Based on our overall comparison score, Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M6) rates higher at 69/100 versus 65/100 for Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.8-inch (8th Edition) — a 4-point lead. Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M6) is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.
Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M6) vs Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.8-inch (8th Edition)
Updated Nov 2026 · Scored by the Let’s Compare Data Engine · How we score
For most buyers the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M6) is the better pick — it scores 68/100 to the Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.8-inch (8th Edition)'s 56, leading on Processor and Integrated Graphics. Choose the Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.8-inch (8th Edition) instead if design & weight and security matter most to you, where it comes out ahead.
- Performance is scored from the laptop's CPU and GPU; few laptops have a published whole-system benchmark.
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M6) leads Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.8-inch (8th Edition) overall by 12 points (68 vs 56 out of 100).
- Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M6) stands out on Storage capacity: 1,024 GB (100% more), Display Brightness: 1,600 nits (167% more), Processor model: Apple M6.
- Best value: Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.8-inch (8th Edition) (from $1,599) — the strongest score-per-dollar of the two.
Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M6) leads overall
Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M6)
68
Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.8-inch (8th Edition)
56
Why it stands out
- Storage capacity: 1,024 GB (100% more)
- Display Brightness: 1,600 nits (167% more)
- Processor model: Apple M6
Watch-outs
Compromises to know before you buy
Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M6)
- RAM is soldered — you can't upgrade it later, so buy enough now.
- Storage isn't user-upgradeable.
- No USB-A ports — older accessories need an adapter.
Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.8-inch (8th Edition)
- RAM is soldered — you can't upgrade it later, so buy enough now.
- No HDMI — you'll need a dongle for projectors/TVs.
- No SD card reader.
In-depth analysisAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Nov 2026.
Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M6)
The Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M6) is a high-end laptop powered by the Apple M6 system-on-chip, designed for demanding professional workloads. It features a 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR or PROLED XDR display alongside physical hardware controls and a versatile port layout including HDMI, MagSafe, and an SDXC card slot. Running macOS, it serves creative and technical users requiring high computing performance in a portable package.
Best for Professional photo and video editingBest for On-the-go software development
Pros
- Versatile connectivity including MagSafe, HDMI, Thunderbolt, and a full-size SDXC card slot
- High-quality 14.2-inch display options for color-critical work
- Unified memory architecture integrated directly on the Apple M-series chip
Cons
- Soldered internal storage and unified memory prevent post-purchase hardware upgrades
Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.8-inch (8th Edition)
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.8-inch (8th Edition) is a Windows 11 Pro commercial notebook built on ARM architecture. Powered by Snapdragon® X2 Plus or Elite processors with a Qualcomm® Hexagon™ NPU delivering up to 80 TOPS, it features a 13.8-inch PixelSense Flow touchscreen display with a 120Hz refresh rate and up to 16 hours of active web usage.
Best for all-day mobile productivity and web workflowsBest for secure enterprise deployments utilizing Windows Pluton and facial recognition
Pros
- High-resolution 13.8-inch PixelSense Flow touchscreen with a 120Hz dynamic refresh rate
- Extensive memory and storage configurations ranging up to 64GB LPDDR5x RAM and 2TB Gen 4 SSD
- Comprehensive connectivity including Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and USB4 ports
- Strong modular serviceability with easily replaceable core internal and external components
Cons
- Display is optimized strictly for touch interaction and does not support pen input accessories
- ARM-based architecture may require emulation for certain legacy x86 applications
Value for Money
Which is the better deal for the price
Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.
Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M6)
Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.8-inch (8th Edition)
Physical Comparison
Weigh them up, then compare real dimensions in 3D
Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M6)Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.8-inch (8th Edition)
Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M6) is 0.19 kg (14%) heavier than Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.8-inch (8th Edition).
Review Videos
Hand-picked expert reviews for each product
Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M6) vs Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.8-inch (8th Edition) comparison
Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M6) and Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.8-inch (8th Edition) are compared side by side above across every spec in the laptops category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 69/100 for Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M6) and 65/100 for Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.8-inch (8th Edition).
At launch, Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.8-inch (8th Edition) was the more affordable option ($1599) versus Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M6) ($1999). Weigh that against the overall scores (69/100 vs 65/100) and the value-for-money meter above to judge whether the higher-rated model justifies its price for your needs. Current retail prices vary — check the retailer.
If you want the higher-rated laptops option overall, Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M6) (69/100) edges out Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.8-inch (8th Edition) (65/100). But if Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.8-inch (8th Edition) is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.
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