Packing power and productivity in a sleek slab,tabletsare great for work, creativity, and entertainment needs. With the right accessories, you could even convert your tablet into a2-in-1 touchscreen laptop. But what if you don’t necessarily need the latest and greatest (and most expensive) Apple product?
WhileApple’s iPadcontinues to be a tablet market leader, it’s not your only option. Based on our hands-on testing and reviews, these Android tablets are not only comprehensive options but also house beautiful displays, deliver smooth performance, and are capable of handling various workloads. From our top pick, the OnePlus Pad, to Samsung’s newest Ultra, this list covers the best Android tablets you can buy right now.
OnePlus Pad
Amazon Fire HD 8 (2022)
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra
Google Pixel Tablet
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+
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The best Android tablet: Our top picks
Premium performance and display
The OnePlus Pad is a great mid-range Android tablet with a large, bright, and smooth display perfect for web browsing, creative workflow, or streaming content.
While it only debuted this year, the OnePlus Pad’s slim yet premium build, smooth refresh rate, and top-tier display quickly made it a top Android tablet contender. Another feature that sets this tablet apart from its competition is its unique 7:5 aspect ratio, which fits in between an iPad’s 4:3 display and the versatile Microsoft Surface Pro’s 3:2 ratio. Designed to mimic that of an A4 piece of paper, the ratio works nicely for reading an ebook or your favorite Pocket-lint article, of course.
OnePlus Pad: The Android tablet to buy?
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Under the hood, the Pad packs the slightly older but still capable Dimensity 9000 chip and is powered by either 8GB or 12GB of RAM, with 128GB storage. Together, the RAM and power are enough to support creative and data-heavy work needs alike. Note, however, that the unit lacks a microSD slot, so there’s no option for storage expansion if you’re looking to use the tablet primarily for gaming.
With a 4K supported rear camera, quality front camera, and powerful speakers, the tablet also works great for Zoom calls and virtual meetings. Plus, clever accessories like the Magnetic Keyboard and Stylo Pencil can create the ultimate creative outlet or 2-in-1 laptop setup. While these add-ons can jack up the price by a few bucks, the Pad itself starts at a pretty reasonable cost.
A tablet with a bang for your buck
Amazon’s Fire HD 8 tablet is tiny but mighty, offering a vast content catalogue and a 13-hour battery, all for a budget price.
If you’re looking for a tablet to slip into your backpack or tote with little bulk, the Amazon Fire HD makes for a great cabin-to-class or work companion. Continuing its success in making more affordable mid-range tablets, Amazon’s HD 8 is a step up from the HD 7’s performance, and apart from the smaller size, comparable to that of the HD 10.
Amazon Fire HD 8 (2022): Still the budget tablet to buy
Amazon’s revamped Fire HD 8 has been upgraded with a new processor for 2022. Here’s our full review.
When it comes to design, it considers portability and user-friendliness over all else, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing, especially for a value option. The hardware is still sturdy without becoming a techy eyesore, though it doesn’t have that same premium aluminum finish as a Samsung tablet. Ultimately, its design is reminiscent of another stapleAmazon device (the Kindle)and is easy to grab and use on the go or while working at a desk.
While this affordability may come with some compromises, including a lower storage capacity, there is a way toexpand your Fire tablet storageby an additional 512GB via a microSD card. So, if you want some extra space for documents, photos, or apps, the Fire Tablet does offer a workaround. The display also isn’t as pin-sharp as competitors with a higher price point, but it still provides a seamless experience comparable to that of a larger smartphone when streaming, browsing, or working.
A swanky Samsung upgrade
Holding out for Samsung’s newest addition? The Tab S9 Ultra didn’t size up, but it did get more rugged with an IP68 rating.
Samsung already went big with the 14.6-inch screen of the Tab S8 Ultra (more on that tablet later), so with its latest iteration, the company decided to keep the cumbersome form factor and add something that, while not visible, has not been seen for a while on a premium tablet: anIP68 rating. The last time we saw this rating on a tablet was theSony Xperia Z4 Tabletback in 2015.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra hands-on: Back on the big screen
Samsung’s larger than life tablet is back and better than before, looking to give you big screen thrills.
This protection is great for peace of mind, especially given that the tablet packs in luxury features, but for a steep price. With a unique 16:10 aspect ratio, bright screen, and quality speakers, this tablet could make the perfect poolside companion while streaming content, surfing the web, or reading a book. (Who doesn’t love studying by the beach?)
From our review of this tablet, its rich feature suite, vast canvas, and lightweight form factor will likely also appeal to digital artists or those who want to pack it instead of a full laptop, although you will need a keyboard case to make it useful as it’s not as portable as other models on our list.
An Android tablet with seamless software
The Google Pixel tablet stands out among other Android tablets thanks to its bloat-free software, beautiful display, and the promise of helpful updates.
After a break from tablets, Google premiered its new Pixel Tablet in May 2023, capitalizing on large screen brightness and seamless software, though not quite delivering as asmart home hub, despite coming with a Charging Speaker Dock. That said, if you’re ultimately looking for an Android tablet capable of handling your G-suite workflow at a sharp 500nits, Google has “worked hard to optimize many of its apps for larger displays,” according to our review. “That includes the likes of Google Calendar, which looks great, as does Google’s Weather app.”
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The vibrant screen makes for an effective UI when planning out the practicalities of your day, from web browsing to research and entertainment. Additionally, Chrome and Microsoft Office also work well with the browser experience, and the tablet supports split-screen for major multitaskers. Speaking of multitasking, a USI 2.0-supported display allows for stylus interaction for digitized note-taking or creative projects.
Solid machine for browsing and entertainment
The Tab S9 FE uses an LCD panel instead of AMOLED, with a lower refresh rate of 90Hz compared to 120Hz on the Tab S9. However, for tasks like watching Netflix, browsing social media, and note-taking, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE is a suitable and more affordable substitute for the regular Tab S9.
Compared to the regular Tab S9, theGalaxy Tab S9 FEfeatures a slightly smaller display, with a chassis of roughly similar dimensions but slightly thicker bezels. Regarding the display, both tablets offer similar resolutions and adaptive refresh rates. However, the Tab S9 FE takes a step down in display technology, utilizing an LCD panel instead of AMOLED, with a lower refresh rate of 90Hz compared to 120Hz on the Tab S9. Despite having a smaller battery, the FE model, due to its LCD panel, should deliver a similar overall battery life to its counterpart.
Apart from the display technology, the major difference between these tablets lies in their processing power. The Exynos 1380 CPU offers adequate performance for casual tasks like web browsing and social media. However, it may struggle with graphically intensive games or heavy multitasking. Additionally, the FE model has less RAM, indicating it’s not optimized for extensive multitasking. Both tablets offer identical storage options, expandable via microSD cards.
Undoubtedly, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 surpasses the FE model in nearly every aspect, albeit at a significantly higher price. If you require a tablet for video editing, intensive image editing, or playing high-fidelity games, the Galaxy Tab S9 is the superior choice. However, if your needs revolve around tasks like watching Netflix, browsing social media, and note-taking, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE is the more suitable option.
A tablet with Ultra crisp graphics
Creatives, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra’s 14.6-inch AMOLED display makes for a capable, yet cumbersome, canvas.
If you want to size up your Samsung tablet even further, the Tab S8 Ultra has quite the platform at 14.6 inches, which is almost two inches more than the largest iPad Pro at 12.9 inches. While the larger display doesn’t quite make holding the Tab S8 Ultra in one hand a possibility, it does create space for an extensive creative and productive workflow.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra: Sizing up
Samsung’s biggest member of the Tab S8 family is a very curious machine. Is it the right one for you?
In fact, in his review, Cam Bunton said the big screen size “means you may genuinely get work done on this machine, whether that’s boring office-based online work or creativity. Apps like LumaFusion mean you can even edit video on the go, and the big screen combined with the stylus means it’s actually a very good experience.”
The tablet’s larger size and price tag may not make it the best option for casual use or slipping into your backpack, but if you want to video edit, create digital artwork, or use the tablet as a hybrid laptop, you’ll get your money’s worth.
Upgrading to the Tab S9+ grants you a 12.4-inch display with comparable specifications. Additionally, you’ll enjoy an extra rear camera, featuring an 8MP ultra-wide lens, along with the advantage of a larger battery capacity.
When comparing theGalaxy Tab S9 vs S9+ vs S9 Ultra, the primary distinction between the models lies in their sizes, with the weight increasing as you move up the range, as expected. With its 12.4-inch display, the Tab S9+ comes in at 586g, a healthy middle ground between the regular Tab S9 at 498g and the Ultra at 732g.
Another differentiating factor is the camera setup. The Tab S9 features the fewest cameras, comprising a 12MP selfie camera and a 13MP rear camera. This configuration is enhanced on the S9+, which boasts a dual rear camera setup, including an additional 8MP ultra-wide lens. Consequently, the appearance varies slightly between the Tab S9, with a single rear camera, and the S9+ and S9 Ultra, each equipped with two.
Furthermore, variations exist in the memory and storage options available for each model. The S9 Ultra offers the most extensive selection, allowing for up to an impressive 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. The S9+, on the other hand, reaches up to 12GB RAM/512GB storage, while the standard S9 tops out at 12GB RAM/256GB storage. All models support microSD card storage of up to 1TB capacity, facilitating easy expansion if additional storage is required.
If your preference leans towards a compact and lightweight device, opt for the Tab S9. For those seeking a large and luxurious display, the Tab S9 Ultra is the ideal choice. However, if you find yourself torn between the two, the Tab S9+ offers a balanced compromise. Regardless of your selection, you’re guaranteed a tablet delivering top-tier performance and stunning visuals, making it a reliable choice in any scenario.
Best Android tablets: The bottom line
While Android’s software hasn’t quite caught up with the iPad’s performance, these tablets show that improvements are underway. Android tablets leverage different strengths to make their mark in the tablet market and your hand or workspace.
That said, as you decide which Android tablet you should make your productivity or creative companion, don’t count out the OnePlus Pad just because it’s the new slab on the block. Especially if you’re looking for a tablet that fits into the “luxury” category along with the likes ofApple’s iPad Pro 12.9, the OnePlus Pad delivers a great display for browsing, productivity, and entertainment, especially with the unique 7:5 aspect ratio. It also promises decent value for a premium form factor and performance.
However, other options, like the Amazon Fire HD 8 may serve better if you’re looking for a no-frills, entertainment-focused tablet when traveling or on the go. And of course, Samsung’s newest addition – the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, is a premium option with a bold display without compromising a slim form factor – perfect to pack away in your bag.
How did I choose these Android tablets?
Based on Pocket-lint’s exclusive testing, I considered tablets that received at least a four-star rating in our expert’s full-length reviews. Aside from only selecting tablets that we’d personally recommend, I also looked at many use cases. Tablets are used for different workflow and entertainment levels (with positively corresponding price tags), so I picked a variety of tablet functionality for every budget.
5 ways a Fire tablet is better for your kids than an iPad
With parental controls, a durable design, affordable pricing, and child-friendly content, the Fire tablet emerges as the ultimate tablet for kids.
Q: What should you consider when selecting a tablet?
Q: What’s the best Android tablet for kids?
The Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids is a durable entry-level tablet that lends itself to plenty of parental controls without compromising a capable eight-inch display and a solid 13 hours of battery life. With dual speakers, either 32GB or 64GB of storage, and access to Amazon’s app suite (including Prime), it’s well-equipped to keep your kids entertained.
Q: Which Android tablet has the largest screen?
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra and S9 Ultra both house the largest screen size of any other Android tablet, both on this list and on the market at 14.6 inches.
