Top 10 Best Tablets in the UK for 2024: Ultimate Guide
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The best tablet 2024
Best of all
Pros:
- Vibrant Liquid Retina display
- A14 Bionic chip performance
- All-day battery life
Cons:
- Limited storage capacity
- No Face ID feature
- Pencil and Keyboard sold separately
Recommended for:
- Tech-savvy professionals
- Creative individuals
- On-the-go multitaskers
Product Features:
The Apple 2022 10.9-inch iPad is a sleek device that boasts a stunning Liquid Retina display, perfect for both work and play. With True Tone technology, it ensures a comfortable viewing experience under any lighting conditions. At its core, the A14 Bionic chip provides a smooth and responsive experience, whether you're editing videos or gaming. The 12MP Wide back camera captures high-quality photos and 4K video, while the front camera's Center Stage feature keeps you in focus during video calls. Security is seamless with Touch ID, and the ultrafast Wi-Fi 6 connection keeps you in the loop wherever you are. Charging and connecting accessories is a breeze with the USB-C connector. Despite its powerhouse performance, the iPad maintains an impressive all-day battery life. It's also compatible with the Apple Pencil (1st generation) and Magic Keyboard Folio, although these are available separately. With iPadOS 16, the device unlocks new levels of productivity and collaboration, making it an ideal choice for those who demand efficiency and versatility from their tech.
Pros:
- Dynamic AMOLED 2X display
- IP68 water and dust resistance
- S Pen with enhanced sensitivity
Cons:
- Premium price point
- Bulky for some users
- Limited colour options
Recommended for:
- Creative professionals
- Outdoor adventure enthusiasts
- High-end gaming aficionados
Product Features:
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is a cutting-edge device that caters to a discerning audience. With its expansive 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, it offers a visual feast of vibrant colours and deep blacks, complemented by HDR10+ and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate for a lifelike experience. Encased in a robust Armour Aluminum frame, it boasts an IP68 rating, ensuring it can withstand the elements during your outdoor escapades. The included S Pen, mirroring the tablet's durability, provides a natural writing and drawing experience with heightened tip sensitivity. The Tab S9 Ultra is powered by the formidable Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 For Galaxy processor, making it a powerhouse for gaming with realistic graphics and efficient performance. With up to 1TB of internal storage and the option to expand, it's a haven for all your storage needs. The tablet shines with pro-level apps like GoodNotes and LumaFusion, fully optimized for its large display, ensuring a seamless transition between creative tasks and entertainment.
Pros:
- Powerful M1 chip performance
- Stunning Liquid Retina display
- All-day battery life
Cons:
- Accessories sold separately
- Higher price point
- Limited port variety
Recommended for:
- Creative professionals
- Tech-savvy multitaskers
- Media enthusiasts
Product Features:
The Apple 2022 10.9-inch iPad Air is a marvel of modern technology, blending serious performance with a sleek design. It boasts an immersive Liquid Retina display that brings visuals to life with P3 wide colour and True Tone technology. At its heart lies the M1 chip, delivering smooth multitasking and exceptional graphics for both creative tasks and gaming. With iPadOS at its core, the iPad Air elevates productivity, offering intuitive multitasking and compatibility with the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard for a versatile user experience. Fast Wi-Fi 6 connectivity ensures you're always in the loop, while the advanced camera system with Centre Stage keeps you in focus during video calls. Despite its powerhouse capabilities, the iPad Air maintains an all-day battery life, ensuring you stay productive and entertained wherever you go.
Pros:
- High-refresh-rate immersive display
- Enveloping 3D audio experience
- Expandable storage up to 1TB
Cons:
- Limited to 4GB RAM
- Standard resolution, not 4K
- No mention of water resistance
Recommended for:
- Multimedia enthusiasts
- Productivity-focused individuals
- Users needing ample storage
Product Features:
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 64GB is a stylish and versatile tablet designed for the modern user. It boasts an 11-inch high-refresh-rate screen that brings your content to life, even under bright lighting. The tablet's Graphite metal body is both elegant and durable. With 4GB of RAM, multitasking is smoother, and the built-in 64GB memory, expandable to a massive 1TB, means you can store an extensive collection of high-resolution files. The Galaxy Tab A9+ also enhances your audio experience with rich 3D sound, perfect for movies and music. Additionally, the device's multitasking capabilities are elevated with the ability to split the screen into three, allowing you to work efficiently without closing any apps. Security is also a priority, with features like Secure Folder and Privacy Dashboard to protect your data. This tablet is a solid choice for those who value entertainment, productivity, and security in their daily lives.
Pros:
- Tensor G2 chip for smooth performance
- Speaker dock for charging and music
- Smart display features when docked
Cons:
- Limited to 128GB storage
- Only available in Hazel colour
- Specific to Android ecosystem
Recommended for:
- Tech enthusiasts seeking latest gadgets
- Users needing a versatile home device
- Entertainment lovers with a taste for quality
Product Features:
The Google Pixel Tablet, a cutting-edge device released in 2023, is a game-changer for tablet technology. It's the inaugural tablet to incorporate the Tensor G2 chip, which brings Google's AI prowess to your fingertips, ensuring seamless streaming and crystal-clear video calls. The innovative charging speaker dock not only powers the device but also transforms it into a high-fidelity speaker, delivering room-filling sound. While docked, the tablet morphs into a smart display, offering features like a digital photo frame, smart home controls, and hands-free assistance with Google Assistant. Sharing content is a breeze with Nearby Share, allowing swift and secure transfers between compatible devices. The 11-inch display boasts vivid colours and adaptive brightness, making it ideal for multimedia consumption and creative tasks. Whether you're at home or on the move, the Pixel Tablet is your perfect entertainment companion, with quad speakers to enhance your audio-visual experience.
Best Budget
Pros:
- Affordable with multifunctionality
- Latest Android 13 OS
- Long-lasting 5000mAh battery
Cons:
- Only 2GB RAM
- Moderate screen resolution
- Limited 4.5-hour video playtime
Recommended for:
- Budget-conscious tech enthusiasts
- Casual users for everyday tasks
- Gift for friends or family
Product Features:
The BYYBUO Android 13 Tablet, a smart and cost-effective choice for the tech-savvy user, boasts a 10.1-inch IPS HD display that brings your visual content to life. With the latest Android 13 operating system, you'll have access to all the newest apps and features. The tablet's quad-core CPU ensures smooth multitasking, while the 2GB RAM and 64GB storage, expandable to 128GB via TF card, provide ample space for your apps and media. It's equipped with a 5000mAh battery, offering up to 12 hours of mixed usage and over 72 hours of standby time, making it ideal for on-the-go entertainment and productivity. Additionally, the tablet features a sleek all-metal body, dual cameras, and supports Bluetooth 4.2, 2.4G WiFi, GPS, and FM, rounding out its capabilities as a versatile device for both work and play.
Pros:
- High-resolution 11-inch display
- Long-lasting 7040mAh battery
- Includes Lenovo Tab Pen stylus
Cons:
- Limited to 4GB RAM
- Mediocre 8MP rear camera
- No mention of waterproof rating
Recommended for:
- Multimedia enthusiasts
- Casual gamers
- Productivity-focused users
Product Features:
The Lenovo Tab M11 Android Tablet is a versatile device that caters to both entertainment and productivity needs. It boasts a large 11-inch WUXGA touch screen with a 1920x1200 resolution, ensuring crisp and vibrant visuals for an immersive cinematic experience. The tablet is powered by a MediaTek Helio G88 Octa-core processor, which facilitates smooth gaming at 90Hz, efficient multitasking, and uninterrupted streaming. With a substantial 7040mAh battery, users can enjoy up to 10 hours of video playback, making it ideal for all-day use. The inclusion of a Lenovo Tab Pen with 4096 pressure levels and tilt detection enhances the tablet's functionality, perfect for taking notes or creative tasks. Additionally, the device features quad-speakers tuned by Dolby Atmos, expandable storage, and fast charging capabilities, all wrapped up in a sleek Luna Grey design.
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Enhanced performance
- Long battery life
Cons:
- Limited app selection
- No Google Play support
- Basic display quality
Recommended for:
- Budget-conscious consumers
- Casual users, not power users
- Children with parental controls
Product Features:
The Amazon Fire 7 tablet offers a compact entertainment experience with its 7" touchscreen and options for 16 GB or 32 GB of storage, expandable up to 1 TB with a microSD card. It boasts up to 10 hours of battery life, allowing for extended reading, web browsing, video watching, and music listening. The device operates with a 30% faster quad-core processor and 2 GB of RAM, enhancing its responsiveness. Users can enjoy a variety of content from the Amazon Appstore, including BBC iPlayer, Netflix, and Disney+. The Fire 7 also facilitates video calls with apps like Zoom and Skype and integrates hands-free Alexa for convenience. Parental controls via Amazon Kids make it a family-friendly choice, though it's important to note the absence of Google Play Store access. The tablet is designed with sustainability in mind, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility.
Pros:
- 25% faster than previous model
- Up to 13-hour battery life
- Durable Aluminosilicate glass screen
Cons:
- Limited to Amazon ecosystem
- Ads on lock screen (with Ads version)
- Stylus pen sold separately
Recommended for:
- Avid readers and streamers
- Families needing parental controls
- Creative individuals who sketch or write
Product Features:
The All-new Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet is a versatile device that caters to a wide range of activities. With a 25% increase in performance compared to its predecessor and equipped with 3 GB of RAM, it ensures smooth streaming, gaming, and reading experiences. The tablet boasts a 10.1" 1080p Full HD display, offering vivid colours and crisp visuals for all your media consumption needs. Its impressive battery life of up to 13 hours allows for extended binge-watching sessions, and with storage options of 32 or 64 GB, expandable up to 1 TB via a microSD card, you'll have plenty of space for your content. The Fire HD 10's lightweight and robust design, featuring a strengthened Aluminosilicate glass screen, makes it more durable than many competitors. Stay connected with a 5 MP front-facing camera, perfect for video calls or content creation. Although the Made for Amazon stylus pen is an additional purchase, it provides a natural writing and sketching experience with 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity. For families, Amazon Kids+ offers comprehensive parental controls and a wealth of content to keep children engaged. Lastly, Alexa integration adds convenience, allowing you to control smart home devices, access entertainment, or get assistance hands-free.
Pros:
- Lightweight, portable design
- TÜV-certified eye care technology
- Long-lasting battery life
Cons:
- Limited storage capacity
- Modest RAM for multitasking
- Average display resolution
Recommended for:
- Casual users and families
- Frequent travellers
- Budget-conscious consumers
Product Features:
The Lenovo Tab M8 (4th Gen) is a sleek and stylish tablet that offers a comfortable user experience, ideal for those who are always on the move. It boasts a MediaTek Helio A22 processor and an integrated IMG PowerVR GE-class GPU, ensuring smooth performance for everyday tasks. The tablet's 8-inch HD display, with a resolution of 1280x800 pixels, is enhanced by a bright 350 nits anti-fingerprint screen, making it suitable for both work and play. With a slim 8.25 mm profile and a weight of just 320 g, it's incredibly easy to handle and carry around. The device comes with 32GB of internal storage and 3GB of RAM, sufficient for storing a decent amount of media and running apps. Connectivity options include USB-C 2.0, Bluetooth 5.1, and WiFi 5, providing versatile connections. Additionally, the tablet's battery life is impressive, offering up to 16 hours of usage, which is perfect for all-day entertainment without the need for frequent recharging. The Lenovo Tab M8 (4th Gen) also prioritizes eye health with its TÜV Rheinland certification for low blue light emission, making it a safer choice for extended screen time.
Best iPad
Pros:
- Powerful M1 chip performance
- Stunning Liquid Retina display
- All-day battery life
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Accessories sold separately
- Limited base storage
Recommended for:
- Creative professionals
- Tech-savvy multitaskers
- Media enthusiasts
Product Features:
The Apple 2022 10.9-inch iPad Air is a marvel of modern technology, blending serious performance with a sleek design. It boasts the revolutionary M1 chip, ensuring smooth multitasking and exceptional gaming experiences. The device features a captivating Liquid Retina display with True Tone and P3 wide colour, offering an immersive visual experience. With iPadOS at its core, the iPad Air elevates productivity and versatility, allowing users to run multiple apps simultaneously and enjoy over a million more on the App Store. Connectivity is swift with Wi-Fi 6, and the all-day battery life means you can work and play without interruption. While the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard enhance functionality, they are additional purchases. The iPad Air also includes advanced cameras with Centre Stage, making it ideal for video calls and photography. This iPad Air is a powerhouse for those who demand performance and portability.
Best Android Tablet
Pros:
- Expansive, high-refresh-rate display
- Powerful multitasking with 8GB RAM
- Expandable storage up to 1TB
Cons:
- Premium price point
- Limited to Android ecosystem
- Heavier than some competitors
Recommended for:
- Multimedia enthusiasts
- Productivity-focused users
- Samsung device ecosystem fans
Product Features:
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 128GB is a testament to modern tablet design, boasting a stylish metal body available in Graphite, Silver, and Navy. Its 11-inch display, with a 1920 x 1200 resolution, ensures vibrant and fluid visuals, perfect for both work and play. The tablet's 8GB of RAM and the ability to expand its storage up to a whopping 1TB means you can store an extensive collection of high-resolution files and multitask with ease. The Galaxy Tab A9+ also features Quick Share for seamless file transfers and automatic Bluetooth pairing with other Samsung devices, enhancing its appeal for those invested in the Samsung ecosystem. With its combination of style, performance, and convenience, the Galaxy Tab A9+ is a compelling choice for anyone looking to elevate their tablet experience.
Best Amazon Tablet
Pros:
- 25% faster than previous model
- 10.1" Full HD display
- Up to 13-hour battery life
Cons:
- Limited to Amazon ecosystem
- Ads on lock screen (with Ads version)
- Extra cost for ad-free experience
Recommended for:
- Avid readers and streamers
- Families needing parental controls
- Creative individuals seeking a stylus
Product Features:
The All-new Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet is a game-changer for tech enthusiasts and casual users alike. Boasting a 25% increase in performance compared to its predecessor, this device is equipped with 3 GB of RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and media consumption. The 10.1-inch 1080p Full HD display is a feast for the eyes, offering vivid colours and crisp details for an immersive viewing experience. With a battery life that can last up to an impressive 13 hours, you can indulge in your favourite shows and games without the constant need to recharge. Storage won't be an issue either, with options of 32 or 64 GB and the ability to expand up to 1 TB with a microSD card. Its robust build, featuring Aluminosilicate glass, means it's significantly more durable than many competitors, giving you peace of mind during daily use. The tablet also keeps you connected with a 5 MP front-facing camera, perfect for video calls. For those who love to jot down notes or sketch, the tablet supports a stylus pen (sold separately) with 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity. Plus, it's family-friendly, offering extensive parental controls through Amazon Kids+. And for those moments when you need a helping hand, just ask Alexa to read your last book or manage your smart home devices. Whether you're at home or on the go, the All-new Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet is ready to enhance your digital life.
Best Gaming Tablet
Pros:
- Powerful M1 chip performance
- Stunning Liquid Retina display
- All-day battery life
Cons:
- Accessories sold separately
- Higher price point
- Limited port selection
Recommended for:
- Creative professionals
- Tech-savvy multitaskers
- Media enthusiasts
Product Features:
The Apple 2022 10.9-inch iPad Air is a marvel of modern technology, blending serious performance with a sleek design. It boasts an immersive Liquid Retina display that brings visuals to life with P3 wide colour and True Tone technology. Under the hood, the M1 chip provides exceptional power, enabling smooth multitasking and high-end gaming. With iPadOS at its core, the device offers a more intuitive and versatile user experience, allowing you to run multiple apps simultaneously and enjoy over a million more on the App Store. The iPad Air also features advanced cameras, superfast Wi-Fi 6, and a USB-C connector for versatile connectivity. While the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil elevate the functionality to new heights, they are additional purchases. Despite its premium cost and limited ports, the iPad Air's all-day battery life and cutting-edge features make it an attractive option for those who demand top-tier performance and portability.
Best Large Screen Tablet
Pros:
- M2 chip delivers exceptional performance
- Liquid Retina XDR display offers stunning visuals
- Wi-Fi 6E ensures rapid wireless connectivity
Cons:
- High-end price point may deter some
- Accessories like Apple Pencil sold separately
- Limited port variety compared to laptops
Recommended for:
- Creative professionals needing powerful graphics
- Tech enthusiasts desiring top-tier performance
- Users seeking advanced multitasking capabilities
Product Features:
The Apple 2022 12.9-inch iPad Pro is a technological marvel, boasting the revolutionary M2 chip that provides unparalleled performance for all your computing needs. With a 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display, you're guaranteed an immersive visual experience, whether you're editing HDR content or enjoying your favourite media. The device's Wi-Fi 6E capability ensures you're always connected at lightning-fast speeds, making it ideal for transferring large files or streaming high-quality video. The iPad Pro is also equipped with advanced cameras, including a 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Centre Stage, enhancing your video calls and selfies. The back cameras are perfect for capturing stunning photos and 4K videos, while the LiDAR scanner brings augmented reality to life. Although the iPad Pro comes at a premium price and requires additional purchases for accessories like the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard, it remains a top choice for those who demand the best in performance, versatility, and display quality.
Choosing the Best Tablet: A UK Buyer's Guide
Which is Best? Android, Fire OS, or iPadOS?
Which is Best? Android, Fire OS, or iPadOS?
When it comes to selecting the perfect tablet, the operating system is a pivotal factor. For those seeking a premium experience, Apple's iPadOS is the frontrunner, offering a seamless interface and a vast array of apps tailored for the system. However, it's worth noting that iPads are generally seen as complementary devices rather than laptop replacements, and they excel in accessory support, including the Apple Pencil.
Android tablets, on the other hand, provide a broader choice of manufacturers, allowing for more hardware customization. They shine with their multi-user support and integration with Google services, making them ideal for shared use and Google enthusiasts. Yet, some may come with outdated versions of Android, so it's crucial to check the update policy.
Amazon's Fire OS is a user-friendly alternative, especially for avid Amazon users and streamers. It offers a straightforward interface and easy access to Amazon's ecosystem. However, it's less versatile compared to iPadOS and standard Android due to its limited app support.
In conclusion, your choice hinges on your priorities: iPadOS for a polished, high-end experience, Android for customization and Google integration, or Fire OS for simplicity and Amazon content access. Consider your needs and budget to make the best decision for a tablet that enhances your digital lifestyle.
What Screen Size is Best for You?
What Screen Size is Best for You?
Deciding on the perfect tablet size is crucial for a tailored tech experience. For those seeking portability and ease of use, a 10 inch tablet strikes a balance between functionality and comfort. Ideal for streaming, reading, and casual gaming, these devices offer ample screen space without the bulkiness of larger models. If you're leaning towards a more immersive experience for gaming or professional tasks, a 12 inch tablet provides a generous canvas without sacrificing portability. The best iPad for a mix of versatility and performance is the latest 10.2 inch model, while the best Android tablet contenders often boast similar or larger displays, catering to a range of preferences and budgets. Remember, the best budget tablet doesn't compromise on screen quality; look for a minimum resolution of 1280 by 800 pixels to ensure a crisp, clear display. Whether you're after the best tablets for work or play, or the most cost-effective options, screen size will significantly influence your satisfaction with your device.
Choose Products with Long Battery Life
Choose Products with Long Battery Life
For uninterrupted work or play, select a tablet with a robust battery life. The average tablet sustains around 7 hours of use, but the best models can exceed 10 hours per charge. When shopping for tablets, consider not just the price or screen size, but also the endurance of the device. Whether it's for gaming, streaming, or productivity, a long-lasting battery ensures your tablet keeps pace with your lifestyle. Opt for a tablet that won't leave you tethered to a power outlet, giving you the freedom to use it anywhere, anytime.
FAQ
Which Brand Offers the Best Tablet for Your Needs?
Apple's iPads are often considered the best tablets for a broad range of uses, including work, creativity, and entertainment, thanks to their powerful performance and the polished iPadOS. However, if you're seeking a more budget-friendly option, Amazon's Fire tablets offer great value for entertainment purposes. For those interested in gaming or productivity, Samsung's high-end Galaxy tablets are a strong contender, providing versatility and power. For a balance between cost and functionality, Lenovo's tablets are well-suited, especially for students. When it comes to size, both 10 inch and 12 inch tablets are available across these brands, ensuring you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Whether you're after the best Android tablet or the best iPad, consider your specific requirements and budget to make the right choice.
Which Tablet is Best for Students?
For students in the UK, the best tablet is the iPad Air (2020). It strikes a balance between performance and affordability, offering a powerful A14 Bionic chip and a stunning 10.9-inch display, ideal for both studying and entertainment. It's lightweight, supports the Apple Pencil for note-taking, and has a long-lasting battery. For those on a tighter budget, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 is a great alternative, providing a 10.4-inch screen and sufficient power for everyday academic tasks. Both options are portable, ensuring they fit easily into a student's lifestyle. Consider investing in these models for a blend of functionality and value.
Which is Best for You: A Tablet or a Laptop?
Choosing between a tablet and a laptop hinges on your specific needs. For portability and casual use, such as streaming and social media, tablets—including the best iPads and budget-friendly Android options—are ideal. They're lightweight and perfect for on-the-go entertainment or light work tasks. If gaming is your passion, consider a gaming tablet with a larger screen, like a 10 or 12 inch model, for an immersive experience. However, for more intensive tasks like video editing or heavy multitasking, a laptop's power and storage capacity are necessary. In the UK, where tech-savvy users demand versatility, the best budget tablets offer a balance of performance and value, making them a smart purchase for those seeking a device for everyday use without breaking the bank.