Owning a cheap tablet doesn’t mean compromising on quality. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply seeking a dependable device, it’s essential to find a budget-friendly tablet that keeps you connected and productive without overspending.
Some tablets function as powerful laptop replacements, while others are more modest. Affordable options can be great for kids’ entertainment, reading ebooks, or serving as alarms or digital signs. You don’t usually need to spend over $300 for a basic tablet that meets these needs.
This article covers the 7 best budget tablets available, offering a variety of options to cater to everyone’s needs and preferences.
Explore our top picks for budget-friendly tablets below and find useful buying tips at the end.
7 Best Cheap Tablets in 2024
1. Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet
The Amazon Fire HD 10 (2023) is an excellent choice for those seeking a budget-friendly tablet with a decent display and smooth performance. Its Alexa Echo Show mode and long battery life make it a versatile option, although it has a limited app selection and is more focused on Amazon content.
With its affordability and good build quality, it’s a solid alternative to pricier options like the iPad.
2. Samsung Galaxy Tab S7
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 boasts a 12.4-inch screen with 2560 x 1600 pixels and 64GB storage, powered by a Qualcomm Octa-Core processor and includes an S Pen for smooth functionality.
3. Acer Iconia Tab P10
Acer’s Iconia Tab P10, priced under $200, features a 10.4-inch 2K display, MediaTek MT8183C CPU, and Android 12, making it the best budget Android tablet despite occasional performance concerns.
4. Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 10.9″ 64GB Android Tablet stands out as the best mid-range budget tablet, featuring a Snapdragon 695 CPU and a bright 11″ display.
5. Apple iPad (9th Generation)
The Apple 10.2-inch iPad, powered by an A13 Bionic chip, offers smooth performance for work and multitasking, despite some mixed opinions on battery life and Lightning ports.
6. OnePlus Pad
For high-end needs, the OnePlus Pad Tablet shines with its 11.61-inch IPS display, MediaTek Dimensity 9000 chip, and 8GB of RAM, making it the best high-end budget tablet despite limited storage options.
7. Android Tablet
The Android Tablet with Keyboard offers 128GB storage and a 1280×800 IPS HD display, making it perfect for students and casual users despite occasional performance issues.
Selecting the Best Budget Tablet Options
When considering a budget-friendly tablet, keep the following factors in mind:
- Performance and Efficiency: Opt for tablets with capable processors and adequate RAM to ensure smooth multitasking.
- Battery Life: Choose tablets with long-lasting batteries for uninterrupted usage throughout your day.
- Build Quality and Longevity: Choose tablets with durable builds to ensure they last and offer value for your investment.
Can budget tablets handle professional tasks effectively?
Yes, many budget tablets are suitable for professional tasks such as email management, document editing, and creating presentations.
Do budget tablets support running heavy applications and games?
While it depends on their specifications, most budget tablets can handle a wide range of apps and games. However, high-demand applications may have limitations.
Are budget tablets suitable for students?
Absolutely, budget tablets are ideal for students due to their affordability and versatility. They can be used for note-taking, research, multimedia consumption, and more.