CNET’s expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise.
Tablets are portable computers that have great usability while being less complicated than a traditional computer. The best tablet is the one that's versatile enough for all kinds of use cases from home, school or work. While finding the best tablet for you isn't hard, knowing where to start can be overwhelming, and that's where CNET's testing and reviews can help. We've picked out the best of the best, and these tablets can do it all, including checking email, managing finances, testing your art skills or casually browsing YouTube and watching videos.
You cannot discuss tablets without talking about Apple. It updated its entire iPad lineup in 2022, with faster processors across all of the latest models. Apple introduced the 10th-gen iPad with an entirely new design. While this updated version gets a bunch of features, it also comes at a higher price. So Apple is still selling the ninth-gen iPad as its least expensive option.
While the iPad is the king of the segment, Android tablets have made a comeback. The Google Pixel Tablet and OnePlus Pad are excellent and affordable options that are good for family or home use (Pixel Tablet) or as a personal mini laptop (OnePlus Pad), and the slates in Samsung's newest Galaxy Tab S9 series, while expensive, all have excellent AMOLED displays.
In the value segment, Amazon's Fire tablets are still the best tablet option for cheap and kid-friendly models. If you're looking for something good for productivity and entertainment, an affordable Chromebook blurs the line between a laptop and a tablet.
The ninth-gen iPad from 2021 is the best tablet that we continue to recommend, despite the availability of newer iPad models. That's mainly for its position as the lowest-price iPad, which at around $300 offers excellent value. There are definite advantages to spending up for newer models, though (multitasking with the M1 processor on the iPad Air, a better front camera on the 10th-gen model iPad, and second-gen Pencil support on iPad Pros and Airs). If you're going with an iPad, we strongly recommend you check out the entire iPad lineup because there might be a better option for your needs. Keep in mind, that new iPads are expected this fall, so you might be better off waiting right now if you can.
Not interested in an iPad? Our other top picks for the best tablets 2024 has to offer right now are below. All offer ways to get popular apps, but you'll want to check that your must-have apps are available on the device before buying (don't look for Fortnite on the iPad through the App Store, for instance). We included budget tablet and premium tablet options, as well as laptop-replacement devices at prices in between, including Android tablet and Apple iPad options. We even threw in tablet PC and Chromebook options. All of these products (or previous versions thereof) have been fully reviewed or anecdotally tested by CNET editors.
Read more: How We Test CNET Products and Services
Google's versatile, dockable Pixel Tablet doubles as a home hub and a speaker dock-enabled assistant, and its multitasking features work great. You'll have to find your own stylus and keyboard options, but Google has otherwise served up a pretty great family iPad alternative for anyone in the Android ecosystem. A fast Google Tensor G2 processor, a good front camera for video chats and a crisp display, plus a clean Google Android software experience, make this one of our favorite new tablets this year.
Read our Google Pixel Tablet review
Photo Gallery
1/1
$400 at Amazon $400 at Amazon
The OnePlus Pad boasts a great display, an excellent optional keyboard case, and most of the performance and features you'd expect from a premium Android tablet but at a sub-$500 price. The OnePlus Pad vs. Google Pixel Tablet decision is a tough one (we prefer the Pixel Tablet overall), but the OnePlus Pad feels like a sleeker personal mini-laptop with its keyboard case and stylus, which we loved.
Read our OnePlus Pad review
Photo Gallery
1/1
$120 at AmazonPros
Cons
Full Review
Read full review $120 at Amazon
Amazon continues to make the best inexpensive tablets for media consumption. The Fire HD 8 is the middle of the lineup, hitting a sweet spot for price and performance. The 2022 model sports a thinner, lighter design, a faster processor and an hour more battery life (13 hours vs. 12) than its predecessor. It's a good low-cost option for streaming video, reading ebooks and web browsing, but we still recommend waiting to pick it up when it's discounted, which Amazon regularly does. We also recommend spending an additional $20 for the Plus version, which adds 1GB of RAM, wireless charging and a 9-watt power adapter.
Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus (2022) review
Photo Gallery
1/1
$150 at Amazon $150 at Amazon
The 10-inch Amazon Fire HD tablet is faster and better than the 7- or 8-inch Fire tablet, and it's still a pretty low $150 (or less). For the Amazon Fire HD 10, there are two storage options, 32 and 64GB. The Amazon Fire HD tablet also charges its battery via USB-C now. A adds wireless charging, 4GB of RAM and a soft-touch finish.
Amazon Fire HD 10 (2021) review
Photo Gallery
1/1
$850 at Microsoft $850 at Microsoft
While there are several imitators, the Surface Pro continues to offer the best detachable two-in-one PC experience. The 2022 version jumps from an 11th-gen Intel CPU to a newer 12th-gen one and moves to a slightly faster type of RAM. There's also a 5G version that switches from Intel to a Microsoft/Qualcomm ARM-based chip for faster mobile wireless with long battery life. Unfortunately, unless you get a bundle, the keyboard and active pen are still separate purchases. Also, the Surface Pro 8 is still around and worth considering, especially because it's at a better price.
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 review
Photo Gallery
1/1
$279 at Best Buy $279 at Best Buy
The Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 is an awesome little 11-inch ChromeOS tablet with a detachable keyboard and touchpad. It's a good pick if you're looking for an affordable ultraportable device to get some work done on the go, sketch or jot down notes in class, or do simple stuff like email, web browsing, gaming, reading and streaming video.
Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 review
Photo Gallery
1/1
Since 1982, PCMag has tested and rated thousands of products to help you make better buying decisions. See how we test.
Our Experts Have Tested 18 Products in the Tablets Category in the Past Year
Keep in mind that Windows slates are different beasts entirely. If that's what you're looking for, head on over to our picks for the best Windows tablets , as well as the best 2-in-1s
There are countless tablets on the market, but which one is right for you? Whether you're eyeing an iPad or one of the many Android models available, we detail the key factors you need to consider when shopping, along with some of the top-rated tablets we've tested.
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
4.5 Outstanding
The iPad Air offers many of the same features as the iPad Pro for much less money, including high-end performance and support for the latest Apple Pencil. It's also quite portable and has strong battery life.
We recommend the iPad Air for content creators and students. If you need a tablet that can handle advanced applications and/or editing, it's worth the premium over the base model.
GET IT NOW
$449.00 Amazon
$499.99 Best Buy
$599.99 Apple.com
Learn More
Apple iPad Air (2022) Review
4.0 Excellent
You can't go wrong with the latest version of Apple's entry-level iPad. It retails for a reasonable price compared with the iPad Air and the iPad Pro, but still offers a 10.9-inch display that's sufficiently large for multitasking and productivity.
This is the best iPad for most people. It performs well, has plenty of features, and gets you into the Apple ecosystem for a relatively affordable price.
GET IT NOW
$449.00 Best Buy
$429.00 Walmart
Learn More
Apple iPad (10th Generation, 2022) Review
4.0 Excellent
With a 10.1-inch, 1,920-by-1,200-pixel screen, a good-enough MediaTek processor, 3GB of RAM, and more than 10 hours of battery life, the Fire HD 10 is the most well-rounded Amazon tablet you can get. We're also fans of the device's modern design, microSD card slot for up to 1TB of extra space, and decent speakers. And it remains as exceptional a value as ever, with a price under $150.
If you want to watch movies and shows on the go without worrying about battery life or paying a lot, the Fire HD 10 is your best bet.
GET IT NOW
$139.99 Amazon
Learn More
Amazon Fire HD 10 (2023) Review
4.0 Excellent
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ offers a lot of great features for a reasonable price, including an Exynos 1380 processor, a 12.4-inch screen with a 2,560-by-1,600-pixel resolution, and excellent battery life. It uses top-notch materials and sports an IP68 rating that protects it from dust and water. It also includes Samsung's excellent productivity and multitasking software. We like that Samsung promises four Android OS updates and five years of security patches for the device, too.
Look no further if you want an excellent Android tablet that doesn't cost too much and is durable enough to use in your backyard or near a pool.
GET IT NOW
$499.00 Amazon
$599.99 Walmart
$599.99 Best Buy
Learn More
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ Review
4.0 Excellent
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ is our favorite low-cost Android tablet because it doesn't have any glaring flaws. Most aspects, including the refined design, 11-inch screen, reliable hardware, and helpful software enhancements are better than expected for the price. Moreover, a microSD card slot helps you get around the limiting 64GB of standard storage, while the face unlock option mitigates the lack of a fingerprint sensor. If you need 5G connectivity for travel, you can add a cellular radio for $50 more.
If you want unfettered access to the Google Play Store and the full Android experience on the cheap, the Galaxy Tab A9+ is a capable choice. It's fast enough for most tasks and can handle all your entertainment needs.
GET IT NOW
$219.99 Amazon
$219.99 Best Buy
Learn More
Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Review
4.0 Excellent
Amazon finally ventures out of the ultra-cheap tablet segment with the Fire Max 11. It performed well in our benchmark tests and feels snappy to use in real-world scenarios. The 11-inch, 2,000-by-1,200-pixel display is plenty large and sharp enough for enjoying movies and large-format reading material, while the build quality is a step up over other offerings in the company's lineup.
If you like the simplicity of Amazon's Fire OS platform or want the largest screen for the price, the Fire Max 11 is the way to go.
GET IT NOW
$229.99 Amazon
Learn More
Amazon Fire Max 11 Review
4.0 Excellent
The 8.3-inch iPad mini might not get as much attention as its larger siblings, but it's sized just right if you value portability. Importantly, it doesn't give up any of the power, connectivity, or accessory support that makes iPads so popular.
The iPad mini is ideal for anyone who wants the feature and performance of a larger iPad in as small a package as possible.
GET IT NOW
$469.00 Amazon
$499.99 Best Buy
Learn More
Apple iPad mini (2021) Review
4.0 Excellent
The iPad Pro's M2 chip is incredibly powerful, and options for up to 2TB of storage and 16GB of RAM elevate Apple's tablet to new performance heights. It also has a fantastic display, offers reliable connectivity (including 5G and Wi-Fi 6E), and works with a full suite of quality accessories, including the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard for expanded productivity.
If price is no concern and you want the top-of-the-line iPad to push through professional workflows, you can't do better than the 12.9-inch iPad Pro.
GET IT NOW
$1,289.00 Amazon
$1,099.00 Best Buy
Learn More
Apple iPad Pro (12.9-inch, 2022) Review
4.0 Excellent
With its 14-inch, 2,960-by-1,848-pixel screen, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is ideal for getting work done, watching movies, playing games, and running multiple apps. It performed well in testing thanks to its Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and 12GB of RAM. Additionally, the tablet sports a durable IP68 rating, ships with the excellent S Pen stylus, and includes a microSD card slot. Samsung's productivity-focused tools make it a near laptop replacement.
If you want the biggest Android tablet for entertainment and cost isn't a concern, the Tab S9 Ultra is the one to get. Its giant screen and multitasking software make it a viable tool for getting work done. Just keep in mind that if you plan to travel or commute with your tablet, the 12.4-inch, 5G-capable Galaxy Tab S9+ is a better choice with comparable specs.
GET IT NOW
$1,199.99 Samsung
$1,169.99 Best Buy
Learn More
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra Review
3.5 Good
The Amazon Fire HD 8 has a bright screen with a decent 1,280-by-720-pixel resolution. It's a more reasonable platform for medium consumption than the smaller Fire Tablet 7, while still offering as much battery life. It comes in under $100, too.
You should enjoy the Fire HD 8 if you want a budget-friendly device with a larger screen than your phone. It doesn't compete with high-end iPads or Android tablets on performance metrics, but it's more than fast enough for casual use.
GET IT NOW
$99.99 Amazon
Learn More
Amazon Fire HD 8 (2022 Release) Review
3.5 Good
The Pixel Tablet provides a pure Android experience and feels snappy for everyday use. Its 10.95-inch, 2,560-by-1,600-pixel screen is enjoyable for media playback too, especially thanks to its 24-bit color support. The slate sounds good by itself, but the included speaker dock (which doubles as a charging stand and turns the device into a smart display) takes things up a notch with fuller, richer sound.
If you're committed to Google's version of Android, the Pixel Tablet is easy to recommend. It doesn't perform quite as well as some competitors or last as long per charge, but its audio chops are sure to attract music lovers and the smart display functionality can be a home-helping bonus.
GET IT NOW
$399.00 Amazon
$399.00 Best Buy
Learn More
Google Pixel Tablet ReviewBuying Guide: The Best Tablets for 2024
Broadly, Android tablets make great media players, ebook readers, and kids' devices (if you want a tablet specifically for children, check out the best kids' tablets) but they rarely compete with iPads when it comes to versatility and performance.
The greatest strengths of Apple's iPadOS are twofold: iPadOS is intuitive and the numerous apps that you can buy right on your tablet work fairly uniformly. The downside of iPadOS is that it can't handle multiple users per device and transferring files between apps is still awkward. iPads mostly remain a supplement to, not a full replacement for, MacBooks. iPads also support the best selection of accessories, including three different Apple Pencils.
Google Pixel Tablet (Credit: Eric Zeman)
Google's Android OS lets you choose from a wider range of hardware manufacturers. That means you get maximum customization, a top-notch notification system, fast and smooth web browsing, and seamless integration with Google applications such as Gmail, Google Maps, and Meet for video chats. Android also includes support for multiple user profiles, so you can share your tablet with a friend or family member. (Apple's Family Sharing works the other way around, giving multiple people access to shared data and services.) Some Android tablets ship with older versions of the OS and seldom get updates, but Google and Samsung outline upgrade policies for their devices to give you peace of mind.
Amazon's Fire OS is a branch of Android with a distinct interface and set of default apps from Amazon. It's a simple gateway to Amazon content and for streaming videos from various services. We find it easier to use than standard Android if most of what you do is browse the web and access your Amazon library. It's less flexible, though, and doesn't support as many apps.
What's a tablet without quality apps? If you want third-party apps that work with a touch-screen interface, nothing beats the iPad's massive library of programs and games. The App Store is well-curated and offers a deep selection. Apple is your best bet if a wide range of compelling apps that look good and work well on your tablet is your main priority. For more, see the best iPad apps and the best Apple Arcade Games.
Android has made great strides in app selection, but it's still not home to as many as Apple offers. It's tough to say exactly how many tablet-optimized Android apps are available, but it's far fewer than on the iPad. You can use Android phone apps of course, which look decent on a 7-inch tablet, but less so on a 9- or 10-inch device. Check out the best Android apps for our top picks.
Amazon tablets don't have access to the Google Play Store, so they work with considerably fewer apps. Plenty of people have hacked the Play Store onto Amazon tablets, but that violates both Amazon's and Google's terms of service and isn't a reliable solution. With these tablets, you should likely stick with the subset of apps that Amazon considers appropriate.
This consideration is a bit obvious, but size—both screen real estate and storage capacity—is important to consider. First things first: When you hear a term such as "10-inch tablet," this refers to the size of the screen, measured diagonally, and not the size of the tablet itself.
We consider 7- and 8-inch tablets as small-screen devices and 9-inch tablets as the start of the large-screen category. Apple's iPads, Amazon's Fire tablets, and Samsung's slates all come in small- and large-screen versions. And more than ever, big phones blur the distinction between what is and isn't a tablet. Folding phones such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 or OnePlus Open can easily do double duty as tablets if you're willing to pay a hefty premium.
Apple iPad (10th Generation, 2022) (Credit: Eric Zeman)
Screen resolution is important, too, especially for reading and web surfing. A sharp, bright display is key. If you're in the market for a 10-inch tablet, look for a display with a resolution of at least 1,280 by 800 pixels.
The low weight of a tablet is one definite advantage it has over a laptop—but with large-screen tablets typically weighing around a pound, they're not nearly as light as smartphones. Holding one in your hand likely won't be comfortable after a while. Setting one flat in your lap, rather than propping it up on a stand, can also be a little awkward. And few tablets fit in your pocket (unless you're wearing a very large jacket).
Cloud (off-device) storage is an option for many tablets (Amazon Cloud Storage for Fire tablets, iCloud Drive for iPads, Google One for Android tablets), but when it comes to onboard storage, more is always better. All those apps; your local music, photo, and video libraries; and system updates can take up a lot of space. Some Android tablets feature a microSD slot for additional storage, but it's worth noting some apps won't work from those external cards.
Some tablets can connect only over Wi-Fi, but others can take advantage of always-on cellular service from a wireless provider. Unless you constantly use your tablet in an area without Wi-Fi or are a frequent international traveler, you're probably better off using your smartphone as a Wi-Fi hotspot and saving the extra money you would spend on a 4G or 5G tablet. You can also buy a dedicated mobile hotspot, which won't kill your phone's battery life. Some even double as backup batteries to charge your tablet.
The tablets here represent the best options from Amazon, Android, and Apple across a variety of price levels. That said, plenty of other great tablets exist that might be better for you. For the latest lab-tested reviews, check out our tablet product guide. And if you're looking for a good deal, head over to our roundup of the best cheap tablets we've tested.
Dave LeClair and Sascha Segan contributed to this story.