Top Tablets for Streaming, Gaming, Work in 2023

Choosing the perfect tablet can be a daunting task. With Apple, you have a range of options, each with unique features that might not be immediately clear. For instance, understanding the difference between a Liquid Retina display and an Ultra Retina Tandem OLED with Pro Motion can be confusing if you're not familiar with the technical terms. Additionally, Apple's tablets vary significantly in performance, from the older A16 chip in entry-level models to the powerful M4 chip in their top-tier devices.

On the Android side, the choices expand even further. Unlike Apple, which phases out older models, the Android market still offers devices that were outdated even when new. The hardware varies widely, from budget-friendly options to high-end models that might compete with Windows tablets. However, the longevity of software support for Android tablets can be uncertain compared to Apple's consistent updates.

After analyzing the market and testing various iPads and Android tablets, we've selected a few standout options that offer the best balance of features and value.

*Additional contributions by Mark Knapp

TL;DR: The Best Tablets Right Now

Our Top Pick

Apple iPad (11th Generation)

4See it at AmazonSee it at Walmart

OnePlus Pad 2

1See it at AmazonSee it at OnePlus

Apple iPad Pro (M4, 2024)

2See it at AmazonSee it at Apple

Apple iPad Air (2024)

1See it at Amazon

Apple iPad (9th Generation)

3See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy

Tablets have become essential portable devices, offering a blend of power, versatility, and portability. Whether you need a device for casual entertainment or something more robust for tasks like video editing, there's a tablet suited to your needs.

1. iPad (11th Generation)

Best Tablet

Our Top Pick

Apple iPad (11th Generation)

4Little has changed in outward appearance here, but a slightly bigger screen, faster chip, and extra storage are nice upgrades. See it at AmazonSee it at Walmart

Product Specifications

• CPU: Apple A16 Bionic chip 5-core CPU + 4-core GPU
• RAM: 6GB
• Storage: 128GB
• Display: 11-inch, 2360 x 1640 Liquid Retina display
• Cameras: 12MP (rear), 12MP (front)

PROS

• Upgraded base storage
• Stunning Liquid Retina display

CONS

• Still on a dated processor

Apple has made finding the ideal iPad for most people easy over the years. The base-tier iPad is affordable and offers excellent performance and build quality. Even against Android competition, which often struggles with affordable options, the base iPad stands out. The 11th generation model is a minor iteration from the 10th Gen, featuring a shift to an 11-inch display, though the resolution remains the same. The display supports the first-generation Apple Pencil.

The internal upgrades are significant. The 11th Gen iPad now starts with 128GB of storage, a huge boost over the previous 64GB. The chip has been updated from the A14 Bionic to the A16. Despite these upgrades, the price remains at $349, and it's available in fun colors, with sales occasionally dropping it to $299.

*See our guide to the best iPad models for more options.*

2. OnePlus Pad 2

Best Android Tablet

OnePlus Pad 2

1Packing higher-end hardware than you'd expect for the price, the OnePlus Pad 2 is an exceptional option for those on the hunt for a worthy Android tablet. See it at AmazonSee it at OnePlus

Product Specifications

• Screen size: 12.1-inch, IPS, 2120 x 3000
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
• Storage: 128GB
• Cameras: 13-megapixel rear, 8-megapixel front-facing

PROS

• Large, smooth display
• Solid performance

CONS

• Shorter-term OS support than Apple

I'm not convinced there's any Android tablet worth $1,000 – at that price, you can get a competent 2-in-1 Windows machine with better longevity. However, the OnePlus Pad 2 strikes a balance between budget and premium, offering high-end features at a reasonable cost. It's powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, ensuring excellent performance, and comes with 12GB of RAM to handle multitasking effectively.

The 12.1-inch display boasts a 2120x3000 resolution, 900 nit peak brightness, and a 144Hz refresh rate, making it ideal for visibility and smooth motion. It also supports a stylus that charges magnetically. OnePlus launched on Android 14 with a promise of three years of OS and four years of security updates, which is refreshing in a market where many tablets start with outdated OS versions.

Originally priced at $550, the OnePlus Pad 2 often sells for $450 and may include a free accessory like a keyboard case.

3. iPad Pro (M4, 2024)

Best Tablet for Creative Work

Apple iPad Pro (M4, 2024)

2This stunning tablet has an OLED display and runs on Apple's powerful M4 processor, making it perfect for creatives. See it at AmazonSee it at Apple

Product Specifications

• CPU: Apple M4
• RAM: 8GB/16GB
• Storage: 256GB – 2TB
• Display: 12.9-inch Tandem OLED
• Cameras: 12MP wide camera (rear), Landscape 12MP ultra-wide camera (front)

PROS

• Powerful M4 chip ready for video editing and 3D rendering
• Tandem OLED display is the best you're going to get in a tablet right now

CONS

• The most expensive tablet most people will ever buy

When I first opened the iPad Pro, I wasn't sure what to make of it. Apple branded it as a workstation replacement, but it didn't run Finder or desktop applications. However, after using it for a month, it became one of my daily go-to devices. The Tandem OLED display is exceptional, though the price might make you wince.

The iPad Pro with the M4 chip is the most powerful tablet available. The M4 has an 8-core CPU at 3.49GHz and a 10-core GPU, capable of handling any game or creative workload. RAM varies with storage configuration; the 1TB model comes with 16GB, while the 512GB and 256GB models have 8GB. For heavy creative work, pairing it with the Apple Pencil Pro enhances its capabilities significantly.

4. iPad Air (2024)

Best Thin and Light Tablet

Apple iPad Air (2024)

1Upgraded to an M2 chip and slightly larger display, the 2024 iPad Air is a great portable option and an exceptionally thin one. See it at Amazon

Product Specifications

• CPU: Apple M2
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB
• Display: 11-inch 2360 x 1640 Liquid Retina display
• Cameras: 12MP (rear), 12MP (front)

PROS

• Impressively thin
• Excellent performance

CONS

• Can get hot under load

The 2024 iPad Air is a sleek package with a thinner design, upgraded selfie camera, and the M2 chip. Available in 11" or 13" displays, both models share similar specs, including 8GB of RAM. It performs well for everyday tasks like streaming and gaming, though it can get hot during extended use.

At just 6.1mm thick and weighing slightly over 1lb, it's incredibly portable. The aluminum build is robust, and the display, while not the brightest at 500 nits, offers a wide color gamut. It supports the Apple Pencil Pro and features a USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 port for faster data transfers and DisplayPort output. New models with an M3 chip are set to release on March 12th.

5. iPad (9th Generation)

Best Budget iPadOS Tablet

Apple iPad (9th Generation)

3Spend less with this budget tablet that still delivers a solid performance and a crisp 10.2-inch Retina display. See it at AmazonSee it at Best Buy

Product Specifications

• CPU: A13 Bionic
• RAM: 4GB
• Storage: 64GB
• Display: 10.2-inch 2160 x 1620 LED-backlit Multi-Touch Retina display
• Cameras: 8MP (rear), 12MP (front)

PROS

• Ultra affordable price tag
• Upgraded front-facing camera

CONS

• Processor isn’t as fast as other iPad models

The 9th Gen iPad may not be the latest, but it's still a capable device running the latest iPadOS. It's ideal for light tasks like browsing, reading, and video calls. However, at $349, the 11th Gen iPad offers more value with its upgrades. If you can find the 9th Gen for $250 or less, it's a solid budget option.

How to Choose the Right Tablet for You

Start by setting a budget. For casual use like streaming, a budget-friendly tablet is sufficient. For productivity, consider spending more on a device that can handle laptop-like tasks. Some tablets can even be used with a keyboard, turning them into detachable laptops, though with hardware and OS limitations.

Design is also crucial. Look for a lightweight, durable option with a large, crisp, and responsive display. OLED panels offer richer colors and deeper blacks compared to LCDs.

Internals matter too; a solid processor and at least 4GB of RAM are essential to avoid a sluggish device. For gaming or creative work, higher specs are beneficial. Ensure the software is up to date, with Android OS at its 15th generation and iPadOS 18 being Apple's latest.

Other features like long battery life, good speakers, high-quality cameras, and stylus support can enhance your experience. Consider a 5G tablet for cellular connectivity when Wi-Fi isn't available.

Tablets FAQ

Are iPads better than Android tablets?

No. Both types of tablets offer solid models, and the choice often comes down to personal preference. If you're already in the Apple ecosystem with an iPhone or MacBook, an iPad integrates seamlessly, offering a smooth user experience and a wide range of apps and games, though at a higher cost. Android tablets vary widely in quality and price, offering more budget-friendly options, but require research to avoid poor performers. While Android apps may not be as optimized for tablets, most should still function well.

Should you buy a tablet with cellular network support?

Most users won't need cellular network support unless they're frequently on the go without Wi-Fi. Adding a cellular line can be costly, and your smartphone can usually serve as a Wi-Fi hotspot in a pinch. However, if you need cellular connectivity, many of our recommended tablets offer 5G versions, though you must decide at the time of purchase.