Tablets

How to Choose Tablets

Key Features and Technology to Consider When Choosing a Tablet

• Operating System: Decide between Apple iPads, Android Tablets, or Windows Tablets depending on your app preferences and ecosystem compatibility.
• Screen Size and Resolution: Ranges from ultraportable 7 Inch & Under models to expansive 9 to 10.9 Inch Retina-class displays, tailored for portability or immersive viewing.
• Processor and Performance: Look for powerful chips like Apple’s M1 or A14 Bionic in iPads, or Intel/AMD options in Windows Tablets for smooth multitasking and productivity.
• Storage Capacity: Consider your need for apps, media, and files; many tablets offer expandable storage options or cloud integration.
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi only or cellular-enabled; the latter offers on-the-go internet access without relying on hotspots.
• Accessories and Expandability: Compatibility with styluses, Bluetooth keyboards, and protective gear can enhance usability and protection.

Display Quality: The Most Critical Aspect of Your Tablet Choice

The quality of a tablet's display often determines the overall user experience, whether you're streaming videos, gaming, drawing, or reading. Look for high resolution such as Full HD+ or Retina displays that ensure sharp, vivid visuals. Consider screen brightness and color accuracy, especially if you use your tablet outdoors or for photo editing. Touch responsiveness and support for accessories like the Apple Pencil or styluses can elevate creative or note-taking tasks. Screen size also impacts portability versus productivity; browsing Tablets by Screen Size can help you find the perfect balance for your daily use.

Advanced and Professional Tablet Use

For developers, creatives, and professionals who demand more from their tablet, Windows Tablets offer the ability to run full desktop applications on powerful Intel or AMD processors, bridging the gap between laptop and tablet. This versatility supports complex software such as coding IDEs, design suites, and virtual machines. Apple iPads, powered by M1 or A14 Bionic chips, provide smooth performance and extensive app ecosystems optimized for creativity and productivity, with Apple Pencil support enhancing precision input. Enhancing your workflow with Tablet Accessories such as keyboards and styluses is crucial for maximizing your tablet’s professional capabilities.

Performance and Setup Tips

• Keep your tablet’s operating system and apps updated for the latest features and security improvements.
• Invest in a quality ipad case or protective cover to safeguard your investment from drops and scratches.
• Manage storage by regularly clearing cache and uninstalling unused apps to maintain optimal speed.
• Pair your tablet with Bluetooth keyboards or styluses to enhance productivity, especially for prolonged typing or creative tasks.
• Calibrate screen brightness and enable blue light filters to reduce eye strain during extended use.
• Enable cloud backup or connect to external storage to ensure your files and data are safely stored.
• Utilize power-saving modes to extend battery life when away from charging options.

Newegg shopping tip: When choosing a tablet, consider the size and resolution of the display alongside battery life to fit your daily use. Also, check the operating system compatibility with your favorite apps and any accessories you might want to use.

Explore Tablets & Related Categories

New to Tablets? Getting Started with Your First Device

Shopping for your first tablet can be a breeze when you focus on what fits your everyday needs. Tablets combine the portability of a smartphone with the functionality of a laptop, making them perfect for reading, browsing the web, streaming video, or light productivity. Start by exploring All Tablets to see how different models compare. Consider the operating system you're comfortable with, whether that’s Windows, Android, or Apple's iPadOS, and keep in mind screen size and battery life for the kind of use you envision. For protection, check out options like an ipad case to keep your device safe from everyday bumps.

For Students: Study and Stay Connected

Tablets are incredibly popular among students for note-taking, research, and video conferencing. Lightweight and portable, they fit easily into backpacks and are ideal for classrooms, libraries, or study sessions on the go. Looking for something that supports stylus input for handwritten notes or diagram sketches? Apple iPads, featuring smooth Apple Pencil compatibility, are a great choice, along with many Windows Tablets that let you run full desktop apps and connect to Bluetooth keyboards. Explore Windows Tablets for a flexible, productivity-driven experience or Apple iPads if you prefer a polished and intuitive ecosystem.

For Entertainment and Casual Use

If your main goal is streaming movies, browsing social media, or casual gaming, a lightweight Android tablet offers excellent value. Many Android Tablets run the latest OS versions like Android 13, providing access to Google Play's vast app library and multitasking features such as split-screen viewing. Screen size is essential to consider here: models in the 9 to 10.9 Inch range deliver vivid displays that enhance the viewing experience without sacrificing portability. Check out our selection of Android Tablets well-suited for entertainment and everyday enjoyment.

Before You Buy

• Confirm your preferred operating system: Windows, Android, or Apple iPadOS.
• Decide on screen size based on your portability needs: smaller for travel, larger for media consumption. Consider exploring Tablets by Screen Size.
• Check processor and RAM specs to ensure performance meets your daily tasks.
• Look for additional features like stylus support, detachable keyboards, and cellular connectivity.
• Evaluate battery life claims in real-world reviews if you need a device for extended use.
• Consider purchasing accessories such as cases, styluses, and keyboards from our Tablet Accessories collection to customize your setup.

Research more: When choosing a tablet, consider what you'll primarily use it for—whether it's work, entertainment, or drawing—to find the right specs and size. For a deeper dive into features and comparisons, check out the Newegg Insider buying guides that break down everything you need to know.