Android tablets have grown from unwieldy, oversized phones to exceptional tools for productivity and entertainment as the operating system has matured and app makers have embraced larger screens. PCMag has been reviewing Android slates since the Nexus 7 over a decade ago, so we know the full scope of progress and the aspects most important to the experience. Our current Editors' Choice selections are the low-cost Amazon Fire HD 10, the value-minded Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+, and the midrange Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE+. All these slates are more than capable of browsing the web, playing games, and streaming movies. But you should still click through to our full reviews of each model below since one might suit your particular needs better. Keep scrolling past the list for some useful advice to keep in mind while shopping.
Overview
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![Amazon Fire HD 10]()
Best Amazon Tablet OverallAmazon Fire HD 10
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![Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+]()
Best Value Android TabletSamsung Galaxy Tab A9+
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![Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE+]()
Best Midrange Android TabletSamsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE+
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![Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra]()
Best Flagship Android TabletSamsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra
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![Lenovo Idea Tab Pro]()
Best for Creators and StudentsLenovo Idea Tab Pro
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![RedMagic Astra]()
Best Tablet for GamingRedMagic Astra
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![Amazon Fire HD 8 (2024)]()
Best for PortabilityAmazon Fire HD 8 (2024)
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![Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids (2024 Release)]()
Best Tablet for KidsAmazon Fire HD 8 Kids (2024 Release)
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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![Amazon Fire HD 10]()
Best Amazon Tablet OverallAmazon Fire HD 10
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Amazon Fire HD 10 is great for media playback thanks to its 10-inch, 1,920-by-1,200-pixel screen and surprisingly loud speakers. It can also handle casual games and light productivity tasks. You get either 32GB or 64GB of internal storage, but can add up to 1TB of additional space via a microSD card.
Who It's For
Streaming fans: With its full HD screen and solid speakers, the Fire HD 10 is an excellent media machine. Streaming movies from Amazon or Netflix is no problem for this tablet, and you don't need a lot of internal storage space to enjoy media.
Casual tablet users: If you want a larger screen for basic tasks, the Fire HD 10 is a straightforward option. Web browsing and light gaming are no problem for this affordable slate. Please note that Google apps are not compatible with Amazon tablets.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life 10 hours, 18 minutes CPU MediaTek Dimensions 9.69 by 6.49 by 0.34 inches Operating System Amazon Fire OS Screen Resolution 1,920 by 1,200 pixels Screen Size 10.1 Storage Capacity 32 Weight 15.3 Learn More Amazon Fire HD 10 Review -
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![Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+]()
Best Value Android TabletSamsung Galaxy Tab A9+
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
At a price of just over $200, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ offers a spacious 1,920-by-1,200-pixel display and matches the performance of more expensive tablets, thanks to its Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 chip. It comes with just 64GB of storage to start, but a microSD card slot lets you add up to 1TB. Finally, the device features a streamlined design and will get OS and security updates through the fall of 2027.
Who It's For
Power users on a budget: Even though the Tab A9+ is a low-priced device, it offers a lot. The tablet includes Samsung's productivity software, such as advanced multitasking, and offers a desktop-like experience with DeX.
Throwback enthusiasts: If you want a tablet with a headphone jack and a microSD card slot for added storage, the Tab A9+ has you covered. You can plug in your old wired headphones for great audio or pop in a memory card up to 1TB for all your movies, music, TV shows, and more.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life 7 hours CPU Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 Dimensions 10.1 by 6.6 by 0.3 inches Operating System Android 13 Screen Resolution 1,920 by 1,200 pixels Screen Size 11 Storage Capacity 64 Weight 1.06 Learn More Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ Review -
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![Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE+]()
Best Midrange Android TabletSamsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE+
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The reasonably priced Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ offers an Exynos 1580 processor, a 13.1-inch screen with a 2,880-by-1,800-pixel resolution, excellent battery life, and a microSD slot that supports cards of up to 2TB. It also uses quality materials and sports an IP68 rating, meaning it's fully dustproof and waterproof. Artists should like the included S Pen stylus as well. Samsung's productivity and multitasking software is excellent too, and its promise of seven Android OS updates and security patches is top-notch.
Who It's For
Artists: The Tab S10 FE+ includes an S Pen, so if you want to draw or map things out, you can do that at no extra cost. The stylus's low latency makes the writing experience feel natural, allowing you to focus on what you're doing.
Poolside tablet users: If you want to use a tablet by a pool or other body of water, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ is a good choice. Its IP68 rating means it can withstand water splashes and being submerged in water without damage.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life 7 hours, 45 minutes CPU Samsung Exynos 1580 Dimensions 7.66 by 11.83 by 0.24 inches Operating System Android 15 Screen Resolution 2,880 by 1,800 pixels Screen Size 13.1 Storage Capacity 128 Weight 1.46 Learn More Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ Review -
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![Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra]()
Best Flagship Android TabletSamsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra is Android's answer to the iPad Pro. Highlights include a massive 14.6-inch display with a resolution of 2,960 by 1,848 pixels and 1,600 nits of brightness, a speedy MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ processor, 12GB of RAM, and a minimum of 512GB of storage. Excellent multitasking software and an IP68 durability rating round out the features, and it outperforms most other Android tablets in battery life.
Who It's For
People who want the best iPad alternative: If you don't want an iPad but still desire a high-end slate, the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra is your top Android option. It features a high-quality build with top internal components to provide a true premium experience.
Big-screen fans: With a 14.6-inch OLED display, the Tab S11 Ultra has a gorgeous screen with vibrant colors and deep blacks that's one of the biggest available on a tablet. The screen's 120Hz refresh rate animates motion smoothly, while its 1,600-nit brightness and anti-reflective coating make it easier to see outdoors.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life 11 hours, 10 minutes CPU MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ Dimensions 8.21 by 12.85 by 0.20 inches Operating System Android 16 Screen Resolution 2,960 by 1,848 pixels Screen Size 14.6 Storage Capacity 256 Weight 1.53 Learn More Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra Review -
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![Lenovo Idea Tab Pro]()
Best for Creators and StudentsLenovo Idea Tab Pro
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Lenovo Idea Tab Pro comes equipped with a stylus for drawing and note-taking, along with strong multimedia support with productivity-tuned software, making it well-suited for students and artists alike. Its large screen, smooth performance, expandable storage, and solid battery life only add to its appeal.
Who It's For
Big-screen fans on a budget: The Idea Tab Pro packs a 12.7-inch LCD with a high resolution and a refresh rate up to 144Hz for crisp images and smooth animations.
People who prioritize productivity: Lenovo pushes its Android software to provide a more productive experience. The tablet supports up to three apps on the screen at once (instead of Android's default two) and comes with a PC Mode for a more desktop-like experience. If you need to get work done away from a laptop, the Idea Tab Pro provides the screen and multitasking tools to do it.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life 8 hours, 21 minutes CPU MediaTek Dimensity 8300 Dimensions 7.44 by 11.49 by 0.27 inches Operating System Android 14 Screen Resolution 2,944 by 1,840 pixels Screen Size 12.7 Storage Capacity 128 Weight 1.37 Learn More Lenovo Idea Tab Pro Review -
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![RedMagic Astra]()
Best Tablet for GamingRedMagic Astra
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The RedMagic Astra is a compact tablet with top-tier performance. It packs a high-end Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor into an appealing 9.1-inch design, with good battery life and pass-through charging, making it an excellent portable gaming machine. In addition to its impressive performance, the tablet also boasts fast radios, customized gaming tools, and decent cameras.
Who It's For
Serious gamers: The Astra is a gaming tablet first and foremost. Its fast processor, plentiful RAM, and responsiveness let you play the most demanding games even at their highest settings. Its pass-through charging lets you game without worrying about battery health, either.
Small tablet fans: If you want a tablet that easily fits into a small bag or cross-body satchel, the Astra is the perfect choice. Its display is gorgeous and detailed, but it's just over 9 inches. RedMagic surrounds the screen with a thin bezel, so the Astra is not much larger than the screen itself.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life 9 hours, 30 minutes CPU Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Dimensions 5.28 by 8.15 by 0.27 inches Operating System Android 15 Screen Resolution 2,400 by 1,504 pixels Screen Size 9.06 Storage Capacity 256 Weight 0.82 Learn More RedMagic Astra Review -
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![Amazon Fire HD 8 (2024)]()
Best for PortabilityAmazon Fire HD 8 (2024)
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Fire HD 8's screen is an inch larger than that of the Fire 7 and benefits from a resolution bump to 1,280 by 800 pixels (compared with 1,024 by 600 pixels). Therefore, it's a better choice for gaming and HD video playback. It also offers solid battery life, lasting 9 hours and 41 minutes in our tests.
Who It's For
Budget-minded streamers: The Fire HD 8 gives you good battery life and enough power to stream shows and play casual games, all for about $100.
Travelers: Lightweight and inexpensive, the Fire HD 8 is an easy grab-and-go tablet for flights and road trips. Download ebooks and podcasts, stream music, and handle light web tasks without lugging a laptop.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life 9 hours, 41 minutes CPU Hexa-core 2.0 GHz Dimensions 7.94 by 5.40 by 0.37 inches Operating System Amazon Fire OS Screen Resolution 1,280 by 800 pixels Screen Size 8 Storage Capacity 32 Weight 11.88 Learn More Amazon Fire HD 8 (2024) Review -
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![Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids (2024 Release)]()
Best Tablet for KidsAmazon Fire HD 8 Kids (2024 Release)
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
This tablet offers everything we like about the regular Fire HD 8, but is specifically great for kids because it comes with a durable kickstand case and a two-year warranty. You also get a six-month trial subscription to Amazon Kids+, which unlocks access to an age-appropriate library of smaller-format picture books, videos, and games. That service ordinarily costs $48 per year for Prime members and $79 for everyone else.
Who It's For
Parents and kids: The included heavy-duty case and two-year worry-free warranty make this an easy choice for younger kids. Robust parental controls, along with the optional Amazon Kids+ service, help you manage content and screen time.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Life 9 hours, 41 minutes CPU Hexa-core 2.0 GHz Dimensions 8.7 by 7.1 by 1.1 inches Operating System Amazon Fire OS Screen Resolution 1,280 by 800 pixels Screen Size 8 Storage Capacity 32 Weight 18.3 Learn More Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids (2024) Review -
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Best For | Best Amazon Tablet Overall | Best Value Android Tablet | Best Midrange Android Tablet | Best Flagship Android Tablet | Best for Creators and Students | Best Tablet for Gaming | Best for Portability | Best Tablet for Kids | Best Amazon Tablet Overall | Best Value Android Tablet | Best Midrange Android Tablet |
Operating System | Amazon Fire OS | Android 13 | Android 15 | Android 16 | Android 14 | Android 15 | Amazon Fire OS | Amazon Fire OS | Amazon Fire OS | Android 13 | Android 15 |
Dimensions | 9.69 by 6.49 by 0.34 inches | 10.1 by 6.6 by 0.3 inches | 7.66 by 11.83 by 0.24 inches | 8.21 by 12.85 by 0.20 inches | 7.44 by 11.49 by 0.27 inches | 5.28 by 8.15 by 0.27 inches | 7.94 by 5.40 by 0.37 inches | 8.7 by 7.1 by 1.1 inches | 9.69 by 6.49 by 0.34 inches | 10.1 by 6.6 by 0.3 inches | 7.66 by 11.83 by 0.24 inches |
Weight | 15.3 | 1.06 | 1.46 | 1.53 | 1.37 | 0.82 | 11.88 | 18.3 | 15.3 | 1.06 | 1.46 |
Screen Size | 10.1 | 11 | 13.1 | 14.6 | 12.7 | 9.06 | 8 | 8 | 10.1 | 11 | 13.1 |
Screen Resolution | 1,920 by 1,200 pixels | 1,920 by 1,200 pixels | 2,880 by 1,800 pixels | 2,960 by 1,848 pixels | 2,944 by 1,840 pixels | 2,400 by 1,504 pixels | 1,280 by 800 pixels | 1,280 by 800 pixels | 1,920 by 1,200 pixels | 1,920 by 1,200 pixels | 2,880 by 1,800 pixels |
CPU | MediaTek | Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 | Samsung Exynos 1580 | MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ | MediaTek Dimensity 8300 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite | Hexa-core 2.0 GHz | Hexa-core 2.0 GHz | MediaTek | Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 | Samsung Exynos 1580 |
Storage Capacity | 32 | 64 | 128 | 256 | 128 | 256 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 64 | 128 |
Battery Life | 10 hours, 18 minutes | 7 hours | 7 hours, 45 minutes | 11 hours, 10 minutes | 8 hours, 21 minutes | 9 hours, 30 minutes | 9 hours, 41 minutes | 9 hours, 41 minutes | 10 hours, 18 minutes | 7 hours | 7 hours, 45 minutes |
Buying Guide: The Best Android Tablets for 2026
The State of Android Tablets
It's easy to find a budget-friendly Android tablet thanks to an endless supply of no-name, plasticky sub-$100 slates through mysterious "Fulfilled by Amazon" drop shippers. Many of these off-label tabs are serviceable, but we recommend choosing a brand you can count on for hardware quality control and software support. For more details, see our favorite budget-friendly models.
Android tablet innovation was quite stagnant for a while, but Lenovo and Samsung continue to try to blur the line between tablets and laptops. Amazon firmly owns the affordable end of the market with its Fire tablets.
Is Android a Good Operating System for Tablets?
Although Android has improved as a tablet operating system over time, some of the best ideas still come from hardware manufacturers like Lenovo and Samsung. Both companies typically outfit their tablets with custom productivity software and other features that make them work more smoothly. As for third-party software, Android is home to many excellent apps, though some are still not optimized for the big screen.
Google, Lenovo, and Samsung now publicly state how long their tablets will receive OS and security updates. In the past, you could pick up an Android tablet and have almost no information about when or if it would ever get an update. Those days are generally behind us, and this is something you should make sure you know before you buy.
Amazon is an entirely different animal. Its Fire tablets run Fire OS, which is built on Android but exists primarily to highlight Amazon's services. You can add the Google Play Store to an Amazon Fire tablet with a bit of work, but it's not a great (or officially sanctioned) workaround. Amazon devices also tend to target people who want to consume media rather than create content.
Should You Buy a Cellular or Wi-Fi Android Tablet?
All the major carriers provide a selection of cellular-capable tablets. You can easily find them at a discount when you upgrade your plan or buy a new smartphone.
Frequent travelers and commuters are likely to find cellular connectivity invaluable, but if you primarily use your tablet for streaming at home, a Wi-Fi-only model is perfectly fine. If you ever do need to take a non-cellular tablet on the go, most carriers allow you to use your phone as a mobile hotspot.
Recommended by Our Editors
Using your phone as a hotspot quickly depletes its battery, so you might also need to pick up a power bank. Just make sure to check out the details of your phone plan before making any decisions, because some carriers limit the amount of data you can use as a mobile hotspot.
What Specs Do You Need in an Android Tablet?
At a minimum, you should look for an Android tablet with at least 4GB of RAM for smooth switching between media streaming and web surfing. A midrange MediaTek processor should be fine for most tasks, but a higher-end one like the MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ in Samsung's Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra unlocks high-end mobile gaming potential. Note, however, that the Amazon models get away with less RAM and slower chips because of their performance optimizations.
We also recommend at least 128GB of storage for midrange and higher-end tablets and, ideally, a microSD card slot for additional storage. Basic models are generally fine with just 64GB because they can't run the advanced games and applications that take up a lot of space anyway. Stay away from tablets with only 32GB of storage.
Low-cost tablets tend to have dull 720p (or even lower-resolution) screens that look grainy. If you want a better viewing experience, opt for at least a 1080p or 2K display.
Rear cameras aren’t too important for tablets, but make sure your device has a respectable front-facing camera for video calls. Remember that 2MP is the minimum for 720p video, so use that as a cutoff in your searches.
Just as specs won't change over time, neither will the build quality. Think twice before buying a tablet with a flimsy plastic body, and make sure whatever you choose feels comfortable to hold. Some tablet makers even specify an IP rating for their devices, which can be important if you plan to use your slate on your porch, in your backyard, or near your pool.
Finally, if you want a top-notch phone to complement your tablet, head to our roundup of the best Android phones. Or, if you want to look beyond the realm of Android, consider our roundups of the best tablets overall, which include our favorite iPads.