Whether you’re looking for an Amazon, Android, or Apple slate, here’s what to consider, along with recommendations for the top tablets we’ve tested.
There are countless tablets on the market, but which one is right for you? Whether you’re eyeing an iPad or one of the many Android models available, we detail the key factors you need to consider when shopping, along with some of the top-rated tablets we’ve tested.
Keep in mind that Windows slates are different beasts entirely. If that’s what you’re looking for, head on over to our picks for the best Windows tablets, as well as the best 2-in-1sWhy We Picked It
You can’t go wrong with Apple’s entry-level iPad. Thanks to a price drop in 2024, it costs significantly less than the iPad Air and the iPad Pro, but still offers a 10.9-inch display that’s sufficiently large for multitasking and productivity. It runs the latest version of Apple’s tablet OS and works with tons of accessories. Who It’s For
This is the best iPad for most people. It performs well, has plenty of features, and gets you into the Apple ecosystem for a relatively affordable price.Why We Picked It
With a 10.1-inch, 1,920-by-1,200-pixel screen, a good-enough MediaTek processor, 3GB of RAM, and more than 10 hours of battery life, the Fire HD 10 is the most well-rounded Amazon tablet you can get. We’re also fans of the device’s modern design, microSD card slot for up to 1TB of extra space, and decent speakers. And it remains as exceptional a value as ever, with a price under $150.Who It’s For
If you want to watch movies and shows on the go without worrying about battery life or paying a lot, the Fire HD 10 is your best bet. Why We Picked It
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ offers a lot of great features for a reasonable price, including an Exynos 1380 processor, a 12.4-inch screen with a 2,560-by-1,600-pixel resolution, and excellent battery life. It uses top-notch materials and sports an IP68 rating that protects it from dust and water. It also includes Samsung’s excellent productivity and multitasking software. We like that Samsung promises four Android OS updates and five years of security patches for the device, too.Who It’s For
Look no further if you want an excellent Android tablet that doesn’t cost too much and is durable enough to use in your backyard or near a pool.Why We Picked It
The iPad Air is available in 11-inch and 13-inch models, comes with a pro-level M2 processor, shifts the front-facing camera to the center for better video calls, and includes support for the latest Apple Pencil Pro. It offers more storage options than older Air models, is available with 5G, and comes in several different colors.Who It’s For
People who need more power than the entry-level iPad but don’t need the professional-level power of the iPad Pro will find the iPad Air to be the perfect happy medium.Why We Picked It
The iPad Pro is a seriously powerful machine for creators and professionals who need a tablet that works hard. With the latest M4 processor, an OLED display, a flexible Thunderbolt port, less weight and better battery life than the previous model, and compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro, it’s a phenomenal slate for professionals.Who It’s For
Those who need the most performance from a tablet (and can afford it) should consider the iPad Pro, which runs circles around much of the competition.Why We Picked It
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ is our favorite low-cost Android tablet because it doesn’t have any glaring flaws. Most aspects, including the refined design, 11-inch screen, reliable hardware, and helpful software enhancements are better than expected for the price. Moreover, a microSD card slot helps you get around the limiting 64GB of standard storage, while the face unlock option mitigates the lack of a fingerprint sensor. If you need 5G connectivity for travel, you can add a cellular radio for $50 more.Who It’s For
If you want unfettered access to the Google Play Store and the full Android experience on the cheap, the Galaxy Tab A9+ is a capable choice. It’s fast enough for most tasks and can handle all your entertainment needs.Why We Picked It
The 8.3-inch iPad mini might not get as much attention as its larger siblings, but it’s sized just right if you value portability. Importantly, it doesn’t give up any of the power, connectivity, or accessory support that makes iPads so popular.
