It’s a rapidly evolving world out there, especially when it comes to technology. Consumers, now more than ever, find themselves swamped with choices. Whether you’re looking for a device to make remote work more convenient, to binge-watch your favourite series, or to dive into an e-book, tablets have quicky become the go-to device. But how do you discern which one is best suited for your needs? Let’s explore some of the best tablets available in the market right now.
What are the Best Tablets Available?
If you’re in the market for a new tablet, the good news is that there’s plenty of choice available. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular options:
1 – iPad Pro 12.9 (2022)
The tablet landscape has changed dramatically in the last few years. As tech behemoths grapple to outdo each other with increasingly advanced features, Apple’s iPad Pro 12.9 stands out as a testament to their commitment to deliver top-tier quality. Here’s a closer look at what this device offers and if it’s worth the investment.
Specifications
- Weight: 688g
- Dimensions: 280.6 x 214.9 x 6.4mm
- Operating System: iPad0S 16
- Screen Size: 12.9 inch
- Resolution: 2040 x 2732 pixels
- CPU: Apple M2
- Storage Options: 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB/2TB
- microSD Slot: No
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
- Cameras: Rear – 12MP + 10MP + LiDAR, Front – 12MP
Why You Might Want It
- Stunning display: The 12.9 inch mini-LED screen is a game changer. Its superior picture quality ensures that whether you’re working, watching or drawing, the experience is top-notch.
- Advanced processing power: The inclusion of the M2 chip makes it a true powerhouse. Even though its predecessor’s M1 chip was no slouch, the M2 ensures the tablet is future-proof, capable of handling apps and software advancements for years to come.
- Sleek design and build: Despite its vast array of features and large screen size, Apple hasn’t compromised on aesthetics. The iPad Pro is remarkably thin and lightweight, which makes it incredibly portable.
- Enhanced features: The support for accessories, like Apple’s Magic Keyboard and the updated Apple Pencil 2 (with hover-detection) elevates the tablet’s functionality. Especially for artists and designers, the enhanced pencil transforms the tablet into a high-end drawing tool.
2 – Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
In an ever-evolving tablet arena, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra has emerged as a formidable challenger to the likes of the Apple iPad range.
Specifications
- Weight: 726g
- Dimensions: 326.4 x 208.6 x 5.5mm
- Operating System: Android 13
- Screen Size: 14.6-inch
- Resolution: 1848 x 2960 pixels
- CPU: Snapdragon 8 Gen 1
- Storage Options: 128GB/256GB/512GB
- microSD Slot: Yes
- Battery: 11,200mAh
- Cameras: Rear – 13MP + 6MP; Front – 12MP + 12MP
Top Reasons to Get the Tab S8 Ultra
- Powerful performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset ensures smooth operations, be it multitasking or running high-end apps.
- Impressive display: The massive 14.6-inch screen offers an immersive experience, ideal for digital artwork or binge-watching your favourite shows.
- Integrated S Pen: Unlike Apple, Samsung includes the S Pen stylus in the package, enhancing the tablet’s value proposition.
- Versatile camera: Dual front cameras, including a 12MP ultra-wide lens, make video conferencing and selfies more dynamic.
3 – iPad Air (2022)
Amidst the wide range of tablets that Apple offers, the iPad Air (2022) stands tall as a device that elegantly bridges the gap between the standard iPad and the higher-end iPad Pro.
Specifications
- Weight: 461g
- Dimensions: 247.6 x 178.5 x 6.1mm
- Operating System: iPadOS 16
- Screen Size: 10.9-inch
- Resolution: 1640 x 2360 pixels
- CPU: Apple M1
- Storage Options: 64GB/256GB
- microSD Slot: No
- Battery Life: 10-hour
- Cameras: Rear – 12MP; Front – 12MP
The iPad Air’s Strong Points
- Robust performance: Apple’s M1 chipset ensures the device runs buttery smooth, handling tasks with ease, rivalling even its Pro sibling.
- Sleek design: Apple’s hallmark design shines brightly, offering a premium look and feel.
- iPadOS 16: Apple’s tablet-specific is intuitive and efficient, further enhancing the user experience.
- Apple pencil compatibility: For those who dabble in art or frequently jot down notes, this compatibility is ideal.
4 – Google Pixel Tablet
Google’s Pixel tablet has emerged as a captivating entry in the ever-expanding tablet marketplace, especially for those seeking a mixture of fun and functionality.
Specifications
- Weight: 493g
- Dimensions: 258 x 169 x 8.1mm
- Operating System: Android 13
- Screen Size: 10.95-inch
- Resolution: 1600 x 2560 pixels
- CPU: Tensor G2
- Storage Options: 128GB/256GB
- microSD Slot: No
- Battery Life: 7,020mAh
- Cameras: Rear – 8MP; Front – 8MP
What’s Good About This Tablet?
- Brilliant value proposition: The combination of a tablet and a speaker dock at its price point offers unmatched value.
- Home screen perks: The revamped home screen controls are both handy and continuously evolving, enhancing the user experience.
- Sound quality: For those who seek an immersive audio experience, the Pixel Tablet’s sound output won’t disappoint.
- Tailored apps for bigger screens: Google has revamped its suite of apps to be compatible and intuitive on larger screen devices.
Factors to Consider with the Best Tablets
When buying a tablet, there are a few key factors to consider to help you find the right one for you. Think about:
Purpose
- Professional vs. personal: While a professional might require a tablet with top-notch processing power and specific software compatibility, a causal user might prioritise media playback and causal gaming.
- Creativity: Graphic designers, digital artists, and other creative professionals would likely place a premium on stylus functionality, colour accuracy, and a high-resolution screen.
- Education: Students might look for multitasking capabilities, note-taking apps, and eBook compatibility.
Operating System
- Ecosystem compatibility: If you already own a smartphone or a computer, you might want to select a tablet with the same OS for seamless integration and ease of sharing across devices.
- Software availability: Some OSs might have exclusive apps or better versions of certain software and apps. For example, while both iOS and Android have vast apps stores, certain professional software might be available only on one of them.
Battery Life
- Usage dependency: Heavy users might want a tablet with a longer battery life, while casual users might be content with an average battery span.
- Fast charging: Given our fast-paced lives, the ability to charge your tablet quickly might be ideal for many users.
Storage Capacity
- Storage needs: If you’re somebody who likes storing movies, large apps, or other heavy files, you might want to opt for a tablet with greater storage capacity or one with expandable storage options.
- Cloud compatibility: Some tablets offer seamless cloud storage solutions, which can be a workaround if you don’t want to invest in high on-device storage.
Connectivity Options
- Wi-Fi vs cellular: Depending on where and how you plan to use your tablet, you might opt for a Wi-Fi only model or one with cellular connectivity for on-the-go internet access.
- Port availability: The types and number of ports (USB-C, headphone jack, SD card slot) can determine how versatile your tablet is in terms of connectivity.
Screen Quality and Size
- Resolution: A higher resolution will offer crisper images and text, essential for media consumption or design work.
- Size: Do you prefer a compact tablet for portability, or a larger screen for a more immersive experience?
Build and Durability
- Material: The build material, whether aluminium, plastic, or glass, can determine the tablet’s durability and feel.
- Weather resistance: Features like water and dust resistance might be vital if you are planning to use your tablet in various environments.
From powerhouse performers like the Apple iPad Pro to versatile, fun options like the Google Pixel Tablet, there’s a tablet for everyone. Consider the above, and you’ll find a tablet that not only meets but possibly exceeds your expectations.