As the new academic year approaches, students are on the hunt for the best tablets to enhance their learning experience. In 2024, the market is brimming with high-quality tablets, each offering unique features tailored to various educational needs. This article aims to guide students in selecting the perfect tablet that aligns with their budget and requirements.
When shopping for a student tablet, consider factors such as processing power, display quality, battery life, software compatibility, and additional features like a stylus or keyboard. To provide a comprehensive overview, this article will highlight the top tablets for students, comparing their strengths and potential drawbacks. Additionally, we'll offer shopping tips and recommendations based on budget, preferred operating system, and specific educational needs. With the right tablet, students can unlock new learning possibilities, streamline their coursework, and boost their productivity.
Apple iPad Pro (12.9-inch, 2024): Best High-Performance Tablet for Creatives
2022 Apple iPad Pro (12.9-inch, Wi-Fi, 256GB) - Space Gray (Renewed) -- 899(Amazon)
Apple iPad Pro (32GB, Wi-Fi, Space Gray) 12.9in Tablet (Renewed) -- 299(Amazon)
Apple iPad Pro 11" 256GB Wi-Fi - Silver -- 899(Apple)
2021 Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro (Wi‑Fi, 256GB) - Space Gray (Renewed) -- 819.95(Amazon)
iPad Pro M2 12.9-inch Wi-Fi 2TB - Silver - Apple -- 2199(Apple)
APPLE MP6G2LL/A iPad Pro with Wi-Fi 256GB, 12.9in, Space Grey (Renewed) -- 500(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Apple iPad Pro (12.9-inch, 2024) is a top-tier tablet that delivers unparalleled performance for creative professionals, students, and tech enthusiasts. With the new M2 chip, it offers a significant leap in processing power, making it ideal for running complex applications and multitasking with ease. The expansive Liquid Retina XDR display provides a stunning visual experience, whether you're drawing, editing videos, or enjoying media content.
Who It's For
This iPad Pro is best suited for users who require a powerful device for productivity and creative tasks, such as graphic designers, video editors, and artists. It's also a great choice for students in design or multimedia disciplines, although the high price may be a barrier for those on a tighter budget. Tech enthusiasts looking for the latest and greatest in tablet technology will appreciate the advanced features and performance.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Powerful M2 chip for advanced multitasking | ❌ High price point may be prohibitive for some |
| ✅ Stunning 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display | ❌ Accessories like Apple Pencil and keyboards sold separately |
| ✅ Comprehensive connectivity with Wi-Fi 6E and Thunderbolt/USB 4 | ❌ Overkill for users with basic tablet needs |
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra: Best Large-Screen Tablet for Productivity and Creativity
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra 14.6" (2022) 128GB SM-X900 WiFi - Graphite (... -- 555.58(Amazon)
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra | Super AMOLED, 120Hz, HDR10+ 14.6" Screen |... -- 755(Amazon)
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra Graphite 128GB -- 919.99(Samsung)
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra (Wifi) SM-X900 WIFI 256GB Graphite Very Good -- 599.36(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra is a powerhouse of a tablet, boasting a massive 14.6-inch OLED display that's perfect for a wide range of activities, from note-taking to media consumption. Its inclusion of an S Pen elevates its functionality, allowing for precise input for drawing or handwriting. The device's high performance is ensured by its octa-core processor and ample RAM, making it a top choice for students and professionals alike who require a versatile tool for their daily tasks.
Who It's For
This tablet is ideal for students and creative professionals who need a large, high-quality screen for their work and entertainment. It's also great for those who appreciate having a stylus for taking notes or drawing. However, its size may not be suitable for individuals looking for a more portable device that can easily fit into smaller bags or be held for extended periods without fatigue.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Expansive 14.6-inch OLED display with high resolution | ❌ May be too bulky for some students to carry around |
| ✅ Comes with an S Pen for note-taking and drawing | ❌ Higher price point compared to smaller tablets |
| ✅ Powerful octa-core processor for smooth multitasking | ❌ Could be overkill for users with modest needs |
Microsoft Surface Pro 9: Best 2-in-1 Windows Tablet for Portability and Power
Surface Pro 9 (2022), 13" 2-in-1 Tablet & Laptop, Thin & Lightweight, In... -- 1179.99(Amazon)
QIL-00035 Surface Pro 9 13" Touch Tablet, Intel i7, 16GB/256GB, Sapphire... -- 1299(Amazon)
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (2022), 13" 2-in-1 Tablet & Laptop, Thin & Light... -- 889.26(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is a versatile 2-in-1 device that offers the power of a laptop with the portability of a tablet. It's equipped with a 13-inch touchscreen, a fast Intel 12th Gen i7 processor, and 16GB of RAM, making it ideal for multitasking and productivity. With Windows 11, users get a full desktop experience on the go. Its adaptability and performance make it an excellent choice for students and professionals who need a powerful, yet portable device.
Who It's For
The Surface Pro 9 is best suited for students, professionals, and anyone in need of a lightweight, high-performance device that can easily switch between tablet and laptop modes. It's particularly beneficial for those who require the functionality of a Windows desktop environment combined with the convenience of a tablet for note-taking, presentations, and media consumption.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ High-performance Intel 12th Gen i7 processor for demanding tasks | ❌ Keyboard accessory sold separately, increasing total cost |
| ✅ Versatile 2-in-1 design with a detachable keyboard for tablet or laptop use | ❌ Higher price point compared to some competitors |
| ✅ Long battery life with up to 19 hours, supporting all-day work and play | ❌ Limited port selection may require additional adapters |
Lenovo Tab P12 Pro: High-Value Tablet for Students and Professionals
Lenovo Tab P12 Pro 12.6" Tablet Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 6GB Ram 128GB UF... -- 419.99(Amazon)
Lenovo Tab P12 Pro ZA9D -- 699.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Lenovo Tab P12 Pro stands out for its exceptional blend of performance and value, making it an attractive option for students and professionals alike. With its 12.6-inch AMOLED display, the tablet delivers an immersive viewing experience, perfect for both educational content and entertainment. The inclusion of a stylus enhances its utility, allowing for precise input and creativity on the go. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 processor and equipped with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of UFS 3.1 storage, it offers smooth performance for a variety of tasks. Despite its high-end features, the tablet is priced competitively, providing a cost-effective alternative to other premium tablets.
Who It's For
This tablet is ideal for students and professionals looking for a high-quality, versatile device that won't break the bank. It's perfect for those who value a large, high-resolution display for reading, note-taking, and multimedia consumption. The included stylus makes it a great choice for artists and anyone who prefers handwritten notes or sketches. However, users who prioritize timely software updates might want to consider the potential delay in receiving Android updates compared to iPads or Surface devices.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ 12.6-inch AMOLED display offers stunning visuals and a large workspace | ❌ Android updates may not be as timely as those for iPads or Surface devices |
| ✅ Included stylus enhances productivity and creativity | ❌ 6GB of RAM may not suffice for extremely heavy multitasking |
| ✅ Competitive pricing provides excellent value for a high-quality tablet | ❌ Limited to Android ecosystem, which may not suit all users' needs |
Apple iPad Air (2024): Best Value iPad for Everyday Use
iPad Air (5th Generation): with M1 chip, 10.9-inch Liquid Retina Display... -- 599.99(Amazon)
Apple iPad Air 5th Gen 10.9" Tablet, 64GB, Pink -- 449.99(Best Buy)
Apple iPad Air 5 64gb Space Gray Wi-Fi Mm9c3ll/a (Latest Model) -- 449(Walmart)
Apple iPad Air 10.9" 256GB Wi-Fi - Space Gray -- 749(Apple)
Apple iPad Air (10.9-inch, Wi-Fi, 256GB) - Space Gray (Latest Model, 4th... -- 429.95(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Apple iPad Air (2024) strikes a perfect balance between affordability and performance, making it an ideal choice for users who require a powerful tablet for everyday tasks, schoolwork, and creative endeavors without breaking the bank. Its compatibility with the 2nd Gen Apple Pencil and the vibrant Liquid Retina display ensures a premium experience for both work and play.
Who It's For
This iPad Air is best suited for students, professionals, and casual users who seek a high-performance tablet for multitasking, note-taking, and media consumption. It's also a great option for artists and designers on a budget who can benefit from the Apple Pencil support. However, it may not satisfy users who need the most advanced features found in the iPad Pro line, such as ProMotion technology.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Affordable alternative with similar performance to iPad Pro | ❌ Lacks ProMotion technology found in iPad Pro |
| ✅ Supports 2nd Gen Apple Pencil for creative tasks | ❌ May not have the latest advanced camera system |
| ✅ Vibrant Liquid Retina display enhances visual experience | ❌ Limited to 256GB storage, which may not be enough for some power users |
Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE: Best Budget-Friendly Samsung Tablet with S Pen
SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S7 FE 2021 Android Tablet 12.4” Screen WiFi 64GB S Pe... -- 319.99(Amazon)
Galaxy Tab S7 FE 12.4” 64GB WiFi Android Tablet, Large Screen, S Pen Inc... -- 490.93(Amazon)
Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 Fe 12.4" 128GB T733 WiFi Only Mystic Black -- 367(Jar Hearts)
Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE 12.4" 128GB T733 WiFi Only -- 336.98(Amazon)
Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE 2021 Android Tablet 12.4” Screen LTE/WiFi (Veri... -- 289.95(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE offers a balance between affordability and functionality, making it an attractive option for those who want a large-screen tablet experience without the high cost associated with premium models. Its inclusion of the S Pen and a sizable 12.4-inch display makes it a versatile tool for both productivity and entertainment.
Who It's For
This tablet is ideal for students or budget-conscious consumers looking for a device that can handle note-taking, media consumption, and light productivity tasks. It's also suitable for anyone who wants to enjoy the benefits of a Samsung tablet, including the S Pen, without investing in the more expensive S8 series.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Large 12.4-inch display for immersive viewing | ❌ Performance may lag behind premium models |
| ✅ S Pen included for note-taking and creativity | ❌ Limited multitasking capabilities for demanding apps |
| ✅ Long-lasting battery suitable for extended use | ❌ Renewed versions may not appeal to those seeking brand-new devices |
Microsoft Surface Go 3: Best Portable 2-in-1 for Basic Tasks
Surface Go 3, 128GB Ssd, Intel Pentium 6500Y - Wifi, 8GB Ram, Matte Blac... -- 449.99(Best Buy)
Surface Go 3 - 10.5" Touchscreen - Intel® Core™ i3 - 8GB Memory - 128GB ... -- 510(Amazon)
Microsoft 12.4 in. Surface Go 3 Touch-Screen - Intel Core i5 Laptop with... -- 799.99(Microsoft Store)
Surface Go 3 - 10.5" Touchscreen - Intel® Core™ i3 - 8GB Memory - 128GB ... -- 515.55(Amazon)
Surface Go 3, 128GB Ssd, Intel Core i3 - LTE, 8GB Ram, Platinum, Microsoft -- 515.99(eBay - newegg)
Why We Picked It
The Microsoft Surface Go 3 stands out as the most portable Surface device, blending the convenience of a tablet with the functionality of a laptop. Its versatility is enhanced by the adjustable Kickstand, Surface Pen compatibility, and the inclusion of Windows 11, making it a great choice for users who prioritize mobility and ease of use for everyday tasks and schoolwork.
Who It's For
This device is best suited for students and mobile professionals who need a lightweight, compact Windows tablet for basic computing tasks, note-taking, and media consumption. It's also a good fit for families looking for a shared device that can handle homework and entertainment. However, it may not be the best choice for those who require a machine for heavy multitasking or resource-intensive applications due to its smaller screen and less powerful processor.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Ultra-portable design starting at just 1.2 pounds | ❌ Smaller 10.5-inch screen may not be ideal for all users |
| ✅ Versatile tablet-to-laptop functionality with adjustable Kickstand | ❌ Less powerful processor limits performance for intensive tasks |
| ✅ All-day battery life with up to 11 hours of power | ❌ Windows 11 in S mode may restrict software installation to Microsoft Store apps |
Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro: Best Tablet for Young Learners
All-new Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro tablet - ages 6-12 - 2023 | 10.1" bri... -- 149.99(Amazon)
All-new Amazon Fire 10 Kids tablet- 2023, ages 3-7 | Bright 10.1" HD scr... -- 149.99(Amazon)
Amazon - Fire HD 10 Kids Pro - 10.1" - Tablet - 32 GB - Intergalactic -- 59.13(Classy Chic Boutique Accumulate)
Why We Picked It
The Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro is a tablet designed with younger students in mind, offering a balance of educational content, entertainment, and robust parental controls. Its durable design and comprehensive warranty make it a reliable choice for parents looking to provide their children with a safe and engaging digital experience.
Who It's For
This tablet is best suited for children aged 6-12 who require a device for reading, browsing, and using light educational apps. It's also ideal for parents who want to manage their child's screen time and content access with ease, thanks to the extensive parental controls.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Comprehensive parental controls allow for a customized and secure user experience | ❌ Limited app availability due to the Amazon ecosystem compared to Android or iOS |
| ✅ Includes 1 year of Amazon Kids+ with a wide range of ad-free educational content | ❌ Subscription-based content access may incur additional costs after the first year |
| ✅ 2-year worry-free guarantee provides peace of mind for parents against accidental damage | ❌ May not be as suitable for older children or teens who require more advanced features |
Google Pixel Slate: Versatile Chrome OS Tablet for Google Enthusiasts
Pixel Slate 12.3-Inch 2 in 1 Tablet Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB, Aspec... -- 849(Amazon)
Google Pixel Slate 12.3-inch 2 in 1 Tablet Intel Core M3 8GB Ram 64GB As... -- 499.99(Amazon)
Google Pixel Slate Tablet - 12.3" - Core i5 8th Gen i5-8200Y Dual-Core (... -- 899(Chapman University Bookstore)
Pixel Slate 12.3" Touchscreen LCD Tablet w/Pen | Intel 8th Generation Co... -- 549.99(Amazon)
Pixel Slate 12.3" Touchscreen LCD Tablet w/Pixelbook Pen | Intel 8th Gen... -- 599.99(Amazon)
Pixel Tablet with Charging Speaker Dock - Android Tablet with 11-Inch Sc... -- 399(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Google Pixel Slate offers a unique blend of a high-resolution touchscreen display, robust performance with various Intel Core options, and the versatility of Chrome OS, making it an excellent choice for students and professionals alike who are deeply integrated into the Google ecosystem. Its support for Google Play apps and accessories like a stylus and detachable keyboard enhances its functionality, bridging the gap between a tablet and a laptop.
Who It's For
Ideal for students and professionals who rely on Google's suite of productivity tools and are looking for a portable device that doesn't compromise on screen quality or performance. It's also great for those who appreciate the flexibility of using a device in tablet or laptop mode. However, due to its discontinuation, it might not be the best choice for someone looking for long-term support or the latest hardware.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ High-resolution 12.3-inch molecular display for vivid visuals | ❌ Discontinued product, making availability limited |
| ✅ Flexible 2-in-1 design with Chrome OS, supporting both tablet and laptop modes | ❌ Future support and updates are uncertain |
| ✅ Access to Google Play apps and productivity tools with automatic updates and security | ❌ Keyboard and stylus sold separately, adding to the overall cost |
Huawei MatePad Pro: Best Android Tablet for Multitaskers
HUAWEI MatePad Pro 13.2 inch WIFI 12GB+256GB Golden Black -- 816.31(友和 Yoho)
2021 HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.6 inch Tablet PC Kirin 9000E Octa Core CPU Ha... -- 699.99(AliExpress.com)
HUAWEI MatePad Pro 11 inch 2022 4G LTE Phone Call Tablet PC HarmonyOS 3.... -- 895.99(AliExpress.com)
Why We Picked It
The Huawei MatePad Pro is selected for its impressive display quality and robust hardware that delivers strong performance, especially considering its price point. It stands out as a solid choice for students and professionals who need a capable Android tablet for multitasking and productivity tasks.
Who It's For
This tablet is ideal for students and professionals looking for a high-performance Android tablet with a large, high-quality display for studying, note-taking, and media consumption. However, it may not be suitable for users who rely heavily on Google services and apps due to the restrictions imposed on Huawei by the US government.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ High-quality, large display for immersive viewing | ❌ Limited access to Google services and apps |
| ✅ Powerful hardware with ample RAM and storage options | ❌ Potential concerns with future software updates |
| ✅ Competitive pricing for a premium tablet experience | ❌ HarmonyOS may have a learning curve for users accustomed to other Android interfaces |
Thanks for checking out the best tablets for students in 2024! If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. Happy shopping!