Ipad Pro Vs Surface Pro Which Is Better For Digital Artists On A Budget

Digital artists today have more tools than ever to create on the go. Two of the most prominent devices in this space are the Apple iPad Pro and Microsoft Surface Pro. Both promise powerful hardware, excellent stylus support, and professional-grade creative applications. But when you're working with limited funds, the decision becomes less about prestige and more about practical value. Is the sleek, intuitive iPad Pro worth its premium price? Or does the versatile, full Windows-powered Surface Pro offer better bang for your buck?

This isn’t just a specs battle — it’s about workflow compatibility, long-term cost, software access, and how each device fits into the life of an artist who needs performance without breaking the bank.

Price and Entry-Level Options

The first and often most decisive factor for budget-conscious creators is upfront cost. Let’s compare the starting prices of both devices as of 2024:

Device	Starting Configuration	Base Price (USD)	Stylus Included?	Keyboard Included?
iPad Pro (11\")	M2 chip, 128GB storage	$799	No (Apple Pencil sold separately)	No
Surface Pro (9th Gen)	Intel i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD	$899	No (Surface Pen sold separately)	No

At first glance, the iPad Pro appears cheaper. However, that $799 doesn’t include the Apple Pencil ($129) or the Magic Keyboard ($299), both essential for serious art work. The Surface Pro also requires a separate purchase for the Surface Pen ($100) and Type Cover ($160). When fully equipped, both devices approach $1,200–$1,300.

Tip: Consider refurbished or previous-gen models. A used iPad Pro (M1) with Pencil can be found under $600, while older Surface Pro 8 units often sell for under $700 with included accessories.

For true budget buyers, the iPad offers lower entry points with older generations still supporting current apps. The iPad Air (with M1 chip) at $599 and compatible with the same Apple Pencil adds even more value — though not part of this direct comparison, it's a strong alternative.

Software Ecosystem and Creative Applications

Performance means little without capable software. This is where the divide between iOS and Windows becomes critical.

The iPad Pro runs iPadOS, which hosts optimized creative apps like Procreate, Adobe Fresco, Affinity Designer, and Concepts. Procreate alone is a game-changer — a one-time $9.99 purchase offering professional illustration tools unmatched in mobile ecosystems. It’s lightweight, fast, and beloved by illustrators worldwide.

Meanwhile, the Surface Pro runs full Windows 11, giving access to desktop-grade software: Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Corel Painter, Clip Studio Paint, Blender, and more. These programs offer deeper functionality, layer management, plugin support, and file compatibility with industry standards.

“On iPad, I’m limited to what apps allow. On Surface, I can run the same tools I use in my studio.” — Jordan Lee, freelance concept artist and educator

However, many of these desktop programs come with subscription fees. Photoshop costs $20.99/month via Adobe Creative Cloud. Clip Studio Paint has a one-time option ($49.99), but advanced features require a $12.99/month plan. Compare that to Procreate’s flat fee, and the iPad suddenly looks far more economical over time.

If your focus is sketching, storyboarding, or digital painting without complex workflows, iPadOS suffices. But if you need CMYK support, vector editing, or integration with design studios, Windows provides unmatched flexibility.

Hardware and Usability for Artists

Both devices feature high-resolution displays with excellent color accuracy — crucial for digital artists. The iPad Pro uses a Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion (120Hz refresh rate), delivering buttery-smooth brush strokes. The Surface Pro 9 offers a 120Hz PixelSense Flow display, nearly on par in brightness and clarity.

The Apple Pencil (2nd gen) remains the gold standard for stylus input. Its near-zero latency, pressure sensitivity, and magnetic attachment make it incredibly intuitive. The Surface Pen is also highly responsive, with 4,096 levels of pressure and tilt recognition, but lacks the seamless pairing and charging of the Pencil.

Ergonomics matter too. The iPad Pro shines in portrait-mode drawing, especially when held or propped on a lap. With the Magic Keyboard, it becomes a laptop replacement — but at added cost. The Surface Pro includes a built-in kickstand and works seamlessly with the Type Cover, making it more immediately functional as a laptop-tablet hybrid out of the box.

Battery life favors the iPad Pro, consistently delivering 8–10 hours of active drawing. The Surface Pro manages 5–7 hours under similar loads, depending on screen brightness and background processes.

Tip: Use a third-party stylus for Surface if budget is tight. Brands like Logitech and Adonit offer capable pens under $60 with good pressure response.

Real-World Example: Maya’s Decision as a Student Artist

Maya is a 22-year-old illustration student balancing tuition, rent, and art supplies. She needed a portable device for class sketches, character design, and occasional photo editing. Her budget: $900 total.

She considered both options. The iPad Pro + Pencil + keyboard exceeded $1,200. Instead, she bought a refurbished Surface Pro 8 with i5, 8GB RAM, and 256GB SSD for $650. She added a used Surface Pen for $70 and downloaded Clip Studio Paint (one-time $49.99). Total: $769.99.

In school, she appreciated being able to switch between drawing mode and typing essays without switching devices. She used Photoshop for assignments and shared layered PSD files directly with classmates using the same software. While the battery died mid-day occasionally, a power bank kept her going.

Had she chosen the iPad route within budget, she’d have had to skip the keyboard or settle for a third-party stylus with inconsistent performance. For her workflow — blending creation and academics — the Surface offered more utility per dollar.

Long-Term Value and Upgrade Paths

Budget decisions aren’t just about initial cost — they’re about longevity. How long will the device remain useful?

iPadOS receives strong support: Apple typically provides 5–6 years of OS updates. An iPad Pro from 2020 still runs the latest iPadOS smoothly. Apps like Procreate continue to add features without extra cost.

Windows devices vary. Surface devices generally receive 5 years of updates, but performance degrades faster due to heavier software demands. Over time, background processes, antivirus scans, and bloated apps can slow down even capable hardware.

Yet, the Surface allows upgrades — some models let you replace SSDs or add RAM. iPads are entirely sealed; no internal upgrades possible. If you start with 128GB, you’re stuck with it.

Cloud integration also differs. iPad syncs effortlessly with iCloud, but storage caps at 50GB for $0.99/month. Surface integrates with OneDrive and supports external drives natively — helpful for storing large project files.

• iPad Pro Pros: Long software support, efficient battery, best stylus experience
• iPad Pro Cons: No file system access, no upgradability, expensive accessories
• Surface Pro Pros: Full desktop OS, USB-C/Thunderbolt, expandable storage, multitasking strength
• Surface Pro Cons: Shorter battery, heavier, higher maintenance

Checklist: Choosing the Right Device on a Budget

Use this checklist to determine which device aligns with your artistic needs and financial limits:

1. Define your primary use: Sketching/painting only (→ iPad), or mixed tasks including design/editing (→ Surface)
2. Calculate total cost: Include stylus, keyboard, and required software subscriptions
3. Check software compatibility: Do your must-have apps run well on iPadOS?
4. Assess portability needs: Will you draw on the couch, in bed, or mainly at a desk?
5. Consider future-proofing: Does the device support upcoming app updates?
6. Explore refurbished markets: Save 20–30% on certified pre-owned models
7. Test before buying: Visit a store to try both styluses and interfaces

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the Surface Pro for animation like FlipaClip or Krita?

Yes. The Surface Pro runs full desktop versions of Krita and OpenToonz, and even After Effects for frame-by-frame animation. Performance depends on RAM and processor, so aim for at least 16GB RAM if animating heavily.

Is Procreate available on Windows or Surface?

No. Procreate is exclusive to iPad. While there are alternatives like Concepts or Infinite Painter, none replicate its interface and fluidity exactly.

Which stylus feels more natural for drawing?

Most artists report the Apple Pencil feels more precise and responsive due to its low latency and magnetic alignment. However, the Surface Pen is catching up, and third-party options increase affordability.

Final Verdict: Which Is Better for Budget Artists?

The answer depends on your definition of “better.”

If your goal is pure digital illustration, concept sketching, or comic creation — and you want simplicity, long battery life, and a frictionless drawing experience — the iPad Pro is the superior choice, especially if you can find a deal on older models or bundle accessories.

But if you're a multidisciplinary artist needing Photoshop, Illustrator, or 3D tools, or if you double as a student or freelancer managing documents and emails, the Surface Pro delivers unmatched versatility. It functions as both a tablet and a full PC, making it a smarter long-term investment when every dollar counts.

For those truly constrained by budget, consider this: the iPad Air with Apple Pencil offers 90% of the iPad Pro’s art performance at a significantly lower price. Alternatively, look into Lenovo’s budget-friendly Windows tablets or Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE paired with DeX mode for desktop-like function.

“The best tool isn’t the most expensive one — it’s the one you’ll actually use consistently.” — Rafael Silva, digital art instructor

Take Action Today

You don’t need the most powerful device to create great art. You need one that fits your workflow, supports your software, and stays within your means. Evaluate your actual needs — not marketing hype. Test devices if possible. Calculate total ownership cost. And remember: masterpieces have been made on far less capable machines than either of these.

💬 What’s your pick: iPad Pro or Surface Pro? Share your experience or ask questions in the comments — help fellow artists make smarter choices!