Choosing a tablet can be challenging with the vast array of options available, especially when comparing Apple's offerings to the diverse Android market. Apple's lineup ranges from devices with the older A16 chip to the high-performance M4 chip, each with varying display technologies like Liquid Retina and Ultra Retina Tandem OLED. Understanding these differences can be daunting for those not familiar with tech jargon. On the Android side, the market is even broader, with a mix of outdated and cutting-edge devices. The hardware varies significantly, from entry-level to high-end, and software support can be unpredictable, unlike Apple's consistent updates. After thorough market analysis and testing, we've identified the best tablets that offer the perfect balance of features and value.
Additional contributions by Mark Knapp
TL;DR: The Best Tablets Right Now
Our Top Pick### Apple iPad (11th Generation)
4See it at AmazonSee it at Walmart
### OnePlus Pad 2
1See it at AmazonSee it at OnePlus
### Apple iPad Pro (M4, 2024)
2See it at AmazonSee it at Apple
### Apple iPad Air (2024)
1See it at Amazon
### Apple iPad (9th Generation)
3See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyTablets have become indispensable due to their combination of power, versatility, and portability, catering to a wide range of needs from entertainment to professional video editing.
iPad (11th Generation)
Best Tablet
Our Top Pick### Apple iPad (11th Generation)
4The latest iteration of the base iPad offers subtle yet impactful upgrades, including a slightly larger screen, a faster chip, and increased storage, all while maintaining its affordable price point.
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Product Specifications
CPU: Apple A16 Bionic chip with 5-core CPU and 4-core GPU
RAM: 6GB
Storage: 128GB
Display: 11-inch, 2360 x 1640 Liquid Retina display
Cameras: 12MP (rear), 12MP (front)
PROS
- Upgraded base storage
- Stunning Liquid Retina display
CONS
- Still on a dated processor
Apple has consistently made the base-tier iPad an excellent choice for most consumers, offering a perfect blend of affordability, performance, and build quality. The 11th generation model continues this trend with minor but meaningful upgrades. The display size increases to 11 inches, while the resolution and refresh rate remain at 60Hz with a 500-nit peak brightness, still supporting the first-generation Apple Pencil. The internal enhancements are more significant, with the base storage now starting at 128GB, a substantial increase from the previous 64GB, and the processor upgraded to the A16 Bionic, though it's not the latest chip Apple offers. Despite these upgrades, the price remains at $349, with occasional sales bringing it down to $299.
See our guide to the best iPad models for more options.
OnePlus Pad 2
Best Android Tablet
### OnePlus Pad 2
1The OnePlus Pad 2 offers impressive hardware at a competitive price, making it an excellent choice for Android tablet enthusiasts.
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Product Specifications
Screen size: 12.1-inch IPS, 2120 x 3000
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
Storage: 128GB
Cameras: 13-megapixel rear, 8-megapixel front-facing
PROS
- Large, smooth display
- Solid performance
CONS
- Shorter-term OS support compared to Apple
The OnePlus Pad 2 strikes a balance between affordability and performance, avoiding the pitfalls of both budget and overly expensive Android tablets. It features a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which was a flagship chipset until recently, and 12GB of RAM for robust multitasking. The 12.1-inch display boasts a 2120x3000 resolution, 900-nit peak brightness, and a 144Hz refresh rate, enhancing visibility and motion. It supports a stylus that charges magnetically, a feature not found in some competitors. OnePlus promises three years of OS updates and four years of security updates, providing better longevity than many Android tablets. Originally priced at $550, it's often available for $450 from OnePlus, sometimes with a free accessory like a keyboard case.
iPad Pro 2024 – Photos
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3. iPad Pro (M4, 2024)
Best Tablet for Creative Work
### Apple iPad Pro (M4, 2024)
2The iPad Pro with the M4 chip and Tandem OLED display is a powerhouse for creative professionals, offering unparalleled performance and visuals.
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Product Specifications
CPU: Apple M4
RAM: 8GB/16GB
Storage: 256GB – 2TB
Display: 12.9-inch Tandem OLED
Cameras: 12MP wide camera (rear), Landscape 12MP ultra-wide camera (front)
PROS
- Powerful M4 chip ready for video editing and 3D rendering
- Tandem OLED display is the best you'll find in a tablet
CONS
- The most expensive tablet most people will ever buy
The iPad Pro with the M4 chip is a game-changer for creatives, offering an 8-core CPU and a 10-core GPU for handling demanding tasks like video editing and 3D rendering. The Tandem OLED display provides exceptional visuals, though the high price might be a barrier for some. RAM varies with storage options, with 16GB available in the 1TB model, which is crucial for heavy workloads. For artists, pairing it with the Apple Pencil Pro enhances its creative capabilities.
iPad Air (2024)
Best Thin and Light Tablet
### Apple iPad Air (2024)
1The 2024 iPad Air, with its M2 chip and slim design, is ideal for those seeking a portable and powerful tablet.
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Product Specifications
CPU: Apple M2
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB
Display: 11-inch 2360 x 1640 Liquid Retina display
Cameras: 12MP (rear), 12MP (front)
PROS
- Impressively thin
- Excellent performance
CONS
- Can get hot under load
The 2024 iPad Air is a remarkable thin and light tablet, featuring an M2 chip and a display available in 11" or 13" sizes. It performs well for everyday tasks and gaming, though it can heat up during extended use. The thin design, at just 6.1mm, makes it highly portable, and it includes a USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 port for faster data transfers and DisplayPort output. The display offers a wide color gamut, ideal for media consumption, and supports the Apple Pencil Pro for drawing and note-taking. New models with an M3 chip are set to release on March 12th.
iPad (9th Generation)
Best Budget iPadOS Tablet
### Apple iPad (9th Generation)
3For those on a budget, the 9th Gen iPad offers a solid performance at an affordable price, though it's worth comparing with the newer 11th Gen model.
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Product Specifications
CPU: A13 Bionic
RAM: 4GB
Storage: 64GB
Display: 10.2-inch 2160 x 1620 LED-backlit Multi-Touch Retina display
Cameras: 8MP (rear), 12MP (front)
PROS
- Ultra affordable price tag
- Upgraded front-facing camera
CONS
- Processor isn’t as fast as other iPad models
While the 9th Gen iPad uses the older A13 Bionic chip and has limited storage, it remains a viable option for basic tasks like web browsing and video calls. At around $250, it's a budget-friendly choice, but if you can find the 11th Gen iPad for under $350, it offers better value with its upgrades.
How to Choose the Right Tablet for You
Choosing the right tablet starts with setting a budget. For casual use like streaming and social media, a budget-friendly model may suffice. For productivity, consider investing in a higher-end tablet that can function similarly to a laptop, especially if you plan to use it with a keyboard. Design is also crucial; a lightweight, durable build and a high-quality display, like OLED, can enhance your experience. Internally, a robust processor and at least 4GB of RAM are essential to prevent slowdowns. For gaming or creative work, higher specs are recommended. Ensure your tablet's software is current, with Android 15 and iPadOS 18 being the latest versions. Additional features like battery life, audio quality, camera performance, and stylus support can further improve your tablet experience. For those frequently on the move, a 5G-enabled tablet might be worthwhile.
Tablets FAQ
Are iPads better than Android tablets?
Both iPads and Android tablets offer excellent options, and the choice depends on personal preference. If you're already invested in the Apple ecosystem with an iPhone or MacBook, an iPad integrates seamlessly, offering a smooth user experience and a wide range of apps. However, iPads can be pricier. Android tablets vary widely in quality and price, offering more budget-friendly options but requiring more research to avoid poor performers. While Android apps may not be as optimized for tablets, most will still function well.
Should you buy a tablet with cellular network support?
A tablet with cellular support may be unnecessary for most users, especially with the added cost of a cellular plan. A smartphone can serve as a Wi-Fi hotspot when needed. However, if you're often on the go without Wi-Fi access, a 5G tablet could be beneficial. Many of our recommended tablets offer 5G versions, but you'll need to decide at the time of purchase.
