Tablets have become the go-to devices for filling gaps in the world of gadgets. Whether you’re on a plane and want something portable yet slightly larger than your phone for reading comics or watching movies, or if you need a shared device for your living room to control smart home devices, shop, or scroll through social media, a slim tablet is a convenient option. Additionally, tablets can now replace laptops for work or school, offering a sleek and portable solution.

We’ve adjusted the categories in this guide for 2025 to reflect the fact that users often stick to their preferred ecosystem. If you’re an Android user, it’s unlikely you’ll switch to an iPad, and the same goes for Apple or Windows fans. We’re now recommending the most powerful and best tablets for each operating system, along with additional picks for specific use cases.

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Important Things to Consider Before Buying a Tablet

Before choosing a tablet, consider how you plan to use it. If you only need a device to keep a child occupied, buying a brand-new iPad Pro might not be the best choice. On the other hand, if you want to use a tablet for video editing or drawing, you’ll need to prioritize performance and stylus support.

Think about how often you’ll travel with the device and whether you’ll use it for productivity or more casual activities like browsing the web or streaming shows. Battery life is also an essential factor, as larger devices tend to have longer runtimes, but may be less portable.

What Size Screen Do I Need?

Determining the right screen size depends on your intended use. Larger displays make it easier to view two apps side by side and provide a more immersive movie experience. However, the larger the tablet, the less likely you’ll want to move it around. Consider your workspace and daily routine when choosing a screen size.

Best Tablets for 2025

Apple

Display: 11- or 13-inch 120Hz tandem OLED XDR touchscreen | CPU: Apple M4 | Storage: Up to 2TB | Battery life: Up to 10 hours | Camera: 12MP rear, 12MP front

Read our full Apple iPad Pro (M4) review

The Apple iPad Pro (M4) is a powerful device, with a more powerful chip than the MacBook Air and an excellent OLED screen. It’s available in two sizes, 11 and 13 inches, and supports both touch and stylus input. If you want a tablet that can replace a laptop, this is a great option.

The new generation of iPad is also remarkably thin and light, making it easy to carry around. The Magic Keyboard is sleeker than before, with a larger trackpad and a handy row of function keys. However, the price is steep, starting at $999 for the 11-inch model and $1,299 for the 13-inch model.

Photo by Nathan Ingraham / Engadget

Display: 11-inch LCD, 12.4-inch or 14.6-inch Super AMOLED | CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 | Storage: Up to 1TB (depending on model) | Battery life: Up to 9 hours | Camera: S9: 13MP rear, 12MP ultrawide front / S9+: 13MP + 8MP ultrawide rear, 12MP ultrawide front / S9 Ultra: 13MP + 8MP ultrawide rear, 12MP + 12MP ultrawide front

Read our full Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra review

If you’re looking for a versatile Samsung tablet, the Galaxy Tab S9 offers three screen sizes: 11, 12.4, and 14.6 inches. The S9 Ultra is a bit too big to be comfortable using in your hands for very long, but the 11- and 12.4-inch models are great options for an Android tablet, with outstanding screens and an included S Pen stylus for note-taking and sketching.

Photo by Devindra Hardawar / Engadget

Display: 13-inch OLED touchscreen | CPU: Snapdragon X Plus/X Elite | Storage: Up to 1TB | Battery life: Up to 14 hours | Camera: Quad HD front-facing Surface Studio Camera, 10MP rear camera

Read our full Microsoft Surface Pro Copilot+ review

The Microsoft Surface Pro is a powerful and innovative device, with a fast Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite and Plus chip, a great OLED screen, and a long-lasting battery. The Flex keyboard makes it versatile, and it’s a great option for those looking for a tablet that can replace a laptop.

How We Test Tablets

We evaluate tablets based on performance, screen quality, and battery life. We run synthetic tests like Geekbench 6 and perform hands-on tasks like editing photos and playing games. We also consider design, connectivity, and special features like stylus support.

Other Tablets We Tested

Apple iPad Mini

The Apple iPad mini is a great option for those who prefer a smaller tablet. It’s updated with a new processor and additional RAM, but its small size makes it a niche product.

Google Pixel Tablet

The Google Pixel Tablet excels as a smart display, but it’s unexciting as a simple tablet. It’s a good option for those who already use the Google ecosystem and want a tablet that can be docked and used as a smart display.

Tablet FAQs

What is the Best Brand for Tablets?

The best brand for tablets is the one that fits your ecosystem and needs. Consider the devices you already use and choose a tablet that integrates well with them.

Can a Tablet Replace a Laptop?

A tablet can replace a laptop, but you’ll need a keyboard and possibly a wireless mouse to make the experience similar to a traditional notebook. Consider a 2-in-1 laptop for a device that’s designed to work well with and without a keyboard.

Tablet Accessories

Consider any add-ons or accessories you’ll need, such as detachable keyboards, external mics, or a stylus. Many tablets offer keyboard accessories that allow the device to function like a 2-in-1 laptop.

Recent Updates

February 2025: Updated to include clarification around our top picks and new buying advice.

October 2024: We updated this list to include information on the new iPad mini 7.

June 2024: We updated our top picks to include the Microsoft Surface Pro Copilot+ edition.