Skyrocketing in popularity in the last decade, tablets are a great way to stay productive and keep yourself entertained while on the go. As tablets become more powerful, many people are ditching their laptop computers for the convenience and easy portability of a tablet. What many users don’t know, however, is that buying a quality tablet does not have to be expensive. There are many great tablet options for less than a few hundred dollars. To help you pick the best one for you, we put together a list of the best cheap tablets you can buy in 2020.

Choosing the Best Cheap Tablet

When it comes to electronics, the best way to save money is by making sure you find a product with only the specifications and features that you require. This way, you are not paying extra for technology that you will never use. For this article, we chose to divide the tablets into two groups based on price points. Here is an idea of what to expect from your tablet based on the price point.

What to Expect From a $100 Tablet

For around $100, you can buy a tablet that has a speedy processor and a good set of features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, a camera, and more. The standard screen size for an entry-level tablet is 7 inches measured diagonally. Tablets around this price range generally perform their best when browsing the internet, playing basic games, watching movies, and for voice and video chat. Users who want to play advanced games may want to upgrade their processor speed and size of their storage.

What to Expect From a $200 Tablet

In addition to the features of a $100 tablet, for around $200 you can expect a significant upgrade in one or more areas. The most commonly requested upgrade is a larger screen, but more expensive tablets tend to be more powerful and last longer, which can benefit anyone who regularly runs high-resource apps or likes to use their tablet all day long.

Types of Tablets

While most tablets are made from the same basic components, some are configured for more specific uses. Here are some examples of the kinds of tablets you have to choose from.

Windows Tablets

Most tablets on the market use one of the three main mobile operating systems, Android, iOS, or Amazon Fire OS. Because they are easy to use and offer a huge selection of great apps, we recommend most tablet buyers stick to these three. However, power users who wish to run the same applications they use on their PC may want to look at a tablet powered by the Windows 10 OS like the Fusion5 Ultra Slim Windows Tablet PC.

Kids Tablets

A tablet designed specifically for kids needs a good protective case and kid-friendly software. The Fire 7 Kids Edition Tablet is our favorite cheap tablet for kids.

Refurbished Tablets

Users who don’t mind a few small dents or scratches should consider purchasing a certified refurbished device like the ones sold through Amazon’s Renewed store. Buying refurbished is a great way to save money on a high-end tablet while still being protected by a warranty.

Best Cheap Tablets Under $100

Why we like it: The least expensive tablet that made our list, the Amazon Fire 7 is a high-performance tablet that provides easy access to Amazon’s massive media library. The least expensive tablet that made our list, the Amazon Fire 7 is a high-performance tablet that provides easy access to Amazon’s massive media library. Editor’s Rating:

Specs

Display Size: 7”

Processor Speed: Quad-core 1.3GHz

Storage Capacity: 16-32 GB

Operating System: Fire OS

Features

The Fire 7 Tablet is Amazon’s most popular tablet, and it’s easy to see why. Released as part of Amazon’s 9th generation of tablets, the Fire 7 is packed with a selection of features usually only found in much more expensive tablets. There are two high-definition cameras located on the front and rear of the tablet, a high-resolution screen, and a speaker that plays mono sound loud and clear. Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant is also integrated into the tablet.

Performance

With a quad-core 1.3 GHz processor, the redesigned Fire 7 Tablet is powerful enough to play high-definition video and audio as well as most smartphone apps without skipping a beat. The dual-band Wi-Fi receiver makes the most of your internet connection and stays stable while streaming video.

Battery Life

With up to 7 hours of battery life, the Fire 7 tablet has one of the shorter battery lifes among the tablets we reviewed. However, this tablet has a quick 4-hour recharge time and a conveniently-placed USB port that allows it to be easily used while charging.

Price

At under $50 for the 16 GB model, the Amazon Fire 7 Tablet may be the best bargain available in the world of tablets. One reason Amazon is able to offer this tablet so inexpensively is that they assume that users will continue to spend money on media in their ecosystem.

Verdict

Especially for users who already have a large collection of media purchased through Amazon, the Amazon Fire 7 is a small, powerful tablet that is sold at an excellent price.

Pros Under $50 for 16 GB model

Seamlessly imports your Amazon media library

Quick recharge time

Cons Short battery life

Why we like it: Much more than just an Amazon Fire Tablet with a kid-friendly case. The Fire 7 Kids Edition features powerful parental controls and free access to over 20,000 apps, games, and books for kids. Much more than just an Amazon Fire Tablet with a kid-friendly case. The Fire 7 Kids Edition features powerful parental controls and free access to over 20,000 apps, games, and books for kids. Editor’s Rating:

Specs

Display Size: 7”

Processor Speed: Quad-core 1.3 GHz

Storage Capacity: 16 GB

Operating System: Fire OS: Kids Edition

Features

In addition to all the technical ability of the impressive Amazon Fire 7, the Kids Edition tablet includes a kid-proof case with a hands-free stand. The parental controls are easy to operate, allowing you control of your kid’s screen time from your own phone, tablet, or computer. Also included with your purchase is a 1-year subscription to Amazon’s FreeTime Unlimited. This gives access to a massive library of kid-friendly books, games, videos, and apps that kids can access without any additional fees. There are no ads shown or in-app purchases available.

Performance

The Amazon Fire 7 Kids Edition is not the fastest tablet we reviewed, but it has more than enough power to play any media or run any application included with the Amazon FreeTime Unlimited library. The included case protects the tablet well, even when it is dropped from a considerable height. Amazon also provides a 2-year worry-free guarantee. In the event this tablet breaks, a replacement tablet will be provided for free, no matter the cause.

Battery Life

While the 7-hour battery life is not as long as some of the other tablets on our list, it’s still plenty of juice to occupy your kids for just about any long flight or road trip.

Price

The Kids Edition of the Amazon Fire 7 Tablet is more expensive than the standard edition. However, because of the excellent kid-proof case and subscription to Amazon’s FreeTime Unlimited media library, this tablet is still an excellent value for parents.

Verdict

Not only is the Amazon Fire 7 Kids Edition Tablet powerful and easy to use. It also comes with access to our favorite subscription service for advertising and microtransaction-free content for kids.

Pros Comes with a 1-year subscription to Amazon FreeTime Unlimited, a massive library of content for kids

Child-proof case and a two-year worry-free guarantee

Create screen time limits easily using parental controls

Cons More expensive than the standard edition of the Amazon Fire 7 Tablet

Why we like it: The stunning HD display plus the multi-account function of the Lenovo Tab 4 will definitely catch your attention. The stunning HD display plus the multi-account function of the Lenovo Tab 4 will definitely catch your attention. Editor’s Rating:

Specs

Display Size: 8”

Processor Speed: 1.4GHz

Storage Capacity: 16 GB

Operating System: Android 7.1 Nougat

Features

This Android 7 Nougat 8-Inch tablet is a smaller and cheaper model of a similar tablet in our under $200 category. It packs a compact sleek design measuring 8.2mm thickness design and weighing a mere 310 grams for portability. With the 8-Inch HD 1280×800 resolution display, you’re steps away from enjoying stunning, vibrant, and color-rich photos and videos. Convert it into a kids tablet with the Lenovo Kid’s Pack that comes complete with awesome stickers, blue light screen filter as well as a shock-resistant bumper.

Performance

The Lenovo Tab 4 8-Inch has been built with 1.4GHz 64-bit Quad-core Snapdragon Processors that guarantees solid performance. It also features 2 GB of RAM so it can handle the rigors of everyday use without hitches.

The tablet only has 16 GB of internal storage for storing your files, but also comes integrated with a microSD card slot that you can use to expand the storage capacity.The 8-Inch Lenovo Tab 4 is a tablet for the entire family. Take advantage of the multi-user and multi-space capabilities to create multiple user profiles so you can share the tablet.

Battery Life

The Lenova Tab 4 offers exceptional battery life in a small package. It should last about 20 hours, which should get even the most screen-addicted person through the day.

Price

Though not the cheapest tablet on our list, the price you’ll pay for this sleek performance-oriented tablet is excellent.

Verdict

The screen size is a little small, but Lenovo Tab 4 8-Inch is an excellent device for the entire family that should keep everyone happy all day.

Pros High-quality sound speakers

MicroSD card slot

Excellent 20-hour battery

Cons 16 GB internal storage low

Why we like it: The RCA Viking Pro has a detachable keyboard perfect for the time you want to do some serious work that involves lots of typing. The RCA Viking Pro has a detachable keyboard perfect for the time you want to do some serious work that involves lots of typing. Editor’s Rating:

Specs

Display Size: 10”

Processor Speed: 1.4GHz Quad-core MediaTek

Storage Capacity: 32 GB

Operating System: Android 5.0

Features

Featuring 10-Inch IPS LCD HD (1280×800) display, the RCA Viking Pro Tablet will provide sharp and crisp images for your photos and videos. It’s powered by Android 5.0 Lollipop OS. And with 32 GB of internal memory, there’s enough capacity for multiple apps as well as a couple of files. Expand the memory with the incorporated microSD card slot.

The tablet includes a 2 MP dual camera, both rear and front-facing. Capture your moments without a worry. What’s more, the tablet comes with a detachable keyboard that you connect whenever you want to do some serious typing. Simply detach it whenever you want to leave home so it’s more portable

Regarding connectivity, the RCA Viking Pro Tablet doesn’t disappoint. It has Bluetooth and is Wi-Fi enabled so you can share files and stream your Netflix wirelessly. It also features an HDMI port for video output and 2 USB ports for hooking up more devices.

Performance

The RCA Viking Pro Tablet uses the 1 GHz MediaTek MT8127 Quad-Core processor. It has 1 GB of RAM, which should work for most people but might be a little bit low for gaming or other resource-intensive applications.

Battery Life

The lithium-polymer battery installed will provide up to 8 hours of browsing, listening to music, and streaming YouTube and TV shows.

Price

Though near the middle of this price range, this tablet has a price that can’t be beat if you’re looking for a tablet that includes a keyboard.

Verdict

Although the RCA Viking Pro Tablet has a relatively disappointing 1 GB of RAM, it’s still an excellent tablet deal considering it’s a budget tablet under $100.

Pros It’s a 2-In-1 tablet

MicroSD card

Has HDMI & USB ports

Impressive 32 GB internal memory

Cons 1GB of RAM is too low for some

Why we like it: Free from the restrictions imposed by many tablet manufacturers, the Dragon Touch Notepad K10 Tablet is one of the most upgradable bargain tablets available. Free from the restrictions imposed by many tablet manufacturers, the Dragon Touch Notepad K10 Tablet is one of the most upgradable bargain tablets available. Editor’s Rating:

Specs

Display Size: 10”

Processor: Quad-core 1.3 GHz

Storage Capacity: 64 GB

Operating System: Android 9.0 pie

Features

Unfortunately for consumers, due to licensing issues and the inclusion of proprietary software, many brand name tablets can be difficult to upgrade as time goes on. The Dragon Touch Notepad K10 Tablet does not suffer from this problem and allows users to install any version of the Android operating system that they wish. This includes the most recent build, Android 9 pie. The 10.1” display can display video in full 1080p high-definition.

Performance

The quad-core processor is speedy enough to run any compatible Android app without lagging or freezing. The Dragon Touch Notepad K10 Tablet also has a mini-HDMI port, allowing this tablet to easily output to a TV or computer monitor for situations where a larger screen is needed is a helpful feature.

Battery Life

After fully charging, the Dragon Touch Notepad K10 Tablet can operate for up to 8 hours while browsing the web or playing media. Playing certain games may cause your battery to drain faster.

Price

Priced only slightly higher than $100, the Dragon Touch Notepad K10 Tablet is a strong option for tablet shoppers looking to save money on a powerful tablet. The manufacturer isn’t known for making reliable tablets, but there is a 12-month manufacturer warranty that covers your purchase.

Verdict

Even though it’s not a household name, the Dragon Touch electronics company’s most popular tablet is a great alternative to higher-priced brand name tablets. Not only will you save a few dollars, but you will also end up with a tablet with excellent specs and performance.

Pros Less expensive than more well-known brand names

Uses Android 9 pie

A large screen at a low price

Cons Lesser-known tablet brands may be less reliable

Best Cheap Tablets Under $200

Why we like it: The Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet is an amazing value. The display resolution, the Alexa feature, and the overall tablet performance are all top-notch. The Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet is an amazing value. The display resolution, the Alexa feature, and the overall tablet performance are all top-notch. Editor’s Rating:

Specs

Display Size: 10.1”

Processor Speed: 1.8 GHz Quad-core processor

Storage Capacity: 32 GB or 64 GB

Operating System: Fire OS 5.6.1.0 Android Lollipop

Features

Packing a stunning 10.1-Inch Full HD 1080p (1920×1200) LCD IPS display, Amazon’s Fire HD 10 Tablet delivers brilliant visuals. This tablet will let you enjoy your favorite shows on Netflix, Amazon Video, Hulu, and more in 1080p Full HD widescreen, and even let you read your eBooks comfortably at night with the Fire OS exclusive Blue Shade feature, capable of adjusting as well as optimizing the brightness and color of the backlight for maximum comfort.

The Fire HD 10 Tablet also comes equipped with Alexa. If you’re connected to Wi-Fi, simply ask Alexa questions and your tablet will display a response. Using your voice only, you can instruct Alexa to accomplish certain tasks such as setting the timers and checking the traffic. Looking to watch a movie or listen to your favorite track? Simply say the magic word and thy will shall be done.

With Alexa on your Fire 10 tablet, you can use your voice to control almost all the appliances and electronics in your home. Set the thermostat or dim the lights without lifting a finger, and call and message using only your voice.

Although it’s built with a tough plastic back shell, the Fire HD 10 Tablet is compact and lightweight, weighing only one pound.

The Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet also comes with a USB 2.0 port for charging and connecting to the computer, plus a 3.5 stereo jack as well as dual stereo speakers complete with Dolby Atmos Audio.

Performance

The Fire HD 10 Tablet is built with a 1.8 GHz quad-core processor and 2 GB of RAM that guarantee the apps launch fast, games run smoothly and the overall performance is incredible.

The tablet features an internal storage of 32 GB or 64 GB, enough for all of your applications. Even better, if you want more space for your music and videos, the Fire HD 10 Tablet comes integrated with a microSD card slot so you can expand the storage up to 256 GB.

It also comes with a 2 MP rear-facing camera that you can use to capture photos or record 720p videos, as well as a front-facing VGA camera to make video calls with family and friends.

Battery Life

What’s more, the Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet comes with a long-lasting battery. Carry the tablet anywhere you want and enjoy up to 10 hours browsing the internet, streaming online or playing games.

Price

Though not quite as cheap as a bargain-basement tablet, you can’t get this build quality and these features anywhere else for this price.

Verdict

The Fire HD 10 Tablet is quite a quality tablet and is definitely worth every penny. It’ll not disappoint.

Pros Quality Full HD 1080p LCD IPS panel display

Alexa enabled

Long-lasting 10 hours battery

Excellent size, robustly built yet lightweight

Cons Tablet case sold separately

Why we like it: The least expensive way to own a tablet with powerful specs, buying a refurbished tablet through Amazon’s Renewed program ensures you get a product that looks and works like new. The least expensive way to own a tablet with powerful specs, buying a refurbished tablet through Amazon’s Renewed program ensures you get a product that looks and works like new. Editor’s Rating:

Specs

Display Size: 10”

Processor: 1.5GHz dual-core Apple A8X processor

Storage Capacity: Available storage options: 16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB or 128 GB

Operating System: Apple iOS 8

Buying used electronics is not always the smartest idea. However, products that are sold through the Amazon Renewed program must be professionally inspected before they are sold. While the product may come with some scratches or dents, it is guaranteed to be totally functional and has a battery with at least 80% of its original capacity. There is also a full 90 day replacement period where this product may be returned with no explanation necessary.

Note that the price fluctuates based on availability, so we cannot guarantee this tablet will always be available under $200. But it’s such a large saving that we felt it was worthy to include on our list.

Features

The Apple iPad Air 2 packs a tough, thin, lightweight, and sleek design and boasts an HD (2048×1536) 9.7-inch LED-backlit IPS panel display. The screen comes covered with an oleophobic coating, which ensures you don’t leave your fingerprints. And so you can read and watch videos without eye strain and fatigue, its screen has been treated with an anti-reflective coating.

The tablet supports 802.11a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi standard. Connect to the Wi-Fi and stream your favorite Netflix shows and videos on YouTube. It also includes an Apple SIM Card usable in both the US and UK if you want to make calls or browse when the Wi-Fi is not in range.

Apple iPad Air 2 also has 16 to 128 GB of flash memory which provides space for your apps, and enough for your files at the higher end of the spectrum. It doesn’t, unfortunately, have any USB ports or an SD card to expand your storage.

Besides, Apple iPad Air 2 comes integrated with Bluetooth 4.2 technology that makes it possible to pair with other devices for data sharing.

Equipped with a fingerprint identity sensor built into the Home Button, the Apple iPad Air 2 guarantees the security of the content stored inside.

Performance

Built with an A8X chip with 64-bit architecture, Apple iPad Air 2 commands 1.5GHz motion 8 Coprocessor and a 2 GB of RAM. These two properties help the tablet run multiple apps and other functions without lags.

The Apple iPad Air 2 comes equipped with a superior 8 MP camera featuring sophisticated optics. The camera has an image sensor as well as a signal processor that delivers sharp and detailed imagery each time.

What’s more, the tablet comes with a FaceTime HD Camera featuring face detection capabilities and which captures and record auto HDR 1.2 MP photos and 720p videos.

Battery Life

The Apple iPad Air 2 comes with a lithium polymer battery that’ll provide enough power to last up to 10 hours binge-watching your movies on Netflix or playing games, so you can carry your iPad with you anywhere you go and entertain yourself without being tethered down by a power cable.

Verdict

Other than the lacking USB port and an SD card slot, the Apple iPad Air 2 is a premium quality tablet worth your time.

Pros Built with a robust and powerful processor

Advanced quality camera

Impressive 10 hours battery

Fingerprint sensor for enhanced security

Cons Lacks USB ports or an SD card slot

Why we like it: Everyone loves Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant. The ability to hook a keyboard via Bluetooth? Heavenly. Everyone loves Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant. The ability to hook a keyboard via Bluetooth? Heavenly. Editor’s Rating:

Specs

Display Size: 10.1”

Processor Speed: 1.4 GHz Quad-core Snapdragon

Storage Capacity: Available storage options: 16 GB, 32 GB or 64 GB

Operating System: Android 7.1 Nougat

Features

With a 10-inch stunning HD 1280×800 resolution display, the Lenovo Tab 4 is able to grant the photos you capture a vibrant feel. And when you get down to entertainment, it delivers color-rich videos.

The Lenovo Tab 4 uses Bluetooth 4.0 for connectivity. Pair an external keyboard with the tab via Bluetooth and convert it into a 2-in-1 tab. It also has USB type C and is Wi-Fi enabled.

It has 64 GB of internal memory enough storage for the programs as well as a couple of files. It also accepts micro SD cards for extra storage.

Want to get some serious work done? Then take advantage of the multi-user and the multi-space functionality to switch to the Productivity Mode. Even better, you can transform the tab into a kid’s tablet. Just add a shock-resistant bumper plus the screen stickers and enable the blue-light screen filter.

Performance

Powered by the Android 7.1 Nougat operating system, the tab is built with a 64-bit Quad-Core Snapdragon Processor up to 1.4 GHz and has 2 GB of RAM, which ensures it can handle day to day tasks. The tablet will run programs smoothly without lag.

The Lenovo Tab 4 comes integrated with the hot Atmos Dolby Audio. Not to mention the inbuilt dual-stereo front-facing speakers for that immersive entertainment experience when streaming your TV shows, videos, and playing your favorite tracks.

Battery Life

This lightweight wonder lasts an incredibly long time, able to handle up to 20 hours of continuous use before calling it quits.

Verdict

The Lenovo Tab 4 is an excellent and high-performance tab for the entire family to share up to 20 hours of entertainment.

Pros Long-lasting up to 20 hours battery

2-in-1 tab with a Bluetooth keyboard

MicroSD card slot integrated

Compatible with Alexa Home Assistant Pack

Cons Internal memory could have been larger

Why we like it: Included with the Samsung Galaxy Tab A, The Bixby Home is a creative solution for managing your day better. Included with the Samsung Galaxy Tab A, The Bixby Home is a creative solution for managing your day better. Editor’s Rating:

Specs

Display Size: 8”

Processor Speed: 1.2 GHz Samsung Quad-core

Storage Capacity: 16 GB

Operating System: Android 7.1 Lollipop

Features

With a 32 GB of internal storage, the Galaxy Tab A has enough capacity for your apps. It also comes integrated with a microSD card slot so you can expand the memory up to 256 GB, providing additional space for your files.

Browse and enjoy your movies on an HD 1280×800 resolution display that looks brilliant in any light. Tune in the blue light filter and keep browsing and watching under the duvet. The tablet is highly portable, weighing only 0.79 pounds. The screen might be small, but you can shove in your pocket or carry it in your hand anywhere you go.

The tab comes with an 8 MP camera complete with flash and HDR mode, so you can snap perfect photos even in low-lit settings. And, you can use the 5 MP front-facing camera to video chat with friends and family.

Performance

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A is powered by Android 7.1 Lollipop OS, which helps keep apps well-organized and simple to access. The tablet is built with robust 1.4 GHz 8032 Qualcomm Processor and features 2 GB of RAM, which ensures that all apps can run without a hitch.

This tablet supports 802.11 a/b/g/n Wi-Fi protocol that lets you enjoy hours of TV shows and video streaming. It also comes equipped with Bluetooth 4.2 for data sharing with other Bluetooth-enabled devices.

The Galaxy Tab A also features Bixby Home, a property intelligent to learn your routines. It then serves you with routine news as well as weather updates with just a single swipe.

Battery Life

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A comes with a powerful battery that provides juice enough to last up to 14 hours of continuous video playback between recharges.

Verdict

For the price, the tab is simply a great bargain that won’t disappoint. And it would have been better if the screen size was larger.

Pros Impressive internal memory

Super lightweight and portable

Long-lasting battery

Has a microSD card slot

Cons Sound quality a little disappointing

Fairly small screen for the price

Why we like it: With a lot of RAM and Windows 10, the Fusion5 Ultra Slim Windows Tablet PC is a powerful computer that weighs less than 2 pounds. With a lot of RAM and Windows 10, the Fusion5 Ultra Slim Windows Tablet PC is a powerful computer that weighs less than 2 pounds. Editor’s Rating:

Specs

Display Size: 10”

Processor: Intel Atom quad-core 1.92 GHz

Storage Capacity: 64 GB

Operating System: Windows 10

Features

If you use a PC with Windows 10 at home or work, the interface on this tablet will look immediately familiar to you. This is because the Fusion5 Ultra Slim Windows Tablet PC operates on the tablet edition of Windows 10. This means it can run any Windows-compatible program. Some users will enjoy the extra functionality, but the additional complexity added by the Windows operating system makes this tablet a poor choice for users that are not particularly tech-savvy.

Performance

With one of the most powerful processors that can be found in an inexpensive tablet, the Fusion5 Ultra Slim Windows Tablet PC can run several apps at once without any slowdown. There is a learning curve involved in learning to operate the tablet mode of Windows 10, even for users who are familiar with the PC version of Windows 10.

Battery Life

Because Windows 10 consumes more power than most other mobile operating systems, the Fusion5 Ultra Slim Windows Tablet PC can only operate for about 6 hours between charges. This is shorter than almost every other tablet we reviewed.

Price

While the price of the Fusion5 Ultra Slim Windows Tablet PC is just low enough to qualify for this list, it is the least expensive tablet we were able to find that runs Windows-based applications.

Verdict

For users who want the convenience of carrying a Windows computer as an ultra-slim tablet, the Fusion5 Ultra Slim Windows Tablet PC is a dream come true. Users who are not as technically inclined should probably choose an Android, Fire, or iOS tablet instead.

Pros Can run Windows applications

Includes a powerful, quad-core processor made by Intel

Large 64 GB storage capacity

Cons Not a good choice for users who are not tech-savvy

Poor battery life

Guide to Buying the Best Cheap Tablet



If you watch lots of films, enjoying reading eBooks, surf while in bed, and want something light to carry while away on a holiday, then a tablet is your best bet. They’re compact, lightweight, and have batteries that last longer. We discuss the various factors to consider when on the market shopping for a tablet.

Nature of Use

What are you planning to be doing on this tablet? If you’re a college student, then you’ll be using the tablet for your everyday applications like sending/checking emails, browsing, social media, and reading documents. In that case, a full-sized tablet with long battery life and perhaps an external keyboard should suffice.

For casual use at home, a low and midrange tablet should do. But if you want a tablet you can use frequently for watching movies, gaming, and more, get a large-sized tablet with high-processing power. If you have small kids, then you might need a tablet with parental controls so you can restrict some content.

Looking for a business tablet? Then you want one that’s powerful with sufficient RAM to withstand multitasking and run programs without a hitch. A large screen is good if you’ll be viewing things like business reports on your tablet.

Are you a bookworm, a TV shows junkie, or a hardcore gamer? You want a tablet capable of running media files smoothly for optimum immersion. A large screen, high resolution, more RAM, and audio quality are very integral in this case.

Features to Consider in Cheap Tablets

Screen Size & Resolution

When choosing the screen size, it boils down to how you’ll be using the tablet. If portability trumps all else, then a smaller screen would be perfect. If usability is key, then choose a tablet with a larger screen size that allows you to view content at and operate on the onscreen keyboard with little hassle.

Tablet screen sizes range from 7 – 13 inches. Go for a small tablet like the Fire 7 Tablet if you want something that can easily fit in your palm or in the pocket.

For TV shows and movie watching, tablets with screens larger than ten inches like the Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet will provide the best immersion. Such a tablet can also be great for business purposes, like viewing business reports and spreadsheets at full size.

Then there’s the resolution. The screen resolution and panel will strongly influence the sharpness, viewing angles, vibrancy as well as color accuracy. Some tablets have display resolutions as high as 2560×1600. And tablets with high-resolution IPS panel displays deliver stunningly sharp images.

Storage Capacity

This is the internal storage that your tablet has to hold your files such as images, music, videos as well as documents. Often times, windows and android tablets offer expandable storage capacities.

The amount of internal storage will determine the number of apps you can install. So where possible, go for at least 16 GB of internal storage.

If an expandable external memory matters, then you need a device capable of supporting a microSD card. Some tablets come with dual USB ports that you can use to hook in an external disk for additional storage space.

Operating System

Although almost all the four major operating systems used in tablets have significantly improved in quality, the OS is still an important feature to look at.

If you’re looking for the processing power of a Windows laptop, then a Windows OS tablet is an excellent option. iPads use Apple iOS, and are best for those who own an iPhone.

Google Android is inarguably the most popular and is constantly evolving. Android tablets support a multitude of android apps. Compared to iOS, Android is more customizable and is the same OS used by most smartphones.

Fire OS is another operating system based on Android developed by Amazon for its Fire Phone and its Kindle Fire tablets.

Processor & RAM

For a tablet to power and run functions, the processor has to chip in. RAM is the memory of the tablet and will determine how well it will run the various programs installed.

For the basic tasks, a tablet with a single-core processor is okay. Tablets built with duo core processors deliver faster and smooth performance. If you want to run sophisticated tasks and programs like advanced gaming and video editing, then the tablet has to build with a quad-core processor.

Battery Life

Tablets are meant to be carried around and that’s also what motivates us to purchase them. Browsing and video use drain lots of power.

If you multitask heavily, say watching videos and playing games, the battery life will be shorter than advertised. If this is the case, you’ll want to prioritize battery life above all else by choosing something like the Lenovo Tab 4.

Cameras

We love to take occasional photos or record videos now and then, and you’d be doing an immense disservice to yourself if you forget to check the camera. A tablet should have a quality front-facing camera and a rear camera.

Design and Form Factor

Would you like a convertible or a standalone tablet? For a lack of better description, the standalone tablets assume the design of oversized phones. They’re touchscreen, very compact and lightweight.

On the other hand, tablets popularly known as 2-in-1s not only have a touchscreen but will feature a detachable keyboard. While they’ll work perfectly as a standalone tablet, 2-in-1s like the RCA Viking Pro 10” 2-In-1 Android Tablet are a perfect option for anyone who knows they’re going to spend a lot of time typing.

Apps & Content

Each one of us buys a tablet to serve a certain purpose. Perhaps there are certain apps you want to run on the device or connect it to a laptop. Can it support them? And how’s the experience viewing particular content on the OS. You want a tablet that’s more skewed towards the things you’ll be doing every other day.

Does Portability Matter?

Want something portable for use on your commute or holiday? Some tablets, including the Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8-Inch, are remarkably light, thin, and have a battery life as high as 14 hours, making them perfect for carrying around with you.



Wrapping Up

Laptops have come a long way to enhance portability, but they can never beat tablets. Tablets are lighter and are becoming sophisticated by the day, and they can even support some apps and functions initially meant for the laptops. Some tablets even mimic laptops to include detachable keyboards while others work with external keyboards. They’re also remarkably compact, will fit on your palm, and accompany you anywhere. No matter what you’re looking for, we hope you’ll find a great tablet that serves your purpose.