For $200 less, the 128GB iPad is more appealing than Microsoft's Surface Pro
ZDNet's Zack Whittaker posted about the 128GB Apple iPad release and when I look at both my Surface RT and third-generation 32GB iPad, along with the upcoming Surface Pro, my current plan is to check on selling my two devices to get the 128GB iPad. With the range of solid Office apps and handy keyboards the iPad is a compelling mobile workstation that has served me well in a few key areas that stand out against the Surface Pro.
Touch and orientation optimized
Apple's iPad is designed and built for the touch interface, while the Surface Pro has a few elements optimized for touch, with others that still leave much to be desired, so that the physical keyboard is really not an option. The Surface Pro and RT devices are optimized for landscape use with a keyboard, while the iPad gives you a more complete experience in landscape and portrait orientation.
Battery life
I rarely even think about the battery on my iPad, as it just seems to keep going and going. My Surface RT battery is quite good, but Microsoft's Surface Pro runtime of half the RT (estimated about 4 hours to 4.5 hours) is not acceptable to me.
Storage
Looking at other current iPads, the 128GB iPad should have something in the range of 122GB to 124GB of usable storage space. The Surface Pro 128GB model looks to only have 83GB of usable space. You can add up to 64GB of microSD storage to give you a total of 147GB at an additional cost of about $70, but that additional storage in the microSD slot does have some limitations on usage as well.
Wireless network option
I currently have a long-term evolution (LTE) iPad and will likely pay the premium of $929, still $70 lower than the Surface Pro, to get the wireless carrier option. With the Surface Pro, this is not even an option and for those in the enterprise connectivity is vital. A Wi-Fi network is not always available, so integrated cellular functionality is important.
I understand that the iPad and iOS do not run full desktop applications, but I see the Surface Pro as still serving as a companion device to a full Windows 8 laptop or desktop, and if I am looking for the best enterprise companion device, then the 128GB iPad cannot be beat.