyboard is comparable to the industry leader in keyboard fit, finish, and feel. You need to check some reviews, any reviews of the keyboards on both these devices. Your personal experience must be from someone who pecks at their keyboard.

While I do not consider myself a fast typist in the slightest, my overall speed only decreases like 5-10% with the Type covers.

At home I use a mechanical keyboard and I achieve 95wpm on a three minute typing test. I get 86 on said test with my MacBook Air. I get 82 on the Pro 3 Type cover. So, no, I would not agree with you and other reviewers. I work with Surfaces all day, and they are a very good keyboard. They might not have the best "fit, finish, and feel", but that doesn't mean you can't type on them for prolonged times with success... I get 66wpm with the onscreen keyboard on the Surface Pro 3...

Have you used it more than five minutes at a store? The keys are plastic, not cloth, and also full sized. People will complain about anything in reviews.

 

[dyn]

I'm not comparing the SP against the SP2, but rather addressing your comment of

8<

So you stated that a SP owner has 90 percent of the experience of a SP3 user and I believe that is wrong

I know you did and I'm just telling you that you are wrong about that. Look at the specs and functionality of the SP1, SP2 and SP3 and you'll see that the differences between all three of them are very minor. The main differences with the SP3 (compared to either SP1 or SP2) are debatable. Some will see them as a pro (bigger screen, useful ratio) while others will consider them as a con (screen is too big, ratio is awkward). If you do any comparison do take this into account!

You can debate if SP2 users have 90% of the experience of the SP3, but you cannot state as you did your post that the SP owners do.

The differences between SP1, 2 and 3 are too minor to say this. That's why people are still buying the SP1 and that's why Microsoft is also still selling the SP1 via their stores. Quite a lot of them actually will favour the SP1 over the 2 and 3 because it is very similar yet a lot cheaper. A lot of people also give the SP1 as an alternative. The same thing applies to the Surface RT vs Surface 2.

It's like comparing a MacBook Air 2012 to a 2013 or a 2014 model. The differences are too small. That's just how the technology is at the moment. What you are doing now is hyping the SP3 which is rather silly to do. It is a minor upgrade from the SP1 or the SP2 but for some it brings the features they want (like the screen and/or the kickstand). Let's not forget that these devices still aren't cheap (we're talking 4 figures, not 2)!

If you do a LOT of typing in bed or on your lap then I would say the Air is better. If you do it mostly at a desk or table, or while walking around, or writing notes. Then I say the surface..

Yeah, the keyboard covers are too wobbly which is why Microsoft added that additional strip. Judging from the reviews this improves things a bit but it doesn't solve the problem entirely. I don't think it really matters though since you'd want to do the "lotsatyping" at a desk anyway (more comfortable).

 

[C. Robert]

While I do not consider myself a fast typist in the slightest, my overall speed only decreases like 5-10% with the Type covers.

At home I use a mechanical keyboard and I achieve 95wpm on a three minute typing test. I get 86 on said test with my MacBook Air. I get 82 on the Pro 3 Type cover. So, no, I would not agree with you and other reviewers. I work with Surfaces all day, and they are a very good keyboard. They might not have the best "fit, finish, and feel", but that doesn't mean you can't type on them for prolonged times with success... I get 66wpm with the onscreen keyboard on the Surface Pro 3...

Have you used it more than five minutes at a store? The keys are plastic, not cloth, and also full sized. People will complain about anything in reviews.

I have used it and I have used old surface type covers and they all are frustrating to use for prolonged periods of time. Users and non buyers will use this as a reason not to buy one or return it after purchase. The keys are full sized and to an extent they are oversized. Microsoft didn't need to have the keys sit flush with each other and I am willing to be that it was done for aesthetics and not usability. Don't get me wrong, I really want microsoft to succeed. I am tired of seeing OEM's put out this garbage running windows and I believe that they can rival apple. I say this because a company that unites hardware and software has the tools and desire to make quality products and the surface pro 3 is quality. The problem they have is marketing it. They challenged PCs, Macs, iPads, and tablets with a single machine. Now when a reviewer compares it to any purpose built machine, it will loose. When Apple released the MBA it marketed it as an entirely new machine with no competition and it was smart. Microsoft should have followed in those footsteps. Then they would have to explain price, lack of coming with a keyboard, and all the reviews that are hammering it against its rivals. It's beautifully made and deserves a chance but it was ruined during its launch intro.

 

[SchlepNT]

Can't say that I've ever had an issue with any device that has keys with no separation. Then again, I've never owned a MBA, so maybe my perspective would be different after owning that.

 

[C. Robert]

Can't say that I've ever had an issue with any device that has keys with no separation. Then again, I've never owned a MBA, so maybe my perspective would be different after owning that.

What other keyboards are like that?

 

[Mal67]

Pity about the price at this stage. Good on them for including USB connection. Also for integrating Apps with everyday software. I would love to see these in a similar Apple product sooner rather than later.

 

[maflynn]

I have used it and I have used old surface type covers and they all are frustrating to use for prolonged periods of time.

This is one thing that gives me pause. While hooked up to my desk, I'll use a wireless keyboard but when I'm using it on my lap or in a plane. how will I feel about the keyboard. More so the trackpad. I'm not a fan of trackpads as it stands anyways and the touchpad on the type cover (while improved from prior models) is not that great.

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What other keyboards are like that?

I'd be interested in a replacement type cover replacement. I'll probably do some googling to see what's available for the SP2, hope if I like something it will be a SP3 version in time.

 

[C. Robert]

This is one thing that gives me pause. While hooked up to my desk, I'll use a wireless keyboard but when I'm using it on my lap or in a plane. how will I feel about the keyboard. More so the trackpad. I'm not a fan of trackpads as it stands anyways and the touchpad on the type cover (while improved from prior models) is not that great.

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I'd be interested in a replacement type cover replacement. I'll probably do some googling to see what's available for the SP2, hope if I like something it will be a SP3 version in time.

Some people say they are fine with it, so I would say to try it out. i a picky in that I like a a macbook type keyboard or full desktop split keyboard when available. Even with my ipad I have to use a keyboard that is MBA like. I use the Belkin Qode. The Keyboard alone has tripled the amount of time that I use my iPad Air so its a big deal to me. i hope it works for you though, you seem ready for a change. I have been trying to make the jump to WP8 and always end up back on iphone. You should go through some serious emotions before it finally pans out.

 

[SchlepNT]

What other keyboards are like that?

My PowerBook G4 (Ti), 12" PowerBook, and 15" MacBook Pro (2006) all had very little separation between the keys. They were mostly flush with a slight bevel to them. The keys having a lot of separation is a more recent development.

 

[C. Robert]

My PowerBook G4 (Ti), 12" PowerBook, and 15" MacBook Pro (2006) all had very little separation between the keys. They were mostly flush with a slight bevel to them. The keys having a lot of separation is a more recent development.

I don't see a similarity in any of those And the typecover, the keys taper. On the typecover they are flush. I must use feel when typing because I have trouble finding the right key often. I only have that problem on virtual keyboards.

 

[maflynn]

I don't see a similarity in any of those And the typecover, the keys taper. On the typecover they are flush. I must use feel when typing because I have trouble finding the right key often. I only have that problem on virtual keyboards.

They are raised up a bit from the type cover and I also use touch to type. In playing with the type cover keyboard, I didn't find it too problematic. Its a bit squished in the spacing is tight but there is tactile feedback and it does a decent job.

Its no MBA/MBP keyboard but by the same token its not horrific. The first type cover (I believe they still sell) is awful, but they made great strides in improving it in type cover 2 and now its a bit bigger with the latest incarnation.

I will say that while the keyboard is pretty good, the trackpad isn't. I'm not liking that at all. Too small, the feel isn't right and at least on the model I played with I was not happy with the sensitivity. I foresee myself including a mouse with my a SP3, if I take the plunge.

 

[C. Robert]

They are raised up a bit from the type cover and I also use touch to type. In playing with the type cover keyboard, I didn't find it too problematic. Its a bit squished in the spacing is tight but there is tactile feedback and it does a decent job.

Its no MBA/MBP keyboard but by the same token its not horrific. The first type cover (I believe they still sell) is awful, but they made great strides in improving it in type cover 2 and now its a bit bigger with the latest incarnation.

I will say that while the keyboard is pretty good, the trackpad isn't. I'm not liking that at all. Too small, the feel isn't right and at least on the model I played with I was not happy with the sensitivity. I foresee myself including a mouse with my a SP3, if I take the plunge.

I'm not trying to ruin your decision but I give you 10 days until the sp3 gets returned.

 

[maflynn]

I'm not trying to ruin your decision but I give you 10 days until the sp3 gets returned.

Don't worry you're not

Right now its on pre-order and I have time to cancel my order which I'm leaning towards, until its out for more general consumption. Plus I've not fully vetted out whether this should replace my rMPB.

While its true I'm in win8 much of the time, thanks to my work, I still like and enjoy what OSX brings to the table. I also have 2 other macs in the house for my kids and wife

 

[mattferg]

maflynn, I think you've made the right choice. If I was to do it all now, I'd buy the SP3 over the MacBook Air I've got every single time (I didn't think the SP2 was good enough for my needs). Yosemite looks to be a massive disappointment and Apple don't really seem to care about their Mac users anymore.

I recently wiped OS X off my Air and went Windows only. My only regrets are the couple of hours less battery and less gestures. Otherwise it's a massive improvement.

 

[maflynn]

Yosemite looks to be a massive disappointment

I agree to a point, as the features added are really about integrating iOS and OSX allowing iPhone/iPad users to easily edit documents on any device, Mac or iPad. Also that whole phone call on the mac could be cool but its not something that really affects me (not an iPhone user).

and Apple don't really seem to care about their Mac users anymore.

I wouldn't go that far, but I see a changing in philosophy regarding the macs perhaps to make them more relevant or to justify the high price. I still think my rMBP is the best laptop I've ever purchased

I recently wiped OS X off my Air and went Windows only. My only regrets are the couple of hours less battery and less gestures. Otherwise it's a massive improvement.

I still have an OSX partition my rMBP but I agree, I'm running windows more often then not myself and I'm taking a hit on the battery and incurring more heat, i.e., its cooking my legs even more since I cannot change to the iGPU in windows.

 

[TechZeke]

I probably wouldn't get the cover. I don't see why I can't get just get a apple bluetooth keyboard and Magic Trackpad, get one of those things from twelve south that hook the two together, and use that instead with the surface pro 3.

 

[crawler1975]

Comparing an Apple ultrabook to a tablet that can try and pretend to be a computer from microsoft makes no sense.

They are for totally different markets, of different people, doing different things, with different workflows.

My PERSONAL opinion - if it doesn't fit in my pocket, I'm not using it as a portable device. I can have a laptop, or a tablet/phone that fits in my pocket. 10-11" tablets are useless to me. If it doesn't fit in my pocket, it goes in my bag, and if it goes in my bag, I will use it the same way I use a laptop. If I will use it the same way I use a laptop, it might as well BE a laptop, and not a frustrating tablet.

Not that tablets are frustrating, just when you NEED a PC or a Mac to do something and have to do that same thing on a nexus 7, or surface, or iPad.. it can sometimes be a pain in the ass.

Totally agree with this comment. These are two totally different animals.

On a side note, PC makers and microsoft failed previously in their attempt with those netbooks... and now that Apple came out with ipad - PC makers are now trying to make a "hybrid" of sorts - basically if you look at it closely, surface pro is a "repackaged" netbook of sorts.

 

[Cnasty]

Have been considering the functionality of the SP3 and the MBA before pre-ordering a SP3.

I currently have a late 2012 mac desktop at home which is my first mac and I will never go back to PC as I just love this machine.

Now, I need a portable device as I just sold my iPad as I wasnt using it as it couldnt do what I needed it to do for my job daily.

With this special at Best Buy, I think my decision has been made for me(im a student too) as I cant pass up that price for the MBA.

Best Buy is offering a $100 discount on all of the newest 2014 MacBook Air models, bringing the entry-level 11-inch model down to $799.

Best Buy is also offering a second deal for students with a valid .EDU email address that gives $150 off any Mac, and these two deals can be combined, cutting prices to the absolute lowest we've seen.

- 11.6" MacBook Air, 4GB, 128GB SSD: $899 -> $799 -> $649
- 11.6" MacBook Air, 4GB, 256GB SSD: $1099 -> $999 -> $849
- 13.3" MacBook Air, 4GB, 128GB SSD: $999 -> $899 -> $749
- 13.3" MacBook Air, 4GB, 256GB SSD: $1199 -> $1099 -> $949

Apple's MacBook Air was last updated in April, and is considered safe to buy in our Buyer's Guide. This is a significant discount on recently released MacBook Air computers, and one of the best deals we've seen. The combined deal will last until June 21, 2014, while the $150 off deal for students lasts until July 12, 2014.

Best Buy is also offering students $50 off the iPad Air and the Retina iPad mini.

 

[Mac.User]

Personally I find that I am using my Surface more than my 11in Air. Mostly due to the tablet functionality while walking a site.

 

[balamw]

if you look at it closely, surface pro is a "repackaged" netbook of sorts.

Uh no. It's the same guts as the MBA and other ultrabooks.

The DVP8 and similar devices are repackaged netbooks.

B

 

[rambo47]

For me, the biggest knock on the SP3 is Windows 8. I've used it and I'm just not a fan on a computer. Strictly as a tablet OS it's fine. But the SP3 is being touted as a laptop replacement and in that respect I'd much prefer Windows 7. For me though and for what I do, Mac OS X is my clear choice, and by a rather wide margin.

I have a ThinkPad running Windows 7 on my desk right next to my iMac. I installed Windows 8 and used it for a month. Horror show. I wiped and reinstalled Windows 7 and I'm fine with it. I have nothing against Microsoft products and use them on both the ThinkPad and on my Macs.

WP8 on a phone: Great (Nokia Lumia Icon).
Windows 8 on a tablet: Decent (Surface Pro 2).
Windos 8 on a pc: (ThinkPad W500 and Asus VivoBook). Horrible. I abhor jabbing at my pc screen with a finger. That's why we have trackpads and mice.