Top Tablets for Streaming, Gaming, Work, and More

Choosing a tablet can be a daunting task, especially with the wide variety of options available from both Apple and Android manufacturers. Apple offers a range of iPads with varying features, from the basic Liquid Retina display to the advanced Ultra Retina Tandem OLED with Pro Motion technology. Under the hood, Apple's tablets span from the older A16 chip to the cutting-edge M4 chip, catering to different performance needs. On the Android side, the market is even more diverse, with options ranging from outdated models to high-end devices. The hardware in Android tablets can vary significantly, from underpowered to high-performance, which can make selecting the right one challenging. Additionally, software support varies widely, with Apple ensuring long-term updates for iPads, while Android tablets can be less predictable in this regard.

After thorough market analysis and testing various iPads and Android tablets, we've identified a selection of top options that offer a balanced mix of features, performance, 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 essential portable devices, offering a blend of power, versatility, and convenience. Whether you're looking for a device for entertainment or something more robust for tasks like video editing, there's a tablet suited to your needs.

1. iPad (11th Generation)

Best Tablet

Our Top Pick### Apple iPad (11th Generation)

4The latest 11th generation iPad introduces subtle yet significant upgrades, maintaining its reputation as an affordable yet high-performing device. The screen size has been slightly increased to 11 inches, with a resolution of 2360 x 1640 on a Liquid Retina display. Internally, it's powered by the A16 Bionic chip, offering a 5-core CPU and 4-core GPU, alongside 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. The camera setup includes 12MP sensors on both the front and rear. The base storage has been upgraded to 128GB, providing ample space for your needs. Despite the processor being a step behind the latest models, the 11th Gen iPad remains a compelling choice, especially at its unchanged $349 price point, with occasional sales bringing it down to $299.

See our guide to the best iPad models for more options.

2. OnePlus Pad 2

Best Android Tablet

### OnePlus Pad 2

1The OnePlus Pad 2 stands out as a top Android tablet, offering high-end hardware at a competitive price. It features a 12.1-inch IPS display with a resolution of 2120 x 3000, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, 12GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage. Camera-wise, it includes a 13-megapixel rear and an 8-megapixel front-facing camera. With a 900-nit peak brightness and a 144Hz refresh rate, the display ensures smooth and vivid visuals. The OnePlus Pad 2 also supports a stylus that charges while magnetically attached. Software support is promising, with three years of OS updates and four years of security updates. Originally priced at $550, it's often available for $450, sometimes with a free accessory like a keyboard case.

3. iPad Pro (M4, 2024)

Best Tablet for Creative Work

### Apple iPad Pro (M4, 2024)

2The iPad Pro (M4, 2024) is a powerhouse designed for creatives, featuring a 12.9-inch Tandem OLED display and the powerful M4 chip. With options ranging from 256GB to 2TB of storage and 8GB to 16GB of RAM, it's equipped to handle demanding tasks like video editing and 3D rendering. The rear camera is a 12MP wide, while the front features a landscape 12MP ultra-wide. The Tandem OLED display offers unparalleled visual quality, though the high price may be a consideration for some.

4. iPad Air (2024)

Best Thin and Light Tablet

### Apple iPad Air (2024)

1The 2024 iPad Air is an excellent choice for those seeking a thin and light tablet. It's powered by the M2 chip with 8GB of RAM and offers storage options from 128GB to 1TB. The 11-inch Liquid Retina display has a resolution of 2360 x 1640, and it includes 12MP cameras on both the front and rear. Its slim 6.1mm profile and lightweight design make it highly portable, though it can get hot under load. The iPad Air supports the Apple Pencil Pro and features a USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 port. New models with the M3 chip are set to release on March 12th.

5. iPad (9th Generation)

Best Budget iPadOS Tablet

### Apple iPad (9th Generation)

3For budget-conscious buyers, the 9th Generation iPad offers a cost-effective solution. It features the A13 Bionic chip, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage. The 10.2-inch Retina display has a resolution of 2160 x 1620, and it comes with an 8MP rear camera and a 12MP front camera. While it's not the latest model, it's still capable of running the latest iPadOS. Priced at around $250 during sales, it's a viable option if you're looking to spend less, but the 11th Gen iPad at $349 offers better value for a slight increase in cost.

How to Choose the Right Tablet for You

When choosing a tablet, start by setting a budget. If your needs are basic, such as streaming and social media browsing, a more affordable model may suffice. For productivity and performance akin to a laptop, you'll need to invest more, and some tablets can even be used with a keyboard to function as a detachable laptop. Consider the design, as a lightweight yet durable build is ideal for portability. A high-quality display, especially an OLED panel, can enhance your viewing experience with deeper blacks and richer colors. Internal components are crucial; ensure the tablet has a solid processor and at least 4GB of RAM to avoid performance issues. For gaming or creative work, higher specs are beneficial. Also, consider software updates, with Android currently on its 15th generation and iPadOS on version 18. Additional features like long battery life, quality speakers, good cameras, and stylus support can further improve your tablet experience. If you need connectivity on the go, consider a 5G tablet.

Tablets FAQ

Are iPads better than Android tablets?

Both iPads and Android tablets have their merits, 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 and games. However, iPads can be pricier. Android tablets vary widely in performance and experience due to different manufacturers and components, but they offer a broader range of price points. While Android tablet apps may not be as optimized as those for iPads, they still function well.

Should you buy a tablet with cellular network support?

A tablet with cellular network support may not be necessary for everyone, especially if you have reliable Wi-Fi access. Adding a cellular plan can be costly, and using your smartphone as a Wi-Fi hotspot can be a more economical solution for occasional needs. If you frequently need connectivity on the go, many of our recommended tablets offer 5G versions, but you must decide at the time of purchase.