Choosing a tablet can be overwhelming, especially with the variety of options available. Apple offers a range of iPads, each with unique features and capabilities that might not be immediately clear. For instance, the difference between a Liquid Retina display and an Ultra Retina Tandem OLED with Pro Motion may be confusing if you're not familiar with the terminology. Additionally, the performance varies significantly, with models ranging from the older A16 chip to the cutting-edge M4 chip.

On the other hand, the Android tablet market is even more diverse, offering a broad spectrum of devices. Unlike Apple, which phases out older models, the Android market often includes outdated tablets that may not be worth purchasing. The hardware can range from underpowered to high-end, and some Android tablets may compete directly with Windows tablets at the top end. A critical factor in choosing an Android tablet is software support, which varies widely and often lags behind Apple's consistent updates.

After thorough market analysis and testing, we've identified a selection of top tablets that offer the best balance of features and performance.

*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 due to their combination of power, versatility, and portability. Whether you need a device for entertainment or more demanding tasks like video editing, there's a tablet tailored to your needs.

1. iPad (11th Generation)

Best Tablet

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

4The latest iteration of the base iPad offers subtle yet significant upgrades. It features a slightly larger screen, a faster chip, and increased storage, all without changing the physical footprint or price point. The 11th Gen iPad starts at $349, offering excellent value, especially when on sale for $299.

See it at AmazonSee it at WalmartProduct SpecificationsCPUApple A16 Bionic chip 5-core CPU + 4-core GPURAM6GBStorage128GBDisplay11-inch, 2360 x 1640 Liquid Retina displayCameras12MP (rear), 12MP (front)PROSUpgraded base storageStunning Liquid Retina displayCONSStill on a dated processorApple continues to make the base iPad a compelling choice for most users, offering a balance of affordability, performance, and build quality. The 11th Gen iPad builds on this tradition with a minor update that includes a larger 11-inch display, though the resolution and refresh rate remain the same at 60Hz with a peak brightness of 500 nits. The real improvements come internally, with a jump from 64GB to 128GB of base storage and an upgrade from the A14 Bionic to the A16 chip, providing more space and better performance.

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 offers high-end hardware at a competitive price, making it an excellent choice for Android enthusiasts. It provides solid performance and a large, smooth display, though its software support is shorter than Apple's.

See it at AmazonSee it at OnePlusProduct SpecificationsScreen size12.1-inch, IPS, 2120 x 3000ProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3Storage128GBCameras13-megapixel rear, 8-megapixel front-facingPROSLarge, smooth displaySolid performanceCONSShorter-term OS support than AppleThe OnePlus Pad 2 stands out in the Android market for offering flagship-level performance with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and 12GB of RAM. Its 12.1-inch IPS display boasts a 2120x3000 resolution, a 900-nit peak brightness, and a 144Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth visuals and a responsive inking experience with its stylus. OnePlus promises three years of OS updates and four years of security updates, which is a strong commitment in the Android tablet space. Originally priced at $550, it's often available for $450 with additional accessories.

iPad Pro 2024 – Photos

View 7 Images3. iPad Pro (M4, 2024)

Best Tablet for Creative Work

### Apple iPad Pro (M4, 2024)

2The iPad Pro (M4, 2024) is a powerhouse, perfect for creatives. It features a stunning Tandem OLED display and the powerful M4 chip, ideal for video editing and 3D rendering.

See it at AmazonSee it at AppleProduct SpecificationsCPUApple M4 RAM8GB/16GBStorage256GB – 2TBDisplay12.9-inch Tandem OLEDCameras12MP wide camera (rear), Landscape 12MP ultra-wide camera (front)PROSPowerful M4 chip ready for video editing and 3D renderingTandem OLED display is the best you're going to get in a tablet right nowCONSThe most expensive tablet most people will ever buyThe iPad Pro (M4, 2024) redefines tablet performance with its M4 chip, featuring an 8-core CPU and a 10-core GPU. This makes it ideal for demanding tasks like video editing and 3D rendering. The Tandem OLED display offers unparalleled visual quality, though the price is a significant consideration. The amount of RAM varies with storage capacity, with higher models offering 16GB. For creatives, pairing this tablet with the Apple Pencil Pro enhances its capabilities, though it operates within the limits of iPadOS.

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 features an upgraded M2 chip and a slightly larger display, making it a highly portable and powerful option.

See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsCPUApple M2RAM8GBStorage128GB/256GB/512GB/1TBDisplay11-inch 2360 x 1640 Liquid Retina displayCameras12MP (rear), 12MP (front)PROSImpressively thinExcellent performanceCONSCan get hot under loadThe 2024 iPad Air offers a sleek design, a selfie camera upgrade, and the powerful M2 chip. Available in 11" and 13" sizes, it provides excellent performance for everyday tasks and gaming. Its thin design, at just 6.1mm, and lightweight build make it highly portable. The Liquid Retina display offers a wide color gamut, though it may not be as bright as some competitors. It also supports the Apple Pencil Pro for smooth inking. New models with an M3 chip will be available starting March 12th.

5. iPad (9th Generation)

Best Budget iPadOS Tablet

### Apple iPad (9th Generation)

3The 9th Gen iPad is a budget-friendly option that still offers solid performance and a crisp display. It's ideal for users with lighter needs, though it's important to compare its price to newer models.

See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuyProduct SpecificationsCPU A13 BionicRAM4GBStorage64GBDisplay10.2-inch 2160 x 1620 LED-backlit Multi-Touch Retina displayCameras8MP (rear), 12MP (front)PROSUltra affordable price tagUpgraded front-facing cameraCONSProcessor isn’t as fast as other iPad modelsThe 9th Gen iPad, while not the latest model, remains a viable choice for those on a budget. It features an A13 Bionic processor and 64GB of storage, suitable for basic tasks like browsing and video calls. However, at its current market price, it's essential to weigh it against the 11th Gen iPad, which offers significant upgrades for just $349. If you can find the 9th Gen for around $250, it's a good budget pick; otherwise, the newer model might be a better investment.

How to Choose the Right Tablet for You

Choosing the right tablet starts with setting a budget. For basic tasks like streaming and social media, a budget-friendly model might suffice. However, if you need a device for productivity or creative work, you'll need to invest more. Consider tablets with keyboard attachments for a laptop-like experience, though be aware of their hardware and OS limitations.

Design is another crucial factor. A lightweight, durable tablet is ideal for portability, while a high-quality display enhances the user experience. OLED displays offer superior color and contrast compared to LCDs.

Performance is vital; a sluggish device can be frustrating. Ensure your tablet has a solid processor and at least 4GB of RAM, with higher specs for gaming or creative work. Software updates are also important, with Android OS currently at version 15 and iPadOS at version 18.

Additional features like long battery life, good speakers, high-quality cameras, and stylus support can enhance your tablet experience. Consider a 5G tablet if you need cellular connectivity on the go.

Tablets FAQ

Are iPads better than Android tablets?

The choice between iPads and Android tablets depends on personal preference. iPads offer a seamless integration with other Apple devices and a smooth user experience, though they can be more expensive. Android tablets vary widely in quality and price, offering more options but requiring careful research to avoid subpar models. App optimization for Android tablets may not be as robust as on iPads, but most apps still function well.

Should you buy a tablet with cellular network support?

Cellular network support is unnecessary for most users unless you're frequently away from Wi-Fi. Adding a cellular plan can be costly, and using your smartphone as a hotspot is often a more economical solution. If you do need cellular connectivity, many of our recommended tablets offer 5G options, but you must choose this feature at the time of purchase.