Laptop not slim enough for your zoom-zoom lifestyle? Look at a Windows 11 tablet. Windows tablets can work with a keyboard cover or Bluetooth keyboard to serve as a laptop, functionally speaking, but are detachables (able to jettison their keyboards) rather than 360-degree-rotating convertibles. We treat these tablets much the same as laptops, though, when applying our collective decades of expertise to testing and reviewing them. Since the founding of PC Labs more than 40 years ago, we've tested thousands of mobile PCs. We use repeatable, industry-standard benchmarks to evaluate all aspects of CPU and graphics performance, and assess tablets based on design, usability, connectivity, and battery life. Our current top pick for the best Windows tablet for most people is the Asus ProArt PZ13, ending the Microsoft Surface Pro's lengthy reign at the top of its category. Read on for the rest of our picks.
Overview
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![Asus ProArt PZ13]()
Best Windows Tablet for Most UsersAsus ProArt PZ13
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![Microsoft Surface Pro (2024)]()
Best Copilot+ Windows TabletMicrosoft Surface Pro (2024)
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![Dell Latitude 7350 Detachable]()
Best Windows Tablet for BusinessDell Latitude 7350 Detachable
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![Lenovo ThinkPad X12 Gen 2 Detachable]()
Best Windows Tablet for Overall ValueLenovo ThinkPad X12 Gen 2 Detachable
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![Asus ROG Flow Z13 (2025)]()
Best Windows Tablet for GamingAsus ROG Flow Z13 (2025)
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![Getac F110 G7]()
Best Rugged Windows Tablet OverallGetac F110 G7
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![Microsoft Surface Pro (2025, 12-Inch)]()
Best Windows Tablet for Maximum PortabilityMicrosoft Surface Pro (2025, 12-Inch)
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![DT Research DT302RP Rugged Tablet]()
Best Rugged Windows Tablet for First RespondersDT Research DT302RP Rugged Tablet
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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![Asus ProArt PZ13]()
Best Windows Tablet for Most UsersAsus ProArt PZ13
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Asus has managed to push and keep Microsoft off the top of the Windows tablet heap, thanks to its ProArt PZ13. This 2-in-1 significantly outpaces the Surface Pro in many ways, particularly in terms of value, with the keyboard cover included in its $1,100 list price. This tablet also uses Qualcomm Snapdragon processing, albeit a bit less powerful, but more efficient, with a longer battery life. The tablet also includes an SD card slot and two high-fidelity cameras. At long last, the Surface Pro has been outclassed in a few key ways, mainly down to dollars and cents.
Who It's For
High-end mainstream shoppers: This is the leading Windows tablet for well-to-do general shoppers. The ProArt PZ13 does just about everything the top-end Surface Pro can (or better) for less, all told. Anyone who remembers groaning at the cost of the Surface Pro and its "optional" (read: essential but expensive) accessories will appreciate the Asus ProArt PZ13.
Content creators and digital artists: This Windows tablet is the best choice for creative professionals and people who enjoy using a stylus. Anyone with an occasional creative streak or professional digital drafters needing a capable portable solution while away from the workstation will love the ProArt PZ13 for its creative-specific features.
Specs & Configurations
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) 1 Boot Drive Type SSD Class Detachable 2-in-1 Dimensions (HWD) 0.35 by 11.7 by 8 inches Graphics Processor Qualcomm Adreno GPU Native Display Resolution 2880 by 1800 Operating System Windows 11 Home Panel Technology OLED Processor Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus (X1P-42-100) RAM (as Tested) 16 Screen Refresh Rate 60 Screen Size 13.3 Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) 17:47 Touch Screen Variable Refresh Support None Weight 1.87 Wireless Networking Bluetooth 5.4 Wireless Networking Wi-Fi 7 Learn More Asus ProArt PZ13 Review -
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![Microsoft Surface Pro (2024)]()
Best Copilot+ Windows TabletMicrosoft Surface Pro (2024)
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Microsoft's flagship Copilot+ PC, the "full-size" Surface Pro tablet, in 2024 ditched Intel processing in favor of Qualcomm's newest laptop-grade Snapdragon X mobile chips. These processors boost battery life, maintain performance, and introduce onboard AI processing hardware. Also, the specter of app compatibility is less of a concern with improved emulation and broader app support than ever. The tablet's top-level connectivity and upgraded wireless keyboard cover are side bonuses to the Copilot+ AI features that this device grants access to in Windows 11, like live translation, instant file recall, and automated video meeting enhancements.
Who It's For
Trendy offices and independent contractors: This is a fine-fitting Windows tablet for cutting-edge mobile professionals in high-end offices or client-facing roles with high expectations for appearance. The Surface Pro is one of the most recognizable Windows devices, so it helps round out your professional look while performing well enough (and lasting long enough) to keep up with your work.
Big Windows and Microsoft Copilot fans: This is the top Windows tablet for people who are already big fans of Microsoft products and are enthusiastic about its Copilot AI software. Cutting-edge PC users who are attached to Microsoft hardware should start their search for a Windows tablet with this model. Coming directly from the source, the Surface Pro receives extensive support from Microsoft via Windows updates.
Specs & Configurations
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) 512 Boot Drive Type SSD Class Detachable 2-in-1 Class Ultraportable Dimensions (HWD) 0.37 by 11.3 by 8.2 inches Graphics Processor Qualcomm Adreno GPU Native Display Resolution 2880 by 1920 Operating System Windows 11 Home Panel Technology OLED Processor Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite (X1E80100) RAM (as Tested) 16 Screen Refresh Rate 120 Screen Size 13 Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) 14:23 Touch Screen Variable Refresh Support Dynamic Weight 1.97 Wireless Networking Bluetooth 5.4 Wireless Networking Wi-Fi 7 Learn More Microsoft Surface Pro (2024) Review -
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Credit: Joseph Maldonado
![Dell Latitude 7350 Detachable]()
Best Windows Tablet for BusinessDell Latitude 7350 Detachable
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Dell holds the title for best Windows tablet for business with its updated Latitude 7350 Detachable. The new Latitude tablet achieves all-day battery life while still delivering laptop-grade performance with its Intel Core Ultra processor and ample 32GB of memory. It also has a sharp, 13-inch 2.8K touch screen and cutting-edge Wi-Fi 7 onboard. All this, and an extended warranty, rivals and outdoes the latest Microsoft Surface Pro for businesses needing high-end tablets.
Who It's For
Trendy large and small offices: This high-end tablet is the best Windows-based option to get work done in the field or in offices with high-tech expectations. Dell made a winner with the Latitude 7350, meeting or exceeding all criteria for a leading Windows tablet, producing a first-class device for workers of all (particularly deep-pocketed) sorts. This tablet will perform well as a PC when it's needed and work just as well for presenting information to clients and customers during off-site meetings.
Specs & Configurations
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) 512 Boot Drive Type SSD Class Detachable 2-in-1 Dimensions (HWD) 0.35 by 11.5 by 8.2 inches Graphics Processor Intel Graphics Native Display Resolution 2880 by 1920 Operating System Windows 11 Pro Panel Technology IPS Processor Intel Core Ultra 7 164U RAM (as Tested) 32 Screen Refresh Rate 60 Screen Size 13 Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) 15:26 Touch Screen Variable Refresh Support None Weight 1.76 Wireless Networking Bluetooth 5.4 Wireless Networking Wi-Fi 7 Learn More Dell Latitude 7350 Detachable Review -
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![Lenovo ThinkPad X12 Gen 2 Detachable]()
Best Windows Tablet for Overall ValueLenovo ThinkPad X12 Gen 2 Detachable
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
One of our biggest gripes with most Windows tablets is that they often lack the essential accessories that make using them like laptops possible. Lenovo has addressed the complaints directly with this ThinkPad Windows tablet, which comes complete with accessories in the box. The Lenovo ThinkPad X12 Gen 2 Detachable is not the most potent Windows slate we've seen, but the lower price and value-added package help make up for that, not to mention the signature ThinkPad design and effective cameras.
Who It's For
Price-conscious fleet managers and contractors: This is the leading Windows tablet option for IT fleet buyers looking to maximize savings. Workers handling minor documents, presentations, and spreadsheet manipulation will find this ThinkPad extremely useful. If that fits your organization's specific needs or your individual needs as a freelancer, this is the Windows tablet to buy.
Budget-strapped family shoppers: This Windows tablet also works well for family or general buyers looking to avoid spending extra. The ThinkPad X12 is one of the few Windows tablets that includes every expected accessory in the box, with a stylus and keyboard cover baked into the price. As long as you can tolerate the overtly business-like aesthetic, this ThinkPad is an incredible value.
Specs & Configurations
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) 512 Boot Drive Type SSD Class Detachable 2-in-1 Dimensions (HWD) 0.22 by 11 by 8 inches Graphics Processor Intel Graphics Native Display Resolution 1920 by 1280 Operating System Windows 11 Pro Panel Technology IPS Processor Intel Core Ultra 5 134U RAM (as Tested) 16 Screen Refresh Rate 60 Screen Size 12.3 Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) 11:39 Touch Screen Variable Refresh Support None Weight 1.67 Wireless Networking Bluetooth 5.3 Wireless Networking Wi-Fi 6E Learn More Lenovo ThinkPad X12 Gen 2 Detachable Review -
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![Asus ROG Flow Z13 (2025)]()
Best Windows Tablet for GamingAsus ROG Flow Z13 (2025)
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Gaming on tablets has been popular for years, particularly with the iPad. However, the latest ROG Flow Z13 appeals to fans of PC gaming in particular, as it is a Windows tablet with high-end processing. The AMD Ryzen AI Max+ chip inside can tackle many top-tier PC games, and the tablet has access to even more powerful graphics with Asus' optional add-on, a USB-C-based external GPU. But back to the tablet itself: This year's Flow impresses with its long battery life (despite an elite power profile) and a sharp, vibrant touch screen.
Who It's For
PC gamers seeking a hyper-mobile option: This is the best Windows tablet for PC gamers. The ROG Flow Z13 works excellently for PC gamers who need to keep up with their favorite games at maximum portability with minimal sacrifice to performance. As a long-lasting tablet with a powerful chip inside and access to even more power if necessary, the ROG Flow Z13 is the top tablet to provide PC gamers with their gaming fix while on the go.
Specs & Configurations
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) 1 Boot Drive Type SSD Class Detachable 2-in-1 Class Gaming Dimensions (HWD) 0.51 by 11.81 by 8.03 inches Graphics Processor AMD Radeon 8060S Graphics Native Display Resolution 2,560 by 1,600 Operating System Windows 11 Home Panel Technology IPS Processor AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 RAM (as Tested) 32 Screen Refresh Rate 180 Screen Size 13.4 Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) 13:17 Touch Screen Variable Refresh Support None Weight 2.64 Learn More Asus ROG Flow Z13 (2025) Review -
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![Getac F110 G7]()
Best Rugged Windows Tablet OverallGetac F110 G7
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
This is a modern, fully rugged tablet with 13th Gen Intel processing, accessed via a sunlight-legible and glove-compatible touch screen. The F110 also comes with numerous expansion options, as well as swappable batteries and storage drives, allowing for extended visits to the field. Getac sweetens the deal with a generous three-year warranty to ensure your purchase is secure. All together, that makes the F110 the mainstream rugged Windows tablet to beat right now.
Who It's For
Mainstream field or off-site workers: This is the Windows tablet to beat for most professionals working in the field or frequently attending off-site meetings. If you work in a profession requiring you to use a computer outdoors, or you're an IT manager making these decisions for a fleet of such professionals, the F110 should be an early stop in your search. It's portable enough to take along on job-site visits, able to resist minor drops and water exposure with an IP66 durability rating and a MIL-STD-461G certification for guaranteed compatibility with nearby electromagnetic environments.
Specs & Configurations
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) 1 Boot Drive Type SSD Class Detachable 2-in-1 Class Rugged Dimensions (HWD) 0.98 by 12.4 by 8.15 inches Graphics Processor Intel UHD Graphics Native Display Resolution 1920 by 1080 Operating System Windows 11 Pro Panel Technology IPS Processor Intel Core i7-1365U Processor Speed 1.8 RAM (as Tested) 32 Screen Refresh Rate 60 Screen Size 11.6 Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) 11:06 Touch Screen Variable Refresh Support None Weight 3.29 Wireless Networking 802.11ax Wireless Networking Bluetooth 5.3 Learn More Getac F110 (G7, 2025) Review -
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![Microsoft Surface Pro (2025, 12-Inch)]()
Best Windows Tablet for Maximum PortabilityMicrosoft Surface Pro (2025, 12-Inch)
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Microsoft’s latest Surface Pro tablet, with a sized-down display at 12 inches, is all about computing on the go, whether with or without its keyboard attachment. The tablet portion is highly portable, weighing just 1.5 pounds and measuring only 0.30 inch thick without the keyboard cover. While not quite the battery marathon runner that many Arm-based clamshell laptops are, this tablet’s battery life is long enough to last through a lengthy business trip or a prolonged commute.
Who It's For
Frequent travelers and commuters: This Windows tablet is an excellent choice for people who travel often for business or leisure. The latest 12-inch Surface Pro is extremely thin and lightweight, making it ideal for toting around in a backpack. It’s also a relatively long-lasting device for generous uptime between charges.
Nomadic note-takers and digital artists: This is a fine Windows tablet for artists and other content creators who rely on a touch screen and a stylus. Thanks to its portable design and top-notch (albeit optional) stylus pen, the Surface Pro works especially well for digital artists who need a mobile solution to keep their projects going when on the move.
Specs & Configurations
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) 512 Boot Drive Type UFS (Universal Flash Storage) Class Detachable 2-in-1 Class Ultraportable Dimensions (HWD) 0.30 by 10.8 by 7.5 inches Graphics Processor Qualcomm Adreno GPU Native Display Resolution 2,196 by 1,464 Operating System Windows 11 Home Panel Technology IPS Processor Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus (X1P-42-100) RAM (as Tested) 16 Screen Refresh Rate 90 Screen Size 12 Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) 17:35 Touch Screen Variable Refresh Support Yes Weight 1.5 Wireless Networking Bluetooth 5.4 Wireless Networking Wi-Fi 7 Learn More Microsoft Surface Pro (2025, 12-Inch) Review -
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![DT Research DT302RP Rugged Tablet]()
Best Rugged Windows Tablet for First RespondersDT Research DT302RP Rugged Tablet
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Our pick for the best rugged Windows tablet would be suitable for first responders, but workers in those fields might need something more compact and even more ruggedized instead. With a 10.1-inch, sunlight-legible display in a lightweight magnesium-aluminum frame, the DT Research DT302RP is ideal for emergency response, police officers, or operators in armed conflict scenarios. This is underscored by key factors, including a long-lived, hot-swappable battery and a rugged design that exceeds MIL-STD 810H requirements. The included stylus with built-in storage is a bonus.
Who It's For
Extreme first-response workers: This is an excellent Windows tablet for first responders in extreme situations such as disastrous weather, police and fire, and combat scenarios. The DT Research DT302RP fills a niche for field workers who need a rugged yet highly portable device. Additional features, such as magnetic port covers, reassure anyone who needs to take Windows apps into harm's way. The hot-swappable batteries help the tablet last through extended field visits or deployments, too.
Specs & Configurations
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) 1 Boot Drive Type SSD Class Rugged Dimensions (HWD) 7.7 by 10.7 by 0.79 inches Graphics Processor Intel Iris Xe Graphics Native Display Resolution 1920 by 1200 Operating System Windows 11 Panel Technology IPS Processor Intel Core i7-1355U RAM (as Tested) 32 Screen Refresh Rate 60 Screen Size 10.1 Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) 8:07 Touch Screen Variable Refresh Support None Weight 3 Wireless Networking 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) Wireless Networking Bluetooth 5.2 Learn More DT Research DT302RP Rugged Tablet Review -
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Best For | Best Windows Tablet for Most Users | Best Copilot+ Windows Tablet | Best Windows Tablet for Business | Best Windows Tablet for Overall Value | Best Windows Tablet for Gaming | Best Rugged Windows Tablet Overall | Best Windows Tablet for Maximum Portability | Best Rugged Windows Tablet for First Responders | Best Windows Tablet for Most Users | Best Copilot+ Windows Tablet | Best Windows Tablet for Business |
Class | Detachable 2-in-1 | Detachable 2-in-1, Ultraportable | Detachable 2-in-1 | Detachable 2-in-1 | Gaming, Detachable 2-in-1 | Detachable 2-in-1, Rugged | Detachable 2-in-1, Ultraportable | Rugged | Detachable 2-in-1 | Detachable 2-in-1, Ultraportable | Detachable 2-in-1 |
Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus (X1P-42-100) | Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite (X1E80100) | Intel Core Ultra 7 164U | Intel Core Ultra 5 134U | AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 | Intel Core i7-1365U | Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus (X1P-42-100) | Intel Core i7-1355U | Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus (X1P-42-100) | Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite (X1E80100) | Intel Core Ultra 7 164U |
Processor Speed | 1.8 | ||||||||||
RAM (as Tested) | 16 | 16 | 32 | 16 | 32 | 32 | 16 | 32 | 16 | 16 | 32 |
Boot Drive Type | SSD | SSD | SSD | SSD | SSD | SSD | UFS (Universal Flash Storage) | SSD | SSD | SSD | SSD |
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) | 1 | 512 | 512 | 512 | 1 | 1 | 512 | 1 | 1 | 512 | 512 |
Secondary Drive Type | |||||||||||
Secondary Drive Capacity (as Tested) | |||||||||||
Optical Drive | |||||||||||
Screen Size | 13.3 | 13 | 13 | 12.3 | 13.4 | 11.6 | 12 | 10.1 | 13.3 | 13 | 13 |
Native Display Resolution | 2880 by 1800 | 2880 by 1920 | 2880 by 1920 | 1920 by 1280 | 2,560 by 1,600 | 1920 by 1080 | 2,196 by 1,464 | 1920 by 1200 | 2880 by 1800 | 2880 by 1920 | 2880 by 1920 |
Touch Screen | |||||||||||
Panel Technology | OLED | OLED | IPS | IPS | IPS | IPS | IPS | IPS | OLED | OLED | IPS |
Variable Refresh Support | None | Dynamic | None | None | None | None | None | None | Dynamic | None | |
Screen Refresh Rate | 60 | 120 | 60 | 60 | 180 | 60 | 90 | 60 | 60 | 120 | 60 |
Graphics Processor | Qualcomm Adreno GPU | Qualcomm Adreno GPU | Intel Graphics | Intel Graphics | AMD Radeon 8060S Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics | Qualcomm Adreno GPU | Intel Iris Xe Graphics | Qualcomm Adreno GPU | Qualcomm Adreno GPU | Intel Graphics |
Graphics Memory | |||||||||||
Wireless Networking | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 | Bluetooth 5.4, Wi-Fi 7 | Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 6E | 802.11ax, Bluetooth 5.3 | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 | 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6), Bluetooth 5.2 | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 | Bluetooth 5.4, Wi-Fi 7 | |
Dimensions (HWD) | 0.35 by 11.7 by 8 inches | 0.37 by 11.3 by 8.2 inches | 0.35 by 11.5 by 8.2 inches | 0.22 by 11 by 8 inches | 0.51 by 11.81 by 8.03 inches | 0.98 by 12.4 by 8.15 inches | 0.30 by 10.8 by 7.5 inches | 7.7 by 10.7 by 0.79 inches | 0.35 by 11.7 by 8 inches | 0.37 by 11.3 by 8.2 inches | 0.35 by 11.5 by 8.2 inches |
Weight | 1.87 | 1.97 | 1.76 | 1.67 | 2.64 | 3.29 | 1.5 | 3 | 1.87 | 1.97 | 1.76 |
Operating System | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Pro |
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) | 17:47 | 14:23 | 15:26 | 11:39 | 13:17 | 11:06 | 17:35 | 8:07 | 17:47 | 14:23 | 15:26 |
Buying Guide: The Best Windows Tablets for 2026
Like the Apple iPads that sparked them, Windows tablets come in a range of sizes, computing power, and prices, with no single slate best serving every user's needs. All current models now run Windows 11. As you begin shopping, you'll find that they fall into a few different categories and don't parallel the same concerns you have when shopping for the best laptop.
First are inexpensive models with 10-inch screens, designed to let you browse the web and stream movies from Netflix or Amazon Prime. Because these budget devices typically rely on low-power processors and minimal storage, they're better suited as a secondary or tertiary device to complement your laptop or smartphone. In other words, these aren't full-powered devices that are a good replacement for a conventional laptop PC.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)Then, you have larger 12- and 13-inch tablets designed to work with an included or optional stylus pen and docking keyboard. These provide a better way to take notes in class, type up an email, or write a term paper, and they generally offer a well-rounded Windows experience. The leading example is the popular Microsoft Surface Pro. Microsoft remains the dominant company in this market.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)Finally, you'll find premium and business systems designed as productivity tools rather than media consumption devices. Two other major PC companies, Dell and Lenovo, have dabbled in these with their Latitude (now discontinued) and ThinkPad lines, respectively. The Microsoft Surface Pros also qualify for this category.
What's the Right Processor to Get in a Windows Tablet?
Windows tablets have evolved into either luxury entertainment and creativity devices or potent productivity tools. How do you know which to buy depending on your needs? As with conventional laptops, a lot comes down to the processor.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)Some budget Windows tablets might use Intel's more basic Core processors (i series or non-Ultra Core). These CPUs can operate without built-in cooling fans and provide quite a few hours, or even a day or two, of light use without requiring a power source or recharging. Low-power processors like these, however, definitely lack the processing power you need for applications like Adobe Photoshop. Still, they are fine for checking email or Facebook and then kicking back with some streaming videos, and the battery draw may be less, leading to longer running time between charges.
At the other end of the tablet CPU spectrum are Intel's Core i and Core Ultra processors, also seen in full-fledged laptops. While these CPUs draw more power and require additional cooling hardware, they're much more capable, allowing you to run demanding applications. Slates with these chips are priced more like laptops (usually over $1,000), but you get performance to match their higher cost.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)Some of the best Windows tablets have ditched Intel processors in favor of Arm-based alternatives from companies like Qualcomm and MediaTek. Expect to continue to see more Windows tablets featuring Qualcomm's Snapdragon X processors alongside Intel's "Lunar Lake" chips and AMD's Strix Point chips. These particular silicon solutions have AI-ready hardware, designed with leading-edge efficiency in mind. Their neural processing units (NPUs) are core clusters that handle AI-specific tasks such as automatic system optimizations.
We have yet to test any Windows tablets for review containing the latest Intel Core Ultra Series 3 ("Panther Lake"), AMD Ryzen AI 400, and Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 series of processors, but they are coming. (Indeed, Microsoft has teased Core Ultra Series 3 Surface models for business.) Also, expect the prices of these newest-generation models to be higher than those of their predecessors, due to the ongoing memory shortage.
Recommended by Our Editors
While Windows on Arm OS is not 100% compatible with all Windows software, an impressive amount of native Arm-optimized software runs well, and a broad swath of apps will run fine through Microsoft's Prism emulation scheme. Full x86 compatibility isn't quite there yet, but this is the best Windows on Arm has ever been, and it's unlikely to fizzle out, unlike previous pushes.
Windows Tablet Security and Connectivity
Once you've decided which processor will fit your usage pattern, it's time to move on to the features that make handheld PCs far more flexible than conventional laptops. Sensors also seen in smartphones bring new ways to interact with your PC, with accelerometers, gyroscopes, and e-compasses providing positional awareness for both automatic screen rotation and new immersive applications.
Microsoft even has a Windows tablet version of Face ID, which lets you unlock your Apple iPhone or iPad Pro simply by looking at it. Called Windows Hello, it's also available on laptops and desktops, but it is most useful on tablets that don't have a keyboard handy to enter a secure password.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)Let's not forget tablets' touch screens. With capacitive screens that track five or ten fingertips at a time, you can pinch, swipe, and tap your way through any task, even those that would have required a keyboard and mouse years ago. Many tablets also come with optional digital pens or styluses. Some are housed in "garages" or holes in the tablet chassis that secure the stylus and charge its battery. Others must be carried separately or cling magnetically to one of the slate's edges. A few newer models also house the stylus in the screen-facing fold of the tablet's keyboard base, a smart innovation.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)There's also the question of connectivity. With eminently portable designs, it's only natural that some users want tablets with Wi-Fi internet access and the same no-hotspot-required mobile broadband they enjoy on their smartphones. Several of the top Windows tablets on the market offer 5G and LTE connectivity compatible with a mobile phone plan.
Don't Overlook the Convertible Hybrid
Finally, what if you simply can't live without a real keyboard but don't want the hassle of carrying a separate one? As we mentioned, convertible laptops offer keyboards that fold around the back so you can use them as a laptop or tablet or propped up in presentation or kiosk mode. We've focused on detachable Windows tablets here, but to learn more about convertibles, see our roundup of the best 2-in-1 laptops, which includes both kinds.
The switch from a laptop to a tablet isn't without its issues. The thin confines of a tablet make worries about heat buildup all the more critical—especially when that heat is literally in your hand. Relying on a touch screen alone introduces a new source of frustration when taps and touches fail to register properly, and keyboard docks and accessories also increase the risk of losing a valuable part of your PC when you're out and about. (Say what you will about tablets: You'll never misplace your keyboard while using a conventional laptop.)
Ready to Buy the Right Windows Tablet for You?
We've demonstrated that we've waded through the current tablets available and tested and compared many more in recent years to discover what works and what doesn't. So, check out the rest of our recommendations if the familiar Surface Pro is out of your price range, battery-life comfort zone, or usage profile. If you're set on a Surface model but unsure which one to choose, an excellent additional resource is our guide on which Microsoft Surface to buy.
And if you're not married to Windows, read our roundup of the best tablets overall and our look at the best Android-based models. (Our overall best laptops roundup is worth a look, too, if you're on the fence between a Windows tablet and a classic clamshell laptop.)