Spot on Ted. The MBP 14 that I tried (10core/16core SKU) was an absolute beast, but made no difference in all of the software I use. Now granted I am not a “creative” nor a “gamer” so YMMV, but without a doubt it was severe overkill, AND I still had to carry two devices to client meetings for note taking and reviewing documents. I am very happy with the SP8, and that also speaks to your aesthetics point. Yes, I will have two devices still, but the iPad Mini is for my Apple needs (News+, FaceTime, iMessage) and not my productivity device.