Surface Pro 4 vs. MacBook Air 2016 specs rumors: Apple or Microsoft?

Two new ultra-thin laptops are rumored to be released this year by Microsoft and Apple Inc., the long-time rivals in the computer technology industry. 

According to reports, Apple might be unveiling the specs of MacBook Pro 2016 during the company's annual product launch today, while Microsoft will possibly reveal the fourth-generation of its Surface Pro laptop-tablet hybrid line sometime in October. 

But which new device is worth the consumer's money upon release? Here is a detailed comparison between the two new products from Microsoft and Apple: 

MacBook Air 2016

One of the earlier editions of MacBook Air, which will soon be replaced by the MacBook Air 2015.Apple.com

The next-generation of Apple's MacBook Air is rumored to come with an improved nVidia GeForce GTX 950 graphics card that could appeal to avid gamers. The new graphics card allegedly features the Gamestream Co-op that allows players to upload games online for streaming so that other players can participate in the game. If this rumor turns out to be true, then it means that the new version of the MacBook Air will be the first to offer a gaming feature.

However, other reports claim that the MacBook Air 2016 will only improve the features that perform dismally in the current version of the ultra-thin laptop.

MacRumors previously stated that the new version of the entry-level MacBook Air models will be equipped with 2.3 GHz i5-6200U and the 2.4 GHz i5-6300U chips, while the more advanced editions will come with 2.5 GHz i7-6500U and the 2.6 GHz i7-6600U chipsets. All versions will reportedly be working with an Intel HD 520 graphics. 

It was also speculated that the new MacBook Air 2016 will be lighter and thinner compared to its predecessors.

Microsoft Surface Pro 4

Microsoft Surface Pro 3, the predecessor of Microsoft Surface Pro 4

The next edition of the Microsoft's hybrid laptop/ tablet device is said to come in two sizes. One is the usual 12-inch display just like the Surface Pro 3, while the other one is larger with a 13- or 14-inch screen. Under the hood, the Surface Pro 4 will allegedly come with Intel's latest fifth-generation chipset product called Skylake, and could either have the Core i3, Core i5, or Core i7 processor upon release. The device, which is known to be easily shifted from being a laptop to a tablet, and it will be equipped with the Windows 10 operating system straight out of the box. 

Based on rumors, Microsoft will be unveiling the product during the company's event in October that will be held in New York.

However, both tech firms have yet to confirm if any of the rumors are true.