Tablets are incredibly versatile devices that can be used for various purposes depending on your needs and preferences. They come in different sizes and offer a variety of features, some of which are specific to the brand. Regarding pricing, tablets can range from budget-friendly options like the Apple iPad 10.2 to high-end models like the Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch model.
With so many options available for tablets these days, it can be confusing to find one that fits your needs. So how do you find the one that is right for you? In this article, we’ll take a quick look at the best tablets for 2024 and cover some of your questions.
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch
Best overall tablet
Apple iPads have long since been the standard for tablets throughout the years. That’s because iPads are simple, easy to use, and tailored to a variety of different ages and groups. The iPad Pro 11 is one of the latest iPads available today. Boasting the M2 chip speed, a stunning Liquid Retina display, and pro-level cameras, the iPad Pro 11 wins our best overall pick for tablets.
This creative little powerhouse is great for artists, students, and professionals. Tired of lugging around a laptop and needing something light and very snappy? Well, this iPad is a great replacement for your laptop in most scenarios. You can multitask and take notes, draw masterpieces, edit videos, or play games on the go. If you’re in the Apple ecosystem, the familiarity will make you feel at home.
Find it on Amazon here.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9
Best Android tablet
With the latest Snapdragon® 8 Gen 2 chip, stunning AMOLED display, and S Pen for seamless note-taking and drawing, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 tablet is a very good choice for bringing your ideas together. It sports a stunning AMOLED display, you can capture stunning photos and videos, edit, sketch, and create with ease on the large, responsive display. Did we mention that it has an all-day battery and is powered by Dolby Atmos sound? Yep!
The durable design is water resistant and the long-lasting battery keeps you going, while expandable storage ensures you never run out of space. One of our favorite features, Dex mode, allows you to multitask easily between apps, tools, and devices. It’s our pick for the best Android tablet.
Find it on Amazon here.
Microsoft Surface Pro 9
Best Windows tablet
When inspiration strikes, there’s one tablet that goes the distance–the Microsoft Surface Pro 9. The Surface Pro 9 is more than just a laptop or a tablet with a built-in kickstand. With the ability to snap on the keyboard and go into work mode, then detach it seconds after work, it’s a sweet deal.
The Surface Pro 9 is a great companion for any task, anywhere. It handles demanding tasks like video editing, graphic design, or multitasking with ease. You can connect to high-resolution displays, external storage, and docking stations with the integrated Thunderbolt 4 ports. Other features include seamless integration with other Microsoft products like Office 365 and OneDrive.
Find it on Amazon here.
Apple iPad 10.2-inch
Best budget tablet
One of Apple’s biggest strengths is understanding that its consumer base wants simplicity and functionality with tablets. The Apple iPad 10.2-inch is about as easy as it gets if you are looking for a tablet. The iPad 10.2 offers a large, stunning display and smooth performance at an attractive price. With long battery life and access to millions of apps, it’s a great choice for everyday computing, entertainment, and creative work, especially when paired with the Apple Pencil or Smart Keyboard.
Ultimately, whether or not the iPad 10.2 is right for you depends on your individual needs and budget. So if you are looking for a powerful, versatile, and affordable tablet, then the iPad 10.2 is a great option. However, if you need more storage, a better camera, or Face ID, then you may want to consider a more expensive iPad model.
Find it on Amazon here.
Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro
Best tablet for kids
If you’re looking for a great tablet for the kids, we recommend the Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro. The name is a bit confusing but stay with me for a minute. Hopefully, we can provide some consolation in advance.
This kid-friendly tablet is fast and can handle educational apps and creative projects with ease. Its perfect for watching movies, TV shows, and educational videos. It comes with thousands of age-appropriate apps, games and books. For parents, you can set screen time limites, bedtime curfews and website filters. You can relax knowing you are covered with a 2-year worry-free guarantee. Amazon will replace a broken tablet, no questions asked.
One of the first things that you will notice about this 10.1″ tablet is its kid-friendly case, which protects it from bumps and spills. With Alexa built-in, kids can ask questions, set alarms, and even control smart home devices with their voice. With Amazon Kids+ subscription included, you have access to a library housands of ad-free content curated for kids, plus parental controls for total peace of mind. In a nutshell, you can’t go wrong with Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro.
Find it on Amazon here.
Notable mentions
Now, while the ones selected were specific to fit most customers, we could not end the article without showing some love to some other options. Depending on your needs, these tablets may be a better fit for you.
- Best small Apple tablet – Apple iPad Mini (6th generation)
- Best laptop replacement tablet – Apple iPad Pro (6th generation)
- Best Android tablet – Google Pixel Tablet
- Best midrange tablet – Apple iPad Air (5th generation)
- Best tablet for drawing – Wacom Intuos Pro
- Best tablet for reading – Amazon Kindle Scribe
- Best tablet for kids – Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Tablet
Still deciding on which tablet to buy?
If you are still deciding on which tablet to buy, we recommend starting your search by the brand, asking yourself a few questions, and considering your needs and priorities. Below is a table with information to keep in mind before purchasing.
Some questions may include the following:
- What will you be using the tablet for?
- Watching movies, reading books, playing games, browsing the web, taking notes, working remotely, or something else entirely?
- How important are certain features?
- Do you need a large screen, a powerful processor, a long battery life, a stylus for drawing, or access to specific apps?
- What’s your budget?
| Brand | Strengths | Weaknesses | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple | High-quality screen, user-friendly iOS, tight integration with Apple ecosystem | More expensive, limited app selection outside Apple ecosystem | Users who value premium experience and Apple integration |
| Samsung | Wide range of sizes and features, competitive prices, some models with stylus | Updates might not be as timely as Apple’s | Users who want flexibility, affordability, and some productivity features |
| Microsoft | Versatile, runs both Windows and Android apps | More expensive, potentially shorter battery life | Users who need a tablet for both work and play, value productivity features |
| Amazon | Affordable, focused on Amazon content and services | Limited app selection (no Google Play Store), less powerful than other options | Casual users who prioritize entertainment and value |
