Buying a tablet is an important decision that affects daily productivity, entertainment, studying, and much more. With today's increasingly wide and varied offering, it's essential to know the details of what to consider before choosing one. This comprehensive guide integrates the Best tips for buying the right tablet and adds all the essential information from leading websites, so you can make the best decision tailored to your profile and budget.
What will you use the tablet for? Define your profile and real needs.
Before you dive into specs, brands, or prices, reflect on the main use of the tabletThis point is the basis for making the right purchase, as it determines the rest of the technical and budgetary decisions:
- Multimedia consumption: If you will use it mainly to watch series, movies, read newspapers or browse, prioritize one quality screen, good sound and long-lasting battery.
- Work and productivity: For office tasks, document editing, video calls, email or project management, the keyboard, compatibility with professional applications, power and front camera are essential. Consider the convenience of the operating system and the availability of professional accessories.
- Study and note-taking: If you are a student you will need Stylus support, study apps, and a screen that doesn't tire your eyes. Keyboard and accessory integration adds points.
- Gaming or image and video editing: Here you must look for a Powerful processor, good RAM, high refresh rate screen and precise touch responseIn editing, visual quality and faithful colors count for a lot.
- Family or children's use: In these cases it is advisable to bet on Robust models, with parental controls, good autonomy and resistance to fallsThere are specific models for children, but today there are affordable tablets from well-known brands that offer very good value for little difference in price.
Make a list of the specific uses you have in mind and the environment where you'll be using it (home, transportation, outdoors, etc.) to be clear before comparing models. This way, you'll avoid overspending on features you don't need or falling short on the truly essentials.
Size and weight: How big is the perfect tablet for you?
Screen size largely determines the user experience and portability, but weight also influences, especially if you're going to be holding it for a long time or need it to be very portable. Below is a list of common sizes:
- Mini tablets (7-8 inches)Very light (less than 400g), they're ideal for carrying in a small bag, reading books, looking at maps, or controlling home automation. These are becoming less common, but practical for full mobility or for small children.
- Intermediate/Classic Size (9-11 inches): The most common and balanced standardThey weigh between 400 and 550g. Compatible with most accessories, they're convenient for TV shows, office work, and studying. They're the most versatile.
- Large or professional tablets (12-15 inches)Designed for those who use a tablet as their primary tool, or even as a laptop replacement. They support keyboards, multitasking, professional drawing, or advanced editing, but aren't as comfortable for everyday use. They can weigh over 600g, and even 800g for premium models. They are suitable for design, architecture, or advanced productivity studios.
Advanced Tip: Don't just choose by size, compare the actual weight (less than 450g is very comfortable) and consider the thickness and materials. Aluminum is lighter and dissipates heat better, but it's usually found in mid- to high-end tablets. If you're going to be holding it in one hand for long periods of time, look for lightweight models that don't slip.
Screen resolution, panel type, and pixel density (ppi)
The visual quality of a tablet is a key factor if you're going to use it for watching movies, reading, gaming, or editing images. There are three main factors:
- Resolution: Full HD (1920x1080 pixels) is the minimum for a sharp 10-inch display. If you're looking for higher quality, 2K (2048x1080 or higher) and 4K resolutions offer an even sharper experience, especially on displays larger than 11 inches.
- Pixel density (ppi – pixels per inch): For multimedia content and visual work, look for displays with a pixel density above 250-300 ppi, so you don't see the pixels or strain your eyes. Smaller tablets tend to have higher pixel density.
- Panel type:
- IPS-LCD: A good balance between price, quality, and viewing angles. It's the most widely used technology and sufficient for most tasks.
- AMOLED/OLED/Super AMOLED: Pure blacks, superior contrast, and more vibrant colors. Ideal for watching movies, editing photos, or playing games with advanced graphics. They also consume less battery life with dark backgrounds. In high-end models.
- Retina (Apple): High-pixel-density IPS panels; the benchmark for iPads. Similar to 2K, with excellent calibration.
- Others (TFT, WQXGA, etc.): Pay attention to TFT panels only on very cheap tablets; they tend to have narrower viewing angles and poorer color reproduction.
- Aspect ratio: The iPad uses a 4:3 aspect ratio, ideal for reading and browsing. Android and Windows typically offer 16:9 or 16:10, which is wider and better for videos. Choose based on your preferences.
Pro tip: If the screen is a priority (for voracious readers, artists, editors, or gamers), look for models with wide color coverage (sRGB, DCI-P3), a brightness of at least 400 nits, and fast touch response. Eye strain? Choose tablets with low-blue light certification or a reading mode.
Processor and overall performance
The processor is the brain of the tablet and determines its speed, fluidity, and ability to run multiple applications simultaneously. The main manufacturers of tablet processors are Qualcomm (Snapdragon), Apple (A or M series), MediaTek, Samsung (Exynos), and for Windows, Intel and AMD.
- Entry level (basic): Quad-core processors are sufficient for browsing, video, and light apps.
- Mid-range: Current octa-core (8 cores) or Snapdragon/MediaTek processors enable multitasking, moderate gaming, and basic professional apps.
- High-end/professional: Apple M1/M2/M3, Snapdragon 8 Gen2/Gen3, and Intel Core i5/i7 chips. These enable video editing, advanced multitasking, professional use, and demanding graphics.
RAM is equally relevant:
- 3-4GB: Enough for browsing, video, social networking, and light apps.
- 6-8GB: Ideal for modern gaming, basic editing, and multitasking.
- 12 GB or more: Demanded on professional tablets (editing, 3D modeling, multitasking with floating windows, desktop modes, etc.).
Caution: Some manufacturers advertise "virtual" RAM (a portion of the internal storage reserved for RAM). This is useful if the model is very limited, but physical RAM is always preferable for consistent performance.
Always consider the balance between processor and RAM; a powerful chip with little memory, or a lot of RAM with an older chip, is of little use.
Storage: How much do you really need and what expansion options are available?
Internal storage capacity limits the number of apps, games, photos, videos, and documents you can store. This is a key factor for professional or home use.
- Input range: 32 GB (it tends to run out quickly, as the operating system takes up some of the space).
- medium use: 64GB to 128GB. Enough for standard use, gaming, media, and updates.
- Professional or multimedia intensive: 256 GB, 512 GB or more.
Many models include microSD card slot, allowing for cost-effective storage expansion. Others, such as iPads and some premium tablets, don't support physical expansion and only allow access to the cloud.
Advanced Tip: If you plan to work with large files, multimedia applications, or editing, opt for the maximum storage your budget allows. For massive photo or movie storage, opt for models with microSD and always have backups in the cloud.
Operating system: Android, iPadOS or Windows
The operating system influences ease of use, application compatibility, security, and integration with other devices:
- Android (Google): The most widely used, with a wide variety of models, brands, and prices. Highly customizable. Many brands add their own "layer" (Samsung One UI, Xiaomi MIUI, Lenovo ZUI, etc.). App compatibility is immense. Update periods vary depending on the model (Samsung and Xiaomi offer the best support for high-end models, up to 4 years). Learn more about the differences between tablets and iPads..
- iPadOS (Apple): Exclusive to iPad, it stands out for its fluidity, app optimization, and Apple ecosystem. Perfect if you already use an iPhone or Mac. Great update support (more than 5 years on recent models), excellent for productivity, drawing, multimedia, and creative work.
- Windows: Aimed at users looking for a tablet that also doubles as a traditional computer (Microsoft Surface, Lenovo Yoga). Ideal for traditional productivity (Office, x86 apps), but less practical for some touch-based apps and mobile games.
Consider which operating system you use on your other devices; it's useful for syncing files, messages, photos, and taking advantage of features like cloud backup, AirDrop, Samsung Flow, and more.
Expert tip: If you buy an Android tablet, look for recent versions of the operating system and a brand with a clear commitment to updates. For professional use, iPadOS and Windows tend to offer the best optimized apps and the longest lifespan.
Connectivity: WiFi, LTE/5G, Bluetooth and physical ports
Connectivity is essential to deciding whether you'll be able to use your tablet anywhere or only at home or in the office. Here are the points to check:
- WiFi: The basic option is sufficient if you'll always be in places with Wi-Fi. Look for Wi-Fi ac (dual-band) or Wi-Fi 6 for better speeds and stability.
- LTE/5G: If you need internet access while on the go (commuting, fieldwork, traveling), look for models with a SIM slot and 4G or 5G compatibility. This option increases the price and requires a data plan.
- Bluetooth: Important if you're connecting headphones, keyboards, mice, or accessories. Version 5.0 or higher is preferred for lower power consumption and better range.
- Ports: USB-C is the standard in mid- to high-end models and allows for fast charging, accessory connections, external displays, and data transfer. MicroUSB is becoming obsolete. Some models retain 3,5mm headphone jack, essential for latency-free audio.
Key complement: If you're going to use external accessories (keyboard, pen, mouse, USB hub, monitor), make sure the model supports them or has enough ports. For presentations or advanced work, check the possibility of desktop mode (especially Samsung DeX or Windows).
Battery and real autonomy
Autonomy is essential to avoid unpleasant surprises. Always consult the battery capacity (mAh) and the estimated duration in actual use:
- basic use: 5.000-7.000 mAh typically offers 7-10 hours of screen time, enough for browsing, videos, and light tasks.
- Large/Professional Tablets: 8.000-12.000 mAh or more, especially in models larger than 12 inches or with high refresh rate screens.
Factors affecting final battery life include screen type, brightness, use of demanding apps, active mobile connectivity, and operating system power management.
- Fast charge: Many current models support fast charging, or even wireless charging in premium ranges. This allows you to recharge your device in less time, which is essential if you use it for work.
Recommendation: If the tablet will be your primary tool, look for the highest possible battery life and models that have been tested for battery life. Older models experience more pronounced battery deterioration.
Cameras: video calls, work and photography
The rear camera is usually less important than on a mobile phone, but the front camera is essential for video calls, work meetings, online classes, and casual selfies.
- Video calls and professional use: A 5 MP front camera or higher is sufficient, although in high-end models you can find 8, 12, or even dual-lens cameras with wide angle.
- Photography and scanning: The 8- to 13-megapixel rear camera is standard. If you're scanning documents, it's better to use autofocus and flash. There are models with 4K recording and advanced sensors for augmented reality (iPad Pro, Samsung Galaxy Tab S Ultra).
Don't obsess over megapixels; the sensor, optics, and processing software make the difference. In most cases, your phone will have a better camera, but for school or video calling purposes, prioritize a quality front-facing camera and a good microphone and speaker system.
Sound: Speakers and Listening Experience
For many users, audio is key: watching series, listening to music, teleconferencing, or playing games all benefit from good sound.
- Stereo Speakers: Minimal audible distortion. Dual-speaker models offer more immersive sound, and professional models (Samsung Tab S, iPad Pro, Lenovo P12, Xiaomi Pad 6, etc.) include four-speaker systems, some with Dolby Atmos support.
- Headphone Jack: Valuable if you don't want to rely solely on Bluetooth. If you need it, look for models that include it, as more and more are doing without it.
- Hi-Res Audio Support: If you're an audiophile or using your tablet for music editing, look for support for advanced codecs (aptX, LDAC, Hi-Res Audio) and quality output.
Check if your tablet supports spatial audio or surround sound technologies if you're particular about sound.
Accessories: keyboard, pencil, cases and more
The accessory ecosystem can transform a tablet into a much more versatile tool. The most popular ones:
- Physical keyboard: A must-have if you plan on doing a lot of typing or working. There are official (Apple, Samsung, Microsoft) and universal keyboards, with magnetic pin, Bluetooth, or USB-C connections.
- Optical pencil: Essential for drawing, designing, taking notes, signing, or teaching. Models like the Apple Pencil or S Pen (Samsung) offer advanced pressure levels and precision.
- Protective covers: If you'll be taking it outside the home or it will be used by children, invest in good materials (silicone, drop protection, cases with a stand or keyboard).
- Other useful accessories: USB hubs, HDMI adapters, Bluetooth mice, universal styluses, fast chargers, desk stands, and screen protectors (Gorilla Glass or tempered for maximum safety).
Check accessory compatibility before purchasing: some models only work with official accessories, while others support universal alternatives.
Brands, models and value for money
The main brands offer models in all ranges:
- Apple: iPad (standard, mini, Air, Pro). A benchmark for fluidity, apps, and long-term support. Higher price, but great durability.
- Samsung: Galaxy Tab S (high-end and professional), Tab A (mid-range), Tab S FE (versatile and balanced). Excellent support, DeX mode, and accessories.
- Xiaomi: Pad and Pad Pro series, powerful and great value, especially the Pad 6.
- Lenovo: P (premium), M (mid-range), and children's tablets. Long-lasting battery, good sound and display in premium models.
- Huawei, Honor, TCL and other Asian brands: Affordable and functional alternatives, paying attention to app compatibility (no Google on Huawei) and update frequency.
- Microsoft Surface, HP, Dell: For those who need a Windows tablet PC with full application support (drawing, editing, classic productivity).
Check user reviews and expert comparisons to find out the Real quality, software updates, accessory support, and durabilityDon't forget to evaluate the after-sales service and the ease of finding spare parts or accessories in your country.
Software updates and lifespan
A tablet's longevity depends on its update support, both for new features and security. Apple leads this field (more than 5 years of updates), followed by Samsung and Xiaomi on Android (3-4 years for high-end models). Lesser brands and budget models tend to have less commitment.
Key tip: Choose recently released models (less than a year since their release) to ensure longer support and greater compatibility with current apps.
Budget: how much to spend and approximate price ranges
- Less than €150: Basic range, ideal for light browsing, children's use, or simple tasks. Not recommended for gaming, intensive work, or multitasking.
- €150-€400: Mid-range, perfect for most users: good screen, fluidity, multitasking, school and office apps.
- €400-€800: High-end and professional, for those who need maximum quality in everything, creative work, editing, advanced multitasking, and a premium accessory ecosystem.
- More than €800: Niche devices—the iPad Pro, Surface Pro, and Galaxy Tab S Ultra—with cutting-edge specs and geared toward intensive professional work. Only necessary if you can fully exploit their potential.
You can save money by purchasing models from previous years if the differences with the latest generation aren't significant for your use. Avoid reconditioned low-end models unless they come from trusted sellers and come with a warranty.
Advanced shopping tips and tricks to make the most of your budget
- Always compare different stores and online platforms. Check the sale periods: Black Friday, Prime Day, seasonal sales, local festivals, or new model launches.
- Check out real-user reviews, both to spot common issues and to learn about unofficial benefits (good speakers, extra compatibility, etc.).
- If you don't need the latest, wait for sales periods or buy "previous generation" models to get the best value.
- The secondhand market can be interesting for premium tablets (Apple, Samsung, Microsoft), but always check the battery, physical condition, and whether it has a valid warranty.
User profile: Which tablet should you choose based on your profile?
- Children: Rugged, lightweight tablets with durable cases and parental controls. Entry-level models or well-known brands like Lenovo or Samsung. 8-10 inch screens and a minimum of 32GB, expandable with microSD.
- Teenagers/students: Prioritize a 10-11 inch screen, at least 4GB of RAM, good battery life, and a keyboard/pen option. If you're using it intensively, look for models with 128GB or more.
- Professionals: Tablets 12″ and up, high-end processor and RAM, support for official keyboard and pencil, advanced connectivity (WiFi 6, LTE/5G), long battery life and high storage (256GB+). The best graphics tablets are ideal for creatives.
- Readers and multimedia consumption: 10-11 inch models with quality displays (IPS, AMOLED), good sound, and battery life. Compatible with e-book apps and streaming platforms.
- Creatives and designers: High-quality panel, precision stylus, optimized drawing and editing apps (Procreate, Adobe, Affinity) lead the way in this sector.
- Gaming: Top-of-the-range processor, high refresh rate display (90-120 Hz), good RAM and storage, surround sound, and good cooling. The Xiaomi Pad 6 Pro, iPad Pro, and Samsung Galaxy Tab S8/S9 Ultra are ideal.
- Seniors or family use: Ease of use, good visibility (bright and large screen), clear sound, communication and video calling apps, the ability to adjust text size, and accessible controls.
Frequently asked questions before buying a tablet
- What is the key difference between a tablet and a smartphone? La larger screen It allows for a more comfortable viewing experience for multimedia, reading, and work, and offers the option of accessories (keyboard, stylus). Tablets typically lack traditional calls, although some SIM-based versions allow for data and VoIP calls.
- Is LTE/5G necessary? Only if you're going to use the tablet outside your home or office and need a connection without relying on your phone. Otherwise, you can save money by opting for the Wi-Fi-only version.
- Which operating system is easier to use? iPadOS excels at simplicity and optimization. Android offers greater freedom and variety. Windows is perfect for power users and those who need PC programs.
- How long does a tablet battery last? It depends on the model and usage. Typical screen time is between 8 and 12 hours on current models, although total battery life will depend on brightness, apps, and enabled connectivity.
- Is it worth buying a secondhand or refurbished tablet? It can be a good option for high-end models, if you check the actual condition and have a warranty. Avoid used low-end models due to their limited lifespan.
The tablet market is so diverse that there's no single perfect option for everyone. Thoroughly analyze your needs, prioritize between screen, performance, battery life, accessories, and operating system, and compare carefully before purchasing. The balance between Value for money, update support and accessory compatibility will make your investment a useful and satisfying tool for years to come.
