In the ever-evolving world of tech, tablets continue to carve out their own niche, offering portability, power, and versatility that laptops and smartphones often lack. But with so many options flooding the market, choosing the “best” tablet can feel overwhelming. Fear not, tech explorers! We’ve scoured the latest releases and user reviews to present you with the top 5 tablets of 2024, catering to a range of budgets and needs. Buckle up and get ready to discover your perfect digital companion!
Our Top picks
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
5. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra
Best Android Tablet for Power Users
SPECIFICATIONS
| Specs | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra |
| CPU | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2for Galaxy |
| RAM | 12GB, 16GB |
| Storage | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| OS | Android 13 |
| Display | 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 60Hz – 120Hz |
| Rear camera | 13MP + 8MP |
| Front camera | 12MP + 12MP |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| IP RATING | IP68 |
| Battery | 11,200mAh |
| Ports | USB-C, microSD |
| Size | 12.85 x 8.21 x 0.21 inches (326.4 x208.6 x 5.5mm) |
| Weight | 1.62 pounds (734.8g) |
| Colors | Beige, Graphite |
Pros
- Large, beautiful display
- Slim yet durable body
- Best audio quality
- Water and dust resistance with IP68 rating
Cons
- Expensive accessories, the keyboard could be better
- The software ecosystem still lacks some serious services for professional work
- The Type-C charging port does not support Thunderbolt
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is a powerhouse tablet built for creators and entertainment enthusiasts alike. Its heart lies in the superfast Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, making it capable of handling demanding tasks from video editing to streaming seamlessly. But the true showstopper is the massive 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, boasting vibrant colors and deep contrasts for an immersive viewing experience. Worried about durability? Fear not, the Armor Aluminum frame and IP68 water/dust resistance ensure it can handle on-the-go use. To top it off, the sleek design with ultra-slim bezels exudes sophistication. While its larger size and premium features might not be for everyone, for those seeking a powerful and portable entertainment or productivity hub, the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra deserves serious consideration.
4. Microsoft Surface Pro 9
Best Tablet 2-in-1
SPECIFICATIONS
| Standing screen display size | 13 Inches |
| Screen Resolution | 2880×1920 |
| Max Screen Resolution | 2880 x 1920 Pixels |
| Processor | 4.7 i7_2640m |
| RAM | 16 GB LPDDR5 |
| Memory Speed | 2400 MHz |
| Hard Drive | SSD |
| Graphics Coprocessor | Intel Iris Xe Graphics |
| Chipset Brand | Intel |
| Card Description | Integrated |
| Wireless Type | 802.11ax |
| Average Battery Life (in hours) | 15.5 Hours |
Other Technical Details
| Brand | Microsoft |
| Series | Surface Pro |
| Item model number | QIL-00001 |
| Hardware Platform | PC |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home |
| Item Weight | 1.59 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 12.22 x 1.97 x 9.06 inches |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 12.22 x 1.97 x 9.06 inches |
| Color | Platinum |
| Rear Webcam Resolution | 10 MP |
| Processor Brand | Intel |
| Number of Processors | 60 |
| Computer Memory Type | DDR5 RAM |
| Flash Memory Size | 256 GB |
| Hard Drive Interface | Solid State |
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
| Voltage | 28 Volts |
| Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. (included) |
Pros
- Outstanding cameras
- Impressive performance and battery life
- Sleek design, with inking-friendly 3:2 screen
- User-upgradable storage
- Two Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports
Cons
- High starting price
- 5G only available with SQ3 processor
- No more headphone jack
- Essential accessories still not included
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (2022) aims to be the ultimate 2-in-1 device, seamlessly transforming from tablet to laptop on the go. Its heart lies in the powerful Intel 12th Gen i7 processor, promising effortless multitasking and smooth performance for demanding tasks. But the Surface Pro 9 goes beyond raw power, offering features that enhance productivity and entertainment.
The vibrant 13-inch touchscreen adjusts to your environment, while the versatile Kickstand and optional Surface Slim Pen 2 let you switch between creative tasks and note-taking naturally. Video calls feel more engaging with the improved 1080p HD camera and Dolby Vision IQ brings movies and games to life with stunning visuals. And with up to 19 hours of battery life, you can stay productive wherever your day takes you. The addition of Phone Link even lets you connect your iPhone or Android device, making calls and replying to texts directly from your Surface Pro. Overall, the Surface Pro 9 caters to professionals and content creators seeking a powerful and versatile device that adapts to their needs, though its premium price tag might not be for everyone.
3. Google Pixel Tablet
Best for Doubling as Smart Display
SPECIFICATIONS
| Standing screen display size | 11 Inches |
| Max Screen Resolution | 2560×1600 Pixels |
| Card Description | Integrated |
| Average Battery Life (in hours) | 11 Hours |
Other Technical Details
| Brand | |
| Series | Pixel Tablet and Pixel Tablet Speaker Dock |
| Item model number | GMD6Z,GTU8P |
| Hardware Platform | Android |
| Operating System | Android |
| Item Weight | 3.52 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 10.2 x 6.7 x 0.3 inches |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 10.2 x 6.7 x 0.3 inches |
| Color | Porcelain |
| Rear Webcam Resolution | 1080 MP |
| Processor Brand | Google Tensor G2 |
| Computer Memory Type | DDR4 SDRAM |
| Flash Memory Size | 128 GB |
| Batteries | 2 Lithium Ion batteries required. (included) |
Pros
- Good sound from Speaker Dock
- Flawless audio hand-off
- Solid Android tablet
Cons
- Hub Mode could do more
- Speaker Dock has limited functionality
- Expensive
The Google Pixel Tablet, with its built-in Google Tensor G2 chip and unique speaker dock, aims to be more than just a tablet. It’s a smart home hub, entertainment center, and productivity tool all in one. Powered by Google AI, it promises smooth performance, high-quality video calls, and a long-lasting battery.
The 11-inch screen delivers vibrant colors and adapts to your environment, perfect for streaming shows, editing photos, and managing your smart home with voice commands or a tap. The speaker dock keeps it charged and turns it into a powerful speaker, while Hub Mode offers a digital photo frame, smart home controls, and hands-free help when docked. Other features include seamless integration with other Pixel devices, optimized Android apps, Chromecast built-in, and Google Meet for video calls with smart camera features. Multitasking is a breeze with Split Screen, letting you compare prices or drag and drop photos with ease. With its focus on AI, smart home integration, and entertainment, the Pixel Tablet might be a compelling option for those seeking a versatile and Google-centric experience, though its specific strengths and weaknesses will depend on individual needs and priorities.
2. SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab A8
Best buget tablet
SPECIFICATIONS
| Standing screen display size | 10.5 Inches |
| Screen Resolution | 1920 X 1200 Pixel |
| Max Screen Resolution | 1920 x 1200 Pixels |
| Card Description | Integrated |
| Number of USB 2.0 Ports | 1 |
Other Technical Details
| Brand | SAMSUNG |
| Series | Galaxy Tab A8 |
| Item model number | SM-X200NZAAXAR |
| Hardware Platform | Windows, Android |
| Operating System | Android |
| Item Weight | 1.12 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 6.37 x 0.27 x 9.72 inches |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 6.37 x 0.27 x 9.72 inches |
| Color | Dark Gray |
| Rear Webcam Resolution | 5 MP |
| Processor Brand | ARM |
| Computer Memory Type | Unknown |
| Flash Memory Size | 32 GB |
| Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. (included) |
Pros
- Loud Dolby Atmos speakers
- Excellent design and build
- Metal body
- Solid performance
- Affordable price
Cons
- Slow 15W charging
- Weak front and rear cameras
- Poor TFT screen
- No fingerprint sensor
- No pen option
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 10.5″ is an affordable tablet designed for families with its focus on entertainment, learning, and ease of use. The large 10.5″ LCD screen is perfect for family movie nights or video calls, while the upgraded chipset provides smooth performance for everyday tasks. With 32GB of storage expandable up to 128GB and a long-lasting battery, there’s enough space and power for everyone.
Fast charging ensures quick recharges when needed, and the Galaxy ecosystem integration allows seamless connection between your phone, laptop, and tablet. Samsung Kids provides a safe and curated environment for children’s learning and entertainment, and Smart Switch makes data transfer a breeze. Overall, the Galaxy Tab A8 offers a good balance of features and affordability for families looking for a basic tablet for entertainment, learning, and staying connected. However, users seeking a more powerful device with higher storage capacity or a more premium display might need to consider other options
1. Apple iPad Pro
Best iPad for Most People
SPECIFICATIONS
| Display | 11‑inch Liquid Retina display with ProMotion technology and True Tone |
| Capacity | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB or 2TB |
| Chip | Apple M2 chip, 8-core CPU with 4 performance cores and 4 efficiency, cores, 10-core GPU, 16-core, Neural Engine, 100GB/s memory bandwidth, 8GB RAM on models with 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB storage, 16GB RAM on models with 1TB or 2TB storage |
| Camera and Video | 12MP Wide and 10MP Ultra Wide cameras with Smart HDR 4 and 4K video at 24 fps, 25 fps, 30 fps, or 60 fps |
| Front Camera | TrueDepth camera with 12MP Ultra Wide front camera, Center Stage, Portrait mode, Portrait Lighting, and Smart HDR 4 |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hours of surfing the web on Wi‑Fi or watching video, Up to 9 hours of surfing the web using cellular data network, Charging via USB-C to computer system or power adapter |
| Connector | USB-C connector with support for Thunderbolt / USB 4 |
| In the Box | iPad Pro, USB-C Charge Cable (1 meter), 20W USB-C Power Adapter |
| Height | 9.74 inches (247.6 mm) |
| Width | 7.02 inches (178.5 mm) |
| Depth | 0.23 inch (5.9 mm) |
| Weight | 1.03 pounds (466 grams) Wi-Fi model; 1.04 pounds (470 grams) Wi-Fi + Cellular model |
| Apple Pencil | Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) – sold separately |
Pros
- Powerful M2 chip
- 5G works well
- Brilliant 12.9-inch XDR display
- Pencil Hover is a neat trick
- IPadOS 16.1 edges closer to Mac-style flexibility
- Very good battery life
Cons
- Stage Manager is still buggy
- Expensive accessories
- Not much different from iPad Pro 2021
- Performance is there, but apps need to tap into it
The Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (4th Generation) redefines what a tablet can be. Powered by the blazing-fast M2 chip and featuring a gorgeous Liquid Retina display, this iPad delivers desktop-class performance in a portable form factor. Whether you’re a creative professional, a multitasking student, or simply someone who demands the best, the iPad Pro has you covered.
With Wi-Fi 6E connectivity, experience lightning-fast downloads and seamless streaming. The 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU in the M2 chip handle even the most demanding tasks with ease, while all-day battery life keeps you going. Plus, with up to 2TB of storage, you’ll never have to worry about running out of space.
The 11-inch Liquid Retina display is a marvel to behold, featuring stunning visuals with ProMotion technology for incredibly smooth scrolling and responsiveness. Face ID makes unlocking and securing your iPad Pro a breeze, while the advanced cameras capture incredible photos, 4K videos, and immersive AR experiences.
Whether you’re using Apple Pencil to take notes, create stunning artwork, or edit photos, the iPad Pro offers an unparalleled level of versatility. And with the Magic Keyboard (sold separately), you can transform it into a full-fledged laptop with a trackpad and backlit keyboard.
If you’re looking for the ultimate iPad experience, The iPad Pro 11-inch (4th Generation) is in a league of its own. Its combination of power, portability, and stunning design makes it a must-have for anyone who demands the best.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve explored the top contenders, it’s time to take the plunge! Dive deeper into the reviews of your shortlisted tablets, compare specs, and don’t hesitate to seek additional help if needed. Remember, the best tablet is the one that empowers you to do what you love, seamlessly and enjoyably. Happy choosing!
FAQ
What tablet can replace a laptop?
If you’re hoping to get serious work done on a tablet then an iPad Pro, such as the iPad Pro 12.9 (2022), would be a good option. This has a big screen, lots of power, and supports a keyboard accessory. For an Android alternative, consider the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra, which has similar selling points.
What should I look for when buying a tablet?
If you’re hoping to get serious work done on a tablet then an iPad Pro, such as the iPad Pro 12.9 (2022), would be a good option. This has a big screen, lots of power, and supports a keyboard accessory. For an Android alternative, consider the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra, which has similar selling points.