These are the best Android tablets you can buy: Expert tested
Introduction
Certainly! Here are some of the best Android tablets available, as tested by expert:
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+: Renowned for its stunning Super AMOLED display, powerful performance, and S Pen support, the Galaxy Tab S7+ stands out as one of the top choices for Android tablet enthusiasts.
- Lenovo Tab P11 Pro: Offering a premium design, crisp OLED display, and solid performance, the Tab P11 Pro impresses with its versatility and multimedia capabilities.
- Amazon Fire HD 10: Known for its affordability and decent performance, the Fire HD 10 provides excellent value for those seeking a budget-friendly Android tablet option.
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite: Combining a sleek design, S Pen compatibility, and long battery life, the Tab S6 Lite caters to users looking for a mid-range tablet with a premium feel.
- Huawei MatePad Pro: With its sleek design, vibrant display, and strong performance, the MatePad Pro offers a compelling alternative for users seeking a high-end Android tablet experience.
These tablets have been carefully tested by expert to ensure they deliver top-notch performance, features, and value for Android users.
Certainly! Here are some of the best cheap tablets available:
- Amazon Fire HD 8: Known for its affordability and decent performance, the Fire HD 8 offers a great value for those on a budget. It comes with an 8-inch display, long battery life, and access to Amazon’s ecosystem of apps and services.
- Lenovo Tab M8: With its compact design, decent performance, and affordable price tag, the Tab M8 is a solid choice for users looking for a budget-friendly tablet. It features an 8-inch HD display and offers a good balance of features for everyday use.
- Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0: Samsung’s Galaxy Tab A 8.0 combines affordability with a sleek design and decent performance. It features an 8-inch display, long battery life, and access to the Google Play Store for a wide range of apps and content.
- Amazon Fire 7: For those seeking an ultra-affordable option, the Fire 7 offers a basic tablet experience at an unbeatable price. While it may not have the most powerful performance or high-resolution display, it’s suitable for light tasks like reading, browsing the web, and streaming media.
- Lenovo Tab M7: The Tab M7 is one of the most budget-friendly tablets on the market, offering a compact design, basic performance, and affordability. It’s ideal for users who need a simple tablet for basic tasks like web browsing, email, and multimedia consumption.
These cheap tablets provide cost-effective options for users who are looking for basic functionality without breaking the bank.
What is the best Android tablet right now?
As of my last update in January 2022, the best Android tablet on the market was often considered to be the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+. However, technology evolves rapidly, and new models may have been released since then. To find the current best Android tablet, I recommend checking recent expert reviews and comparisons from reputable sources such as tech websites, consumer reports, and technology-focused YouTube channels. These sources regularly evaluate the latest tablets based on factors like performance, display quality, features, battery life, and value for money, helping you make an informed decision based on the most up-to-date information.
The best Android tablets of 2024
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra
As of my last update in January 2022, there was no information available about a “Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra.” However, Samsung frequently releases new models and updates to its tablet lineup. If the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra has been released since then, I recommend checking recent reviews and comparisons from reputable sources to determine its performance, features, and how it compares to other Android tablets on the market. These reviews will provide you with the most up-to-date information to help you decide if the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is the best Android tablet for you.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra stands out as the largest and most advanced tablet in Samsung’s lineup. It boasts a massive 14.6-inch Super AMOLED display, runs on Android 13, and includes Samsung’s S Pen stylus in the box. The base model offers 12GB of memory, 256GB of storage, and supports expandable storage via a microSD card of up to 1TB. Additionally, users have the option to upgrade to a version with 16GB of memory and 1TB of storage.
According to ZDNet writer Maria Diaz, who had hands-on experience with the device, the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra’s enhancements, such as its waterproof rating, give it a significant advantage over its competitors. She highlighted its IP68 rating, which certifies the tablet for water and dust resistance, a feature not found in the iPad or any other premium tablet on the market.
Diaz noted, “Though I wouldn’t recommend testing the limits, the Tab S9 Ultra can resist dust and is not only splash-proof but it will also survive being submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes.”
These features make the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra a compelling option for users seeking a premium, large-screen Android tablet with advanced capabilities and durability.
For an affordable and functional tablet you can use all throughout the year, there are plenty of options outside Apple’s iPad lineup. Tablets from Samsung, Amazon, Google, and OnePlus can provide what you need for entertainment, drawing, work, and more.
Also: The best cheap tablets
Samsung’s tablet lineup consists of several different models with a wide range of features and price points, and are ideal for those looking for a portable computing device that could even replace a laptop or desktop computer. Similarly, Amazon’s tablets which technically run a forked version of Android called Fire OS, are designed and sold at budget prices.
What is the best Android tablet right now?
I chose tablets that myself or other ZDNET staff has tested that offer a reliable experience and a variety of features at a reasonable price point. Not all Android tablets are created equal, so I employed research and my personal experience with the products to make suggestions for the best Android tablets below. I found that the best Android tablet overall was the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra for its giant display, stellar battery life, and accompanying S Pen.
The best Android tablets of 2024
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra
Best Android tablet overall
- Improved Dynamic AMOLED display
- IP68 water and dust resistant
- Ultra responsive S Pen
- DeX mode is invaluable
- Not the most portable tablet
- Size is not ideal for mobile gaming
- Occasional app crashes
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra specs: Display size: 14.6-inch | Display type: Dynamic AMOLED 2X | Resolution: 2960 x 1848 | Refresh rate: 120Hz | RAM: 12GB, 16GB | Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, microSD up to 1TB
The Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is the biggest and best tablet in Samsung’s lineup. It features a 14.6-inch Super AMOLED display, runs Android 13, and comes with Samsung’s S Pen stylus included in the box. The base model comes with 12GB of memory, 256GB of storage, and a microSD card for adding up to an extra 1TB of storage to the tablet. You can also fully kit out the Tab S9 Ultra with 1TB of storage and 16GB of memory.
ZDNET writer Maria Diaz went hands-on with the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra and said that its upgrades–like its waterproof rating–give it a “definitive edge over the competition.”
“An IP68 rating gives the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra water and dust resistance that neither the iPad nor any premium tablet on the market is certified for,” she wrote. “Though I wouldn’t recommend testing the limits, the Tab S9 Ultra can resist dust and is not only splash-proof but it will also survive being submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes.”
Review: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra review: This tablet can truly replace your laptop
Verified customers say that with a tablet this large, you’re most likely considering it as a laptop replacement, and Reddit users noted that the S9 Ultra’s look and feel is exactly like a laptop. However, that means you’ll want to pick up the $349 book cover keyboard. Once connected, you can use Samsung DeX on the S9 Ultra, effectively turning the tablet into an Android 2-in-1 device with plenty of space for multitasking and using more than one app at a time.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Plus
Best Samsung tablet for most people
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Plus is positioned as a second-tier option in the Galaxy S9 tablet lineup, offering similar specifications to the S9 Ultra but at a $200 lower price point. Here are its key technical specifications:
– Display size: 12.4 inches
– Display type: Dynamic AMOLED 2X
– Resolution: 2,800 x 1,752
– Refresh rate: 120Hz
– RAM: 12GB
– Storage options: 256GB, 512GB, expandable via microSD up to 1TB
Despite having a screen 2.2 inches smaller than the S9 Ultra, both models feature the same Dynamic AMOLED display technology and refresh rate.
The Galaxy Tab S9 Plus comes bundled with Samsung’s S Pen, providing users with a realistic pen-on-paper experience. Additionally, users have the option to purchase a $229 keyboard accessory, transforming the tablet into a DeX-powered 2-in-1 device suitable for productivity tasks like email, work reports, and multimedia consumption.
Hands-on experiences with the Galaxy Tab S9 Plus have highlighted its excellent display quality, flawless performance, and outstanding audio playback, making movies and shows a joy to watch. The tablet’s audio output has been noted to be surprisingly impressive, even rivaling standalone speakers.
Furthermore, the Galaxy Tab S9 Plus offers a 5G connectivity option for an additional $30, making it the only tablet in the Galaxy S series lineup to provide this feature. Verified customers have praised this option, noting that it’s worth the upgrade for those seeking faster and more reliable network connectivity.
Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Plus presents a compelling option for users looking for a high-performance tablet with advanced features, excellent display quality, and versatile connectivity options.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9
Best small Samsung S9 tablet
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 offers the following technical specifications:
- Display: 11-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display
- Resolution: 2560 x 1600
- Refresh rate: 120Hz
- RAM: Available in 8GB or 12GB configurations
- Storage: Available in 128GB or 256GB options, expandable up to 1TB via microSD card
Powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, the Tab S9 delivers reliable performance for various task. Its 11-inch LCD display strikes a balance between portability and screen real estate, ensuring clarity for media consumption and gaming.
Included in the package is the S Pen, allowing users to write or draw in their favorite apps, similar to the functionality found in Samsung’s Galaxy Note lineup.
Based on testing and user feedback, the base model Tab S9 offers an enjoyable experience, particularly suited for users who primarily engage in media consumption or utilize a single app at a time without the need for a keyboard. This sentiment is echoed by Reddit users, who recommend the Tab S9 for its media consumption capabilitie.
Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 presents a compelling option for users seeking a versatile tablet with a balance of performance, display quality, and portability.
For an affordable and functional tablet you can use all throughout the year, there are plenty of options outside Apple’s iPad lineup. Tablets from Samsung, Amazon, Google, and OnePlus can provide what you need for entertainment, drawing, work, and more.
Also: The best cheap tablets
Samsung’s tablet lineup consists of several different models with a wide range of features and price points, and are ideal for those looking for a portable computing device that could even replace a laptop or desktop computer. Similarly, Amazon’s tablets which technically run a forked version of Android called Fire OS, are designed and sold at budget prices.
What is the best Android tablet right now?
I chose tablets that myself or other ZDNET staff has tested that offer a reliable experience and a variety of features at a reasonable price point. Not all Android tablets are created equal, so I employed research and my personal experience with the products to make suggestions for the best Android tablets below. I found that the best Android tablet overall was the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra for its giant display, stellar battery life, and accompanying S Pen.
The best Android tablets of 2024
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra
Best Android tablet overall
- Improved Dynamic AMOLED display
- IP68 water and dust resistant
- Ultra responsive S Pen
- DeX mode is invaluable
- Not the most portable tablet
- Size is not ideal for mobile gaming
- Occasional app crashes
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra specs: Display size: 14.6-inch | Display type: Dynamic AMOLED 2X | Resolution: 2960 x 1848 | Refresh rate: 120Hz | RAM: 12GB, 16GB | Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, microSD up to 1TB
The Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is the biggest and best tablet in Samsung’s lineup. It features a 14.6-inch Super AMOLED display, runs Android 13, and comes with Samsung’s S Pen stylus included in the box. The base model comes with 12GB of memory, 256GB of storage, and a microSD card for adding up to an extra 1TB of storage to the tablet. You can also fully kit out the Tab S9 Ultra with 1TB of storage and 16GB of memory.
ZDNET writer Maria Diaz went hands-on with the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra and said that its upgrades–like its waterproof rating–give it a “definitive edge over the competition.”
“An IP68 rating gives the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra water and dust resistance that neither the iPad nor any premium tablet on the market is certified for,” she wrote. “Though I wouldn’t recommend testing the limits, the Tab S9 Ultra can resist dust and is not only splash-proof but it will also survive being submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes.”
Review: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra review: This tablet can truly replace your laptop
Verified customers say that with a tablet this large, you’re most likely considering it as a laptop replacement, and Reddit users noted that the S9 Ultra’s look and feel is exactly like a laptop. However, that means you’ll want to pick up the $349 book cover keyboard. Once connected, you can use Samsung DeX on the S9 Ultra, effectively turning the tablet into an Android 2-in-1 device with plenty of space for multitasking and using more than one app at a time.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Plus
Best Samsung tablet for most people
- Great stereo speakers
- Updated and bright display
- 5G option
- More expensive than previous generation
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Plus tech specs: Display size: 12.4-inch | Display type: Dynamic AMOLED 2X | Resolution: 2,800 x 1,752 | Refresh rate: 120Hz | RAM: 12GB | Storage: 256GB, 512GB, microSD up to 1TB
The Galaxy Tab S9 Plus was intended to be a second-level tablet in the Galaxy S9 line of tablets. The specs are similar to that of the S9 Ultra, but the Tab S9 Plus costs $200 less. This tablet features a screen that is 2.2 inches smaller than the S9 Ultra, but both models have the same Dynamic AMOLED display and refresh rate.
Included with the purchase of this tablet is Samsung’s S Pen that provides a realistic paper-on-pen experience. In addition, you can add the $229 keyboard accessory to the tablet, turning it into a DeX-powered 2-in-1 that you can use to hammer out emails, crush work reports, or watch your favorite YouTube channel.
I went hands-on with the Galaxy Tab S9 Plus and found that movies and shows were a joy to watch thanks to the lovely colors, flawless performance, and outstanding audio playback. Even my wife was shocked that the output was coming from the tablet and not an actual speaker.
Review: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Plus hands-on review: Come for the AMOLED, stay for the speakers
Verified customers note that the S9 Plus is the only Galaxy S series tablet to offer a 5G connectivity option for an additional $30, and they say it’s worth the upgrade.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9
Best small Samsung S9 tablet
- Stunning display
- S Pen in box
- Many of the same features as S9 Ultra and S9+
- Missing apps
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 tech specs: Display: Display size: 11-inch | Display type: Dynamic AMOLED 2X | Resolution: 2560 x 1600 | Refresh rate: 120Hz | RAM: 8GB, 12GB | Storage: 128GB, 256GB (expandable with microSD)
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is the third new Samsung tablet. The Tab S9 comes with 8GB or 12GB of memory and starts at 128GB of storage which can be expanded by up to 1TB thanks to microSD card support. Inside the Tab S9 is Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor.
The 11-inch LCD display is compact enough to make the tablet portable. The tablet’s high resolution also ensures display clarity, so you’ll be happy watching your favorite shows or gaming on it.
Review: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 review
Included in the box with the S9 is an S Pen that you can use to write or draw in your favorite apps, just like you can with the Samsung Galaxy Note lineup.
I tested this base Tab S9 model, and overall, it was an enjoyable experience. If you are going to primarily use the tablet without a keyboard, with one app on the display most of the time, then the Tab S9 is your best option. Reddit users agree and say that this tablet is best if you plan to use it for media consumption.
OnePlus Pad
Best mid-level Android tablet]
The OnePlus Pad offers the following technical specifications:
– Display: 11.61-inch LCD display
– Resolution: 2800 x 2000
– Refresh rate: 144Hz
– RAM: 8GB
– Storage: 128GB
While OnePlus is primarily recognized for its smartphones, the OnePlus Pad follows the company’s trend of delivering feature-rich devices at competitive prices. Priced at $430, this Android-powered tablet offers impressive battery performance, including a month-long standby time and strong daily battery life.
The device delivers snappy performance for various daily tasks such as email checking, gaming, and web browsing, all on a high-quality display. The display’s resolution of 2800 x 2000 ensures an excellent viewing experience.
OnePlus also offers optional accessories for the Pad, including a keyboard case and stylus, allowing users to enhance productivity. However, users have noted some drawbacks, such as finicky trackpad gestures and interface features reminiscent of Apple’s iPadOS. Verified customers suggest that those seeking a productivity-focused Android tablet may find better options from Lenovo or Samsung.
Nevertheless, for users primarily seeking entertainment and light work, the OnePlus Pad and its large, high-resolution display are worth considering.
Overall, the OnePlus Pad provides a compelling option for Android fans looking for a feature-packed tablet experience at an affordable price point.
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Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus
Best 8-inch Android tablet
The Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus offers the following technical specifications:
– Display size: 8-inch
– Display type: IPS LCD
– Resolution: 1280 x 800
– Refresh rate: 60Hz
– RAM: 3GB
– Storage: Available in 32GB or 64GB options
Amazon has revamped its Fire HD 8 lineup, moving away from boxy designs to a more rounded aesthetic. The lineup includes two new tablets: the Fire HD 8 and the Fire HD 8 Plus. The HD 8 Plus, costing an additional $20, offers added memory and support for wireless charging.
Running Amazon’s Fire OS, the Fire HD 8 Plus allows access to Android apps, albeit limited to those available in Amazon’s own Appstore. While performance may occasionally be sluggish, typical tasks such as shopping, browsing social media, and checking email pose no issues on the Fire HD 8 Plus.
ZDNet Reviews Editor Kerry Wan hailed the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus as a “no-brainer” purchase for those seeking an affordable Android tablet. He emphasized its suitability for tasks such as playing YouTube videos, controlling Alexa-enabled devices, or serving as a digital cookbook, all at a fraction of the cost of the cheapest iPad.
Customers have praised the Fire HD 8 Plus for its image quality, noting the crispness of the display, as well as the quick charging capabilities of the device.
In summary, the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus offers a compelling option for users in search of a budget-friendly Android tablet, providing decent performance and functionality for various everyday tasks.
Pixel Tablet
Best Android tablet from Google
The Pixel Tablet, announced by Google in May 2023, offer the following technical specifications:
– Display size: 10.95-inch
– Display type: LCD
– Resolution: 2560 x 1600 pixels
– Refresh rate: 60Hz
– RAM: 8GB
– Storage: Available in 128GB or 256GB options
Powered by the Google Tensor G2 chip, which is also found in the Pixel 7 line and Pixel Fold, the Pixel Tablet is design with entertainment and casual at-home use in mind. Its 10.95-inch LCD display provides crisp visuals, making it suitable for watching videos or browsing content.
One unique feature of the Pixel Tablet is its included charging dock, which doubles as a Nest Hub when the tablet is not in use. This dual functionality allows users to seamlessly transition between using the tablet and having it serve as a smart home display. The tablet offers up to 12 hours of battery life for video streaming and supports third-party stylus pens for added versatility.
While the Pixel Tablet may not replace a laptop for school or work tasks, it can be a convenient addition to Google smart homes, especially for users who primarily use it for media consumption. Customers who have purchased the tablet have noted its suitability for this purpose on platforms like Reddit.
Overall, the Google Pixel Tablet presents a compelling option for users seeking a versatile device that excels in entertainment and smart home integration.]
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE
Best affordable Samsung tablet
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE offers the following technical specifications:
– Display size: 10.9-inch
– Display type: TFT LCD
– Resolution: 1200 x 800
– Refresh rate: 90Hz
– RAM: Available in 6GB or 8GB configurations
– Storage: Available in 128GB or 256GB options, expandable up to 1TB via microSD card
Samsung recently introduced two new FE (Fan Edition) tablets with identical internal components but differing display sizes and battery capacities. The smaller Tab S9 FE, priced at $450, packs impressive features into a sleek package. It includes an S Pen stylus and boasts an IP68 dust and water-resistant rating, making it an excellent choice for first-time tablet owners.
Equipped with an 8,000mAh battery, the Tab S9 FE ensures long-lasting performance. Users can choose between 6GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, with support for expandable storage via a microSD card of up to 1TB. Color options for the tablet include gray, silver, mint, and lavender.
The Tab S9 FE maintains its status as a media powerhouse with AKG-tuned dual speakers, offering immersive audio experiences. It also excels in video calling, featuring a front 12MP ultra-wide camera and a rear 8MP camera, suitable for capturing documents and other content.
With an overwhelming 98% of Best Buy customers recommending the tablet and an average rating of 4.8 out of 5, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE is highly regarded for its performance, features, and overall value.
Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro tablet
Best Android tablet for kids
The Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro tablet is designed with kids aged six to twelve in mind, offering the following technical specifications:
– Display size: 10.1-inch
– Resolution: 1920 x 1200
– RAM: 3GB
– Storage: 32GB (expandable up to 1TB)
Featuring a 10.1-inch display, the Fire HD 10 Kids Pro provides a larger screen for kids without significantly increasing the overall cost. The Kids Edition variant includes a protective case, a two-year worry-free guarantee, and a one-year subscription to Amazon Kids+.
The tablet boasts Amazon’s largest display with a 1080p resolution, ensuring crisp visuals for entertainment and educational content. It is equipped with a USB-C port for faster charging and offers up to 12 hours of battery life.
While its performance may not match that of an iPad, the Fire HD 10 Kids Pro offers improved performance compared to the Fire 7 or Fire 8, based on testing experiences. Additionally, the standard Fire HD 10 model can serve as a solid entertainment device for children and is suitable for household use, according to personal experiences and feedback from parents on platforms like Reddit. The tablet’s large screen icons are highlighted as being easy for kids to identify and interact with.
Overall, the Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro tablet provides a kid-friendly and versatile option for entertainment, education, and family use.
What is the best Android tablet?
Determining the “best” Android tablet can depend on individual preferences, needs, and budget. However, as of my last update in January 2022, some top contenders in the Android tablet market included:
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+: Renowned for its stunning Super AMOLED display, powerful performance, S Pen support, and premium design, the Tab S7+ stood out as a top choice for many users.
- Lenovo Tab P11 Pro: Offering a sleek design, crisp OLED display, and solid performance, the Tab P11 Pro appealed to users seeking a premium Android tablet experience.
- Amazon Fire HD 10 (2021): Known for its affordability, decent performance, and access to Amazon’s ecosystem, the Fire HD 10 provided excellent value for budget-conscious consumers.
- Huawei MatePad Pro: With its sleek design, vibrant display, and strong performance, the MatePad Pro offered a compelling alternative for users seeking a high-end Android tablet.
- Google Pixel Slate (discontinued): While no longer available for purchase, the Pixel Slate was praised for its premium build quality, excellent display, and integration with Google services.
It’s essential to consider factors such as display quality, performance, features, software updates, and ecosystem compatibility when choosing the best Android tablet for your needs. Additionally, staying informed about the latest releases and expert reviews can help you make an informed decision based on the most up-to-date information