Microsoft Surface Pro 11 vs Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro)
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Microsoft Surface Pro 11 | Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Performance index | 2,700 | 4,200 | -35.7% |
| Battery life (h) | 14 | 17 | -17.6% |
| Weight (kg) | 0.90 | 1.61 | — |
| RAM / storage | 16GB / 512GB | 18GB / 512GB | — |
| Price (USD) | $1,199 | $1,999 | -40.0% |
- Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro) is about 36% faster. Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro) lasts longer on battery (17h).
- Microsoft Surface Pro 11 is the more portable at 0.9 kg.
Verdict: Surface Pro 11 or MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro)?
Microsoft Surface Pro 11 advantages
- Portability (+44%)
- Affordability (+40%)
Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro) advantages
- Performance (+36%)
- Battery life (+18%)
- Screen size (+8%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Microsoft Surface Pro 11 if you carry it around all day.
- Choose the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro) if you need maximum performance for demanding work or gaming.
- Choose the Microsoft Surface Pro 11 if you want the best value.
Value for money
Microsoft Surface Pro 11 delivers more performance per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Microsoft Surface Pro 11 vs Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro): which should you choose?
Microsoft Surface Pro 11 — Microsoft 2-in-1 laptop (2024) with the Snapdragon X Elite, 16GB RAM, a 13-inch display, 0.9 kg weight and about 14 h battery life; from $1,199.
Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro) — Apple pro laptop (2023) with the Apple M3 Pro, 18GB RAM, a 14.2-inch display, 1.61 kg weight and about 17 h battery life; from $1,999.
Microsoft Surface Pro 11 vs Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro): Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro) is the faster laptop. Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro) is about 36% faster. Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro) lasts longer on battery (17h). Microsoft Surface Pro 11 is the more portable at 0.9 kg.
Performance
The Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro) is the faster machine on our normalized index (4,200 vs 2,700), thanks to its Apple M3 Pro. That gap matters most for video editing, compiling, 3D and gaming; for browsing and office work both feel quick.
Portability and battery
The Microsoft Surface Pro 11 is easier to carry at 0.90 kg, and the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro) lasts longer unplugged (about 17 h). For commuters and travellers these often matter more day-to-day than peak performance.
Configuration and value
These are base configurations — RAM, storage and display upgrades change both price and experience. Compare like-for-like specs and check current pricing before buying.
The verdict
Both are credible choices in the laptop comparison space; the specification table above lays out every metric so you can weigh the trade-offs that matter to you. Pick the one whose strengths line up with how you will actually use it.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Microsoft Surface Pro 11 better than the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro)?
These two are closely matched — the right pick comes down to which specific strengths you value and the price you actually pay. Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro) is about 36% faster. Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro) lasts longer on battery (17h).
What is the main difference between the Microsoft Surface Pro 11 and the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro)?
Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro) is about 36% faster. Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro) lasts longer on battery (17h). Microsoft Surface Pro 11 is the more portable at 0.9 kg.
Which is better value?
Microsoft Surface Pro 11 delivers more performance per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the Microsoft Surface Pro 11 if you carry it around all day. Choose the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3 Pro) if you need maximum performance for demanding work or gaming.
Methodology
Laptops are compared on a normalized performance index (combining CPU and, where relevant, GPU capability), rated battery life, weight, display size, memory and starting price. Configurations vary widely, so we use representative base specifications; verify the exact configuration and current price before purchase.