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The 7 Best Tablets for Travel of 2024

Bring a portable and lightweight entertainment hub on your next trip.

In This Article

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  • Our top picks
  • Tips for Buying
  • Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure

If you’re looking for a lightweight, portable, and versatile entertainment station on the go, pack a tablet on your next trip. Tablets are great for catching up on Netflix while on the airplane, reading eBooks, gaming (both for you and the kids), and simple browsing. Sure, a smartphone can do all of those things, but the screen is small and it’s nice to have a dedicated play device. Tablets are also a great alternative to a travel laptop as a way to sprinkle a little digital nomading into your trip, especially for creatives who can benefit from the extra features of a device like the Apple iPad Pro.

In our research, we found that the most well-known tablet, the entry-level Apple iPad (9th generation), remains the best option, and it will save you some cash compared to the latest version. Scroll down for more options from Samsung, OnePlus, and more.

Best Overall

Apple ipad (9th generation).

It’s a great all-around device for most travelers and you can often find it on sale.

It’s not a great option for work, unless you go for an upgraded model.

Yes, Apple came out with a brand-new iPad (10th generation) in October 2022, but we still think the 9th generation is great for most travelers, especially if you can find it on sale. The newest iPad does indeed have more features — including a larger screen (10.9 inches versus 10.2 inches), a faster chip (Intel A14 versus A13), a better rear camera (12MP versus 8MP), and it uses the new USB-C connector rather than the now-outdated Lightning port. The only factor to consider then is whether you truly need all those features or not.

The 9th generation iPad is plenty good enough to watch a movie on the plane, check some emails, and occupy the kids at dinner with the wide array of iOS games (that are much better on a tablet than the iPhone). Plus, it’s usually about $100 less than the latest device.

It’s possible to upgrade the iPad to get more storage and 5G/LTE connectivity, but if you need more power consider the iPad Air or iPad Pro , which can function as a travel laptop.

The Details: 9.8 x 6.8 x 0.29 inches | 1.07 pounds | 64GB/256GB

Best Android

Oneplus pad 11.61-inch lcd display.

It has great battery life and can work as a laptop in a pinch.

There’s no 5G/LTE capability.

If you’re looking for the versatility of an iPad but prefer to stay within the Android ecosystem, check out One Plus’s Pad. Released in 2023, the tablet has efficient speed for your everyday traveling needs as well as plenty of storage (128GB). But what really stands out is its impressive battery life, which can last for more than 50 days on standby, and about 13 hours of constant use. It’s also a sleek-looking device overall that comes in a unique color: halo green.

An advantage of the OnePlus Pad over its closest competitor, the Google Pixel Tablet , is that it’s capable of becoming a 2-in-1 laptop if you add the Magnetic Keyboard (sold separately), and you can charge it by plugging it in rather than lugging around Google’s speaker charger, which would be awkward to travel with.

If you’re looking for an Android tablet with more power and 5G/LTE connectivity, consider the Samsung Galaxy S8 .

The Details: 10.2 x 7.5 x 0.26 inches | 1.22 pounds | 128GB

Best Compact

Apple ipad mini 2021 (6th generation).

B & H Photo Video

It’s incomparable in terms of portability, and ideal for eBooks.

It’s not the best laptop replacement.

In Apple’s world, smaller doesn’t mean weaker, nor cheaper. The iPad Mini costs the same or even more as the latest iPad (10th generation) and has a smaller 8.3-inch screen (compared to 10.9 inches for the iPad). But it’s more powerful with an A15 chip and critically has an anti-reflective coating over the screen, which is an important feature for readers as traditional tablet screens can be tough on the eyes. It’s also about 7 ounces lighter than the iPad and of course smaller, so it’s much better in terms of portability.

If you’re an artist, the iPad Mini has another key feature — you can use the latest Apple Pencil (2nd generation) , which doesn’t work with the entry-level iPad. Conversely, the Mini is not compatible with Apple’s Magic Keyboard for iPad , but it does work with other Bluetooth keyboards.

The Details: 7.69 x 5.31 x 0.25 inches | 0.65 pounds | 64GB, 256GB

Best Durability

Oukitel 10-inch android tablet.

It can take a beating and doesn’t sacrifice performance.

It’s twice the weight of an iPad.

The frustrating thing about most tablets is the battery runs out quickly (it takes a lot of energy to power such big screens), plus they’re prone to cracking. Enter the Oukitel RT2. This tablet is built to last with a rugged protective case, a back handle grip and an IP68 water and dust-resistance rating which means it can handle being submerged in 5 feet of water for up to 30 minutes. It also has an extremely impressive 20,000 mAh battery which can last for 900 hours on standby or 15 hours of video. The battery is so strong that the tablet can even act as a power bank if your smartphone or smartwatch runs out of juice.

The Oukitel RT2 doesn’t sacrifice other useful features either. It has a 10.1-inch HD screen as well as an excellent rear camera for a tablet at 16MP. Last but certainly not least, this tablet is cheaper than any regularly-priced iPad and most other Android tablets, making it a strong option for any adventurous traveler.

The Details: 10.3 x 7.2 x 0.7 inches | 2.2 pounds | 128GB

Best Features

Apple 11-inch ipad pro m2 chip.

B H Photo Video Audio

It’s the ultimate companion for digital nomads and creatives.

It’s a bit much if you simply want to use it for videos, simple gaming, or browsing.

If you want the very best iPad available for travel, especially if you plan to use it for work on the road, then look no further than the iPad Pro. While it has the same-sized display as the iPad (10th generation), it’s much faster with an Apple M2 chip — so it’s just as fast as the latest MacBook Air. That means you can very reasonably use it as your travel laptop, though you’ll need to get the Magic Keyboard for iPad and potentially the Apple Pencil (2nd Generation) stylus if that’s useful for you. The iPad Pro is also ideal for video conferencing as it has a 12MP front-facing camera and can support high-speed gaming. It also allows you to use Apple’s LiDAR (light detection and ranging) feature, which isn’t available on other iPad models.

You can upgrade the iPad Pro to come with cellular data, more storage space, and a larger screen with a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio as well as improved Liquid Retina XDR display.

The Details: 9.74 x 7.02 x 0.23 inches | 1.03 pounds | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB

Best Budget

Amazon fire 7.

It’s a great starter tablet for occasional users.

It doesn’t work with many Android or iOS apps.

If you’re not sure if you really need a tablet and just want to try it out, check out the Amazon Fire. We love this tablet for its simplicity: it's a compact device that allows users to watch movies on Netflix, listen to music on Spotify, and read books with the Kindle app. However, you’ll also be locked into Amazon’s app store, so many iOS and Android apps won’t work. It’s also not the speediest device with just a Quad-core 2.0 GHz processor and 2GB or RAM, and has a small, 7-inch display (though if those are your concerns Amazon sells larger models as well as the quicker Fire Max 11 ). But for the price and size, it gets the job done on the road.

The Detail s: 7.52 x 4.53 x 0.42 inches | 0.62 pounds | 16GB

Best Lightweight

Samsung galaxy tab a7.

It’s light, affordable, and does the trick for basic use.

It only comes with three years of operating system updates.

For the best combination of portability, price, and compatibility with the Android app store, check out this entry-level tablet from Samsung. While it can't quite compete with the iPad Mini, it’s a fraction of the price and weighs just a few ounces more. Its 8.7-inch display is plenty big enough for reading and the quality is just fine for movies and gaming. And if you want to pay extra for LTE compatibility, or add up to 1TB of extra storage via microSD, you can do that too.

The De tails: 4.91 x 0.31 x 8.37 inches | 0.82 pounds | 32GB

Tips for Buying a Tablet

Think about how you’ll use it while traveling.

If you just want a tablet for reading, watching movies, gaming and browsing the Internet, you probably don’t need something super expensive. That said, if you plan to bring a tablet instead of a laptop, opt for a device that at least has sufficient battery life and connectivity for a portable keyboard .

Consider how you’ll keep it protected

If you take your tablet traveling, make sure it’s protected with a padded sleeve or case that covers the screen, as well as a handle, perhaps, so you don’t drop it.

A tablet gives you more screen size for reading, watching movies, and playing games. It’s also a wonderful tool for creatives since users can draw using a stylus. Digital nomads and artists can also benefit from a tablet as a lighter replacement for a laptop and as a way to show off their work while standing up at a conference or trade show.

Just as you'd stow away a laptop, tablets should stay in your in-cabin luggage and be readily accessible to take out at airport security. And while there’s no official TSA rule against putting a tablet in the overhead, chances are you’d like to use it during your flight as well, so consider stashing this in a personal item instead of a larger suitcase.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, journalist and T+L contributor Joel Balsam reviewed the best tablets available and used his expertise as a full-time traveler and digital nomad to form his rankings.

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MyNextTablet

Best Tablets for Travel in 2024: Our Picks for Holidays

What’s the best travel tablet? We review all tablets and here are our top recommendations for iPads and Android tablets for traveling.

best travel tablet

Last updated on

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Apple iPad Air 4 display

We all love going on holiday, but not everyone wants to totally disconnect while doing so. Whether you want to get creative while on holiday or simply need to keep up with your favorite TV shows, bringing one of the best tablets for travel can be a great way to stay connected.

Sure, we all pack our smartphones, but sometimes those tiny screens just don’t cut it. That’s where our list comes into the picture. We’ve been reviewing tablets since 2008, so we’re confident we can recommend something for you. Whether it’s a high-end Apple tablet or a budget Android device, we’ve got you covered no matter your destination.

The Best Tablets for Travel: An Overview

  • Best overall: Apple iPad Air (on Amazon*) . The Apple iPad Air is an excellent travel tablet with a great display, fantastic CPU performance, and Apple’s typical high-quality fit and finish. The iPad Air will do everything you need a travel tablet to do and then some.
  • Best premium iOS tablet: Apple iPad Pro 11” (on Amazon*) . Power users who need a ton of storage and an ultra-smooth high-quality display will want to get the iPad Pro 11”. It’s a true laptop replacement tablet, albeit with a price to match.
  • Best premium Android tablet: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 (on Amazon*) . Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S9 is a brilliant high-end Android tablet. It has a fantastic AMOLED screen, snappy performance, and IP68 water resistance, but the price may be hard to swallow for some.
  • Best mid-range tablet: Apple iPad (10th generation) (on Amazon*) . Apple’s basic iPad is a classy tablet with good performance at a reasonable price. It’s not perfect, but it’s a great mid-range option for the average user.
  • Best mid-range tablet with pen: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE (on Amazon*) . The Samsung Tab S9 FE is a solid Android tablet that offers good performance for its price. It has a good IPS display, IP68 water resistance, and an S Pen for sketching and taking notes.
  • Best value tablet: Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2 (on Amazon*) . Lenovo’s Tab P11 Gen 2 is a great option if you want a large 120 Hz display without breaking the bank. Its mid-range MediaTek processor means it’ll do a good job in most apps, too.
  • Best 8-inch tablet: Apple iPad Mini (on Amazon*) . Apple’s 8-inch iPad is a compact powerhouse. It has enough processing power for even the most demanding iPadOS apps and a good display, all in a package that’ll fit in a jacket pocket or sling bag.
  • Best budget tablet: Lenovo Tab M9 (on Amazon*) . The Lenovo Tab M9 is an affordable tablet that squeezes a 9-inch screen into an 8-inch form factor. It’ll serve you well if you want a basic tablet for watching videos and browsing the internet during holiday downtime.

Best Tablets for Travel: All Details

Andrzej with the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE

If you want to know more about our picks, this section is for you. We’ll go into more details about each of our selections and link to hands-on reviews if you want to get into the nitty-gritty of each tablet.

Apple iPad Air: Best Overall

Apple iPad Air 5

The Apple iPad Air 5 is a fantastic premium tablet. It's cheaper than the iPad Pro but offers the same super-fast Apple M1 processor. We get a premium metal body, good speakers, a fingerprint scanner, two keyboard options, and the fantastic Apple Pencil 2. The 10.9 inch LCD screen is a good one but a bit darker than the Pro and supports 60Hz only.

Apple’s iPad Air is an excellent tablet and a brilliant option for those seeking a travel tablet for the holidays. We’d go so far as to say it’s likely the best iPad for most users, with its excellent display, blazing-fast M1 chip, and reasonable price.

The iPad Air boasts Apple’s M1 processor, which powered the 2020 MacBook lineup. It may not be the newest Apple Silicon processor, but it’s still an amazing laptop-grade performer even a few years on. Apple complements the M1 chip with 8 GB of RAM and 64 or 256 GB of storage.

The iPad Air’s 10.9-inch 2360 x 1640 Liquid Retina display isn’t quite as high-end as the Mini-LED and AMOLED models of pricier tablets. However, it still looks impressive and is great for content consumption. Its 500-nit peak brightness also makes it great for outdoor use, so you can lounge around in the sun while still using your iPad Air for videos or browsing the internet.

As you might expect, this high-performance CPU, great display, and typical Apple build quality don’t come cheap. The base model Apple iPad Air costs around $600, and you only get 64 GB of storage. That’s certainly usable, but those who demand more storage are looking at an extra $150 to bump it up to 256 GB. Worth it? We’ll let you be the judge.

Read: Our Apple iPad Air Review

Apple iPad Pro 11”: Best Premium iOS Tablet

Apple’s iPad Pro 11” is the tablet to get if you’re a power user demanding the best. It’s a very pricey tablet, but you’ll want to consider the iPad Pro 11” if you need a laptop replacement-tier tablet for your holiday.

Apple iPad Pro 11 WiFi 128GB

The Apple iPad Pro M2 is the best tablet you can buy right now. It's more powerful than all competitors, has two very pretty 11-inch and 12.9-inch displays, as well as a premium built. We get great premium features like the good Apple Pencil 2, fantastic keyboard covers, facial recognition, and good speakers. However, compared to its predecessors, almost nothing has changed.

The iPad Pro 11” packs Apple’s M2 processor paired with 8 or 16 GB of RAM, broadly on par with all the current MacBooks. Storage is also impressive, starting at 128 GB and maxing out at 2 TB. So you’re getting laptop-class specs and performance in a tablet, putting the iPad Pro 11” miles ahead of the competition. Want a tablet for heavy photo or video editing? This is it.

Games and content will look great on the iPad Pro 11”s 2388 x 1688 Liquid Retina display. It’s a vibrant and accurate display that’ll impress all but the pickiest users. It also has a 120 Hz refresh rate, which ensures smooth animations and scrolling. Add a four-speaker setup into the mix, and you have a great tablet for content consumption and even creation. 

Of course, that’s the minimum you’d expect from a tablet that starts at around $800. The Apple iPad Pro 11” isn’t a general-purpose tablet for the average user. But if you need laptop-rivaling power in a tablet, there isn’t anything else worth considering.

Read: Our Apple iPad Pro M2 Review

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9: Best Premium Android Tablet

Most consumers likely associate Android tablets with mid-range and value-oriented offerings, but Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S9 bucks that trend. It’s a high-end Android tablet experience, albeit with a price to match.

The highlight of the show has to be the Galaxy Tab S9’s 2560 x 1600 AMOLED 2X display. It’s a stunning 120-Hz and HDR10+ capable screen that’s incredible for content consumption. You get vibrant colors, deep blacks, and enough brightness even in direct sunlight. 

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9, S9+ and S9 Ultra are the best Android tablets on the market. We get a powerful processor, really pretty AMOLED displays, the S Pen is included and it gets updates up to Android 17. We get good speakers, fingerprint readers, optional keyboard covers and much more - really great!

The Galaxy Tab S9 powers its top-notch display with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, which you can complement with either 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage or a higher-capacity 12/256 GB setup. Either way, you’ll get great performance from the Tab S9 that beats all Android tablets.

Samsung ships the Galaxy Tab S9 with the S Pen, a nice bonus for those who like to draw or take notes while traveling. Another great travel-friendly feature is the Galaxy Tab S9’s IP68 dust- and water-proofing. While we don’t recommend you swim with it, the Tab S9 should be perfectly safe for use at the pool or seaside.

All of this goodness doesn’t come cheap, however. Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S9 sits firmly in Apple territory, with the 8 GB version costing around $800. But that’s the price you’ll have to pay if you want the best tablet in the Android ecosystem.

Read: Our Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Series Review

Apple iPad (10th generation): Best Mid-Range Tablet

Apple’s basic iPad may not impress as much as the higher-spec (and pricier)  iPad Air and iPad Pro, but we think it’s still a solid option in the mid-range. It’s great for anyone who wants the sleek Apple tablet experience at a relatively affordable price.

The 10th-generation iPad “only” has Apple’s older A14 Bionic chip, which we last saw in the 2020 iPad Air. You also only get 4 GB of RAM here, with the option of either 64 or 256 GB of storage. So, on paper, it’s quite a ways behind the higher-end Apple offerings.

Apple iPad 10

The Apple iPad 10 is faster than all Android tablets. Especially compared to its predecessor, it offers a better and more modern design, a bit lager and bright 10.9-inch display, as well as a new and good keyboard cover. Overall, it's a great tablet but it does have a bunch of downsides. The screen is not laminated and I noticed a jelly effect. You can get it with the first-generation Apple Pencil. However, for that one to work you have to buy an extra adapter which is ridiculous. And, sadly, the price has increased.

That said, you most likely won’t notice a huge difference in daily use. It’s more than fast enough for the average user and can play most games without issue. It’ll also still outclass most Android tablets.

One area where the 10th-generation iPad falls flat slightly is the display. The 10.9-inch 2360 x 1640 display is non-laminated and has no anti-glare coating. So you’ll notice reflections in brightly lit environments, which can get annoying. The non-laminated design also creates a noticeable gap between the glass and the display.

There are other quibbles, too. For example, the 10th-gen iPad only supports the first-gen Apple Pencil and needs a USB-C to Lightning adapter to go along with it. There’s also the fact that it only supports the new $250 Magic Keyboard Folio and won’t work with other Apple iPad keyboards.

So, the Apple iPad 10th generation isn’t the best choice for productivity or creativity. But it’s a great option if you want a sleek tablet for consuming content.

Read: Apple iPad 10th Generation Review

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE: Best Mid-Range Tablet With Pen

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE is a cut-down version of the premium Tab S9 that targets the mid-range market. It’s a downgrade from the Galaxy Tab S9, but the S9 FE is still a solid tablet that will tick many boxes for most users.

Samsug Galaxy Tab S9 FE

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE is currently the best mid-range tablet with a pen. We get a pretty good overall package here with a high-resolution 10.9-inch 90Hz IPS display, a great design, latest software with long updates, and the S Pen, which is included. The S9 FE has many premium features such as a fingerprint reader, good speakers, and a water and dust-resistant body. It would be even better if the processor was more powerful. So, it's not a perfect gaming tablet.

  • Premium design
  • IP 68 certification
  • Pretty 90Hz display
  • Fingerprint reader
  • Up-to-date software
  • Good speakers
  • S Pen is included
  • Good keyboard cover
  • Performance just average

Samsung uses an in-house Exynos 1380 processor for the Tab S9 FE, which the company pairs with 6 GB of RAM. It’s not the fastest setup, but it’s nappy enough for daily use and light gaming. You only get a 128 GB storage option with the Tab S9 FE, but it comes with a MicroSD slot that supports up to 1 TB cards.

The display is a solid 2304 x 1440, 10.9” IPS panel. It runs at a maximum of 90 Hz and has decent contrast and vibrant colors. It also has a fully laminated construction, unlike Apple’s 10th-gen iPad. So, you won’t see any unsightly gaps between the glass and the display here.

Other welcome features include a bundled S Pen for notes and sketching. Add to that Samsung’s excellent Notes app, and you have a great tablet for jotting down any great ideas that come to mind while you’re on holiday. The Tab S9 FE also has IP68 water- and dust-proofing, making it a perfect poolside companion.

Samsung’s Tab S9 FE isn’t spectacular , but it doesn’t have to be. It’s a solid mid-range product at a good price, perfect if you want a travel tablet that won’t break the bank.

Read: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Review

Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2: Best Value Tablet

Lenovo’s Tab P11 Gen 2 is a great option if you don’t want to spend a ton of money on your travel tablet but still want a sizeable 120-Hz display. It has to make sacrifices in other areas to tick that particular box, but they may just be sacrifices you’re also willing to make.

Let’s start with the screen. The Tab P11 Gen 2 has an 11.5-inch IPS display that runs at 120 Hz with a 2000 x 1200 resolution and 400 nits of maximum brightness. It has vibrant colors and reasonably deep blacks for an IPS panel, offering an enjoyable content consumption experience overall.

Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2

The Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2 gets fantastic results in my review. It offers a great 10.2-inch OLED screen, powerful hardware, lots of storage, as well as a solid pen and good keyboard cover. I also like its long battery life, its loud speakers, and the productivity mode with external screen support. However, while it's supposed to get two major updates, it probably won't be updated as long as the flagships from Samsung and Apple.

Lenovo equipped the P11 Gen 2 with an eight-core MediaTek Helio G99 processor. The base model comes with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage, rising to 6 GB and 128 GB at the top end. It’s not high-end hardware, then, but it’s adequate considering the P11 Gen 2’s price and target audience. It’ll do perfectly for everyday tasks such as web browsing, Netflix, and light productivity.

Conversely, gaming isn’t the Tab P11 Gen 2’s strong suit. It’s acceptable, but hardcore gamers will want to spend extra on a higher-performance tablet. The cameras are also sub-par. Not ideal, sure, but neither of these should matter if you’re simply looking for a value-conscious tablet that doesn’t skimp on the all-important screen. 

Read: Lenovo Tab P11 Gen 2 Review

Apple iPad Mini: Best 8-Inch Tablet

Apple’s iPad Mini proves you don’t have to sacrifice size to get a fast, high-performance tablet. The iPad Mini is easily the best-performing 8-inch tablet, making it a brilliant travel companion when you want to pack light.

Apple iPad Mini 6

The Apple iPad Mini 6 is the best 8-inch tablet on the market today. It offers a premium design, is more powerful than every Android tablet, supports the Apple Pencil 2, and ships with up-to-date software. We get premium features like great speakers and a fingerprint scanner. Sadly, the otherwise excellent 8.3-inch screen has a jelly effect which is a bit of a bummer.

  • Very powerful
  • Fingerprint scanner
  • Apple Pencil 2 support
  • Display has jelly effect
  • No phone capabilities

This most recent iPad Mini features a new 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, running at 2266 x 1488. The combination of a reasonably high resolution and small dimensions means that content looks incredibly crisp on the iPad Mini. It also goes up to 500 nits of brightness, which is excellent for outdoor use. However, the display suffers from a jelly scrolling effect, where one side of the screen updates slower. Not everyone will notice this issue, but it’s there.

Of course, if you want a lot of CPU power in a small package, then that’s just something you’ll have to live with. Apple’s six-core A15 Bionic chip powers the iPad Mini, combined with 4 GB of RAM and either 64 or 256 GB of storage. Sure, it’s not a power user’s dream like the iPad Air or iPad Pro, but that’s still a good enough setup to handle almost anything you can throw at it without issue.

All this goodness comes in at just 297 grams, so it’s effortless to bring with you anywhere. It’s small enough to fit in a large jacket pocket or a sling bag, too, so you’ll never be caught without your iPad wherever you go on your holidays.

Read: Apple iPad Mini Review

Lenovo Tab M9: Best Budget Tablet

Budget Android tablets are often uninspiring and unexciting, but Lenovo’s Tab M9 is an exception. It’s a 9-inch tablet with the dimensions of an 8-inch one, offering extra screen real estate without taking up much extra room in your bag.

Lenovo Tab M9

The Lenovo Tab M9 is better than other up-to-date and widely available 8-inch Android tablets on the market right now. Sure, with 9 inches, it's a bit bigger, but not much. It's fast enough, the display is quite bright and the battery lasts long. Sadly, there's no high-end competitor running Android right now.

The screen is a standard IPS panel that runs at 1340 x 800, with the 400-nit brightness and viewing angles typical to affordable tablet IPS displays. It’s not a bad screen, but its extra diagonal size leads to slightly poor text sharpness. That said, you’ll likely appreciate the additional room when watching Netflix.

Lenovo opted to go with thinner-than-usual bezels on the Tab M9, which means it’s only slightly larger than the average 8-inch Android tablet. Unless you need a tab that’ll fit into your back pocket, we think the screen-to-size ratio makes the Tab M9 the best Android tablet in this size range.

As you may expect for the price, the Tab M9’s internals aren’t anything to get too excited about. You get a MediaTek Helio G80 processor with 3 or 4 GB of RAM, depending on your storage choice. 32 GB models get 3 GB, while the 64 and 128 GB models get 4 GB of memory. You can expand the storage via the MicroSD slot.

If you can live with not having a fingerprint reader or earpiece, the Lenovo Tab M9 is a great compact Android tablet. It doesn’t have that much competition, either, so it’s likely your best choice for a small travel tablet if the iPad Mini doesn’t float your boat.

Read: Lenovo Tab M9 Review

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Best Tablets For Travel In 2024

Planning your next vacation and want the best travel tablet for your next great adventure? There’s no understating the convenience of a trusty tablet on the go. Whether you’re planning to soar through the skies, take your family on a road trip, or travel by steam train, having a tablet on hand makes the difference between a good trip and a great trip.

If you want to know about which tablets are best for travelling, we’ve scoured the market and tested some of the top devices available to compile a list of the very best travel tablets for you. If you need a deeper dive for tablets that offer stellar performance, lightweight portability, long-lasting battery life and are not a burden on your wallet, you’ve come to the right place. Check out our buying guide at the end of this article if you want a surefire way to find the tablet that’s right for you.

Let’s dive into the top-tier travel tablets that will elevate your travel experiences in 2024.

Recommended Best Travel Tablets | 2024 Top Pick

We’ve put together a list of the absolute best ones out there, with killer performance, ultra-portability, awesome battery life, and great bang for your buck.

So, let’s cut to the chase and explore the top-notch travel tablets that are about to kick your travel game up a notch.

1. RCA Windows 2-in-1 Tablet with Travel Keyboard

RCA Windows 2-in-1 Tablet with Travel Keyboard

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly travel tablet, the RCA 12.2″ Windows 10 2-in-1 Tablet with Travel Keyboard could be a good option for you.

  • Provides clear and vivid images
  • Comes with a travel keyboard
  • Up to 128GB storage capacity
  • Not powerful enough for heavy multitasking or demanding apps
  • Battery life limited to 6 hours
  • Only 2MP resolution front and rear cameras

During our recent trip, we tested the RCA 12.2″ Windows 10 2-in-1 Tablet with Travel Keyboard for a week.

We were quite impressed with this tablet’s clarity and brightness , which made the screen easy to see, day or night. The included travel keyboard was a handy addition, providing comfortable typing while on the move.

We also appreciated the MicroSD card slot, which allowed us to store all our photos and videos without worrying about running out of space.

We feel this tablet’s performance may not satisfy power users, given its Intel Celeron N4000 processor and 2GB of RAM, as we noticed it struggled with heavy multitasking and demanding applications. The battery life, maxing out at 6 hours, left something to be desired, as we frequently had to recharge it during long travel days.

We also noticed that the front and rear cameras, both with 2MP resolution, didn’t deliver high-quality photos or video calls.

So, if you’re in the market for an affordable travel tablet with a decent display and a travel keyboard, the RCA 12.2″ Windows 10 2-in-1 Tablet with Travel Keyboard is a reasonable choice. However, if you need a more powerful tablet with extended battery life and better camera capabilities, you might want to explore other options on our list.

2. Samsung Galaxy Tab A8

Samsung Galaxy Tab A8

If you’re in search of a travel tablet that can match your family’s travel needs, the SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab A8 is an excellent choice. Equipped with an enhanced chipset, extended battery life, and storage capacity of up to 128GB, this tablet is ideal for activities like streaming movies, staying connected on social media, and managing emails while you’re on the move.

  • Large 10.5″ LCD screen is great for watching videos
  • The upgraded chipset and long-lasting battery
  • Samsung Kids for kid-friendly use
  • Not as sleek as other tablets on the market
  • 32GB of storage may be limiting
  • Battery life varies depending on usage patterns and other factors

During our recent family vacation, we had the chance to use the SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab A8, and it left a positive impression.

The tablet’s 10.5″ LCD screen was excellent for streaming movies and staying connected via video chats with friends and family. We especially liked the upgraded chipset, which facilitated smooth multitasking throughout the day.

A standout feature of the SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab A8 is Samsung Kids—an assortment of safe and enjoyable games, books, and videos. It offers a kid-friendly and parent-approved environment for learning and play, instilling good digital habits.

While not the sleekest travel tablet available, we found the Tab A8 easy to pack and carry. Its impressive battery life allowed us to go unplugged for extended periods.

Overall, the SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab A8 is a solid choice for families on the move. Its upgraded chipset, extended battery life, and kid-friendly features make it a reliable travel companion that caters to the needs of both parents and children.

3. Amazon Fire 7 Kids Tablet

Amazon Fire 7 Kids Tablet

If you’re looking for a tablet for your young child, the Amazon Fire 7 Kids Tablet is a great option.

  • The tablet comes with a 2-year worry-free guarantee, so if it breaks, Amazon will replace it for free.
  • The Kid-Proof Case with a built-in stand is durable and can protect against drops and bumps.
  • The tablet includes a 1-year subscription to Amazon Kids+, which has thousands of ad-free books, games, videos, apps, and Alexa skills.
  • Low-resolution screen
  • Speakers are not forward-facing, which can impact the sound quality.
  • Shorter battery life than other tablets on the market.

We were quite impressed with this tablet’s durability and kid-friendly features. The kid-proof case has already saved the tablet from a few drops, and the built-in stand is great for watching videos hands-free. The 1-year subscription to Amazon Kids+ has also been a hit with our child, who loves the variety of content available.

However, we have noticed that the screen resolution is not the best, and the speakers are not forward-facing, which can make the sound quality less than ideal. The battery life is also not as long as some other tablets on the market, so it may need to be charged more frequently, which is not great if you’re traveling for extended periods.

Overall, we would recommend the Amazon Fire 7 Kids Tablet for parents looking for a durable and kid-friendly tablet with plenty of content options.

4. Microsoft Surface Pro 2

Microsoft Surface Pro 2

Looking for a versatile tablet that won’t break the bank? Consider the Microsoft Surface Go 2.

  • Scratch resistance coat to resist daily wear and tear
  • IPS panel technology provides high-quality visuals
  • Speedy processor
  • Full HD video recorder
  • Camera pixels are not up to the mark
  • Occasional touchscreen issues

The Microsoft Surface Go 2 features a stunning IPS panel delivering vibrant colors and sharp, high-quality images from various angles, with a slim and sleek HD display at 1920 x 1280 resolution. It also boasts an 8 MP rear camera for impressive photos and video chats.

Running on Windows OS, it provides seamless access to your favorite apps and games while maintaining its slim, stylish, and lightweight design for portability.

This tablet offers a versatile experience, serving as both a capable gaming machine and a reliable movie player. Storage can be expanded with a micro SD card, and it includes unique features like micro HDMI and a 1.7 GHz core_i9_7740x.

Despite its affordability, the Microsoft Surface Go 2 stands out with a powerful processor, 8 GB of RAM, dual cameras, and advanced panel technology, making it one of the most promising options we’ve tested.

5. Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet

Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet

If you are looking for a tablet for your child aged 3-7, we highly recommend the Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids tablet. It is a well-built tablet that is designed to withstand drops and bumps, and it comes with a kid-proof case. With its bright 10.1″ screen, your child can enjoy thousands of ad-free books, games, videos, apps, and more.

  • Comes with a 2-year worry-free guarantee.
  • Includes 1 year of Amazon Kids+
  • High-tech features like an octa-core processor, 3 GB RAM, dual cameras, a USB-C (2.0) port, and up to 1 TB of expandable storage.
  • After 1 year, your subscription to Amazon Kids+ will automatically renew. You can cancel this on the Amazon Parent Dashboard.
  • Only really ideal for kids aged 3-7
  • Won’t be great for children looking for a tablet with more advanced features.

We recently acquired the Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids tablet, and it has exceeded our expectations. The tablet impresses with its robust build, complete with a sturdy kid-proof case designed to shield against drops and bumps. An added perk is the included 2-year worry-free guarantee, providing peace of mind.

This tablet is exceptionally user-friendly, and our kids found it a breeze to navigate. The Parent Dashboard is another valuable feature, offering easy content filtering by age, educational goal and time limit settings, and access control for platforms like Netflix and Disney+.

We wholeheartedly recommend the Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids tablet for parents seeking a tablet tailored to children aged 3-7. It combines durability with a vibrant 10.1″ screen and an array of ad-free books, games, videos, apps, and more — guaranteeing hours of entertainment during your travels.

6. 2021 Apple 11-inch iPad Pro (Wi‑Fi, 256GB) – Silver

2021 Apple 11-inch iPad Pro (Wi‑Fi, 256GB) – Silver

The Apple iPad Pro is an ideal travel companion, thanks to its impressive features. 

  • Excellent image quality
  • Impressive battery life
  • Extremely fast processors
  • Quad speaker Audio system
  • 12MP rear-facing camera
  • Least portable
  • Expensive compared to other travel tablets

The Apple iPad Pro excels as a travel tablet, combining entertainment and productivity seamlessly. Its 11-inch Retina Display with a resolution of 2732 x 2048 and 264 ppi pixel density ensures sharp and vibrant visuals for movies, photos, and reading while on the move.

As a bonus, the iPad Pro is excellent with energy efficiency, thanks to advanced technologies like photo alignment, oxide TFT, and variable refresh rate. These innovations extend the tablet’s battery life, making it reliable for extended use during your travels.

Entertainment is a forte of this tablet, with the Retina Display delivering stunning visuals for movies and videos. The Quad speaker audio system complements this by providing high-quality sound, enriching your on-the-road entertainment.

But the iPad Pro isn’t just for leisure. Fueled by a potent 64-bit A9X chip and an M9 motion coprocessor, it offers swift performance and effortless multitasking with iOS 9 features. 

The tablet’s productivity prowess is further underscored by its 64-bit A9X chip, allowing you to tackle substantial work-related tasks typically reserved for workstations and PCs.

Whether you’re using Picture in Picture or Split View or even handling three simultaneous 4K video streams in iMovie, it caters to creative individuals who appreciate its spacious screen.

We believe the Apple iPad Pro is an exceptional travel companion for professionals on the go, offering a harmonious blend of entertainment, productivity, and portability. Whether you’re catching up on work or creating content while traveling, the iPad Pro is more than up to the challenge.

7. YINOCHE Kids Tablet

YINOCHE Kids Tablet

If you’re looking for a tablet that’s perfect for kids, the YINOCHE Kids Tablet is a great option that you won’t want to miss.

  • The tablet comes with GMS Certified IWAWA Kids Apps pre-loaded, which makes it easy for kids to use.
  • Equipped with an adjustable stand and a multi-touch 1024×600 display that presents a bright display with vivid colors at all angles.
  • With the 32GB storage in this kids’ Android tablet, you can store every wonderful moment.
  • The tablet’s front and rear cameras have low resolution, which may not be suitable for taking high-quality photos.
  • The tablet’s battery life is not as long as other tablets on the market.
  • The processor is not that powerful.

The YINOCHE Kids Tablet offers robust child-friendly features, including parental controls for effective screen time management. 

We loved the pre-installed educational apps designed for toddlers, such as Montessori, STEM, Art and Craft, and Brain Training, which enhance learning. You can also expand options with additional apps from the Google Play Store, including popular choices like Netflix, YouTube Kids, Disney Plus, Duolingo, and more.

Durability is ensured with a protective case, while the adjustable stand and responsive multi-touch display enhance user experience. As a plus, the tablet supports over 40 languages, including Spanish. 

If you seek a child-focused tablet, we recommend the YINOCHE Kids Tablet for its educational value and user-friendly design.

8. Contixo 7-inch Kids Learning Tablet

Contixo 7-inch Kids Learning Tablet

If you are looking for a tablet that is both kid-friendly and educational, then the Contixo 7-inch Kids Learning Tablet might be a good choice for you.

  • Comes with pre-installed educational apps
  • Easy parental control and full access to Google
  • Kid-proof case and a built-in kickstand
  • Battery life could be better
  • Screen resolution is not great
  • Some users have reported slow loading times

The Contixo 7-inch Kids Learning Tablet proved to be an excellent choice for young children embarking on their learning journey. It impressively comes loaded with over 20 pre-installed educational apps meticulously designed by Academy Learning Experts, rendering it a top-rated educator-approved device.

Ease of use is a hallmark of this tablet, complemented by robust parental control features, which empower you to manage screen time and filter kid-friendly content. Furthermore, it offers full access to Google services like Gmail, YouTube, and Disney+.

We found the kid-proof case of the Contixo 7-inch Kids Learning Tablet to be a valuable asset, featuring a built-in kickstand that facilitates hands-free video viewing. Additionally, it includes a stylus designed for children aged 3-10.

While the tablet’s battery life could be improved, it generally sufficed for most daily activities. Although the screen resolution could be higher, we found it to be clear and easily readable. Occasionally, we encountered slow loading times, but these issues did not significantly impact our testing.

We recommend the Contixo 7-inch Kids Learning Tablet if you have young children just embarking on their educational journey. It’s an excellent choice for parents seeking a safe and educational device that is both user-friendly and travel-friendly.

9. TravelWifi Sapphire Tablet

TravelWifi Sapphire Tablet

If you’re looking for a tablet that can keep you connected while you travel, the TravelWifi Sapphire Tablet is a great option.

  • Lightning-fast performance thanks to Android 11 OS, Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 processor, and 4 GB RAM
  • Unlimited global internet in over 130 countries with CloudSIM technology
  • High-speed internet connection to 5 devices and 15-hour battery life
  • The Sapphire protective case is sold separately
  • A little on the heavy side, at 1.9 pounds
  • The 2 MP front camera is not ideal

The TravelWifi Sapphire Tablet impressed us with its lightning-fast performance, handling everything from emails to video streaming. Its CloudSIM technology ensures a stable internet connection in over 130 countries, making it an excellent travel companion.

While the tablet’s 8 MP rear camera takes great photos and videos, the 2 MP front camera disappointed us. It can connect up to 5 devices and offers a long 15-hour battery life, ensuring you stay connected throughout your journey.

We will admit that there are some downsides: the Sapphire protective case is sold separately, and the tablet is somewhat heavy at 1.9 pounds, making it less ideal for those seeking a lightweight option. We feel the TravelWifi Sapphire Tablet is a strong choice if you simply want to stay connected during travels and don’t need it to make video calls.

10. Niuniutab 10-inch Android Tablet

Niuniutab 10-inch Android Tablet

If you’re in need of a reliable and affordable travel tablet, then the Niuniutab 10-inch Android Tablet comes highly recommended.

  • Comes with the latest Android 11 operating system already installed
  • The HD IPS touchscreen has narrow bezels that provide a more vibrant viewing experience
  • Up to 8 hours of battery life
  • Disappointing 8 MP rear camera 
  • 10-inch screen size could be bigger
  • Average battery life tends to be around 6 hours

The Niuniutab 10-inch Android Tablet is a solid choice for travelers who are spontaneous and prone to plans changing. Its versatility makes it suitable for activities like watching YouTube, reading books, browsing the web, video conferencing, and mobile gaming.

The Niuniutab runs on the latest Android 11 OS, ensuring consistent app performance. Its HD IPS touchscreen has narrow bezels and offers vibrant visuals, which you can watch for hours thanks to its 2.5D Curved Screen that reduces eye fatigue. The dual speakers enhance audio, and the matte anti-glare coating reduces reflections for video watching and calls – perfect for travel when lightning can vary throughout your trip.

You can enjoy all this for up to 8 hours thanks to the 5000mAh battery and efficient CPU. Niuniutab, as a company, is also fairly responsive and has solid after-sales service, including 24/7 online support, a one-year warranty, free repairs, and convenient return and exchange options if it’s not exactly what you’re looking for.

The Niuniutab 10-inch Android Tablet is budget-friendly, reliable, and a strong contender for your next travel gadget.

Things To Consider When Buying the Best Travel Tabler?

When choosing a travel tablet, there are several factors to consider. The size and weight of the device are crucial, as you want something that is easy to carry and won’t take up too much space in your luggage. 

Battery life is also essential because being stuck without your charger while you’re travelling is the worst feeling in the world. Once that’s sorted, you can start looking at other features like storage capacity, screen resolution, and connectivity options.

If you’re need of a checklist to refer to while shopping for travel tablets, we’ve compiled a list of features that you should also keep an eye out for.

Operating System

Your choice of operating system may depend on the type of phone or laptop you already have, but it can significantly impact your tablet’s performance and functionality with your other devices.

  • Android. Android’s OS  offers versatility and affordability, with frequent updates for the latest features.
  • Windows. Windows’s OS is ideal for affordability and control and provides a desktop-like experience and software compatibility.
  • iOS. This OS is exclusive to iPads. iOS offers unique features like split-screen multitasking and superior integration with other Apple devices.

Size, weight, and durability are critical factors for travel tablets, especially if you plan to take them through airport security. Opting for tablet devices that weigh less than 1.5 pounds with screen sizes between 7 – 10 inches will offer you the best TSA experience.

Battery Life

Choosing a tablet with extended battery life (at least 8 hours) is essential to ensure that you’re not caught in a situation where your battery dies in a crucial moment like check-in.

Storage Capacity

Searching for tablets with at least 32GB of storage is another necessary step to buying the best travel tablet. How else are you going to keep all those holiday pictures?

Display Quality

One of the most common uses for tablets is to watch shows and movies while travelling, so having a display quality that is clear and has a high resolution. Tablets with at least 1080p resolution and an IPS display should be the minimum.

Connectivity Options

Ensure your tablet features Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity features so you can listen with wireless earphones, don’t have to contend with buffering, and can keep up to date with work.

Have questions brewing about which travel tablet you should purchase? Have a look at our answers to some of the questions we’ve receive the most about tablets for traveling. 

What are the best tablets for travel?

Some top choices for the best travel tablet include the Apple iPad, Samsung Galaxy Tab S7, and Microsoft Surface Go. They offer high quality resolutions, and extended battery life, and varied storage options at reasonable prices.

What is the best lightweight tablet for travel?

Those looking for lightweight travel tablets should consider the Apple iPad Air, which weighs only 1 pound and has a 10.9-inch display.

What tablet works like a laptop for business travel?

If you want a tablet to use as a laptop while travelling, the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is a strong contender, offering a detachable keyboard for typing on-the-go and Windows 10 OS compatibility. Other choices include the Apple iPad Pro and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+.

Final Thoughts on the Best Tablet for Traveling

There is such a diverse range of travel tablets catering to various needs and budgets. From the budget-friendly RCA 12.2″ Windows 10 2-in-1 Tablet to family-friendly options like the SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab A8, and kid-centric tablets such as the Amazon Fire 7 Kids Tablet, there’s something for everyone.

The 2021 Apple 11-inch iPad Pro impresses with its top-tier performance. The TravelWifi Sapphire Tablet ensures global connectivity. The Niuniutab 10-inch Android Tablet offers budget-conscious travelers a reliable option. The choice ultimately depends on individual preferences, but there’s no shortage of travel-ready tablets to enhance your next adventure.

Writer Graham Grieve brings two decades of technical communications experience to The Holy Tech coverage. Isaac contributes articles on laptops, tablets and PCs, alongside various software and hardware guides.  Isaac is a former newspaper journalist who also worked in tech communications for some of the country’s biggest corporations. He also counsels and creates material for other technology publications and hosts a podcast.

Isaac’s in-depth reporting and knowledge of hardware and software issues helps The Holy Tech’s readers learn how to choose the right products, or solve tricky problems.

Copyright © 2022 TheHolyTech

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The Best Tablet for Travel: Top 10 Picks for 2024

When it comes to tablets for travel, there are a lot of different options to choose from. With new models and features being released every year, it can be hard to decide which tablet is right for you. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the 10 best tablets for travel. Whether you’re looking for a powerful workhorse or a lightweight device that can handle basic tasks, we’ve got you covered. So read on to find out which is the best tablet for travel!

Best Tablets for Travel Featured Image - Image of 5 hands with different tablets and phones

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The Best Tablet for Travel: Top 10 Picks for 2023

Needing a tablet while traveling is essential and crucial to many people around the world. Whether it’s for business or pleasure, it’s a must-have in our current society. If you are anything like me, then the business is your focus, and having a computer at your fingertips can be heavy to carry around but you may need access for your job. Or if you are a busy parent, trying to keep your kit entertained, you might be trying to find the best tablet for your little one.

Here are four reasons why you should get a tablet for your next trip:

  • Tablet PCs are lightweight and portable, making them easy to take with you on the go.
  • They offer a wider range of features and functionality than smartphones, making them ideal for travel.
  • Tablets usually have longer battery life than smartphones, meaning you can use them for longer without having to recharge.
  • Many tablets come with built-in GPS receivers, allowing you to use them for navigation while traveling.

The Most Important Features to Consider when picking the best Tablet for Travel

When narrowing down the best tablet for travel, it is important to consider what you will be using it for most. Will you be working on the go and need a powerful device with a large screen? Or are you looking for a lightweight tablet that can handle basic tasks like browsing the web and checking email? Here are some of the most important features:

  • Size – One of the main benefits of tablets is that they are much smaller and lighter than laptops. If you’re looking for a device that you can easily carry around with you, choose a tablet that’s small and light.
  • Screen size – Tablet screens range from 7 inches to over 13 inches. If you’re looking for a device to use for movies, you’ll want one with a bigger screen.
  • Durability – If you’re planning on taking your tablet on adventures, choose one that’s durable and can withstand a few bumps and bruises.
  • Battery – Make sure to pick a tablet with good battery life so you don’t have to worry about recharging it throughout the day.
  • Price – There is a wide range of prices for tablets, from budget -friendly options to high-end devices. Choose the one that fits your needs and budget .
  • Operating system – There are three main types of tablet operating systems: iOS, Microsoft, and Android. If you’re already familiar with one of these, choose a tablet that uses the same system.
  • Storage – Tablets come with varying amounts of storage, from 16GB to 512GB. If you plan on storing a lot of movies or photos on your tablet, choose one with more storage.
  • Weight – When choosing a tablet for travel, consider how much it weighs. You don’t want to be weighed down by a heavy device when you’re on the go.
  • Performance – If you plan on using your tablet for work or gaming, choose one with good performance. Look for a tablet with a fast processor and plenty of RAM.
  • Wi fi vs Sim Card – When traveling, it is often difficult to find a good wi fi connection. If you are planning on using your tablet for data-heavy tasks like streaming videos or downloading files, choose a tablet with a SIM card so you can always have an internet connection.

Overview of the Best Tablets for Travel

Microsoft surface go 2 with a keyboard – best tablet for business travel.

  • OnePlus Pad – The best Android Tablet on for Travel

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra – Best tablet for Car Rides or Best tablet for RV travel

Apple ipad air – best tablet for traveling abroad, amazon fire hd 10 kids pro – best tablet for kids.

  • Apple iPad Pro with Magic Keyboard – Best tablet for movies on an Airplane
  • iPad Mini – Best lightweight and compact tablet

Lenovo Flex 5 – Best 2-in-1 Chromebook for a travel tablet

  • Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 – Best Samsung Tablet for Travel
  • Oukitel 10-inch Android Tablet – The Best Tablet for Durability

Comparison Chart of the Best Tablets for Travel

Best tablets for travel.

There are many different tablets on the market, making it difficult to choose the best tablet for travel for your needs. Some of the most popular tablets including the Microsoft Surface Go 2, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra, and the Apple iPad Air.

Each tablet has its own unique features and benefits, so it is important to consider what you will be using it for before making a purchase. If you need a powerful device that can handle heavy workloads, then the Microsoft Surface Go 2 is a good option and may be the best tablet for travel for you. If you are looking for a tablet that can be used for entertainment purposes, such as watching movies or playing games, then the iPad Air or the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra are great choices and fairly light which makes for the best tablet for travel.

Another factor to consider when choosing a tablet is its operating system. iOS, Android, and Windows are the three main types of operating systems available on tablets. If you are already familiar with one of these systems, then it is wise to choose a tablet that uses that same operating system.

Storage is another important consideration when purchasing a tablet. Tablets come with varying levels of storage space, so make sure to pick one that has enough space for your needs. Weight is also an important factor to consider when choosing a tablet for travel. Consider size for the best tablet for travel, make sure to choose a model that is lightweight and easy to carry around with you.

Performance is another important factor to consider when choosing the best tablet for travel. If you plan on using your tablet for power-hungry tasks such as gaming or video streaming, you will want to choose one that has good performance specs. Finally, if you often find yourself without an internet connection while traveling, choose a tablet that has a SIM card slot so you can always stay connected.

New Microsoft Surface Go 2 - 10.5" Touch-Screen - Intel Pentium - 4GB Memory - 64GB - Wifi - Platinum (Latest Model)

The Microsoft Surface Go 2 is the best tablet for business travelers. It’s lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you on the go. It offers a wider range of features and functionality than smartphones, making it ideal for travel. Since this product uses Microsoft as many businesses do, it makes it easier to complete some tasks you may need to do while traveling. It has all the functions of a Microsoft laptop yet is compact and portable. Being able to use Microsoft office while on the go is what makes this the best tablet for work.

Pros of Microsoft Surface Go 2

  • It is lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you on the go.
  • It offers a wider range of usability for those with access to Microsoft Products like Microsoft Office
  • You can easily plug in your external hard drives or flash drives to access
  • Better battery than the Microsoft Surface Pro
  • 10.5 inch screen
  • Can purchase a surface pen for more productivity

Cons of Microsoft Surface Go 2

  • Small smart keyboard makes prolonged typing awkward
  • Average battery life

Best Android Tablet for Travel – The OnePlus Pad

OnePlus Pad 11.61" LCD Display, 8GB RAM,128GB Storage, MediaTek Dimensity 9000, Android 13.1, 144HZ Refresh Rate, Dolby Vision Atmos, Wi-Fi with Cellular Data Sharing Tablet

The OnePlus pad stands out with its larger display, seamless integration within the OnePlus ecosystem, and competitive performance. While it may have limitations in software availability and market presence compared to other tablets, its unique features make it a compelling choice for those seeking a balance between performance and functionality.

The OnePlus pad, an 11.61-inch LCD tablet, offers an impressive array of features worth considering.

Pros of OnePlus Pad

  • Impressive 11.61-inch LCD display for an immersive visual experience.
  • Smooth integration with OnePlus ecosystem for seamless connectivity.
  • Competitive performance and functionality for everyday use.
  • Ability to connect external hard drives or flash drives.
  • Option to enhance productivity with a separately purchasable surface pen.

Cons of OnePlus Pad

  • Limited availability of specific software compared to other platforms.
  • Less established in certain markets compared to other tablets.

SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra 14.6-inch 256GB Graphite (Wi-Fi with S-Pen, 12GB RAM, US Version) SM-X900NZAEXAR (Renewed)

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra is an updated model of the Samsung galaxy tab s7 and is a great tablet for car rides because it has a large screen size and high resolution. This android tablet makes it ideal for watching movies or TV shows on the go. It also has a powerful processor and plenty of storage space, allowing you to install lots of apps and games. And with its long battery life, you can use it for hours without having to recharge. It’s also small enough to fit most headrest car holders.

Pros for Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra 

  • Large Screen Size
  • High Resolution
  • Powerful Processor
  • Lots of Storage Space
  • Camera quality
  • Come with a pen stylus

Cons for Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra  

  • Some users have complained that the tablet is not very durable

Apple iPad Air (5th Generation): with M1 chip, 10.9-inch Liquid Retina Display, 256GB, Wi-Fi 6, 12MP front/12MP Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life – Space Gray

The Apple iPad Air (2022) is my choice for the best tablet for travel and the best tablet for flying, thanks to its lightweight and portable design. It also offers a wider range of features and functionality than most smartphones, making it ideal for use while on the go. It also has a longer battery life than most smartphones, meaning you can use it for longer without having to recharge. It’s perfect to watch movies on, play games, and use as a portable planner.

Many models come with built-in wi fi and GPS receivers / SIM slots, making them perfect for navigation while traveling. Additionally, it has an amazing screen resolution. Just grab a sim at the airport and you are good to go. This is arguably the best tablet for most people especially the best tablet for traveling in Europe because it’s lightweight, compact, and big enough for watching movies. Don’t forget to add an apple pencil !

Pros for Apple iPad Air

  • Lightweight and portable design
  • A wider range of features and functionality than most smartphones
  • Longer battery life than most smartphones
  • Many models come with built-in GPS receivers / SIM slots
  • With the purchase of a keyboard, it’s an excellent replacement to some larger laptops
  • USB C Charging
  • 10.86 inch screen
  • Excellent Front and Rear Camera

Cons for Apple iPad Air

  • The price tag is a bit high, starting at $599
  • Not as durable as some of the other options
  • No MicroSD card slot meaning internal storage only
  • No headphone jack included

The Best Tablet for Travel: Top 10 Picks for 2024 2

The Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro is a great tablet for traveling kids and has way more features than its predecessor the Amazon fire HD 8. It comes with a variety of kid-friendly features, including a built-in parental control feature that allows you to restrict what your child can access. It also has a durable design that can withstand being dropped. And with its durable battery, your child can use it for hours without having to recharge which is why it’s on the list of the best tablet for travel for kids. It’s also great for ebooks and audiobooks using the Kindle and Audible Apps.

Pros of Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro

  • The Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro comes with a variety of kid-friendly features, including a built-in parental control feature that allows you to restrict what your child can access.
  • It also has a durable design that can withstand being dropped.
  • And with its long battery life, your child can use it for hours without having to recharge.

Cons of Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro

  • Some parents have complained that the parental controls feature is too restrictive.
  • Not as flexible as an android tablet

Apple iPad Pro with Magic Keyboard – Best tablet for movies on an Airplane or best tablet for RV travel

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th Generation): with M2 chip, Liquid Retina XDR Display, 512GB, Wi-Fi 6E, 12MP front/12MP and 10MP Back Cameras, Face ID, All-Day Battery Life – Space Gray

The Apple iPad Pro with Magic Keyboard is the best tablet for travel for those trying to be products and the best tablet for watching movies. It features a powerful A12X Bionic chip and a 12.9-inch Retina display, making it perfect for working on the go. It also has a built-in GPS receiver, making it perfect for navigation.

The iPad Pro with Magic Keyboard is also lightweight, and portable. The screen resolution is one of the best and fairly large which allows you to watch some of your favorite movies on the go. Plus, with its long battery life, you can stay productive without having to worry about recharging often. With that said, it’s a great table for work and play. I suggest you grab an apple pencil which will make it more productive for your needs.

Pros for Apple iPad Pro

  • The Apple iPad Pro has a large screen
  • It has a lot of space to download movies for the airplane
  • The iPad Pro is lightweight and portable.
  • Plus, with its hours of battery life, you can stay productive without having to worry about recharging often.
  • Quality stereo speakers
  • 12.9-inch Tablet with full HD display

Cons for Apple iPad Pro

  • The price tag is a bit high, it’s not a cheap tablet
  • No MicroSD card slot

Apple iPad Mini – Best lightweight and compact tablet

Apple iPad Mini (6th Generation): with A15 Bionic chip, 8.3-inch Liquid Retina Display, 64GB, Wi-Fi 6, 12MP front/12MP Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life – Space Gray

The Apple iPad mini is a lightweight and compact tablet that is perfect for travel. This is the best tablet for travel for those who are minimalists. It features a 7.9-inch Retina HD display and a powerful A12 Bionic chip, making it perfect for working on the go. It also has a built-in GPS receiver, making it perfect for navigation. The iPad mini is also lightweight and portable. And with its long battery life, you can stay productive without having to worry about recharging often. Be sure to pair it with an apple pencil for additional capabilities.

Pros for iPad Mini

  • Lightweight and compact design
  • Retina display
  • Powerful A12 Bionic chip
  • Portable and durable
  • Long battery life
  • 7.9 inch display

Cons for iPad Mini

  • Not as many features as the larger iPad Pro

Lenovo 2023 Newest IdeaPad Flex 5 2-in-1 Laptop, 14" WQXGA Touchscreen, Intel Core i5-1235U (10-Core), 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD SSD, Intel Iris Xe Graphics, Wi-Fi 6, Backlit Keyboard, Windows 11 Home

This Lenovo tab is a great 2-in-1 Chromebook for travel. It’s the best tablet for travel that is more like a computer that is great for students. It features a 360-degree hinge that allows you to use it as a laptop or a tablet. It also has a built-in GPS receiver, making it perfect for navigation. The Lenovo Flex 5 is a great 2-in-1 Chromebook for travel.

It features a 360-degree hinge that allows you to use it as a laptop or a tablet.

It also has a built-in GPS receiver, making it perfect for navigation. The Lenovo Flex 5 comes with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, making it perfect for working on the go.

The Lenovo tab also has a great battery, allowing you to stay productive without having to worry about recharging often.

Pros for the Lenovo Flex 5

  • The Lenovo Flex comes with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, making it perfect for working on the go.
  • The Lenovo Flex also has a great battery, allowing you to stay productive without having to worry about recharging often.
  • Integrated keyboard, no additional purchases for a keyboard

Cons for the Lenovo Flex 5

  • The screen resolution could be better

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 – Best Android Tablet for Travel

SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab S9 FE Wi-Fi 10.9” 128GB Android Tablet, IP68 Water- and Dust-Resistant, Long Battery Life, Powerful Processor, S Pen, 8MP Camera, Lightweight Design, US Version, 2023, Gray

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is the best Android tablet for travel. It features a powerful Samsung Exynos 1380 processor and a 10.9-inch display, making it perfect for working on the go. Plus, dual speakers make everything sound amazing. It also has a built-in GPS receiver, making it perfect for navigation.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is also lightweight and portable. Plus, with its long battery life, you can stay productive without having to worry about recharging often. If you don’t want an iPad, but want something of comparable then this is the travel tablet for you. Android tablets are some of the best on the market and are definitely in competition with Apple. If you aren’t an apple user and looking for android tablets, this is one you should consider.

Pros of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S 9

  • Samsung Exynos 1380 processor
  • The 10.9 – inch display
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Expandable storage up to 1TB with microSD card

Cons of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S 9

  • No Audio jack

Oukitel 10-inch Android Tablet – The Best Durability

10 inch Android Tablet,OUKITEL RT2 20000mAh Rugged Tablet Android 12 8GB+128GB Tablet IP68,IP69K Waterproof Tablet 4G LTE Dual SIM+5G WiFi Smart Tbalet 16MP+16MP Camera OTG 33W Fast Charging

Let’s explore the Oukitel 10-inch Android Tablet , a device that’s making waves in the world of Android tablets!

With its generous 10-inch display, the Oukitel tablet provides users with a spacious canvas for various tasks, from immersive media consumption to productive work sessions. This size offers a comfortable viewing experience, ideal for movies, games, or multitasking.

Pros of Oukitel 10-inch Android Tablet:

  • Large and Vibrant Display: The 10-inch screen provides ample real estate for entertainment and work, ensuring a more immersive viewing experience.
  • Android Operating System: Powered by the Android OS, this tablet offers access to a wide range of apps and customization options through the Google Play Store.
  • Decent Performance: It delivers decent performance for everyday tasks, allowing users to browse, stream, and handle productivity applications smoothly.
  • Expandable Storage: Offers the flexibility to expand storage via a microSD card, allowing users to store more apps, photos, videos, and files.
  • Affordable Pricing: Positioned at an attractive price point, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

Cons of Oukitel 10-inch Android Tablet:

  • May Have Limited Performance for Intensive Tasks: While suitable for everyday use, it might struggle with more resource-demanding apps or multitasking extensively.
  • Build Quality: Some users may find the build quality to be average compared to higher-end tablets.
  • Software Updates: Timely software updates might vary, affecting the longevity of software support.

Overall, the Oukitel 10-inch Android Tablet offers a compelling choice for users seeking a larger display on an Android platform without breaking the bank. Its affordability and decent performance make it a noteworthy contender in the realm of Android tablets.

Conclusion for the Best Tablet for Travel

When it comes to choosing the best tablet for travel, there are a number of factors you need to consider if you want a tablet. You need to think about what type of activities you will be using the tablet for and what features are most important to you. If you’re looking for a lightweight and compact tablet that is perfect for travel, the iPad mini 2022 is a good option. If you need a tablet with a larger screen, the Apple iPad Pro with Magic Keyboard is a good choice. Whichever tablet you choose, make sure that it has a long battery life so that you can stay productive while on the go.

My top pick would be the iPad Air because it’s the best of both worlds. You can use it for a variety of occasions. The screen isn’t too small, but it isn’t too bulky and heavy either making it the best tablet for travel.

How We Decided which is the best tablet for travel

To help narrow down your choices, we considered the most important features when picking the best tablet for travel. This included size, screen size, durability, battery life, price, operating system, storage, weight, and performance. We also looked at reviews from experts and travelers to find the best options on the market.

FAQs about the Best Tablet for Travel

What is the best tablet for personal use which tablet is best for everything.

Personally, if you want a tablet that does it all and is truly the best table for travel, I would go with the iPad Air. It is my personal favorite. It’s not as small as the mini, but powerful enough. It’s not as big as the iPad Pro which makes it more compact and light for travel. Also, if you are looking for android tablets, then the iPad might not be the best choice for you and the Samsung S7 might be the right choice.

Which is the best tablet for watching movies?

As I’ve recommended above, I think the iPad Pro will be one of the best choices for watching movies. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra is also a very good option as well.

Can I take my Samsung tablet on a plane?

Of course. Just make sure it’s in airplane mode or if you have a sim slot that the network is not running in the background.

What brands of tablets are the best?

Samsung and Apple will be the best tablets on the market and the best tablet for travel. They are honestly great quality and some of the biggest competitors on the market. I recommend either going with those 2 unless otherwise listed above.

What tablets are good for traveling?

All the tablets I’ve listed above will be good for traveling. Any tablet you have may be good for travel. Just make sure they are able to download videos so that you can watch them on the plane since wifi services are limited or practically nonexistent on airplanes.

What is the best size tablet for travel?

It honestly depends on what you’ll be using it for. If you’re looking to do work or school work, then a larger tablet like the iPad Pro would be good. If you are looking for something more compact, then the size of the iPad mini. When it comes to storage space, I wouldn’t have anything less than 100gb these days, that way it can last you longer.

What travel tablet should I buy?

Honestly, it all depends on what you will be using it for and your budget . If you are looking for an affordable option, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A is a great choice. If you have a bit more to spend, then I would recommend the iPad Air. It also depends on if you want an android tablet or an ios device.

How much should I spend on a tablet?

Again, it all depends on your price point. You can find a quality tablet for around $200. However, if you are looking for something more high-end, you could be spending over $1,000.

Are tablets worth it?

Yes, especially if you are a fan of having technology at your fingertips. If you are constantly on your phone and need something bigger, then a tablet may be perfect for you. It gives you the ability to do more things such as watch movies, work on larger projects, or even play games.

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Hey, I'm NieNie, also known as Stephanie – a California native of hapa heritage (an American with a mix of Korean and German) with an enduring love for travel. Transitioning from my expat life in South Korea to embracing the experience of living in Germany, while also frequenting visits to my family in the Philippines, I'm documenting my adventure as a plus-size woman immersing herself in diverse cultures. Join me on Adventures with NieNie for travel tips, cultural insights, and inspiring stories from South Korea, the Philippines, and Germany. Let's embark on this adventure together!

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6 Best Tablets For Travel in 2024

By Tati Taylor 3 days ago, Graphic Tablets

The best budget tablets to travel worldwide with.

best traveling tablet in 2024

Tablets are indispensable helpers for travelers since they may be used for various purposes. For example, you may easily communicate and work with a tablet. In addition, such tablets should have sufficient memory to be able to download videos while traveling. The LTE module will also come in handy to connect to the Internet at any time.

Top 6 Tablets for Travel

  • Apple iPad Air - Our Choice
  • Hoozo Android Tablet - Maximum features for the price
  • Microsoft Surface Pro 7 - Best for long travel
  • Apple iPad mini - Best Apple traveling tablet
  • Lenovo Tab M10 - Best tablet for study and travel
  • LG G PAD 5 - Best LG travel tablet

Although many people still think that real work may be done only on the laptop, there are many high-end tablets now that provide decent laptop-like features. Therefore, people who work while traveling may switch from big and heavy laptops to thin and lightweight travel tablets. 8-inch tablets are currently among favorites. Moreover, some of them offer even better battery life.

1. Apple iPad Air

tablet for travel

Weight: 458g | Screen size: 10.5 -inch | Resolution: 1536 x 2048 pixels | CPU: A12 Bionic chip with 64‑bit architecture, Neural Engine, Embedded M12 coprocessor | Storage: 64/256 GB | Rear camera: 8MP | Front camera: 7MP

⊕ Hundreds less than the iPad Pro ⊕ Big high-res Retina display ⊕ Fast A12 chip ⊕ Decent battery life ⊖ Absence of quad stereo speakers ⊖ Outdated design ⊖ No Face ID

Apple iPad Air was greatly improved in comparison with the iPad. It offers a bigger screen that provides a better image. Moreover, it has more storage and cool design.

The newly introduced feature is Apple Smart Keyboard support. You will have to pay extra money for this keyboard, but you will get new working opportunities. Therefore, you may do some work on the go and don’t pay more for iPad Pro.

However, if you are short of money or need a more work-orientated gadget, there are other decent travel tablets. But if you need it for general use ‒ Apple iPad Air is a worthy choice.

In case you can afford this device, it is the best travel tablet for today.

2. Hoozo Android Tablet

traveling tablet

Weight: 725 g | Screen size: 10.1 -inch | Resolution: 1280 x 800 pixels | CPU: 1.5GHz Quad-core | Storage: 16GB | Rear camera: 5MP | Front camera: 2MP

⊕ 1.3 GHz quad-core processor ⊕ Excellent camera ⊖ Only 16GB of internal storage

Hoozo Android is the best budget tablet for travel. Being relatively cheap, it attracts users with its innovative and effective functions. It is really an appealing option for those who change their tablets like socks.

You may show it to your friends and brag about its amazing functions forever. The most prominent thing about Hoozo is that it is not expensive, but at the same time, it may boast of a great number of useful functions.

It is a great and cheap tablet for those who want to get many functions for little money. This travel tablet is manufactured for them! If you choose this option, you will get the features you haven’t even expected. Don’t miss this appealing offer!

3. Microsoft Surface Pro 7

best travel tablet

Weight: 771g | Screen size: 12.3-inch | Resolution: 2736 x 1824pixels | CPU: 10th Gen Intel Core Processor | Storage: 128GB | Rear camera: 8MP | Front camera: 5MP

⊕ Faster Intel 10th Gen CPU ⊕ Up to 10.5 hours of battery life ⊕ Dual far-field mics ⊕ Comes with Wi-Fi 6 ⊖ Keyboard/Surface Pen should be bought separately ⊖ No Thunderbolt 3 ⊖ Weak performance due to fanless design

Being as good as Microsoft’s Surface Go, this model hits some limitations with its new and advanced functions for travelers. So, if you need the best tablet for travel to replace a laptop, Surface Pro is really a good idea.

You will get really powerful performance thanks to the latest generation processor, Windows 10 Pro OS, 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. This gadget may become a decent alternative to any travel-sized Windows laptop.

Surface Pro 7 is very similar to Surface Pro 6 but still, there are some improvements. The most important one is that Pro 7 has the USB-C. Moreover, it features better performance and has microphones.

Unfortunately, these advancements are achieved at the expense of battery life. In general, it is a decent PC alternative especially for those who wanted to get a new port. However, it’s not worth paying $750 for an upgrade.

4. Apple iPad mini

best tablet for travel

Weight: 300g | Screen size: 7. 9-inch | Resolution: 1024x768 pixels | CPU: A12 Bionic chip | Storage: 64/256GB | Rear camera: 8MP | Front camera: 7MP

⊕ The same features as iPad Air has but in a smaller size ⊕ Compatible with Apple Pencil ⊕ Best app selection ⊕ Decent battery life ⊖ Doesn’t support second-gen Apple Pencil ⊖ More expensive than 9.7-inch iPad ⊖ Absence of USB-C

Although this gadget can’t boast of a super-modern design, iPad mini is the best travel tablet among compact ones. This gaming laptop is efficient, versatile and may become your faithful companion for trips.

It works smoothly with Apple Pencil but doesn’t have a physical connector to attach a keyboard. So, if you really need one, you should have a powerful Bluetooth.

5. Lenovo Tab M10

best tablet for traveling

Weight: 480g | Screen size: 10.1 -inch | Resolution: 1280 x 800 pixels | CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 | Storage: 32GB | Rear camera: 5MP | Front camera: 2 MP

⊕ Powerful processor and high performance ⊕ Lightweight and slim ⊕ Features a multi-user mode ⊖ Absence of a fingerprint sensor ⊖ Poor-quality camera ⊖ No ambient light sensor

Lenovo Tab M10 is the best traveling tablet for students since it is a perfect tool to watch video lectures online, read books, etc. If you buy this gadget, you will enjoy a clear image on a huge full HD display. Moreover, M10 may boast of some other interesting features that attract customers.

Speaking about battery life and camera quality, they are not the best ones. You need to adjust brightness since there is no ambient light sensor. To sum everything up, this model is not expensive, and it features more functions than one expects for such a price. If you require a keyboard for laptop-like functionality during travel, pairing the Lenovo Tab M10 with the best travel keyboard can enhance productivity and convenience. The additional keyboard allows for seamless typing and multitasking, transforming the tablet into a versatile workstation on the go.

6. LG G PAD 5

travel tablet

Weight: 821 g | Screen size: 10.1 -inch | Resolution: 1920 x 1200 pixels | CPU: | Storage: 32GB | Rear camera: 8MP | Front camera: 5MP

⊕ Thin and well-built ⊕ Stable performance ⊕ Excellent multitasking UI ⊕ Nice design ⊖ Expensive ⊖ Poor front camera ⊖ Average rear camera

LG G Pad 5 10.1 tablet is not exactly what all of us expect from modern 2024 gadgets. Although it has been recently released, it looks disappointing in comparison with other high-end devices.

It doesn’t seem like a serious competitor on the market. LG G Pad 5 10.1 is an Android-based tab and is a good 4G LTE tablet . However, all the other features are quite ordinary.

How to Choose the Best Traveling Tablet?

traveling tablet

Laptop or Tablet for Travel?

Ten years ago, smartphones were not so popular among travelers. Those who nevertheless had them couldn’t use their gadgets to the full extent because Wi-Fi wasn’t freely available everywhere. We used to ask people for directions, communicate with other tourists asking for advice, etc. I agree that today it seems strange, but it was the reality of those times.

Fortunately, in 2024, everything is different. If you have a smartphone or a tablet ‒ you may get any info you need, no matter where you are. Besides, you can connect a travel keyboard to your tablet and get a laptop-like experience.

What is the Best Cheap Tablet?

Check out the list of the best budget tablets under 300 dollars .

What are the Disadvantages of a Tablet?

  • Absence of a keyboard and mouse. Of course, if you need a tablet to type on it, it can’t compete with a PC or a laptop since there isn’t a physical keyboard and mouse.
  • Processors show not the best performance.
  • Less convenient than a smartphone.
  • Tablets usually don’t have enough ports.
  • They are very fragile.
  • Sometimes they bring ergonomic inconveniences.

Battery Life

Battery life is one of the most important features of a traveling tablet. A tablet with excellent battery life reduces the need for frequent charging, allowing travelers to stay engaged and productive without worrying about finding power outlets constantly. Look for tablets with larger battery capacities, efficient processors, and power-saving features to maximize battery longevity.

Additionally, consider the tablet's usage patterns during travel. For example, if it's primarily used for entertainment purposes like streaming videos or playing games, a tablet with a longer battery life is essential. On the other hand, if the tablet serves mainly as a productivity tool for reading documents, taking notes, or handling emails, a slightly shorter battery life may still suffice.

Travelers should also assess their charging options. Some tablets support fast charging, which can quickly top up the battery during layovers or breaks. Additionally, carrying portable power banks or investing in a travel-friendly solar charger can extend the tablet's battery life during extended trips.

best tablet for travel

  • Is a tablet worth buying?

A tablet is a universal tool that may be used for various purposes by all family members. For example, you may quickly check email, read the news, play an online game or check an Instagram page. A cool device for entertainment, isn’t it? Moreover, it is easier to take a tablet with you than a laptop – it allows free movement without any restrictions.

  • Do I need a tablet if I have a smartphone?

Frankly speaking, if you already have a laptop or a smartphone, a tablet will not bring some new and advanced functions. You shouldn’t buy a tablet to replace either of these gadgets since it will not do that. It will perfectly serve as an additional third device. You can’t put Galaxy Tab into your pocket and freely move along the street ‒ it’s too big for that purpose.

  • What is the difference between a tablet and an iPad?

The main thing that distinguishes an iPad from an Android-based tablet is the operating system. The former gadget is run by iOS, while the latter ‒ by Google's Android. iOS, as well as Android, were primarily developed for smartphones and now are used for tablets. In addition, due to the lack of Flash, iPads cannot show videos from YouTube and some other sites.

  • Should I invest in the best Android tablet ?

An Android tablet will undoubtedly come in handy. If your requirements are rather light, you may choose a reasonably priced Amazon tablet. However, if you need laptop-like functions, it’s better to choose a Windows 2-in-1.

  • Apple iPad Air
  • Hoozo Android Tablet
  • Microsoft Surface Pro 7
  • Apple iPad mini
  • Lenovo Tab M10
  • Buyer's Guide

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8 Best Tablets For Travel in 2023 [According To Globetrotters]

posted on January 16, 2023

Are you a business professional or a travel enthusiast in search of travel-friendly tablets? Then you’ve come to the right place. Regardless of what your preferences are, you should shift the focus from ultraportable laptops to highly portable travel tablets, as these are quite convenient to use.

If you are traveling for work, pleasure, or heading towards a remote locale, you might be tempted to invest in portable, durable, autonomous, and stylus-compatible tablets . I feel sunlight visibility should be one of the criteria as you would be managing a majority of the workload, out in the open. Perhaps you should also be mindful of high-end security specs and a top-rated connectivity suite.

Despite the myriad user requirements and pain points tagged along, locating a reliable portable tablet is a fulfilling experience, provided you know exactly where to look and what to look for. I have therefore collated 8 of the most promising travel-friendly tablets that can help you make informed decisions.

8 Best Tablets for Travelers in 2023

Each of the 8 tablets that are to be enlisted in the subsequent sections has been tested in life-like conditions. I reviewed over 20 tablets whilst carrying them along on trips, only to come up with 8 devices that offer the best internet speeds, balanced cost-to-ownership ratio, excellent battery life, insane processing power, enthralling visibility, and more.

1. Best Overall: Samsung Galaxy Tab S7

Samsung Galaxy Tab S7

  • Display: 11.0-inch WQXGA (1600 x 2560)
  • Storage: 128GB (Expandable up to 1TB)
  • Battery: Up to 15 Hours
  • Weight: 1.10 Pounds
  • OS: Android 10

Launched in 2020, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 is one of the better tablets to consider if you are an ardent backpacker. Although the specs sheet is a marvel in itself, it is the dual rear camera setup that makes it more conducive to photography, whilst in a travel mode.

Compared to the Tab S6 Lite , the Tab S7 brings in a more powerful processor, sharper screen, and a better camera setup. Also, I feel that if you are a traveler who takes pride in smartphone photography, the Galaxy Tab S7 is worth investing in.

Why is it suited for travelers?

Display of Samsung Galaxy Tab S7

The Galaxy Tab S7 is designed to perfection. In fact, the aluminum frame adds to the durability of the tablet whilst keeping it light and portable at 1.10 pounds. The dimensions at 9.99 x 6.51 x 0.25 inches validate the sleekness of form and even allow single-handed usage, preferably if you have larger hands.

Samsung takes pride in the 11-inch screen . In addition to the overall resolution of 1600 x 2560 pixels, the TFT display boasts HDR10+ technology for additional clarity. What adds to the visual presentation is the high screen-to-chassis ratio followed by sharper viewing angles and a 16:10 aspect ratio for managing eBooks, games, and professional interfaces with equal aplomb.

The 8000mAh battery makes it one of the best travel tablets to carry around. The battery translates into an extended backup of up to 15 hours, which is top-of-the-line considering the myriad globetrotting needs.

Hardware & Performance

The octa-core Snapdragon 865 processor excels, regardless of the task at hand. However, for the price, I would recommend this tablet for the corporate professionals who travel a lot as the processing setup, led by the Kryo cores and Adreno 650 graphics support, can compensate even for an entry-level laptop.

Coming to the supported apps and tools, the Galaxy Tab S7 can very well be used for music creation, video editing, gaming, and whatnot. Supporting the SoC is 6GB RAM. What follows is the 128GB storage space that is otherwise sufficient but can always be upgraded to up to 1TB, via the microSD slot.

Connectivity & Charger Details

The Galaxy Tab S7 exhibits a full connectivity suite, led by Wi-Fi 6 support , Bluetooth 5.0, Type-C port, and the magnetic connector for pairing audio-specific accessories. Travelers can also reap the benefits of the 45W, fast charger that can refill the battery in less than an hour.

However, the fast charger needs to be purchased separately as you only get a 15W unit, out of the box, which takes about 2.5 hours to fully charge the 8000mAh battery.

Camera & Other Features

Samsung ensures that travel photography with the Galaxy Tab S7 in play is as productive as possible. You get access to a 13MP primary shooter at the rear, which is ably supported by the 5MP ultra-wide snapper.

The 8MP front camera comes with 1080p capabilities and is good enough for attending video calls on Zoom, Skype, Whatsapp, etc even while traveling. In addition to these attributes, Samsung also includes a fingerprint scanner and exhibits Android 10 OS with One UI 2.5, right out of the box.

Overall, the unified specs sheet led by an interactive UI and sharp camera units qualifies the Android tablet as one of the better options on the list. Also, as compared to other products around, this tablet promises exceptional professional coverage and comes across as a better bet for corporate individuals.

Also Read: Best Android Tablets in 2023

Alternate Option

However, if you are looking for something less pricey, the 10.4-inch Tab is also a worthy inclusion. Despite the smaller screen as compared to the S7, the Tab S6 Lite still manages to put up quite a show, courtesy of the bundled S-pen, 12-hour battery backup, Exynos 9611 chipset, 4GB RAM, and Dolby Atmos speakers.

  • Stellar display
  • A sizable chunk of RAM
  • Excellent rear camera setup
  • Massive battery
  • Portable aesthetics
  • Sunlight visibility isn’t the best

2. Best for Designers: Apple iPad Air

Apple iPad Air

  • Display: 10.9-inch IPS 2K (1640 x 2360)
  • Processor: Apple A14
  • Storage: 256GB
  • Battery: Up to 10 Hours
  • Weight: 1.01 Pounds
  • OS: iPadOS 16.6

The Apple iPad Air is one of the better bets for travelers, courtesy of the brilliant display. Despite the screen quality taking center stage, the iPad Air throws in a wide range of functional traits, including but not limited to top-shelf acoustics and the ability to pair the magic keyboard, folio, and even the Apple pencil with ease.

As compared to the 3 rd gen iPad Air, boasts a better rear camera and a more vivid display. Also, if I were to recommend, purchasing this tablet makes sense for craft designers using Cricut Design Space or professional designers using the Adobe Capture CC, PhotoShop, etc who are always on the move and still willing to work, whilst depending on the brilliant display, Apple Pencil support, and excellent battery backup.

Apple iPad Air Display

The iPad Air 2020 is light at 1.01 pounds. The dimensions stand at 9.75 x 7.03 x 0.24 inches and ensure that the tablet is good enough to be handled while traveling. Complementing the slimmer structure is the 10.9-inch Retina Display that assumes an overall resolution of 1640 x 2360 pixels.

The extended color-gamut ensures life-like images whereas the True Tone display promises better sunlight visibility. There is a sizable battery in place, capable of offering 10 hours of steady backup.

The iPad Air comes equipped with an A14 Bionic chip, based on the 5nm architecture. The Hexa-core processor is synonymous with zero overheating and ultrafast performances; provided you are planning to use the iPad Air for graphics designing and running apps like Lightroom and more.

Working alongside the processor is 4GB RAM, which also increases the gaming fealty of the iPad Air. The 256GB storage support, featured right out of the box, is adequate enough for most professionals. However, the tablet lacks expandable storage support, in case you want to stack the device with offline movies and TV shows for keeping you engrossed while traveling.

Apple incorporates a high-speed Type-C port for faster data transfers followed by the magnetic connector for charging and connecting compatible headphones. The Wi-Fi 6 standard exists, allowing you to connect seamlessly to the hotel Wi-Fi. Also, the Bluetooth 5.0 wireless standard is fast and responsive, in case you want to have the wireless earphones plugged in, during transit.

As far as the charger support is concerned, you get a standard 20W charger with the tablet, which takes close to 2 hours to completely refill the 7606mAh battery.

The traveler in you can rejoice at the availability of a 12MP shooter with f/1.8 aperture, best suited for low-light photography. Apple also includes a 7MP front shooter for recording videos like a pro.

Other relevant and important attributes include the availability of iPadOS 16.6 for added flexibility followed by the Fingerprint scanner for added security while traveling.

In conclusion, the Apple iPad Air 2020 is certainly one of the more reliable tablets for travelers, readily ousting other products in terms of screen quality and processing power.

But then, investing in the smaller Apple iPad , with a 10.2-inch screen, isn’t such a bad option either. You can still pair a full-size keyboard to it whilst experiencing a slightly thicker chassis and the slightly less-powerful A12 Bionic chipset. While the camera isn’t as powerful as the iPad Air, the 8MP unit still manages to click brilliant pictures.

  • Vivid display
  • Brilliant rear shooter
  • Powerful speakers
  • Wi-Fi 6 support
  • Lacks 3.5mm audio jack

3. Best Tablet-PC: Microsoft Surface Go 2

Microsoft Surface Go 2

  • Display: 10.5-inch FHD (1920 x 1280)
  • Processor: 1.7GHz Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y
  • Storage: 128GB SSD (Expandable up to 512GB)
  • Weight: 1.2 Pounds
  • OS: Windows 10

If you seek a dependable tablet PC pertaining to the Windows ecosystem, the Microsoft Surface Go 2 is quite a reasonable investment. Although the entire specs sheet is worth accolades, it is the multi-mode operability that makes it the best travel ally.

The Surface Go 2 makes more sense if you’re looking for a tablet to stream Netflix on the go, as it can be operated in tablet, PC, and even studio mode. Plus, as compared to the Surface Go, the Go 2 is a better content-viewing resource, courtesy of the slimmer bezels and a much-improved screen.

Microsoft Surface Go 2 with keyboard

The Surface Go 2 is one of the lightest tablets in the market at 1.2 pounds. As far as the dimensions are concerned, it measures 9.65 x 6.9 x 0.33 inches. Needless to say, the magnesium-clad chassis isn’t the slimmest but looks great in the Platinum shade.

The 10.5-inch screen is loaded with possibilities. While the 3:2 aspect ratio makes the Surface Go 2 fit for reading eBooks and comics, designers can be happy about the overall resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels. The screen itself is protected by the Corning Gorilla Glass 3. Also, the 10-hour battery life justifies the inclusion of this product in the list of travel-friendly tablets.

The dual-core Intel Pentium Gold 4425Y might be an entry-level processor for laptops but it certainly holds its own when tablet-specific functionalities are concerned. The clock speed of up to 1.7GHz is good enough for streaming, accounting, surfing, and other less demanding tasks.

However, Microsoft fits in 8GB RAM followed by a 128GB SSD unit. While the memory allocation makes sense to professional and content consumers, you can always upgrade the storage space, via the dedicated microSD slot.

The Surface Go 2 boasts Wi-Fi AX and BT 5.0 as the wireless standards followed by a Type-C port, 3.5mm jack, and the Surface Connect slot for pairing the Signature-series keyboard, with a large trackpad and backlit keyset.

Coming to the bundle, you get a 24W charger with the Surface Go 2, capable of supplying 1.6amps of constant current. In fact, you can charge the entire battery in less than 90 minutes with this charger.

This tablet comes equipped with an 8MP rear shooter and a 5MP front camera, calibrated precisely for Skype. Plus, you also get hold of studio-grade mics, stereo speakers, and the Face login support for added functionality.

The Microsoft Surface Go 2 is one of the better tablet PCs for travelers, who prefer experiencing the Windows 10 S Mode as the operating platform of choice and are looking strictly for a laptop extension. However, it is the multi-mode operability and compatibility towards keyboard and stylus that separate it from other products on the list.

  • Presentable screen
  • Exceptional camera setup
  • Class-leading aesthetics
  • No fingerprint scanner
  • The keyboard needs to be purchased separately

4. Best for Gaming: Lenovo Tab M10 Plus

Lenovo Tab M10 Plus

  • Display: 10.3-inch FHD (1200 x 1920)
  • Processor: 1.8GHz Helio P22T
  • Storage: 128GB (Expandable up to 256GB)
  • Battery: Up to 8 Hours
  • OS: Android 9.0

For gamers on the move, the Lenovo Tab M10 Plus is one of the more sought-after tablets on the list. What’s most impressive about this product is the octa-core processor, capable of managing most games like Asphalt 9, Minecraft, and more with ease.

I even replaced it with the dated Tab 4 10 Plus only to find that the M10 Plus is light, faster, and boasts double the storage space.

Lenovo Tab M10 Plus Display

The lightness of form i.e. 1.01 pounds, qualifies the Tab M10 Plus as one of the better tablets for users on the move. Also, the tablet measures 9.61 x 6.04 x 0.32 inches, which is in line with my expectations.

Coming to the display, the 10.3-inch screen doesn’t offer several bells and whistles but exhibits an overall resolution of 1200 x 19200 pixels. The sunlight visibility, however, isn’t the best and you might find it hard to view content perfectly while moving in a car or bus. Powering the same is a 7000mAh battery, which offers 8 hours of extended backup, on continued web browsing.

The Tab M10 Plus fits in the MediaTek Helio P22T chipset that is capable of clocking at a maximum speed of up to 2.3GHz for 4 Cortex-A53 cores. Lenovo also brings home 4GB RAM for assisting the chipset with drawing, gaming, streaming, and other relevant processes. Storage needs are handled by 128GB of space that can be upgraded by an additional 256GB.

Lenovo features a Type-C 2.0 slot for data transfers on the move. In addition to the wired port, you also get access to dual-band wireless support, Bluetooth 5.0, and GPS compatibility. Plus, the package comes bundled with a 10W charger, capable of restocking the battery within 2.5 hours.

There is an 8MP rear camera to rely on followed by a 5MP front shooter. The Tab M10 Plus also makes room for stereo speakers and comes in an Iron Grey color.

Overall, the Lenovo Tab M10 Plus is the perfect bet if you are an invested gamer, always on the move. However, it is the Face Unlock feature that offers an additional line of security to this tablet and sets it apart from other products on the list.

  • Bright screen
  • A decent chunk of RAM
  • Significant storage space
  • Acceptable battery life
  • Rear shooter comes with autofocus
  • Middling USB transfer speeds

5. Best Windows Tablet: CHUWI Hi10 X

CHUWI Hi10 X

  • Display: 10.1-inch FHD (1200 x 1920)
  • Processor: 1.10GHz Intel N4120
  • Storage: 128GB (Expandable by 256GB)
  • Battery: Up to 6 Hours
  • Weight: 1.15 Pounds

Despite the list featuring the Surface Go 2, I feel that the CHUWI Hi10 X is a better Windows tablet, courtesy of the affordability it beckons. Also, for the given price, it boasts an excellent processing setup, thereby allowing you to use the tablet for academics, gaming, reading comics, sheet music reading, and more.

Also, upon comparing the Hi10 X with the UBook, I felt that the former is a much better bet for travelers, owing to its slim and light form factor.

CHUWI Hi10X with keyboardd

The Hi10 X weighs 1.15 pounds and sports a metallic form factor. While the product dimensions are tagged at 10 x 6.72 x 0.26 inches, it is the slimmer chassis that enthralls me the most. The 10.1-inch Full HD screen isn’t run-of-the-mill but exhibits full lamination for added visual clarity.

Plus, CHUWI features anti-glare support, which in turn makes it easier for you to read eBooks and enjoy movies relentlessly, without having to worry about straining your eyes. However, the 6-hour battery backup isn’t Hi10 X’s strongest suit.

Clocking at a maximum burst speed of up to 2.6GHz, the Intel N4120 chipset is a force to reckon with. The Intel UHD graphics lend the requisite visual clarity and the SoC works in tandem with 6GB RAM, precisely for sailing through gaming, designing, and other processes with ease. Storage support is ideated by the 128GB unit, which can be expanded further by an additional 256GB.

The sub $300 tablet incorporates two USB Type-C ports, provided you connect the external keyboard to it. Plus, you also get access to an HDMI port, Type-A slots, dual-band Wireless support, and Bluetooth 5.0. You can even pair the high-end stylus pen with this tablet, which boasts palm rejection support and 4096 pressure levels for drawing with precision.

Powering the battery is the 12-volt charger, which translates into a power throughput of 24W, thereby resulting in fast charging. In fact, you can reach from 10 to 100 percent in a matter of 80 minutes or so.

CHUWI underplays the camera setup with a 5MP rear and a 2MP front shooter. The underwhelming camera setup is followed by a responsive Windows 10 OS, which is interactive and loaded with professional possibilities.

Overall, the CHUWI Hi10 X is easily one of the most affordable Windows tablets in the market , which surpasses others when aesthetic brilliance is concerned.

  • Stellar aesthetics
  • Laminated display
  • 6GB RAM for seamless multitasking
  • Fast processor
  • Excellent connectivity suit
  • Shoddy battery life

6. Best Value For Money: Vastking Kingpad K10 Pro

Vastking Kingpad K10 Pro

  • Processor: 1.6GHz UNISOC T618
  • Storage: 64GB (Expandable up to 256GB)
  • Battery: Up to 12 Hours

If you seek the best value for money travel-ready tablet, there isn’t a better option than the Vastking Kingpad K10 Pro . A relatively sleek device, the Kingpad K10 Pro is one of the few tablets that bundle a keyboard and stylus, allowing you to use the same as a tablet PC.

I compared the Kingpad K10 Pro with the K10 and was impressed with the additional RAM and improved storage space. Therefore, I feel that this tablet is a better bet for college students who need to travel a lot due to their academic commitments, as multitasking and storing resources won’t be an issue.

VastKing KingPad K10 Pro Display

The sleekness of form, followed by a manageable heft of 1.10 pounds makes it suitable for travelers. Plus, the dimensions are tagged at 9.6 x 6.3 x 0.3 inches, making it pretty sleek and compact.

The 10.1-inch FHD display furthers its stead as a travel-friendly tablet, courtesy of excellent viewing angles and acceptable sunlight visibility. Not to mention the 12-hour battery backup that makes a strong case for this tablet.

The Kingpad K10 Pro makes room for a Spreadtrum T618 processor, which is good enough for most tablet games and apps. Assisting the same is 4GB RAM, which is followed by 64GB of storage space. The same can be upgraded by an additional 128GB, via the microSD slot.

In terms of connectivity, you get access to dual-band wireless support, a Type-C port, and the 3.5mm audio jack for enjoying music on the go. However, Vastking doesn’t fit in a fast charger and offers the 5V, 10W standard adapter that can replenish the battery in close to 3 hours.

The 13MP rear shooter is sharp and good enough for standard photography. The Kingpad K10 Pro also makes room for a 5MP front shooter followed by dual speakers. In addition to these specs, Vastking also brings home a Mali GPU for improved visual clarity and Face Recognition support for securing the tablet, further.

Overall, the Vastking Kingpad K10 Pro is an all-inclusive tablet PC that comes bundled with a keyboard and a stylus, features that set it apart from other tablets on the list.

  • Comes with a bundled stylus
  • Sharp display
  • Face recognition for added security
  • Flimsy build quality
  • Not the finest processor

7. Best with Cellular Support: Samsung Galaxy Tab A7

Samsung Galaxy Tab A7

  • Display: 10.4-inch 2K (1200 x 2000)
  • Processor: 1.8GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 662
  • Storage: 32GB (Expandable by 1TB)
  • Weight: 1.05 Pounds

If you plan on ditching your smartphone while traveling, you can pick up the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 instead, for its elusive cellular capabilities. This tablet is rather perfect for individuals who want to stay connected with their families while traveling, courtesy of the built-in SIM card slot.

As compared to the Galaxy Tab A 8.0, the A7 boasts a bigger screen and a lighter form factor, making it more suitable for travelers.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Display

The Galaxy Tab A7 measures 9.75 x 6.20 x 0.28 inches. The sleek form factor further translates into a manageable heft of almost 1.05 pounds. Also, the light frame is complemented by the 10.4-inch 2K screen that assumes an overall resolution of 1200 x 2000 pixels.

Moreover, the aspect ratio of 5:3 ensures that you can very well rely on the Galaxy Tab A7 for reading books, manga, magazines, and more, even while traveling. Finally, the 12-hour battery backup ensures that you need not worry about charging the tablet while moving around the city.

At the core, you have the Snapdragon 662 CPU, working in tandem with the 610 graphics coprocessor. Plus, you also get access to 3GB RAM for moderate multitasking followed by 32GB of integrated storage space. The storage capacity underwhelms but can always be upgraded by 1TB, courtesy of the microSD slot.

Samsung makes way for the USB 2.0 port followed by dual-band Wi-Fi AC support. You also get access to Bluetooth and GPS connectivity for managing wireless devices and trip insights better. Also, charging the device is a 15V adapter that supplies current at 1amp and capable of refilling the battery within 90 minutes or so.

The Galaxy Tab A7 comes equipped with an 8MP rear shooter with 1080p capabilities. Not to mention the standard 5MP front shooter in play followed by a quad-speaker setup and the Android 10 OS, offered right out of the box.

The Samsung tablet, owing to its cellular support, is one of the more innovative products on the list. Plus, it readily scales beyond others when the cost-to-ownership ratio is concerned.

  • Calling support
  • Stellar screen
  • Excellent processor
  • Underwhelming storage support
  • Plastic-clad chassis

8. Best for Reading: Fire HD 10

Fire HD 10

  • Processor: 2.0GHz Helio P60T
  • Weight: 1.03 Pounds
  • OS: Android 9.0 Pie

As a traveler with an affinity for books, comics, manga, and digital magazines, you can hardly go wrong with the Fire HD 10 from Amazon. What stands out though is the stellar display, bolstered by the presence of an extended color gamut and a widescreen visual experience. 

I even compared it with the existing Fire 7 and was amazed to see the insanely upgraded display configuration and even the presence of a beefed-up processor.

Amazon Fire HD 10 Display

As travelers prefer light and portable devices by their side, the HD 10 is certainly worth investing in, courtesy of the light form factor at 1.03 pounds. As far as the dimensions are concerned, the tablet measures 9.72 x 6.54 x 0.36 inches.

The 10.1-inch IPS screen is adequately bright and boasts excellent sunlight visibility. Plus, the screen assumes an aspect ratio of 16: 10 whilst being protected by the Aluminosilicate panel. Not to mention the 12-hour battery backup that furthers the credibility of the HD 10 as a travel-friendly tablet.

The HD 10 comes loaded with the Helio P60T chipset, boasting octa-core architecture and the presence of the Mali MP3 GPU. Working alongside the chipset is 3GB RAM that can handle most eBooks, games, browsing-specific tasks, and even light designing without lags. The 32GB storage support is basic but can be upgraded by almost 1TB, via the microSD slot.

The Fire HD 10 from Amazon boasts Wi-Fi AC support, Bluetooth 5.0, OTG compatibility, and the Type-C connector for facilitating faster data transfers. As far as charging support is concerned, you can replenish the tablet in a matter of 4 hours, courtesy of the 15V Type-C charger in play.

While the camera setup isn’t exemplary, Fire HD still manages to put together a 5MP rear and a 2MP front shooter. Plus, you get the all-inclusive Android 9.0 platform to work with, fortified further with the inclusion of the Fire OS 7.

Overall, if you want the best reading and streaming tablet to cover you during trips, there is a better tablet than the HD 10. Plus, it is the durable screen in the tablet at a budget-friendly price that sets it apart from other product selections on the list.

However, if your kid starts envying your choice of tablet and wants one, the Fire HD 8 Kids version with 32GB storage, 8-inch HD screen, durable case, and a wide range of kid-friendly apps, videos, games, and 1TB storage upgradability, is worth considering.

  • High-speed internet access
  • Massive battery backup
  • Excellent streaming performance
  • Pairs well with a Bluetooth keyboard
  • Light yet durable tablet
  • Inadequate storage
  • Not the best speakers

Frequently Asked Questions

Light and slim tablet with a screen size north of 10 inches, is best suited for traveling. If you seek a more granular perspective, it is better to opt for a tablet with over 10 hours of battery backup and high-speed internet connectivity standards.

Yes, iPads are excellent choices for travelers, as they offer best-in-class displays and dependable battery backups

Students traveling with their tablets prefer reading books and watching informative videos whereas professionals might end up managing accounts on the move. However, the most common tasks include offline content viewing, listening to music, and playing games.

Yes, you can rely on high-end Windows-powered tablets during business travel instead of carrying the massive laptop that is expected to be heavier. However, you must ensure that the tablet supports external keyboard connections and is stylus compatible.

Finding the best tablet for traveling with, isn’t easy. Also, it is completely understandable if the list of 8 tablets also leaves you confused. Therefore, I have tried to simplify the process of tablet selection further by putting together few handpicked options as per specific use cases:

  • If you are looking for an all-inclusive tablet with excellent processing capabilities, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 is the best possible bet
  • In case you want something to double up as your primary Windows PC, the Microsoft Surface Go 2 is the best premium choice followed by the more affordable CHUWI Hi10 X
  • If gaming is one of your priorities with budget-friendliness being the second, the Lenovo Tab seems like the perfect fit
  • Lastly, if you want an affordable tablet that would help you ditch the smartphone, there isn’t a product better than the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7

While these are some of the exclusive selections, you can keep digging further and pick any of the other listed tablets, as per the budget, preferences, and targeted professional requirements that you want the travel-friendly tablet to cover.

best travel tablet

About Joseph Edwin

Despite spending the majority of my professional career in the US, I am well-versed with tablets and smartphones launched across the globe.

I ensure that every new tablet is reviewed in the most detailed manner.

It is my belief that it is important to explain each complex tablet-related concept as clearly as possible and I always try to avoid heavy, technical jargon.

Please email me directly at [email protected] if you have any questions about an article!

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The best tablets you can buy: Expert tested

allison-murray

Tablets have come a long way since the first iPad was released in 2010. Once a device that was designed simply for consuming content and playing games (anyone remember the days of Fruit Ninja?), has, for many, become a full-fledged computer replacement , allowing them to get real work done. That said, a good tablet should have a long battery life, a respectable selection of apps and services, and more functionality than just a screen to watch YouTube videos. 

Also: The best iPad models: The Pro, Air, and Mini compared

With so many tablets on the market today from brands like Apple, Samsung, Google, Amazon, and more, it can be hard to choose one, but ultimately, it comes down to what you need the tablet for. 

What is the best tablet right now?

ZDNET has tested tons of top tablets on the market--from using it for work, for entertainment, or even testing it out with our kids. Our pick for the best tablet for most people is the  Apple iPad (10th generation) , thanks to its versatility and lightweight form. Read on to find the best tablet for your needs. (You can also check out our picks for the best cheap tablets and the best kids' tablets .) 

The best tablets of 2024

Apple ipad (10th generation), best tablet overall.

  • Modernized design with a USB-C port
  • Landscape front-facing camera is superior to other iPad models
  • Four new colors to choose from
  • $120 price bump from predecessor
  • Dongle required to charge Apple Pencil (1st gen)

Apple iPad specs: Display : 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone |  Processor : A14 Bionic chip with 16-core Neural Engine |  Storage : 64GB or 256GB |  Biometrics : Touch ID |  Colors : Silver, Pink, Blue, Yellow  |  Cameras : 12MP f/1.8 wide, 12MP Landscape f/2.4 front |  Weight : 1.05 pounds |  Dimensions : 9.79 x 7.07 x .28 inches |  Connections : USB-C, Smart Connector |  Battery life:  Up to 10 hours of video playback with USB-C charging

Apple's tried-and-true tablet, the base model iPad, is arguably the best value out of Apple's tablet lineup -- especially thanks to its versatility and compatibility. 

When it comes to features, you essentially get the same suite as the more expensive iPad Pro and iPad Air models, but in a more lightweight form factor and a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina, True Tone display. Additionally, this model breaks out of iPad's traditional space gray and silver color palette, adding pink, blue, and yellow in addition to sleek silver. 

Review:  iPad 2022 (10th Gen): Better than the Pro in two ways

In his hands-on testing, ZDNET reviews editor June Wan determined that if you're shopping on a budget, last year's iPad should "make the most sense," especially given the A14 Bionic processor, USB-C support, 5G support for on-the-go tasks, and a new 12MP ultra-wide camera. There's also a Magic Keyboard Folio made specifically for this iPad. It includes an adjustable kickstand with a 14-key function row for shortcuts. 

However, Apple customers call out that this iPad doesn't support the 2nd-gen Apple Pencil, which means you'll have to use a dongle in order to use it.

Amazon Fire Max 11

Best amazon tablet.

  • Affordably priced, especially when bundled
  • Solid battery life
  • New, modernized design
  • Performance is just alright
  • Important productivity apps are missing

Amazon Fire Max 11  specs: Display : 11-inch, 2000 x 1200, 410 nits brightness, 213 ppi |  Processor : MediaTek MT8188J, 2.2Ghz Octacore processor |  Storage : 64GB or 128GB |  Memory:  4GB |  Colors : Gray |  Cameras : 8MP rear and 8MP front-facing camera |  Weight : 490 grams |  Dimensions : 259.1 x 163.7 x 7.50 millimeters |  Connections : 3.5mm headphone jack, USB-C port |  Battery life:  14 hours

The Fire Max 11 is Amazon's newest and best tablet yet. It still runs Fire OS, which means you'll lose access to any of Google's apps and services. However, Amazon's own App Store has many of the same apps that regular Android devices have access to -- including Netflix, Facebook, and Spotify.

With a starting price of $229, the Fire Max 11 brings an 11-inch display, 4GB of memory and 64GB of storage with support for 1TB of microSD card storage. If you're looking for a tablet for work and play, the FIre Max 11 Productivity Bundle costs $329, but comes with a keyboard with touchpad, case and a stylus.

Review:  Amazon Fire Max 11: Easily the best Fire tablet yet

ZDNET contributor, Jason Cipriani, went hands-on with the Amazon Fire Max 11 and said that it is "easily the best Fire Tablet Amazon has made yet." "The Fire Max 11 productivity bundle provides everything you need to get some work done on the small and affordable tablet, as long as your work can be done in Microsoft's suite of apps and services, or in sites that work properly with Amazon's Silk Browser," he wrote.

Overall, 94% of Best Buy customers would recommend this tablet, giving it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra

Best samsung tablet.

  • Improved Dynamic AMOLED display
  • IP68 water and dust resistant
  • Ultra responsive S Pen
  • Not the most portable tablet
  • Occasional app crashes

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra specs: Display : 14.6-inch, 120Hz refresh rate, Dynamic AMOLED 2X 2960 x 1848 display |  Processor : Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy |  Storage : 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |  Memory : 12GB, 16GB |  Colors : Graphite and beige |  Cameras : Rear: 13MP main, 8MP ultrawide, Front: 12MP main, 12MP ultrawide |  Weight : 1.6lb |  Dimensions : 12.85 x 8.21 x 0.22 inches |  Connections : 5G, LTE, Wi-Fi 6E, Wi-Fi Direct Bluetooth 5.3 |  Battery:  11,200mAh

If you're looking for an Android tablet, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is one of the best Android tablets. The Tab S9 Ultra features a 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED display, runs on the Android 13 operating system, and Samsung's S Pen stylus is included in the box. 

The base model comes with 12GB of memory and 256GB of storage, and a microSD card for adding up to an extra 1TB of storage to the tablet, the combination of which should be enough for most. Plus, new for this generation is IP68 water and dust resistant, that neither the iPad nor any premium tablet on the market is certified for.

Review: Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra: This tablet can truly replace your laptop

ZDNET's Maria Diaz reviewed the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra and said, that while it looks and feels the same as last year, the upgrades give it a definitive edge over the competition. She also described the tablet as "The perfect device for a professional that seeks the power of a laptop and the flexibility of a tablet."

If you opt for the  $350 Book Cover Keyboard , you'll be able to use Samsung DeX on the S9 Ultra, effectively turning the tablet into an Android-powered 2-in-1 device with plenty of space for multitasking and using more than one app at a time. Reddit users say that the S9 Ultra with this keyboard case will feel like a laptop, in terms of looks and weight.

OnePlus Pad

Best android tablet for entertainment.

  • Display looks good
  • Solid performance
  • Battery life
  • Android apps still need tablet improvements
  • Not a tablet for productivity
  • It looks and acts a lot like an iPad

OnePlus Pad specs: Display : 11.61-inch, 144Hz refresh rate, LCD 2,800x2,000 display |  Processor : MediaTek Dimensity 9000 Mobile Platform |  Storage : 128GB |  Memory : 8GB |  Colors : Halo green |  Cameras : 13MP rear. 8MP front camera |  Weight : 555 grams |  Dimensions : 189.41 x 258.03 x 6.54mm |  Connections : USB-C |  Battery:  9,510mAh

OnePlus is better known for its smartphone lineup where the company has led the way with producing phones that include a ton of features and performance while undercutting the competition when it comes to cost. And for the most part, that's exactly what's happened with the OnePlus Pad. 

This Android-powered tablet has month-long battery standby, along with impressive daily battery life. Cipriani reviewed this tablet and found it quick and snappy for daily tasks like checking your email, playing games or browsing the web, all on a display that looks fantastic. 

Review:  OnePlus Pad: A tablet for Android fans who secretly want an iPad

"One aspect of the overall experience I enjoyed using was the multitasking features built into OxygenOS, the operating system the Pad runs, Cipriani wrote. "More specifically, I found myself frequently using a quick gesture on the display to effectively split the display in half, putting one app on the left side of the screen, and a second on the other half. A two-finger swipe down from the top of the screen was all it took."

OnePlus also sells a keyboard case and a stylus for the OnePlus Pad, which more or less turns the OnePlus Pad into an iPad Pro dupe. However, verified customers who have bought and used this tablet say online that trackpad gestures and navigation are finicky, and a lot of the same interface features -- such as the mouse pointer -- on the OnePlus Pad come straight from Apple's iPadOS interface for the same feature. 

Microsoft Surface Go 3

Best compact windows tablet.

  • Windows Hellow
  • Lots of ports
  • Up to 256GB storage
  • Can only install apps from Microsoft Store in Windows 10 S Mode

Microsoft Surface Go 3 tech specs: Display : 10.5-inch PixelSense Display |  Processor : Intel Pentium Gold or Intel Core i3 |  Storage : 64GB or 256GB |  Memory : 4GB or 8GB |  Biometrics : Windows Hello face sign-in |  Colors : Platinum |  Cameras : 8MP rear, 1080p video. 5MP front facing camera |  Weight : 1.07 pounds |  Dimensions : 9.65 x 6.9 x 0.33 inches |  Connections : 1 x USB-C, 3.5mm headphone jack, 1 x Surface Connect Port, microSD card reader |  Battery life:  11 hours

The design hasn't changed for the Go 3, meaning it should work with all of the original accessories, including the Type Cover keyboard . The Go 3 has faster internals that provides a better overall experience and performance, and this time around, all three configurations of the Go 3 use an SSD instead. Previously, the combination of slower storage via an eMMC drive and the Intel Pentium processor wasn't an enjoyable experience. 

Review:  Microsoft Surface Go 3 review: A portable and versatile 2-in-1, but battery life disappoints

ZDNET's Mary Branscombe tested the Surface Go 3 back in 2021 and said it "shines as a portable device." It's perfect for working on an airplane tray table or a crowded train, and for throwing in a backpack. It's a small tablet, with a display of just 10.5 inches, but it runs the full Windows operating system that you can customize.

It can also run Windows 10 in S Mode, which limits you to installing apps from only the Microsoft Store, along with a few other security features. But you can opt for the full Windows 10 experience by leaving S Mode.

One Reddit user praised the Surface Go 3, saying, "No issues running a bunch of Edge tabs, Excel, Word, and PP docs all at the same time," adding, "Even media consumption is way easier on the Go 3."

Apple iPad Pro (6th generation)

Best laptop replacement tablet.

  • iPadOS 16.1's new multitasking feature
  • Strong performance thanks to M2 chip
  • The most expensive, by a long shot
  • Not many changes compared to previous model

Apple iPad Pro tech specs: Display : 11-inch Liquid Retina display or 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion and True Tone |  Processor : Apple Silicon M2 |  Storage : 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB or 2TB |  Biometrics : Face ID |  Colors : Silver, space gray |  Cameras : 12MP wide, 10MP ultrawide rear and 12MP TrueDepth FaceTime front |  Weight : 11-inch: 1.03 pounds 12.9-inch: 1.5 pounds |  Dimensions : 11-inch: 9.74 x 7.02 x 0.23 inches, 12.9-inches: 11.04 x 8.46 x 0.25-inches|  Connections : USB-C Thunderbolt/USB-4 |  Battery life:  10 hours

The design of the iPad Pro hasn't changed all that much on the outside from previous generations, but on the inside, you'll find Apple's M2 processor which consists of 20 billion transistors -- 25% more than the M1. It's the same exact processor that Apple is using in the new 13-inch MacBook Pro and MacBook Air. Customers who have bought it praise this processor upgrade, saying it makes the iPad Pro "future-proof" and worth the cost in the long run.

Review:   iPad Pro (2022) review: I'm cautiously optimistic. Or foolish

In our testing, we found it to be faster and more capable than any other iPad model we've tested to date, noting the hardware "continues to overpower the software." You can expect downloads up to 2.4Gbps, twice as fast as the previous model, 15% faster performance, and up to 35% faster graphics performance.

The Pro also supports the 2nd-generation Apple Pencil, and there's a new hover feature thanks to the M2 chip. "[The feature] monitors when the tip of the Pencil gets near the iPad Pro's display -- within 12 millimeters -- to proc unique app interactions via the new hover feature," Cipriani wrote in his review. "In the Notes app, for example, that means you'll see a small preview of what the selected tool will look like when you put the tip of the pencil to the screen."

And, although the differences between the 5th-generation and this 6th-generation model are more subtle, the M2 chip is really what shines here, making it a powerhouse tablet. The iPad Pro, combined with iPadOS and the M2 chip, is as close as you can get to a laptop without actually buying a laptop. 

Google Pixel Tablet

Best android tablet.

  • Good performance and battery life
  • Finally, Android tablet apps done right
  • The Charging Speaker Dock makes it a Nest Hub
  • No official keyboard case
  • Hub Mode could use some quality-of-life improvements

Google Pixel Tablet tech specs: Display : 10.95-inch LCD, 2560x1600, 500 nits |  Processor : Google  Tensor G2|  Storage : 128GB or 256GB |  Biometrics : Fingerprint sensor |  Colors : Hazel, rose, porcelain  |  Cameras : 8MP front, 8MP rear |  Weight : 17.39 ounces |  Dimensions : 10.2 x 6.7 x 0.3 inches |  Connections : USB-C, pogo pins |  Battery life:  Up to 12 hours of video playback 

Google's first Android tablet in years is exactly what Android tablets should have been all along. It's true, not all apps are optimized for the larger screen, but Google's gotten clever in the way it handles those apps, while also getting a bunch of developers on board with updating their apps for the bigger display. 

Review:  Google Pixel Tablet: What Android tablets should have been all along

"When you open an app on the Pixel tablet, the app stays confined to a phone-like column view that takes up effectively a third of the tablet's display," Cipriani notes in his hands-on review. "The app can live on the left edge of the screen, in the middle or on the right edge. You move it by double tapping in the blank space on either side of it."

Not only is the app experience better with the Pixel Tablet, but it pulls double duty acting as a smart home hub when it's not in use thanks to the included Charging Speaker Dock. The $129 accessory (if you want to buy extras) has a built-in speaker that ups the bass by 4x, while enabling a hub mode feature that effectively makes the Pixel Tablet more like a Nest Hub, instead of a tablet. 

Unfortunately, right now there isn't any sort of official keyboard or stylus for those who want to get some work done on the Pixel Tablet. Customers who have bought the tablet have voiced on Reddit that they mainly use it for media consumption and that it does the job for that purpose. 

Apple iPad Air (5th generation)

Best middle-of-the-road tablet.

  • Great battery life
  • M1 processor
  • 4K video capable
  • Only one USB-C port

Apple iPad Air tech specs: Display : 10.9-inch Retina display |  Processor : Apple Silicon M1 |  Storage : 64GB or 256GB |  Biometrics : Touch ID |  Colors : Space gray, starlight, pink, purple, blue |  Cameras : 12MP rear, 4K video. 12MP Ultra Wide camera |  Weight : 1.02 pounds |  Dimensions : 9.74 x 7.02 x 0.24 inches |  Connections : USB-C port |  Battery life:  10 hours

Apple's latest update to the iPad Air is more of a catch-up announcement than anything. The 5th-generation iPad Air keeps the same design we saw Apple bring to the Air in late 2020, but it now boasts an M1 processor and 5G connectivity. 

The Apple iPad Air still sits confidently between the base iPad and the iPad Pro when you look at price, but it's effectively caught up to the iPad Pro in terms of performance. With a 10.9-inch display, a Touch ID sensor that doubles as a power button on the side of its housing, it's more affordable and slightly different than the iPad Pro. The new iPad Air still works with the Magic Keyboard and second-generation Apple Pencil . 

Review:  iPad Air (2022) review: So good I almost regret buying my iPad Pro

Where the iPad Pro is the model for those who want nothing but the best, the iPad Air is the model for those who want to use the tablet for work and play, without big sacrifices in performance or features. In our review, we said the iPad Air is "where your search should begin and, likely, end" if you're in the market for an iPad.

Ultimately, we think the more Apple pays attention to the iPad Air, the less the 11-inch iPad Pro makes sense, and customers agree. Overall, 98% of Best Buy customers who bought the iPad Air would recommend it to others and gave it an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5.

Wacom Intuos Pro

Best tablet for drawing.

  • Three sizes to choose from
  • Industry-leading amount of pressure sensitivity levels
  • Included stylus
  • Need an external screen to use
  • Need to replace the nibs of the stylus often

Wacom Intuos Pro tech specs: Display : Small, medium, or large |  Weight : 0.99-2.86 pounds |  Dimensions : ‎16.79 x 11.19 x 0.31 inches |  Connections : USB and Bluetooth

When it comes to drawing tablets, Wacom is one of the industry leaders. With virtually no lag and 8,192 levels of pressure sensitivity in the battery-free pen included, this no-screen tablet is the best one on the market for professional artists looking to create while providing a natural drawing experience.

While this writer's experience using it as a non-artist was simply for fun, professional artists and graphic designers will appreciate the Pro Pen 2's sensitive pressure points that allow you to go light and thin or dark and thick with your strokes. You can use the tablet to zoom in and out of your artwork, making fine-tuning details a breeze. Reddit users note that the Pro Pen 2 is better than anything they have experienced in a stylus and that it alone is worth buying the Wacom Intuos Pro for. 

Review:  This Wacom drawing tablet feels like putting pen to paper

The possibilities are endless when it comes to creativity with the Wacom Intuos Pro tablet, and that is reinforced with a fully-customizable ExpressKeys located on the side of the active area. These buttons allow for artists to add their most-used tools for them to easily access. Its lightweight design is perfect for using it on a desk or on your lap, and with multiple sizes available, you can use this practically anywhere. This tablet connects to both Windows and Mac devices.

You'll also get free access to drawing-specific apps and services, like Clip Studio Paint Pro for two years, Boris Optics for one, and have the option to test Corel Painter Essentials 8 and Corel AfterShot Pro 3 for 90 days. 

Amazon Kindle Scribe

Best tablet for reading.

  • Impressive battery life
  • Included pen for handwritten notes
  • Compatible with Microsoft Word
  • Premium pen upgrade will cost you more
  • Does not support note-taking on magazines or newspapers

Amazon Kinde Scribe tech specs:  Display:  10.2-inch 300 ppi Paperwhite display |  Storage:  16 GB, 32 GB, or 64 GB |  Weight:  15.3 ounces | Dimensions: 7.7 x 9.0 x .22 inches | Connections: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C |  Battery life:  Up to 12 weeks (at 30 minutes per day)

The Kindle Scribe is perhaps the perfect example of part e-reader, part tablet to satisfy your reading and note-taking needs. It has the same functions you've come to know and love in a Kindle, like 300 ppi glare-free screen, weeks of battery life, and adjustable warm light. It's also compatible with Amazon's Basic or Premium Pen, so you can take handwritten notes or underline important quotations within the book you're reading. 

Your notes are automatically organized in one place for every book, so you can browse, review, and export them via email. The Kindle Scribe also comes with preset templates to help you create notebooks, journals, and lists, and you can can create sticky notes in Microsoft Word and other compatible Word documents. 

Review:  Amazon Kindle Scribe

ZDNET contributing writer, Matthew Miller, went hands-on with the Kindle Scribe and called it "close to perfect." "I use my Kindle Scribe daily as my primary note-taking device, and the habit of carrying it has also resulted in me reading more books than I have in years," Miller wrote. "It's an excellent ebook device while also serving as a capable working tablet."

The Kindle Scribe comes with the Basic pen, but verified Amazon customers say it's best to opt for the $30 premium pen so you get more advanced features like a dedicated eraser and the shortcut button.

Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Tablet

Best tablet for kids.

  • Kids edition has many perks
  • Easy to use
  • Performance will be an issue
  • Amazon's Appstore is hit or miss

Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids tech specs: Display:  8-inch display |  Processor:  Hexa-core 2.0 Ghz |  Storage:  32GB or 64GB (expandable by up to 1 TB) |  Memory:  2GB |  Colors:  Blue, purple, Disney Mickey Mouse, or Disney princess  | Cameras:  2 MP front and rear-facing cameras with 720p HD video recording |  Weight:  18.3 ounces |  Dimensions:  8.7 x 7.1 x 1.1 inches|  Connections:  3.5mm headphone jack, USB-C port |  Battery life:  13 hours

Amazon just updated this tablet model in 2022, making it faster and with a longer battery life. Not only does it have a kid-proof case built to withstand 3 to 7-year-olds, but it also comes with a free one-year subscription to Amazon Kids+. 

The tablet also grants users an Amazon FreeTime Unlimited subscription, which grants you access to thousands of kid-friendly ad-free books, as well as movies, games and other  kid-friendly and educational content . Parents who purchased this tablet on Best Buy give it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5, and 95% would recommend it to other parents. 

Review:  I bought this Amazon kids tablet instead of an iPad and wasn't sorry

"The Fire HD 8 Kids tablet is a well-built, entry-level tablet that comes with a sturdy kid-proof cover and features useful parental controls," wrote ZDNET's Maria Diaz, who bought the tablet for her kids. "Its 13-hour battery life means that you'll need to charge it less often than other competitors, and the combination of a durable case and screen ensures the integrity of the Fire tablet for years to come."

The tablet's kid-friendly case is also worth mentioning, because it protects against drops and bumps, and it comes complete with an adjustable stand so your kids can go hands-free. But Amazon does offer you a two-year worry-free guarantee in case the tablet does succumb to playtime

What is the best tablet?

After going hands-on with all of these tablets, the 10th-generation iPad is our pick for the best tablet. It has a battery life of up to 10 hours, up to 256GB of storage, and a lightweight design that's perfect for working or streaming movies on the go. Its fairly affordable price tag also makes it a great choice for students who need a mobile work computer. 

If you want to see quickly how the 10th-generation iPad specifically compares to the other tablets that made our list, see the handy chart below that compares factors like price, storage, and display size.

Which is the right tablet for you?

The biggest question you'll need to answer about any tablet purchase is what you plan on using it for: Do you just want something to read a comic book and binge on some Netflix shows while you walk on the treadmill? If so, then a Fire tablet or the base model iPad is going to be more than enough for you. 

However, if you want to use a tablet more like a laptop, then you'll want to consider the iPad Pro, or one of the Surface devices. Here is a decision matrix that can help you choose which tablet is right for you:

Factors to consider when choosing the best tablets:

 These were the factors that were most important to us when making our top picks: 

  • Feature sets:  Not all tablets are created equal. Some are better for kids, others are simply for artists, and then there's the mini laptop for working professionals and students. We considered a variety of use-cases to match virtually every need. 
  • Price points:  Tablets are an expensive piece of tech, especially if you're planning on investing in compatible accessories or buying for your kids to inevitably drop at a moment's notice, 
  • Integrations with other products:  We considered options that can work with a smart case, attachable keyboard, Apple Pencil, or Stylus, and other work and entertainment add-ons. 
  • Battery life:  Whether you're using your tablet for work or play (or both), you'll want it to last the duration of your task. 

How did we test these tablets?

When choosing the best tablets, ZDNET editors considered our own experiences testing and using these tablets. We do extensive hands-on testing of tablets, including ease using them for work and entertainment, and paying attention to specs like display, battery life, and overall experience while using the tablet.

For products we recommend, we write a product spotlight review that we update periodically with new features and pricing information.

What brand tablet is best?

By and large, Samsung and Apple tablets consistently have the best tablets in the market in terms of features, speed, camera, and quality. OnePlus and Google are newcomers who have great first generation products, but don't have the same proven track record. 

Dan Gookin, an author of technology books, said that Samsung's lineup of tablets is the best option for Android users who want good hardware in a tablet: "I believe Samsung is the only major player left for the Android tablet market, which makes them a good choice if you want to stay on Planet Android," he said. 

On the other hand, Avi Greengart, a consumer tech analyst at  Techsponential , said that iPads are the best tablets for most people. 

"There's an endless array of accessories, there's a lot of iPad-specific software, and you can use it for watching content, for browsing the internet, for games, for education, etc.," Greengart told ZDNET. "For productivity, you can add a keyboard or pencil to it. It's also powerful enough for light computing tasks that consumers think of when they're looking for a tablet." 

At the end of the day, it depends on which software you prefer and what you plan to actually use your tablet for.

What does it mean if a tablet is Wi-Fi only?

When a tablet says that it is "Wi-Fi Only," that means that it requires a wireless internet connection to access things like email, websites, and apps. There are models available that give you the option to use LTE cellular data to connect to the internet, but if you aren't planning on traveling with your tablet, you can stick to a Wi-Fi only model.

What features to look for in a tablet?

It depends on what you're specifically looking for and your preferences. Gookin says he prioritizes the operating system: "I look for software, which is why I recommend iPad over Android," he said. "Many Android apps are customized for a smartphone screen and can look awkward on a tablet." 

Similarly, high-performing processors are also important, but Greengart said it all depends what you're using the tablet for. "If a tablet is on the slow side to launch apps, but if you're using it to write term papers, or even to browse the internet on a regular basis, it may make a lot of sense to go with a tablet that's got a higher performing processor," he said. 

Greengart also added that, unlike smartphones, people aren't as likely to update their tablet model every year, so he suggested thinking about how willing you are to deal with those small inconveniences like speed or battery life that can add up over time. 

Is a tablet better than a laptop?

That depends on what you want to use your tablet or laptop for. Digital artists tend to prefer tablets since they're easier to draw on with a stylus. Tablets are also great for photo editing and streaming movies if you get one with a large enough screen size. But if you want to do things like create spreadsheets, type in a word processing program, or do intensive 3D animation or modeling, you're better off with a laptop.

What tablet is best for students?

For students, there are specific things to look for when it comes to a tablet for learning and studying. Anne Leavitt, a former teacher and founder and CEO of  Homeschool Newbie , said that, in most classes, students use a tablet for its basic functions such as internet searches, school projects, or running basic programs which don't require fancy specs. 

She recommends prioritizing features like storage space (at least 32 GB), and a large display between 10-14 inches. "For most students, you want at least 4GB of RAM to run your programs without lag. We only have a limited amount of time in the classroom and spending it wisely is essential," Leavitt said.

Are there alternative tablets worth considering?

Of course, the tablet market is more than just these 10 picks above. There are plenty of other options from different brands at various price points if you're looking for additional tablets. 

ZDNET Recommends

These are the best android tablets you can buy: expert tested, the best cheap tablets you can buy: expert tested, the best small tablets you can buy: expert tested.

Travel Gear

The Best Tablets for Travel

best travel tablet

In this day and age of inter-connectivity, keeping up with your work and personal lives has never been easier. However, it can also be incredibly overwhelming, especially when it comes to travel, both domestic and international.

Tablets are the best of both worlds in regards to both function and portability. Larger than a cell phone and with similar capabilities to a computer, this portable solution to work and play away from home can be an essential addition to your ever-growing tech collection.

Why Are Tablets Ideal for Travel?

When you either have a desktop or don’t have the space for your laptop in your travel bag, a tablet is the next best thing. Since many tablets have a compatible design with your other devices, it is easy to pick right up from where you left off. 

Tablets can be multipurpose or have a particular focus. For example, giving your children a tablet of their own to play with instead of handing them your cell phone for entertainment is probably much more ideal. 

Tablet Features and What to Look For

Choosing the right tablet can be overwhelming at first. With so many brands, styles, and purposes, wading through all the options is challenging, especially for first-time buyers.

Luckily, most tablets have similar features, and the extras are where you want to place your focus. Most tablets are within seven to 13 inches, use a standard operating system, and have extended battery lives. 

Processing speed, resolution, and storage space can vary. Many accessories pair well with tablets, depending on the OS and brand. The ideal tablet will depend on your individual needs and how you plan to use it.

  One of the most important things to keep in mind when looking for a travel tablet is how compatible it will be with your other devices and your life in general. 

5 Best Travel Tablets

Out of the many to choose from, several tablets stand out from the rest. These tablets are not the only ones you may consider but are on the higher end of quality, function, and performance. 

Hopefully, this list should help you get a better idea of what you are looking for and what works the best for you or your family.

Quick Reference Guide:

Best Budget Tablet – Fire HD 10

Best All-Purpose Tablet – Apple iPad Air

Best Tablet for Work – Microsoft Surface Pro 7

Best Tablet for Young Children – Fire HD Kids Edition

Best Tablet for Overall Value- Samsung Galaxy Tab S7

Best Budget Tablet - Fire HD 10

With several attractive color options, WiFi, and Alexa compatibility, the Amazon Fire is an excellent option, especially for those on a budget. Two storage sizes and a fast charger at an extra cost make it easy to find what will suit your lifestyle the best.

However, Amazon’s tablet user interface can be a little complicated, especially for those unfamiliar with technology. Even so, the Fire is excellent for casual use with its lightweight design and Amazon features. You also have a choice between a version with ads and one without, but you can always pay to remove the ads later on.

Specifications

  • Weight : 10.1 ounces
  • Size: 10.1 inches
  • Storage: 32 GB or 64 GB
  • Battery Life: up to 7 hours
  • Operating System: Fire OS
  • Easy to set up and get started.
  • Compatible with many Amazon accessories.
  • It has excellent sound and picture quality.
  • It gets the job done, whatever the job may be.
  • Lightweight and fast.
  • Some may find the interface complicated. 
  • Not compatible with many non-Amazon products or apps.
  • The advertisements slow performance and drain battery.

Check out latest pricing on Amazon: Fire HD 10

Looking for a case to protect this tablet? We recommend: Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet Case

best travel tablet

Best All-Purpose Tablet - Apple iPad Air

For Apple-lovers, the iPad Air is the best way to go. Not only will you be able to sync with all of your devices, but you will be able to use any accessories that you may already have. 

With the Touch-ID system, you can keep out anyone who you don’t want accessing your tablet. Anything from watching movies or playing games is a breeze with this tablet. There are also several options for colors, and the 10 hours of battery life will get you through many hours of travel.

  • Weight: 1 pound
  • Size: 10.9 inches
  • Storage: 64 GB or 256 GB
  • Battery Life: up to 10 hours
  • Operating System: iPadOS
  • Incredibly responsive user interface.
  • Clear picture and sound.
  • Excellent battery life.
  • Compatible with Apple accessories such as the Pen and Keyboard.
  • It has accurate handwriting recognition.
  • It does not come with a power adapter, only the cord.
  • Potential issues with quality control.
  • The camera is bulky and doesn’t allow the tablet to lay flat.

For latest pricing on Amazon, click here: Apple Ipad Air

Our recommended case for protection: Zugu Alpha Protection Case

Apple Ipod Air

Best for Work - Microsoft Surface Pro 7

When you have a business, traveling around can be a pain, especially if you have everything on your computer. Luckily, this Microsoft tablet can sync with your laptop or desktop and even your phone, even if it is an Android. 

With a Windows OS, this tablet is technically a computer, so it is best for work and businesses. The sleek silver or bold black design is easy to use and even more comfortable to set up. This impeccably-designed mini-computer has limited applications, but that is due to it not having a mobile OS.

  • Weight : 1.7 pounds
  • Size: 12.3 inches
  • Storage: 128 GB, 256 GB, or 512 GB
  • Battery Life: up to 10.5 hours
  • Operating System: Windows 10 Home
  • The sound, microphone, and display are incredible.
  • It has three modes: studio, laptop, and tablet.
  • Compatible with Windows accessories like the pen and mouse.
  • Fast charging.
  • Ideal SDD functionality.
  • The bezel can be too chunky for some.
  • It doesn’t work well in sunlight.
  • There are limited available apps.
  • No keyboard included as pictured.

Check out latest pricing here: MS Surface Pro 7

Looking for a protective case to keep your new investment safe? We like the: Moko Case Fit Microsoft Surface Pro 7

best travel tablet

Best for Young Kids - Fire HD 8 Kids Edition

It can be challenging to find a kid-friendly tablet that also gives parents sensible options to manage what their children can access. In bold blue, purple, and pink, the Kid’s Edition of the Fire just might be what you need for the road.

With 32 GB of storage and a sturdy kid-proof case, this tablet is excellent for games, streaming, and more. Running out of storage isn’t an issue either, with a slot for a microSD card. 

You can even get this tablet with an age-appropriate headset and carrying sleeve for an additional cost. 

  • Weight : 16 ounces
  • Size: 7 inches
  • Storage: 16 GB
  • It has profiles for multiple children.
  • There are two size options for the extra headset.
  • Available in several colors.
  • It needs a subscription for parental controls after a trial.
  • The user interface is not the best.
  • The display is hard to see in the sun.

Check out latest pricing here: Kindle Fire HD 8 Kids Edition

We highly recommend these thick rubber foam cases: Kindle Fire HD 8 Case

best travel tablet

Best for Overall Value - Samsung Galaxy Tab S7

With voice activation and an Android OS, the Galaxy Tab S7 is an impeccable piece of technology. After charging super fast, you can take it with you and count on it to last for hours. 

  The sound from its four speakers is terrific, and the included pen provides an easy way to keep up with things. However, if you plan to do a lot of note-taking, this pen will be too fragile to be worth it. 

  When it comes to value, performance, design, and cost, the Galaxy Tab S7 is genuinely one of the leading tablets from which to choose.  

  • Weight : 1.1 pounds
  • Size: 11 inches
  • Battery Life: up to 5 hours
  • Operating System: Android 10
  • It has a crisp, clear, bright screen.
  • Beautiful color options.
  • T-Mobile or Verizon models with data plans are available.
  • A fingerprint scanner allows for extra security.
  • Great battery life.
  • It does not have a headphone jack.
  • The pen is excellent but breaks easily.

For latest pricing, click here: Galaxy S7

A great case for this tablet: Galaxy Tab S7 11 case

best travel tablet

Tablet Time?

Whether it is domestic or international or for leisure or business, having a way to stay connected during travel is essential. Tablets are ideal for doing this, allowing you to do more than you could from your cell phone while removing the need to pull out a bulky laptop for a quick task.

Even children can benefit from a tablet designed just for them, and the whole family can have something to do while going from one place to another without having to share devices. 

Regardless of how you plan to use a tablet for travel, there is one that will suit your lifestyle and individual needs.

best travel tablet

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Best Travel Tablets

Best Travel Tablets

Despite taking in Berlin’s vibrant cultural scene or spending some time on a pristine beach somewhere in the Caribbean , there’s a strong chance you’ll require some form of entertainment to sample on occasion. For many, a tablet is the perfect antidote for fighting against boredom, with a tablet being able to handle a variety of favored modern-day entertainment offerings.  

Table of Contents

Why Tablets are a Perfect Travel Companion

Tablets are ideal for scrolling through social media, you can watch endless amounts of YouTube videos , there are a wide range of games to play, movies and TV shows to watch, you can also get lost down a Reddit wormhole, or even edit some of your holiday snaps through a highly-rated photo editing app.  

Additionally, and perhaps most importantly of all, tablets are easy for travelers to carry. They don’t take up much room in a holidaymaker’s luggage, they don’t come with endless amounts of wires and accessories, and they’re light in terms of their weight. Certain tablets are definitely better than others, though. Let’s take a look at just some of them below.  

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra

A stunning tablet that is flawless for many, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is packed full of splendid features. For example, it boasts an immaculate 14.6-inch display, it has an 1848 x 2960 resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, it is capable of handling pretty much anything you need given the presence of the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, and it doesn’t cost a bomb despite a variety of top features. Faster charging might’ve elevated its appeal even further, and it could probably be a tad smaller in terms of its size, but overall, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is a top tablet that is capable of doing it all.  

iPad Pro 12.9  

If you’d rather put your trust in one of Apple’s highly-rated products, then you can’t really go wrong with the iPad Pro 12.9. A device that is capable of hosting popular movies of today like Barbie and much-loved fantasy-themed games like Pragmatic Play’s Starlight Princess thanks to its gorgeous mini-LED screen, it also comes with a range of other impressive features, such as an M2 chipset, strong camera, hover-detection that is ideal for options like the Apple Pencil 2 , and it also looks the part. While its battery could certainly be improved, overall the iPad Pro 12.9 is a device you should definitely consider.  

OnePlus Pad

A tablet that has won plenty of plaudits in recent times , the OnePlus Pad isn’t perfect, but it will certainly suffice for your next adventure abroad, given a strong selection of notable inclusions. It boasts an excellent display, it has a beastly battery that won’t let you down, it offers fast charging and loudspeakers, and it houses a MediaTek Dimensity 9000 that possesses enough power to perform the tasks you need. Also coming in at a much cheaper price than some of the other options on the list, the OnePlus Pad is a tablet that many globetrotters go for.  

Google Pixel Tablet

Another strong option here, the Google Pixel Tablet possesses an extensive selection of plus points that makes investing in one a viable option. For starters, it’s a slick product that has been designed extremely well. Then, additionally, it can house a variety of well-liked apps that can be explored on your travels, while it can also showcase the very best movies and a plethora of games. While it probably isn’t the best option on the list when it comes to productivity, the Google Pixel Tablet makes up for it given the fun offerings that it handles with ease.  

Concluding our deep dive into the best travel tablets, it’s clear that the right choice heavily depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize battery life, display quality, versatility, or processing power, there’s a tablet out there that’s perfect for your journey. Remember, the ideal travel tablet marries functionality with convenience, offering a seamless blend of entertainment, productivity, and portability. As technology continues to evolve, these devices become ever more integral to our travel experiences, promising to keep us connected, entertained, and productive, no matter where our adventures take us. So, choose wisely, and let your chosen tablet be your constant companion, enriching your travels with every tap and swipe.

Best Travel Gadgets for Your Next Adventure

Best Portable Blender for Travel

Best travel tablets

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Book Flight s

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner ! My second favorite site to find flights is Momondo , another great site for finding cheap flights.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO .

Rent Clothes

Rent clothes for your trip with Travel Style Expert for only $50 a month! The first 30 days are free!

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Get Your Guide and Viator . If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar . They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If I am going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean I use Apple Vacations .

Rent a Car or Take a Lyft

More often than not Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit ! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Discover Cars .

Save Money on Gas

Upside , a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Disclosure : This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

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Best Tablets of 2023

The top iPads, Amazon Fire Tablets, and Samsung Galaxy models, from simple $60 tablets to high-powered devices for professionals

When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more .

Apple iPad, Amazon Fire HD, Samsung Galaxy Tab A

Go tablet shopping, and you’ll find everything from $1,000 devices with high-powered processors and gorgeous displays down to sub-$100 tablets that are perfectly adequate for lightweight tasks like browsing the web and reading e-books. 

CR tests that whole range, taking into account battery life, performance, and the quality of the display, along with other factors. We also factor in reliability and owner satisfaction data collected through surveys of our members. 

In This Article

Best Amazon Tablet • Best iPad • Best Android Tablets • Best Pro Tablet • Best Tablet for Kids • How CR Tests Tablets

Our tablet ratings includes every version of the iPad; along with Android tablets from Samsung, Lenovo, and others; and Amazon Fire Tablets, which run Amazon’s unique version of Android. ( Two-in-one laptops that run on Windows, such as the Microsoft Surface , are covered in our laptop ratings .) And consult our tablet buying guide for smart shopping tips. 

Below, you’ll find our picks of the best tablets in several categories.

Best Amazon Tablet

If you’re looking for a tablet to do simple tasks, the 10-inch Amazon Fire HD 10 is hard to beat. The device is more than powerful enough to stream Netflix or Disney+, play simple games like Minecraft, and scroll through social media. It weighs just 1 pound and has a battery that lasts an impressive 16.5 hours in our web-browsing test. You get only 32GB of built-in storage, but the inclusion of a microSD card slot means you can add more storage as needed.

There’s also a bonus for families: Amazon Fire tablets provide robust parental controls that allow you to set limits on when your child can use the device and which types of social networking and web-browsing apps are accessible.

One notable trade-off: Fire tablets use the Amazon app store instead of the Google Play store, even though the operating system is based on Android.

When you’re shopping, you may also see the Amazon Fire HD 10 Plus, which is nearly identical but has slightly more memory (4GB vs 3GB). The pricier Amazon Fire Max 11 provides longer battery life, twice the onboard storage, and a slightly bigger screen.

Best iPad for Most People

The Apple iPad (64GB) 2022 —which Apple refers to simply as the “iPad”—is one of the better values in consumer electronics. 

The device’s 10.9-inch display is among the best in our ratings and it gets bright enough to be legible in direct sunlight. That’s handy for outdoor reading, at the beach or in the backyard. In CR’s tests, the battery lasts a very respectable 9 hours while browsing the web, and 13.4 hours during local video playback. 

The iPad can work with Apple’s Smart Keyboard cover, which clips onto the tablet magnetically. Unlike a Bluetooth keyboard, this one doesn’t require charging or pairing—a nice convenience if you frequently use your iPad for emailing and word-processing tasks. The iPad is also compatible with Apple Pencil for handwritten notes and drawing. 

This is the 10th-generation device. The 9th-generation iPad is getting to be less widely available, but if it’s also a great value, with a bright 10.2-inch screen—and a lower price tag.

Best Android Tablets

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 aces nearly all of our tests, from speed to camera quality. The screen is bright and sharp, though the colors are slightly undersaturated. Overall, it’s a top-notch tablet, with a premium price tag to match. 

You can get nearly the same quality at a lower price by choosing the Galaxy Tab S8 . It offers largely the same tablet experience but with an older processor and less advanced cameras. 

As a group, Samsung tablets earn top ratings for predicted reliability in CR’s member surveys, and they do better than most brands’ tablets on owner satisfaction. 

If you need something much less expensive that provides Google Play access (unlike Amazon Fire tablets), consider the Lenovo Tab M10 Plus . It earns only middling scores in our performance and camera tests, but does a decent job with basic browsing, apps, and multimedia (though the display isn’t particularly impressive).

Best Tablet for Pro Use

The 2022 Apple iPad Pro (12.9-inch ) is at the pinnacle of tablet performance.  

The generous 12.9-inch display features Mini LED technology that can produce much better black levels than traditional LCD screens. (Mini LEDs are also found in some TVs and laptops.) The display produces very accurate colors, good contrast levels, and very wide viewing angles, meaning the picture is vibrant and sharp even when seen from an angle. That’s helpful if a few people are watching a movie together, or you’re using the tablet as a presentation device.

The device delivers excellent performance, as you might expect from a tablet aimed at professional users and powered by Apple’s high-performance M2 processor. Editing 4K video, playing demanding console-quality games, writing code—those tasks are all a breeze. And the iPad Pro does all this while running for an impressive 9.4 hours on a charge in CR’s web-browsing test, and 14 hours our video playback test.

Note that Apple also makes a newer version of the 11-inch iPad Pro that starts at $800, which CR hasn’t tested. The company also offers a slightly less expensive iPad Air with an M1 processor, which has a 10.9-inch display and similar features and performance to the entry-level iPad and the Pro.

Best Tablets for Kids

The Amazon Fire 7 is a barebones tablet that has two great things going for it: Very long battery life (16.5 hours in our video playback test), and a super low price. That price, and the small size, make it a good choice for children. Another option is the slightly more expensive Amazon Fire 7 Kids tablet. CR doesn’t test that one—but it’s the same tablet, with the addition of a tough, colorful case, free access for one year to Amazon Kids+ (TKTK description), and a 2-year guarantee—break it, and Amazon just sends you a new one. 

Amazon is also rolling out two updated kids tablets this fall: the Fire HD 10 Kids and Fire HD 10 Kids Pro. 

A much pricier option is the base-level Apple iPad , described above, appropriate for somewhat older kids who are ready to take care of somewhat delicate devices. Compared with the Fire tablets, the entry-level iPad provides a much better display and a more robust app store.

For more suggestions, read our guide on the best tablets for kids .

How CR Tests Tablets

Ever year, Consumer Reports tests tablets from top brands like Amazon, Apple, and Samsung. The goal of these tests is to help you pick the right tablet for your needs and budget.

We rate tablets across a range of criteria, including performance, display quality, and predicted reliability. These criteria are scored on an ascending scale of 1 to 5, making them easy to compare and contrast with other models. A display with a score of 5, for example, is one that’s sharp, gets bright enough to view in direct sunlight, and can accurately display colors. And a tablet with a performance score of 5 is one that will be able to easily handle demanding tasks like editing video or playing high-end video games.

We also subject tablets to rigorous battery testing, spread across three separate tests: One measures how long the tablet stays powered while cycling through a series of web pages, which is meant to simulate what casual usage of the tablet is like, while a second measures how long the battery lasts while watching a video running on a loop. Finally, we see how long a tablet runs after being charged for just 30 minutes.

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Smartphones, Tablets, or Laptops: What’s Best for Travelers?

A laptop, tablet, and smartphone sitting on a desk

In this guest post, tech expert Dave Dean from Too Many Adapters shares this tips and suggestions to help you decide which tech items are best for you and your trip — and which you can leave at home.

“Should I bring a laptop, tablet, or smartphone?”

It’s a question I’m often asked — and for good reason. There are pros and cons to each device and, with overlapping features, picking the one that’s right for your trip can be confusing.

There are a lot of issues to think about with each device: size, weight, costs, insurance, and security. Striking the right balance between them all isn’t easy, but it is possible.

As a tech guy, I carry a lot of devices (and a lot of chargers) but for those not obsessed with every new device on the market, you only need one device — you want to keep it simple on the road. Here are the pros and cons of carrying a smartphone, laptop, or tablet with you on the road (as well as some gear suggestions).  

Everyone travels with a smartphone these days. They’re our camera, our map, our translator, and our way to stay connected with friends and family back home. They’re light, small, and perfect for minimalist travelers who want to keep things simple.

Unless you’re intentionally trying to travel unassisted by technology, you’ll probably have a phone with you.

Not sure if you want to travel with only a phone? Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons:

  • They replace multiple devices. There’s no longer a need to pack a separate flashlight, map, music player, or alarm clock.
  • It’s easy to get connected when you need to, even if you’re not using cellular data. Cafés, airports, and train stations usually have free Wi-Fi available.
  • There are hundreds of useful travel apps out there that work both online and offline. Currency converters, translation tools, navigation helpers, guide books, itinerary trackers, and more can help make your travels easier (not to mention Netflix and other entertainment apps).
  • The biggest con is battery life — it’s rare to find a smartphone that will last more than a day of normal use. Long flights, bus rides, and days of exploring often result in a dead phone before you get to your accommodation. With everyone else in your dorm room also wanting to charge their gadgets every night, even finding a power socket isn’t always easy (this means you’ll likely want to buy an external battery charger ).
  • Although phones are getting larger, a smartphone screen isn’t ideal for entertainment — books and movies aren’t so great on a small screen.
  • Websites without mobile-friendly versions get annoying very quickly.
  • Typing on phones is fine for updating your Facebook status or sending a quick message, but you’ll end up frustrated if you’re hoping to do much more.

Recommendations If you aren’t planning on using your device for work, don’t mind a small screen, and just need to use basic apps like maps and translation, a phone is your best choice. If you’re not picky, any basic smartphone will do. However, if you want something with an excellent camera, consider a Google Pixel 4 or an iPhone 11 (older Pixels will also suffice, as will any iPhone from the 8 and up).

If you’re on a budget, Huawei and Motorola both make affordable phones. The P Smart from Huawei and the Moto One Macro are both under $150 USD.  

Since the iPad came out a decade ago, tablets have exploded in popularity. They offer a larger screen than a smartphone and better battery life too. But they are more expensive and take up a lot more space as well.

Tablets are a great ‘middle of the road’ option for travelers who want a bigger screen (for movies or books) or need to do more computer-related tasks and want a larger keyboard — but who don’t want to lug around a laptop.

They’re also a great choice for anyone traveling with kids since you can fill them with fun apps, games, and offline TV shows.

  • While you might not have standard calling or texts, tools like WhatsApp and Skype can be good replacements if your Internet speed is fast enough. All of the apps work as well or better than on a phone, and the larger screen makes many tasks a little easier.
  • Battery life is usually longer than a smartphone, especially when in flight mode or just using Wi-Fi.
  • If your tablet does have a cellular data option, you’re in luck there, too — tablets usually have an unlocked SIM card slot. Pick up a local, data-only SIM and you’re good to go.
  • Size is an issue. Even the smaller 7-8″ versions won’t really fit in your pocket unless you’re wearing a large jacket. They’re also heavier than smartphones, especially if you have a full-size tablet.
  • Taking photos with tablets is a pain. The case gets in the way, the camera’s aren’t great, and they are just not convenient to haul everywhere.
  • While the screens are bigger, the apps and input are usually exactly the same as a smartphone. That means typing is still slower than using a proper keyboard, and software options for doing real work are limited. While you can use a Bluetooth keyboard to speed up your typing, that’s yet another piece of technology to buy, power, and carry around.

Recommendations For those looking to do more with their device, especially watch a lot of movies, a tablet is a lot easier on the eyes. When it comes to tablets, I recommend the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 and the iPad Air .

Personally, I think tablets work well in tandem with a smartphone. If you’re a carry-on only traveler, you can easily pack both (and their cables and chargers) without getting too weighed down.  

It wasn’t so long ago that if you wanted to get online when you traveled, your only choice was to carry a laptop or find a dusty Internet café. Those days are long gone now, of course — so are there still reasons to pack a laptop at all?

  • The biggest advantage of a laptop is versatility. There’s software to do pretty much anything a traveler could need, and websites always work best on a computer. Storage space is rarely an issue, and it’s easy to backup photos from a separate camera/phone.
  • Laptops are much more powerful than any tablet or phone and combined with the larger screen and proper keyboard, getting things done will be faster and easier. That’s more time enjoying happy hour, less time in front of a screen.
  • Hybrid tablet/laptops are becoming more common, which, if you buy a good one, provides the best of both worlds without carrying separate devices.
  • If you work from the road, a laptop is necessary. Anything else will end up costing you far more in time and frustration than you ever save in weight and cost.
  • Weight. While laptops are getting lighter all the time, you’re still not going to be slipping it in your pocket as you head out the door. Add in the weight of the charger, and you’ll definitely be looking for excuses to leave it in your dorm or hotel room when you can.
  • Price. The price tag can be substantial — depending on what you need, expect to pay anything from $500-$2,000 USD — or more. Carrying a gadget that valuable guarantees extra worry about theft or damage, and travel insurance typically either won’t cover the full cost or will require an extra premium to do so.
  • They’re fragile and hard to replace overseas.
  • They have a lot of power — power you won’t use. Laptops are great for travelers running an online business, but your everyday traveler rarely needs all the hard drive space, computing power, and apps.

Recommendations If you’re running an online business, a laptop is a must. However, if you’re just a regular traveler and you have a decent smartphone or tablet, you likely don’t also need to bring a laptop.

If you’re a long-term traveler who’s going to be on the road for +6 months, a laptop might be worth bringing since you will have lots of time to use it. However, if you’re just traveling for a few weeks or a couple of months, you can likely get by with just a phone or tablet.

If you do want to bring a laptop, the Dell XPS 13 or Macbook Air are my suggestions. They’re light and can do pretty much everything you’ll need!

If you do bring a laptop, make sure that you also invest in a durable case for it. Chances it’s going to get beat up sitting in your bag for weeks and months at a time. Spend the extra money to keep it safe.  

What Should You Use?

A traveler taking a photo with a smartphone at sunset

If you prefer a tablet, by all means, take one with you instead — or in tandem with a smartphone. For the vast majority of people, a phone/tablet combination will cover everything you need and then some. The improved battery life and larger screen of a tablet make up for its disadvantages. You’ll be looking at $250-$600+ USD, depending on the tablet model/brand.

Unless you work online, there’s little need for a laptop on your next trip. While they provide ultimate power and flexibility, the size, weight, and cost of most laptops mean they aren’t worth the trade-off.

Another thing to remember is that travel insurance only offers limited coverage for electronics (unless you upgrade your plan). Make sure that, no matter what technology you bring, you save the receipts for it in case you need to make a claim.

In the end, we are all going to have our own needs and preferences (as well as our own budget). But as long as the technology you bring works for you and isn’t slowing you down or limiting your enjoyment, then that’s all that matters.

Just make sure you set your devices down from time to time to experience the world with your own two eyes .

Dave runs  Too Many Adapters , a site devoted to technology for travelers. A geek as long as he can remember, he worked in IT for 15 years. Now based out of a backpack long term, Dave writes about travel and tech from anywhere with half-decent Internet and a great view. You can also find him talking about the life of a long-term traveller at What’s Dave Doing?  

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

  • SafetyWing (best for everyone)
  • Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
  • Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Article updated on March 5, 2024 at 9:00 AM PST

Best Tablet 2024: Top Tablets From Apple, Samsung, Amazon and More

We've tested tablets across several operating systems, including iPadOS, Windows, ChromeOS and Android and these are our top picks.

Our Experts

best travel tablet

  • More than two decades experience writing about PCs and accessories, and 15 years writing about cameras of all kinds.

best travel tablet

  • Nearly 20 years writing about tech, and over a decade reviewing wearable tech, VR, and AR products and apps

CNET’s expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise.

9th Gen iPad with accessories sits on gray surface with green background.

Tablets are portable computers that have great usability while being less complicated than a traditional computer. The best tablet is the one that's versatile enough for all kinds of use cases from home, school or work. While finding the best tablet for you isn't hard, knowing where to start can be overwhelming, and that's where CNET's testing and reviews can help. We've picked out the best of the best, and these tablets can do it all, including checking email, managing finances, testing your art skills or casually browsing YouTube and watching videos.

You cannot discuss tablets without talking about Apple. It updated its entire iPad lineup in 2022, with faster processors across all of the latest models. Apple introduced the 10th-gen iPad with an entirely new design . While this updated version gets a bunch of features, it also comes at a higher price. So Apple is still selling the ninth-gen iPad as its least expensive option. 

While the iPad is the king of the segment, Android tablets have made a comeback. The Google Pixel Tablet and OnePlus Pad are excellent and affordable options that are good for family or home use (Pixel Tablet) or as a personal mini laptop (OnePlus Pad), and the slates in Samsung's newest Galaxy Tab S9 series, while expensive, all have excellent AMOLED displays. 

In the value segment, Amazon's Fire tablets are still the best tablet option for cheap and kid-friendly models. If you're looking for something good for productivity and entertainment, an affordable Chromebook blurs the line between a laptop and a tablet. 

What's the best tablet?

The ninth-gen iPad from 2021 is the best tablet that we continue to recommend, despite the availability of newer iPad models. That's mainly for its position as the lowest-price iPad, which at around $300 offers excellent value. There are definite advantages to spending up for newer models, though (multitasking with the M1 processor on the iPad Air, a better front camera on the 10th-gen model iPad, and second-gen Pencil support on iPad Pros and Airs). If you're going with an iPad, we strongly recommend you check out the entire iPad lineup because there might be a better option for your needs. Keep in mind, that new iPads are expected this fall, so you might be better off waiting right now if you can.

Not interested in an iPad? Our other top picks for the best tablets 2024 has to offer right now are below. All offer ways to get popular apps, but you'll want to check that your must-have apps are available on the device before buying (don't look for  Fortnite on the iPad  through the App Store, for instance). We included budget tablet and premium tablet options, as well as laptop-replacement devices at prices in between, including Android tablet and Apple iPad options. We even threw in tablet PC and Chromebook options. All of these products (or previous versions thereof) have been fully reviewed or anecdotally tested by CNET editors. 

Read more: How We Test CNET Products and Services

Best tablets of 2024

The most affordable ipad, apple ipad (10.2-inch, 9th generation, 2021).

We've always appreciated the entry-level 9th-gen iPad for its affordable price. Although this mode's getting a bit old now, it's still very functional: Its older A13 chip and Lightning-charger-equipped, Touch ID home button design all feel somewhat out of date but work fine. This iPad's screen size is perfect for everyday work and fun, there's an auto-zooming front-facing Center Stage camera, and unlike the 10th-gen iPad, the first-gen Apple Pencil doesn't need a dongle to work. This one also has a headphone jack, and It's still compatible with a range of keyboard cases, too.

Apple iPad (9th Gen, 2021) review

9th Gen iPad with accessories sits on gray surface with green background.

Best for creatives

Ipad pro 2022.

Apple's 2022 iPad Pro refresh added a more powerful M2 chip, faster Wi-Fi 6E and optional 5G connectivity, and a new Pencil 2 "hover" feature that activates the display when the stylus is in close range. Not many apps take advantage of hover, and the rest of this iPad design is the same as the previous model. The iPad Pro lineup is still the only model with faster 120Hz variable refresh rate displays, a step-up Mini LED HDR display on the 12.9-inch model, Face ID and depth-sensing lidar cameras and a faster Thunderbolt 4 port. If you don't mind that the front-facing camera isn't landscape-oriented yet like the 10th-gen iPad -- and you have the money to burn -- this is the most advanced model, but it doesn't get you any closer to being a Mac. Keep in mind, that Apple is expected to maybe have a newer OLED iPad Pro in the works for next year.

Apple iPad Pro 2022 review

iPad Pro and Pencil 2 on a table

Best full Android tablet for families

Google pixel tablet.

Google's versatile, dockable Pixel Tablet doubles as a home hub and a speaker dock-enabled assistant, and its multitasking features work great. You'll have to find your own stylus and keyboard options, but Google has otherwise served up a pretty great family iPad alternative for anyone in the Android ecosystem. A fast Google Tensor G2 processor, a good front camera for video chats and a crisp display, plus a clean Google Android software experience, make this one of our favorite new tablets this year. 

Read our Google Pixel Tablet review  

google-pixel-7-tablet

Best midrange budget Android tablet

Oneplus pad.

The OnePlus Pad boasts a great display, an excellent optional keyboard case, and most of the performance and features you'd expect from a premium Android tablet but at a sub-$500 price. The OnePlus Pad vs. Google Pixel Tablet decision is a tough one (we prefer the Pixel Tablet overall), but the OnePlus Pad feels like a sleeker personal mini-laptop with its keyboard case and stylus, which we loved. 

Read our OnePlus Pad review

OnePlus Pad tablet on a marble-patterned background.

Already looking promising

Samsung galaxy tab s9 plus.

The Galaxy Tab S8 Plus was our favorite pick last year, but the newer S9 series arriving in August adds IP68 water and dust resistance and a newer Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor. This is essentially the Android equivalent to Apple's iPad Pro, available in three different sizes and prices and all featuring AMOLED displays. Our favorite is probably this Plus model, which has a big screen that's not too massive. Samsung's DeX interface gives it an edge for productivity if you're looking for a more laptop-like feel from the tablet. It's built around a beautiful 12.4-inch, 2,800x1,752-pixel Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother-looking visuals. Samsung also includes one of its great S Pens, so you're ready to start sketching and taking notes right out of the box. The tablet can also double as a wireless display, so you can extend your Windows laptop's screen space on the go. While you can also hunt around for a Tab S8 model on sale, Samsung's already offering up some discounts on the new tablets, too. We'll loop back when we've finally finished reviewing the S9 Plus.

First impressions of the Galaxy Tab S9 Plus Galaxy Tab S8 Plus review

Two Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 tablets side by side on a table, two different sizes

Expensive, but the best smaller tablet

Apple ipad mini (2021).

The iPad Mini got a big redesign a couple of years ago, and it's still a great pick for anyone who wants a small tablet. Its A15 processor is still capable, and this model supports Pencil 2 and a more bezel-free display, but it's tough to swallow the fact that this smaller 8.3-inch model has a relatively high price for its size. Some folks love this model as a smaller, lighter mobile device option that's well-sized as an upscale ebook reader.

Apple iPad Mini (2021) review

iPad Mini and 9th Gen iPad

  • Faster processor
  • Wireless charging
  • Fast USB-C charging
  • Better front camera placement
  • 3GB of RAM (up from 1.5 GB)
  • Optional wireless charging dock turns the HD 8 Plus into an Echo Show
  • Hands-free Alexa voice-assistant
  • Improved battery life
  • Display is HD but not 1080p (could be sharper)
  • Amazon app store is limited compared to Google Play and Apple app store
  • Amazon Prime membership is a must

Best tablet value

Amazon fire hd 8 plus (2022).

Amazon continues to make the best inexpensive tablets for media consumption. The Fire HD 8 is the middle of the lineup, hitting a sweet spot for price and performance. The 2022 model sports a thinner, lighter design, a faster processor and an hour more battery life (13 hours vs. 12) than its predecessor. It's a good low-cost option for streaming video, reading ebooks and web browsing, but we still recommend waiting to pick it up when it's discounted, which Amazon regularly does. We also recommend spending an additional $20 for the Plus version, which adds 1GB of RAM, wireless charging and a 9-watt power adapter.

Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus (2022) review

The Fire HD 8 Plus 2022 has 3GB of RAM and wireless charging

A better but still low-cost Amazon tablet

Amazon fire hd 10 (2021).

The 10-inch Amazon Fire HD tablet is faster and better than the 7- or 8-inch Fire tablet, and it's still a pretty low $150 (or less). For the Amazon Fire HD 10, there are two storage options, 32 and 64GB. The Amazon Fire HD tablet also charges its battery via USB-C now. A adds wireless charging, 4GB of RAM and a soft-touch finish. 

Amazon Fire HD 10 (2021) review

fire-hd-10-lifestyle-1

Best for productivity

Microsoft surface pro 9.

While there are several imitators, the Surface Pro continues to offer the best detachable two-in-one PC experience. The 2022 version jumps from an 11th-gen Intel CPU to a newer 12th-gen one and moves to a slightly faster type of RAM. There's also a 5G version that switches from Intel to a Microsoft/Qualcomm ARM-based chip for faster mobile wireless with long battery life. Unfortunately, unless you get a bundle, the keyboard and active pen are still separate purchases. Also, the Surface Pro 8 is still around and worth considering, especially because it's at a better price.

Microsoft Surface Pro 9 review

surface-pro-9-1

Affordable Chromebook tablet

Lenovo chromebook duet 3.

The Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 is an awesome little 11-inch ChromeOS tablet with a detachable keyboard and touchpad. It's a good pick if you're looking for an affordable ultraportable device to get some work done on the go, sketch or jot down notes in class, or do simple stuff like email, web browsing, gaming, reading and streaming video.

Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 review

Lenovo Duet with a colorful splash image onscreen

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best travel tablet

May 16, 2023

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Best lightweight Surface for traveling

Whether you need to keep your kids entertained on your next road trip or frequently use airplane Wi-Fi to send important emails in the air, a lightweight device makes traveling headache-free and productive. Surface laptops, from traditional laptops to 2-in-1s , have the versatility and portability to power your digital life on and off the road.

What to look for in a lightweight travel tablet or laptop

Before you purchase your next essential traveling companion, keep these features in mind:

Versatility

Sleek tablets are the obvious choice for traveling, but you don’t have to forgo the best features of a laptop. A 2-in-1 laptop easily switches into a lightweight tablet with a touchscreen for on-the-go use, while giving you the versatility to use it as a laptop at any time. Get the high-power performance and detachable keyboard of a Surface 2-in-1 without sacrificing touchscreen capabilities. Prop up your Surface and adjust the angle with the built-in Kickstand, and add Surface Pro Signature Keyboard or Surface Type Cover for instant laptop productivity.​

Battery life

You won’t always have access to an outlet while traveling, which makes battery life one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a lightweight tablet or laptop. When fully charged, you’ll want at least eight hours of battery life to seamlessly take you from your home to your destination and everywhere in between. For up to 18 hours of battery life in a device weighing in at just 2.8 lbs., try Surface Laptop 5 13.5” , the traditional laptop that will keep you powered up across the miles. *

The best tablets for travel pack powerful performance into an ultra-portable device. Today’s tablets combine all the features you’d look for in a laptop into a slim, easy-to-carry form. Choose a tablet that weighs no more than 2 lbs. for maximum portability, such as the Surface Go 3 , which comes in at just 1.2 pounds.

Whether you’re looking for a lightweight tablet for dedicated travel use or want a flexible device that can do it all, you’ll need to find a balance between the features you want and the price you can afford. Luckily, today’s state-of-the-art devices come packed with features at an economical price. The Surface Go 3 2-in-1 laptop is perfect for your everyday tasks, homework, and play, all at a convenient price. If you prefer a traditional, clamshell-style laptop, Surface Laptop Go 3  could be just the budget-friendly option you need.

Best overall tablet functionality for travel

The best tablet for travel combines lightweight flexibility with all the powerful capabilities you need in a device. Surface Pro 9 stands up to the challenge: as one of the most powerful portable devices on the market, the specs of this 2-in-1 rival traditional laptops.

Weighing in at 1.94 lbs., it’s lightweight enough that you won’t notice it stowed in your carry-on. Choose Surface Pro 9 with 5G to enjoy up to 19 hours of battery life, so you won’t have to stress about recharging during your travel time. * If you’re looking for a device you’ll want to use outside of travel, too, you can’t go wrong with Surface Pro 9.

Best tablet functionality for working remotely

Whether you’re a digital nomad or a frequent business flyer, the best travel tablet for remote work combines super-fast processing speeds with necessary keyboard functionality. The Surface Laptop Studio 2  pushes the boundaries of what a tablet looks like—with powerhouse performance and a built-in keyboard, it functions similarly to a traditional laptop. And yet its lightweight, flexible design lets you pivot to a touchscreen tablet in seconds. Pair it with the Surface Slim Pen 2 to maximize your creativity while working on the go.

Best tablet for traveling with kids

If you’re traveling with kids or teens, opt for a device that’s equal parts affordable and durable. As the smallest and most economical option, the Surface Go 3 saves you money without skimping on functionality. Weighing only 1.2 lbs. and featuring a 10.5” touchscreen, this ultra-lightweight tablet is perfect for streaming movies, playing online games, and browsing online. Don’t discount the Go 3 for adults, either—this cost-effective tablet makes a great choice for anyone looking to travel light.

Lightweight and flexible Surface devices allow you to focus on remembering to pack your socks and make your connecting flight on time without lugging a heavy computer alongside. If you’re still not sure what Surface device fits your travel needs, take our quiz to find the perfect model.

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Home » Gear » best travel laptop

10 BEST Travel Laptops (MUST READ! • 2024)

From the sleek and mighty powerhouses to the budget-friendly gems, our list is tailored for diverse itineraries and preferences. Imagine unwinding in a quaint café with a laptop that boasts a battery life longer than your layover, or editing your travel vlog on a device that handles heavy graphics like a breeze.

I put this guide together with one goal in mind – to help you find the best travel laptop for YOUR travel style. With the help of this epic guide, you’ll easily to be able to know which laptop is best for your needs, style, and budget.

Alllrighty then, do you wanna find out what the best computer for travel is? Well, let’s get to it!

danielle remote working from the jungle in thailand

Quick answer: The Best Portable Travel Laptops

What type of traveller are you, best overall laptop for travel – macbook air, best laptop for professionals – macbook pro, best midrange travel laptop – dell xps 13″, best value for money laptop – microsoft surface book, best budget travel laptop – lenovo ideapad, best budget 2-1 laptop – microsoft surface pro 7, other great budget laptops for travel, the best overall travel laptop, what specs to consider before buying the best travel laptop, choosing the best travel laptop faqs, how we tested the best travel laptop, faq about the best travel laptop, final thoughts on the best laptops for travel.

  • Macbook Air – Best Lightweight Laptop
  • 16.2 Inch MacBook Pro – Best Laptop for Professionals
  • Dell XPS 13″ – Best Midrange Laptop
  • Microsoft Surface Book – Best Value Laptop
  • Lenovo Idea Pad – Best Budget Laptop
  • Microsoft Surface Pro 7 – Best Travel Tablet
  • Jump to –> Travel Laptop Reviews

best travel tablet

Macbook Air

  • Portability > 2.5 lbs
  • Battery Life > 18 hour battery
  • Storage Space > 256 – 512GB SSD
  • Processing Power > M2 chip
  • Operating System > Mac OS Ventura

macbook pro best laptops for professionals

16.2 Inch Macbook Pro

  • Portability > 6.4 lbs
  • Battery Life > 22 hour battery
  • Storage Space > 512 GB – 1 TB SSD

Dell Xps Laptop for Digital Nomads and Travellers

Dell XPS 13

  • Portability > 2.7 lbs
  • Battery Life > 7 hour battery
  • Storage Space > 128 GB SSD
  • Processing Power > Intel Core i5-7200U 3MB cache, up to 3.10 GHz 8G memory 128G SSD
  • Operating System > Windows 10

best travel tablet

Microsoft Surface Book

  • Portability > 3.34 lbs
  • Battery Life > 10.5 hour battery
  • Processing Power > 2.4 GHz Intel Core i5
  • Operating System > Windows 10 Pro

best travel tablet

Lenovo Ideapad

  • Portability > 5 lbs
  • Storage Space > 500 GB Hard Drive
  • Processing Power > Intel Pentium 4405U (2M Cache, 2.10 GHz), 2 cores, 4 threads

best travel tablet

Microsoft Surface Pro 7

  • Portability > 1.7 lbs
  • Processing Power > 3 GHz Intel Core i5
  • Operating System > Windows 10 Home

My laptop has literally changed my life – not only can I earn money online but I can also stream Game of Thrones wherever I go… and I think we can all agree that that’s pretty damn important.

But what about your needs?

You see, “the best travel laptop” is a pretty broad statement since there are many different types of travelers. The question is – which kind of traveler are YOU?

Here are some extremely important things to consider…

1. Do you need to get work done on your laptop?

If you aren’t planning on using your travel laptop for online work, you don’t necessarily need to splash out on a top of the range laptop.

While it might be tempting to spend $2,000 on the new best laptop, the truth is that only digital nomads and other professionals really need that sort of tech. If you don’t have any work deadlines to meet, it might be better to keep it simple.

2. What will you use your laptop for?

Will you be working on the road (writing, editing, etc.), or mainly surfing the web? Do you need the processing power to run multiple editing programs, or is your prime concern staying connected to social media?

Identifying exactly what you need a laptop for will help you decide on which one is best for your travels.

3. Do you have any size requirements?

Are you traveling with minimal room in your backpack? Are you bringing a bag with certain size requirements?

For instance, some expensive daypacks can’t fit 15-inch laptops, or some laptop sleeves can’t fit larger than a 13 inch. If you buy a special backpack for your laptop , then most of your needs should be met. Either way, make sure to keep these in mind.

4. Are you traveling heavy or light?

The more powerful the laptop, the more it weighs. The difference between a 1.5 lb tablet and a 7 lb professional laptop is HUGE.

Remember that a light traveler is a happy traveler, so if you don’t need a heavier laptop, there’s no reason to cause extra strain on your body.

There are different specs you need to considers when choosing the best laptop for you…

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best travel tablet

Tribal Hostel Bali is finally open – this custom-designed co-working hostel is an absolute game-changer for digital nomads, wandering entrepreneurs and excitable backpackers alike… 

A unique coworking and co-living hostel for those that want to travel the world while working from their laptops. Make use of the massive open-air coworking spaces and sip on delicious coffee.

Need more work inspiration? Staying at a digital nomad-friendly hostel is a really smart way to get more done whilst still enjoying the social life of travelling… Mingle, share ideas, brainstorm, make connections and find your tribe at Tribal Bali!

macbook air the best laptop for travel

Two quick things….

  • If you are a digital nomad, working professional, or aspiring to work online. Do not pick this travel laptop.
  • If you hate Macs or iOS. Do not pick this computer.

Everyone else. This is the best travel laptop. 

If you’re an Apple user, this is Apple’s best Mac laptop for the money and this was the first laptop I took traveling which was adequate for working online. The pros (as with any MacBook) are its integration with apple products, ease-of-use, trackpad and keyboard, design, and reliable performance. It’s also the lightest laptop for travel, so that’s a major win.

I’ve used MacBooks for 7 years now (my first one from 2010 is still alive and kicking!), and I’ve never needed repairs (except to replace an old battery). I can’t say the same for any of the PCs I’ve owned, which is why I think Macs are the best user-friendly laptops if you don’t have a computer background.

If you want a MacBook for browsing, streaming, social, and office, the MacBook Air is fast enough, especially with 2024’s updated processor speed and default memory. But if you want a Retina resolution screen, “Kaby Lake” processors, and more power for editing programs, you’ll have to fork out the money for a MacBook Pro instead.

I recommend you go for as much storage as you can afford if you plan on storing music, images or video because you can’t add storage to Apple computers after purchase. If your laptop is used for browsing and light document work (Excel, Word, etc.) the 256GB SSD should be fine.

  • Fast and durable!
  • Lightweight (super important)
  • Can handle your internet needs and then some
  • Not as powerful as other options
  • Not good for working professionals

Is the MacBook Air for you?

If you are looking for a light laptop that can handle all of your basic internet needs and then a little bit more – the MacBook Air is my highest recommendation. It’s light and sleek design makes it ideal for travelers, and it comes at a reasonable price.

macbook pro best laptops for professionals

If you are interested in making money online, you need to invest in a great laptop. The MacBook Pro is my highest recommendation. Its starting price plus lack of ports can be a deal breaker for many, but I still think it is the most versatile, user-friendly laptop out there and mine has allowed me to start and run several businesses from all over the world. I love my MacBook Pro and investing in it was the smartest move I made.

Whether you are freelancing, doing graphic design, blogging or editing photo or video – if you are a traveling professional, it’s hard to beat the MacBook Pro. If you’re in the market for the best lightweight laptop that still has a ton of storage space, the 16.2-inch MacBook is the best choice for you. Weighing less than a 2 kg, this is the best lightweight laptop for travel. Overall, the MacBook Pro is one of the fastest computers on the market. It’s the best traveling laptop for digital nomads, but you have to pay for it.

This is a great choice for bloggers, freelance photographers , etc too. It outperforms the other laptops on this list, but if you’re not set on the Mac OS system, the Dell XPS and Microsoft Surface Book have competing specs for a much more affordable cost.

  • Powerful – can handle anything
  • Great battery life
  • Great for Digital Nomads or professionals
  • Unnecessary for normal web users

Is the MacBook Pro for you?

If you can afford a notebook above $1800, or have to bite the bullet because of work, these laptops are going to be fantastic options because they have powerful processors, larger storage space, and better quality build.

High-end laptops are the best laptops for travelling photographers, videographers, laptop bloggers, etc., but not necessary for the average traveller.

best travel tablet

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Dell Xps Laptop for Digital Nomads and Travellers

The Dell XPS is best mid-range laptop for travel because of its superb battery life, 7th-generation Core performance and excellent Wi-Fi range. I love that it has more ports than on competing laptops, as well as an SD port. It also has a touch-screen higher-resolution option (for a bit more weight and quite a bit more money).

As for its design, the Dell XPS has a comfortable soft-touch, carbon-fibre deck, infinity display, and rose-colour option. Often the trade off for a thin, best ultralight laptop is shorter battery life and too few ports. The XPS 13, however, gives you nearly 14 hours of battery power, and all the connection options you need while also remaining pretty light and compact for travel.

If you are a PC user, the Dell XPS 13″ is the best travel computer within the $1000 range. Though if you want more memory than 256MB, or an i7 processor, you will have to pay more money. This is a high quality laptop at a great price…

  • Incredible value
  • Powerful – good for those who  work and travel
  • Great alternative if you don’t like Apple products
  • Pricey for a PC
  • Touch screen option is very expensive

Is the Dell XPS right for you?

For under $1000, you should be able to find a high quality travel laptop for many of the specs that matter most to the average traveler: weight, portability, and reliability. If you are willing to spend a couple hundred more, I would recommend picking up the Dell…

best travel tablet

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microsoft surface book

This is definitely one of the best-value laptops/tablets for travel! You essentially get the portability and ease of use of a tablet with a detachable keyboard. The Microsoft Surface book is lightweight and portable, but you can still run programs like Lightroom and upload your travel photos and videos. The Stylus Pen is a truly innovative and amazing addition as well.

While this isn’t the cheapest laptop in this guide, the Microsoft Surface book is definitely one of the best value laptops on the markets since you are getting a great tablet and computer all-in-one. When it comes to weight, size, features, battery, I think this is the best travel laptop for your money but if you are going pro and embracing the digital nomad lifestyle, I would recommend getting a Macbook instead.

The Microsoft Surface book is a great laptop for photographers and allows you to run Lightroom, Adobe Premier, and other intensive programs.This is the best Windows 10 option for creatives and travellers needing versatility, speed, and power. While technically a powerful laptop, this is also one of the best tablets for travel. It has a battery on the detachable screen and actual computer. When both are charged you can get up to 12 hours battery life.

The 6th generation processor is not as speedy as the 7th generation in the MacBook Pro, but it’s a bit more affordable. The Surface Book also has a leg up on graphics performance in comparison to the MacBook Pro.

  • Great value
  • Laptop AND a tablet
  • Overall pick for best value
  • Not powerful enough for professionals/Digital Nomads
  • Not as durable

Is the Surface right for you?

People who need discrete graphics, want a powerful computer that is also a 2-1, and Microsoft program integration will find this laptop to be one of the best options out there.

To take full advantage of the separate graphics chip and power, you have to invest more than the starting price and pay for an upgrade, but it’s totally worth it.

lenovo thinkpad best laptop for travellers

The Lenovo is one of the best ultra-lightweight laptops in the budget price range. This Windows OS laptop has 9 hours of battery life, a nice design, and is one of the cheapest light laptops for travel. The performance is good enough for web surfing, editing documents, and viewing movies. The keyboard and touchpad’s quality, however, is less than subpar.

Overall, this is a cheap laptop and a solid choice for the minimal traveller, who wants to stream online and run basic programs. This is definitely not adequate for anybody who needs to work online and certainly the Lenovo cannot handle Lightroom or other photo editing programs.

The team felt this was a great option for those with pretty basic needs looking for something lightweight, affordable and that performs well enough given the tasks expected of it. For those working mostly on word processors and looking to store their travel photos, this is a great option. The standard edition comes with a massive hard drive too making it great for storing and doing some basic processing to travel photos on the road.

  • Good for basic surfing and Netflix-ing
  • Not durable

Is the Lenovo right for you?

If you are trying to get any work done or be productive, the Lenovo is NOT for you. This is a budget computer that can handle some basic browsing and streaming for the few years it lasts. If that is what you need it for, then this is one of the best budget options!

microsoft surface pro 4

This is one of the top travel laptops out there because of its versatility and price range compared to the competition. However, the biggest drawback is that the Surface Pro Keyboard  must be bought separately (and costs an extra $120)! The Surface Pro can easily function as an ebook reader, travelling tablet, sketchpad, and video player all-in-one, making it the best tablet for travel, hands down. Plus, I can say from experience that it has awesome resolution and a sharp screen, making it great for watching movies on a plane/bus/train.

Its most stand out features are its touch screen and surface pen stylus. The pen has been tested by comic artists and graphic designers for its accuracy and real-feel! (The pen even learns your handwriting!)

The device doesn’t have as much storage space or processing power as its sister product, the Surface Book, so an external drive is crucial! Though you can upgrade to 256MB or 512MB, it will make the surface pro significantly more expensive.

  • Best tablet for travel
  • Super light
  • Spectacular resolution
  • Lacks power/storage
  • Not ideal to get serious work done

Is the Surface Pro 7 for you?

The Surface Pro 7 is the best tablet for travel, and with the keyboard one of the most versatile laptops on the market and is definitely worth considering.

What are 2-1 Laptops?  They are travel tablets that can be converted into full laptops. Unlike conventional tablets, they’re made to be used offline and can run computer programs. Moreover, unlike with normal tablets, 2-1 laptops allow you to upload data (music, videos, photos, documents).

Just keep in mind, 2-1 laptops rarely have enough storage space for a lot of videos and photos. A 2-1 tablet/laptop isn’t the best laptop for GoPro users or videographers either since they cannot run intensive video editing programs without sacrificing performance and speed.

Samsung Chromebook 3

1. Samsung Chromebook

The Samsung Chromebook Plus offers a decent design, long battery life, touchscreen, and a hybrid hinge that turns it into a tablet, and is the lightest Chromebook on this list.

Unlike other ChromeBooks, this one is using the sister system, that allows you to download Android apps and use them offline, making it a great Chromebook for travel.

As an alternative to expensive and heavy Macbooks, the team felt the Samsung Chromebook Plus was a really viable option for those not wanting to travel with that kind of laptop but wanting similar performance levels.

Acer Chromebook for Digital Nomads and Travellers

2. Acer Chromebook

The Acer Chromebook is one of the better budget lightweight laptops on the market. The laptop has ultra portability, a comfortably sized keyboard, and a touchscreen. The downside is it does feel very “cheap” with a plastic like frame. At 1.1 Kg and 11.6 inches, this is one of the best budget laptops for surfing the internet, and a great option if you’re looking for a small, portable laptop to stream movies on or run other basic tasks with.

Note:  I have listed the starting price for the storage space available. Often you can add more storage space for a higher price.

lenovo yoga 2-1 traveler computer

3. Lenovo Yoga 910

An alternative to the Surface Pro and another one of the best tablets for traveling is another hybrid with cool features like a fingerprint sensor. At 1.4kg (3.09lbs), the Yoga 910 is a heavier than most 2-1s, but also has more storage space to start, an all-metal finish, the latest Kaby Lake processors (i7), and 14in HD display.

It’s reasonably well-priced for a hybrid of this quality, but there is a cheaper, more basic version called the Lenovo Yoga 710 if you’re trying to save some cash. The 910, however, is the best no-compromise option for work and pleasure making it one of the best laptops for travel and digital nomad life.

Tie Between MacBook Pro and Dell XPS 13 for the best travel laptop

Macbook Pro vs Dell XPS 13 comparison for the best travel laptops

MacBook Pro

MacBook Pro is the best laptop for travel for Mac users, who want the fastest, most reliable computer on the market. The MacBook Pro uses Kaby Lake processors (Intel’s seventh generation chips), has a sleek design, retina (2560 x 1600-pixel) display, touch ID, and the best rated audio sound.

The Dell XPS is the best Windows 10-based laptop. It comes with 13.3 HD display, nearly 14 hours of battery power, and all the connection options you while remaining plenty light and compact for travel. This is a great choice if you want to save a bit of cash and avoid Macs…

best travel tablet

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Price is probably the most important factor when choosing the best laptop for traveling.

Unless you are working online, you really don’t need to spend $1000+ to get the best travel laptop. There are several cheap travel laptops and mid-range options that make great laptops for travel.

Remember that high-value items, such as a top of the range laptop, are often harder to claim for on insurance. There are some cheap lightweight laptop options on the market too and overall the price of laptops continues to come down… You get what you pay for though so if you need a laptop for work, I recommend not going for the cheapest laptop option.

2. Portability

Portability is especially essential for the on-the-go, minimal traveler, and an important factor to consider when choosing the best laptop for travel.

You want something lightweight so that your backpack doesn’t end up weighing too much (As we say in the hiking world, ounces add pounds and pounds add pain!). If you haven’t yet picked up a backpack for your trip, check out this post for plenty of backpack inspiration. 

Your laptop’s size is also important (usually correlating with weight) to easily pull your computer in/out of your bag at the TSA security line, etc. The smallest travel laptops and tablets have less storage space and processing power, but they are also cheap and highly portable. If you are going to be on the road a lot, I recommend trying to find a lightweight laptop.

If you have a smaller unit, you can also invest in a smaller laptop bag . So portability not only applies to the laptop itself, but what you’re going to use to carry it.

3. Battery Life

It’s always nice to have a reliable battery life, especially if you are taking your laptop up into the mountains. The best laptops on the market have at least 8 hours of battery life, and some can last for an entire day. If you are spending a lot of time off the grid and still need access to your laptop then consider picking up a portable battery capable of charging a laptop.

Quick travel tip: make sure your wi-fi and blue tooth are turned off (when you’re not using them) to save battery!

4. Storage Space

Most of the top travel laptops (with ample battery life and affordability) lack a large amount of storage space, and if you’re going to store a lot of photos and videos from your travels, it’s important to have ample hard drive space!

I’ve found it’s well worth investing in a cloud drive and/or an external hard drive, especially since photos and videos take up a lot of room. This way you don’t have to sacrifice laptop portability for storage space on the actual laptop.

My first backpacking laptop, a MacBook Air, didn’t have too much storage space so I kept a lot of my photos and videos on Dropbox and stored my movies on a nearly bulletproof portable hard drive .

Typical external drives with 1 terabyte cost around $80 USD, and cloud storage (through Google, Dropbox Microsoft, etc.) average around $10 a month. It’s also important to back up your files in case your travel laptop gets stolen (like my friend Ana’s did in Costa Rica)!

5. Processing Power

If you are running editing programs and high-resolution videos, you should also prioritize the processing power.

The CPU is like the “brain” of your computer. At the moment, Intel Core i7 is the highest performer, but also the most expensive. Intel Core i5 should work for most of the best travel computers, and anything older is fine if you’re just surfing the web.

A separate graphics chip allows gamers, 3D designers, and high-res video editors to run their programs without taking up a ton of RAM and slowing the overall performance of the computer.

An integrated graphics chips (one that shares system memory) is just fine if you don’t have these needs.

If you want a separate graphics chip, keep in mind Apple only puts separate graphics chips in their MacBook Pro 15in computers. The 15 inch MacBooks are more expensive, and in my opinion, anything over 13 inches is too large to be considered one of the best laptops to travel with.

6. Do you prefer Mac, Windows, or Chrome OS?

Most laptops run one of these three operating systems: Windows, Chrome OS, or Mac OS X (for MacBooks only).

Windows notebooks offer the largest range of options for the best travel laptop. The newest window computers offer cool features like touch screens, 2-1 convertible tablets, fingerprint readers, and dual graphics chips.

Mac’s newest operating system, MacOS Sierra, comes with all Apple computers. Once you get the hang of Apple’s programs and trackpad/keyboard short cuts, Mac is the best user-friendly laptop (in my opinion) for the average person who knows nothing about computer engineering or coding.

Macs are expensive, but also reliable, which is important when you are travelling around the world and don’t have time/money to take a computer in for repairs.

Chrome-OS is Google OS’ – simple and secure operating system, usually available on small portable laptops. The drawback? It’s mainly limited to surfing the web, checking email, and navigating social networks, not doing stuff offline. Still, ChromeBooks are the best cheap and light laptops for the minimal traveller.

Conclusion? Most travellers are going to need to prioritise versatility , weight , battery life , and price when picking the best travel laptop. Digital nomads and travellers working remotely are going to need powerful laptops for travel to handle multi-tasking and intensive programs.

Q. What is the best laptop for the money?

In my humble opinion, the best value laptop is definitely the Microsoft Surface Book  – from a specs / weight / price ratio, this laptop outperforms all the others.

Q. What is the best cheap laptop?

The Lenovo Idea Pad  is the best cheap laptop on the market at the moment. It is adequate for streaming movies and casual web browsing but that’s about it… Still, for less than $300, it’s a steal.

Q. What is the lightest travel laptop?

The MacBook Air  is the most compact, thinnest and lightest laptop for traveling on the market… If space and weight is your primary concern, this is the laptop to choose.

Q. What is the best laptop for blogging?

The Macbook Pro  is the best laptop for bloggers and photographers – it can handle whatever you throw at it and edit photos without any problems, even on very advanced, space hungry, software.

Q. What is the smallest travel laptop?

The Macbook Air  takes the gold again for the smallest laptop for traveling…

Q. What is the most durable laptop?

The Macbook Pro  is the toughest laptop in this list and if you put it in a case it can take some knocks… Still, be careful with it.

Q. Should I travel with a laptop or a tablet?

A 2-1 will give you a lot more versatility than just traveling with a laptop or a tablet. If you ARE a fan of tablets, I recommend that you consider getting a 2-1 laptop / tablet combo rather than just a tablet. The Microsoft Surface 7 Pro  is definitely the best 2-1 laptop / tablet on the market.

There is no perfect or exact science when it comes to testing out what the best work travel laptop is. Having been digital nomads for a number of years, we think we’re in a decent position to give our 2 cents on the matter!

So when it came to assessing the best travel computers, we looked at a few different factors like specific performance for certain jobs and tasks, memory, storage, speed, weight and durability too. Of course, when it comes to the best laptop for travel and work, much of what is needed is individual depending on your needs. But we tried to cover most of the common uses as well as generalised purposes for travelling with a laptop.

Finally, we also take into account how an item is priced. Travel computers vary wildly in price and the most expensive isn’t always the best for your needs and your trip. However, we did scrutinise the more expensive laptops and gave the cheaper ones a bit more leeway.

Still have some questions about the best laptops for travel? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What is the overall best travel laptop?

The perfect all-rounder for digital nomads is the Macbook Air . It packs style, efficiency, plenty of battery life and storage space and a solid operating systen in one little rectangle. For even more storage space, we’d suggest upgrading to a Macbook Pro .

What is the most affordable travel laptop?

The Lenovo Ideapad is one of the best budget options for digital nomads. While the value might not be as high as a Macbook, you’ll definitely get some real bang for your buck.

Which is the lightest travel laptop?

The Macbook Air is one of the best lightweight travel laptops on the market, with only 2.5lbs!

Should I get an insurance for my laptop during my travels?

Hell yes! If you’re relying on your laptop, having your electronics insured is one of first steps to travelling without any worries.

best travel tablet

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There you have it!

Our epic reviews of the most versatile laptops, the most cost-efficient laptops, the best laptop for blogging and digital nomads and, of course, the best budget laptop on the market.

Overall, I don’t think you can go wrong with any of the listed choices. I personally tend to lean towards MacBooks because of their reliability and my own personal experiences.

However, some of the newest Microsoft, Lenovo, and Dell laptops have unique, useful features like touch screen, and 2-1 convertibility that give them a leg up as the best traveling laptops.

If you just want the best cheap travel laptop to surf the web and stream online, one of the budget laptops or Chromebooks would be perfect for you.

You will need to upgrade from the ChromeBooks and budget options to one of the travelling tablet 2-1’s or more expensive laptop options if you want to store data but you can get around this by buying a portable hard drive. Personally, I’m a big fan of Macbook Pros but what does the data say? When we compare all the factors, what is the best laptop for traveling?

Digital Nomad in Malta

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Ralph Cope

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The Best Tablets for Work and Play

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ipad mini with apple pencil

Best for Most People Apple iPad (2021, 9th Gen) Read more

ipad 10th generation blue front and back

A More Modern iPad Apple iPad (2022, 10th Gen) Read more

OnePlus Pad tablets with keyboards attached

Best Android Tablet OnePlus Pad Read more

2023 Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet

Best Tablet Under $200 Amazon Fire HD 10 (2023) Read more

The best tablet can be a portable TV screen around the house and a way to get some light work done away from your desk. They're not essential but are nice to have around. With a wealth of apps for drawing, painting, and making music, they’re also a great outlet for creative impulses.

The iPad’s ease of use and best-in-breed software make it the obvious choice for most people, but if you don’t want an iPad, other options exist. Android tablets are making a comeback recently as Google refocused its efforts on improving the tablet experience. Amazon’s Fire tablets are also an affordable way to watch movies and browse the web, as long as you don’t mind their limitations. There are even great E Ink slates for jotting down notes or sketching. These are our favorites of the many we have tested.

Be sure to check out our other buying guides , including the Best iPads , Best Digital Notebooks and Pens , Best Drawing Apps , Best iPad Accessories , and Best Amazon Fire Tablets .

Updated November 2023: We’ve added the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE series, ReMarkable 2, TCL NxtPaper 11, and Wacom One 13 Touch.

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Best for Most People

It's surprisingly hard to find another tablet that performs as smoothly as Apple's iPad. The ninth-generation model ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) uses the same A13 Bionic chip that powers the iPhone 11 , which outclasses similarly priced slates. Sure, it looks like an iPad from six years ago, with thick borders around the screen and a classic home button (with Touch ID), but maybe that's what you want. It's the only iPad with this design anymore, and the only one that comes with an audio jack.

The best addition to the 2021 model is the 12-megapixel selfie camera with support for Center Stage. The camera will ensure you're always visible in the frame, handy if you're cooking and FaceTiming with Mom. You also get Apple's class-leading ecosystem of tablet-optimized apps, which truly make this a slate capable of entertainment and work. The latter is especially true if you hook up Apple's Smart Keyboard (or a third-party alternative ). It supports the first-gen Apple Pencil too, but this is the only iPad with a larger air gap between the glass and screen. There's a discernible space between your fingertip and the actual pixels, which makes using the iPad for sketching a little less natural than its siblings.

A More Modern iPad

Apple finally introduced a nicer entry-level iPad in 2022. The 10th-gen iPad ( 7/10, WIRED Recommends ) mimics the rest of Apple's slates with a uniform, slim bezel around the slightly larger 10.9-inch LCD screen. There's also no home button—instead, the Touch ID fingerprint sensor is embedded into the power button at the top—and no headphone jack. It does have a USB-C port, which means you can use the same cable as your MacBook to recharge it. There's also 5G support on the cellular model. The 12-MP selfie camera now sits at the center when you hold the tablet horizontally—no need to awkwardly look to the side during video calls.

Unfortunately, the price has jumped up, which is why Apple continues to sell the 9th-gen model. There's also only first-gen Apple Pencil support , and the air gap between the screen and glass remains, so it's not the best iPad for sketching. It supports the Magic Keyboard Folio and the Smart Folio case , but we recommend you go with a third-party keyboard to save some cash.

Best Android Tablet

If you're eyeing a tablet that can replace your laptop every now and then—one that still works great as an entertainment slate, and is not an iPad—take a look at the OnePlus Pad ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ). It's the first-ever tablet from the phone maker and it runs Android 13 out of the box, so there are a lot of improvements in making the Android experience on a tablet really great. Multitasking is notably efficient here, aided by the company's accessories: a Magnetic Keyboard case and a stylus. It was the first time I felt comfortable working for long stretches of time on an Android tablet. (OnePlus occasionally has a sale bundle that includes the keyboard or stylus with your tablet purchase for free on its own storefront.)

The 11.61-inch LCD 144-Hz display is sharp, fluid, and colorful, the battery has excellent standby time and can get through close to a full workday, and performance is pretty smooth. It'll get three years of OS updates and four years of security updates. It's a shame there's no microSD slot, headphone jack, or biometric authentication.

Best Tablet Under $200

Amazon's Fire tablets aren't for everyone. They really push Amazon Prime services and apps, but they're great for leisurely tasks, like playing games and watching movies. There's no Google Play Store (though there's a workaround ), and not every Android app is readily available. Still, for $140, it's hard to beat the 2023 Fire HD 10, which is our favorite Fire Tablet . The update over the 2021 model is largely just a processor bump, making it slightly faster. It has enough power for most tasks, even some light work if you pair it with a Bluetooth keyboard (there's a keyboard bundle !). There's a USB-C port, so you can charge it with the same cable as your laptop or phone, and it has hands-free Alexa support, meaning it can double as an Echo Show .

Note that Amazon steeply discounts its Fire tablets on Prime Day , Black Friday, and for shopping holidays like back-to-school season, so try to avoid paying full price. That's why it might be worth looking at the Fire Max 11 , which is a faster, better quality tablet, but has far too high of an MSRP. When it dips to $150 or less, it's worth it.

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2022 Apple iPad Air devices

Best Upgrade

If you want to do some work on your tablet, get Apple's iPad Air ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends) . Thanks to the M1 processor, it's the most powerful tablet for the money. You can play demanding games, edit batches of RAW photos, render 3D designs, and so much more. Apple's recent strides in iPadOS make it easier to multitask than ever too. This slate delivers slim bezels around the 10.9-inch screen and USB-C for charging, and it supports the second-generation Apple Pencil ( Amazon ), which magnetically attaches to the top and recharges wirelessly. That also makes this one of the best tablets for sketching, as the laminated display offers a more natural drawing experience. There's no Face ID, but Touch ID is integrated into the power button.

★ The ultimate iPad: The 12.9-inch 2022 iPad Pro ( 7/10, WIRED Recommends ) is much more expensive at $1,049 , but it's more feature-rich. The large screen makes it even better for drawing. It has Mini-LED backlighting technology , which outputs a brighter display with better contrast, and improved performance with the M2 chip. You also get a 120-Hz screen refresh rate , two extra speakers, 5G, Face ID, and a lidar sensor, among other perks.

Google Pixel Tablet

Best Tablet and Smart Display Combo

Google's Pixel Tablet ( 7/10, WIRED Recommends ) is part tablet, part smart display. This 11-inch slate is like a big Pixel phone , with a sharp LCD screen, good speakers, and slick software. It's powerful too, thanks to the Tensor G2 software inside. However, it comes with a hub, so when you're done using it as a tablet, you can magnetically dock it to automatically start recharging. This hub doubles as a speaker, and since the Pixel Tablet is the first to support Chromecast, you can cast music or shows to it from your phone or laptop and get beefier sound out of the system. When you're not using it, you can have the display show a clock or friends and family from your Google Photos library like a digital picture frame .

The best part is multi-user support. The Pixel Tablet supports up to eight profiles, so every member of the family can switch to their own personalized profile, and it's securely locked via fingerprint. On another note, I highly recommend getting the official Pixel Tablet Case ($79) , as it adds a much-needed kickstand and it doesn't interrupt the hub attachment point. I also tested a Speck case that has a decent kickstand and is a little cheaper .

Image may contain Book Human Person Text and Sitting

Best Digital Notebook

I've been using the ReMarkable 2 for more than a year as a digital notebook, and it's hard to imagine life without it. Writing with the stylus feels closer to paper and pen than any other digital notebook I've tried (we've tested others here ). You can choose between the Marker and the Marker Plus. The latter has an eraser at the other end, but I don't think it's worth the higher cost. The company has done a (sorry not sorry for the pun!) remarkable job of keeping the software updated while adding more organizational features. You can add tags and make folders or notebooks, and the slate does a decent job of converting handwriting to text. You can send files to your email in a few different formats too. You don't need to subscribe to Connect ($3 per month) , but it gives you unlimited cloud storage and the ability to access and make notes on desktop and mobile.

What really upped the game with the ReMarkable 2 for me was the new Type Folio Keyboard Cover ($199) . This handy accessory magnetically sticks to the tablet and adds a tiny keyboard! It connects via pogo pins, so you never have to recharge it. The keyboard takes some getting used to, as the layout is cramped, but I love using it to write when I absolutely need to get away from all the distractions from Slack, email, and other messaging apps. Best of all is the ReMarkable's long-lasting battery—I plug it in once a week if not less.

Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet on red backdrop

Best Tablet Under $100

The 2022 Fire HD 8 ( 6/10, WIRED Review ) doesn't add much over the 2020 model outside of a slightly faster processor and thinner design. For the money, you get decent performance, a USB-C charging port, stereo sound, and hands-free access to Alexa—all of this in a travel-friendly 8-inch size. The screen isn't as nice as the Fire HD 10, and it can be a little tough to see images and text clearly if you're outside, but this is the best tablet you can get for around $100. There's officially no Google Play Store, but there's a workaround that nets you access to more apps.

Paying the extra $20 for the Fire HD 8 Plus is wise, as you get extra RAM (which helps when you're scrolling the web or juggling multiple apps) and wireless charging, so you can recharge it on almost any charging pad. You can also use an official wireless charging dock , which props up the tablet and turns it into an Echo Show while it's juicing up. Either way, consider picking up Amazon's magnetic cover to hold the tablet steady when you're bingeing TV shows.

★ An alternative: Amazon also refreshed the Fire HD 7 ($60) in 2022 to offer better performance and USB-C connectivity. You only get 16 gigs of storage (though there's a MicroSD card slot), and the screen is still tiny (7 inches), but if that's what you want, it's a fine option.

Lenovo P11 Pro 2nd Generation tablet

A Cheaper Android Tablet

Lenovo's Tab P11 Pro (2nd Gen) is all you need if you want a lag-free Android tablet. The MediaTek 1300T processor inside did an excellent job juggling various apps and games, even when spending a few workdays in Lenovo's Productivity Mode, which kicks in when you connect a Bluetooth keyboard. The interface switches to a laptop-like environment with resizable app windows. It's not quite as nice to use as the OnePlus Pad for work though. I tested the version with six gigabytes of RAM—the 4-GB model is cheaper but will likely feel more sluggish. I strongly recommend using Lenovo's Keyboard and kickstand if you plan to get some work done as it connects via pogo pins and doesn't require any power or Bluetooth fiddling (though it's frequently out of stock). You can doodle if you get Lenovo's Precision Pen 3 , and I found it fairly responsive.

The 11-inch OLED (!) display is a nice size to carry around, and the screen is sharp and colorful, joined by a quad-speaker system that sounds robust. There's a microSD card slot to expand the 128 GB of built-in storage if you need it, but there's no headphone jack, so you'll have to listen in with Bluetooth earbuds (or use a dongle ). Other downsides? There's no biometric authentication, the cameras aren't much to write home about, and while I got nearly seven hours on a single charge, this tablet devours battery life in standby mode so turn it off if you're not using it. Lenovo is also promising three years of security updates and two OS updates for this slate, which means since it's running Android 12, it won't get anything past Android 14. That's better than what the company has promised before, but still not as good as the competition, and it doesn't help that Lenovo is really slow to roll these updates out.

Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Edition 2022 model on green backdrop

Best Kids Tablet

When you're giving a tablet to a kid, you want something durable and cheap so that it's unlikely to break and, if does, a replacement won't be too costly. Amazon offers kid-friendly versions of all its Fire tablets, and the Fire HD 8 Kids Edition sits in the sweet spot of having a kid-friendly size and a wallet-friendly price. It's the exact same as the Fire HD 8 above, but the extra money you spend adds a bulky case to protect the tablet and a two-year worry-free damage plan. That means if your kid breaks it, you can return it and Amazon will send you a replacement for free. You also get a year of Amazon's Kids+ service , which provides access to kid-friendly books , movies, games, and apps, all with parental controls. It's $8 per month after the first year ($5 for Prime members).

There's also the larger Fire HD 10 Kids Edition, which comes in two variants: one for kids aged 3 to 7 , and a Kids Pro Edition for kids aged 6 to 12. Both are pricier and might be too big for younger children to comfortably use. Check out our Best Kids Tablets guide for more ideas.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 series tablets

Luxe Android Tablets

Samsung's Tab S9 series ( 7/10, WIRED Recommends ) consists of three tablets: the Tab S9 ($800) , Tab S9+ ($1,000) , and Tab S9 Ultra ($1,200) . They're all insanely expensive, but you get some of the best hardware in Android, from superbright 120-Hz screens and IP68 water resistance to an included S Pen stylus and flagship performance. Samsung offers some of the longest support outside of Apple, with a promise of four Android OS upgrades and five years of security updates.

These slates are capable at work and play, thanks to multitasking improvements and an improved DeX desktop mode. But I think the Tab S9 is the weakest of the lot in terms of value. You can get a very close experience with tablets like the OnePlus Pad and Pixel Tablet for far less (or even Samsung's Galaxy Tab S9 FE ). Instead, if you really like the look of these Samsung tablets, stick with the Tab S9+ and Tab S9 Ultra. There aren't a lot of large-screen Android slates, and these do the job exceptionally well. Just remember that Samsung's Book Cover keyboard attachment is yet another expensive purchase.

2023 Wacom One 13 tablet

A Great Drawing Tablet

Want a tablet strictly for drawing? Get the Wacom One 13 Touch ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ). WIRED's resident artist and product reviewer Jaina Grey has been using an iPad to draw for years, and yet the Wacom's silky smooth touchscreen drew her in. It's easy to set up—just plug the USB-C cable into your PC—and start sketching with your preferred drawing app ; the stylus doesn't need recharging. The downside is that it needs to be tethered to another device, so you can't just bring it wherever you want, as you would an iPad.

ipad minis lined up

Best Portable Tablet

Want something a little bigger than your phone, but still pocketable and easy to travel with? The 8.3-inch iPad Mini ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) should be up your alley. You get a compact tablet with a refreshed iPad Pro-like design. It has the A15 Bionic processor, the same that powers the iPhone 13 range , and Touch ID embedded inside the power button. It also features Center Stage in the camera, like the aforementioned iPads, and USB-C for charging. It's unbelievably small and cute, and you can attach the second-gen Apple Pencil to it for on-the-go sketching.

Microsoft Surface Pro 9 models

Best Laptop/Tablet Hybrid

Who says tablets need to run operating systems originally designed for smartphones? Microsoft's Surface line employs Windows, making it a suitable choice for heavy, desktop-grade workflows. The Surface Pro 9 doesn't add much over its predecessor—it has a faster processor—but it remains powerful, with a large 13-inch screen and a 120-Hz refresh rate . The best part is the built-in kickstand, which lets you plop it down on almost any surface. It's not as polished as an iPad in tablet mode, but Windows 11 has larger touch targets that make it easier to use. Our main gripe? Battery life is not as great as Microsoft promises. 

The Surface Go 3 suffers from similar battery woes, but it's a cheaper option. It's not as powerful, so it's better suited for simpler tasks like writing emails, browsing the web, and watching Netflix.

We recommend the Surface Pro 9 with the Intel Core i5 CPU, 8 GB of RAM, and a 256-GB SSD for most people.

GrandPad tablet

Best for Seniors

If you have a family member who has a hard time with technology and you want to maintain easy contact with them, the GrandPad ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) is your best bet. It's a yearly subscription, so it's expensive, but you're getting LTE connectivity out of the box, so the device is always connected to the internet—no need to set up Wi-Fi. The slate itself has outdated specs (it's an Acer 8-inch tablet), but there's a large, optimized interface, speakers tuned to help those hard of hearing, ad-free music streaming and radio stations, unlimited photo and video storage, and games like Solitaire. If the device is ever damaged or lost, the company will send a replacement.

The GrandPad excels at one-to-one video calls, and it's portable, meaning they can take it with them and still receive your calls. It sits on a wireless charging cradle too, so your loved one won't have to fuss with cables.

Google Pixel Fold with WIRED homepage displayed on the screen

Get a Folding Phone Instead

OK, hear me out. If all you're really after is a slightly larger screen to catch up on shows and movies at bedtime, then instead of getting another device you need to deal with, why not upgrade your phone to a folding smartphone? The whole idea behind these kinds of folding devices is to offer a larger screen than ever before in a smaller package. The Pixel Fold ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) opens up to be a 7.6-inch slate—not a massive difference from the 8.3-inch iPad Mini! Not all apps take advantage of the larger screen size, but this is something that's improving over time. Best of all, you can easily hop into a split-screen mode to run two apps simultaneously side by side. Read our Best Folding Phones guide for more options.

Nokia T20 Tablet

Honorable Mentions

We test tons of tablets every year. Here are a few others we like, just not as much as our picks above.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus for $600 : The Galaxy Tab S9 FE is the “ Fan Edition ” version of the flagship Tab S9 series, which essentially means it makes some sacrifices for a more palatable price. It comes in a Plus and standard variant —I tested the former—and both include a stylus. It performed much better than the older Tab S7 FE tablet I tested, with not many stutters. The 12.4-inch LCD screen is vast and a rarity to find at this price in the world of Android tablets, but it's a bit tricky to comfortably hold, especially when you're browsing apps in bed. I still prefer the OnePlus Pad and Pixel Tablet over it, especially at this price.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Series for $500+ : Whether it's the Tab S8 , Tab S8+ , or Tab S8 Ultra , it's always smart to buy 2022's flagship tablets when they go on sale. (Make sure you don't pay MSRP!) They're not that different from the new Tab S9 series, except the smallest slate is stuck with an LCD panel here instead of AMOLED, and there is no IP68 water resistance rating. You still get a stylus that magnetically sticks to the back of the tablet, Samsung's DeX mode to get some work done, and long software support.

Nokia T20 Android Tablet for $145 : I nearly gave the Nokia T20 our top Android tablet spot above. It's pretty great. What brought it down was … my time with the Lenovo P11, which performed better and had a nicer screen—all for not much more money. Still, the T20 will run most apps and games, it has a decent 10.3-inch screen that's not too big and not too small, and there's a headphone jack. The speakers and screen are just OK. HMD Global, which makes Nokia hardware, promises two OS upgrades and three years of security updates (it was only recently updated to Android 13, so the rollouts are slow).

Nokia T10 Android Tablet for $130 : I think the Nokia T20 is the better option, but the T10 is a smaller 8-inch slate if you want something more pocketable. The screen resolution is lackluster, and the performance isn't super snappy, but it's decent enough for reading or catching up on a show before bed. The company promises two OS upgrades and three years of security updates.

TCL Tab Pro 5G Android Tablet for $400 : Unless you really want 5G connectivity and are prepared to sign up for a monthly data-only plan with Verizon, I think Lenovo's P11 Pro (2nd Gen) is the better buy. This TCL has a solid 2K LCD screen, but it's not as contrasty and colorful as our top Android pick. Its speakers are nice, as is performance—it ran all the usual apps just fine. However, the 10-inch screen size isn't large enough to make some apps split into two columns when in a vertical orientation (not the case on the P11 Pro). At least you get a fingerprint scanner.

Amazon Fire Max 11 tablet

Avoid These Tablets

TCL Nxtpaper 11 Tablet for $290 : This TCL tablet has dipped on sale as low as $161, so try to avoid paying more than $200 for it. It has a matte paper-like 11-inch screen, which is easy on the eyes, much like an E Ink screen on an ebook reader. It's totally fine to use for browsing your favorite apps and even watching movies and shows, though performance is pretty choppy across the board. But it will only get two security updates, with zero promises to get Android 14. That's pretty pathetic.

Lenovo Tab Extreme for $950 : This is a really expensive, premium-feeling tablet. It's fantastic … until you start using it. My unit was riddled with bugs (apps kept force-closing) not to mention that Lenovo's Android interface made some weird design decisions that affected my workflow. Unlike every other new Android tablet, you can't open a second Chrome tab in split-screen mode to have two Chrome tabs side by side. When I took it to an in-person meeting to type up notes, my palm kept touching the trackpad on the keyboard case and moved my cursor around. It was frustrating. It's also weirdly difficult to buy right now. It's just not worth the hassle.

Amazon Fire 11 Max for $230 : If you are OK with a tablet that shoves Amazon content in your face, and nothing else, then the Fire 11 Max is a fine buy. However, Amazon has a Productivity Bundle that adds a keyboard case for $330, and this is where the Max starts losing value. You can do so much more with many of the tablets above. It's only worth it if you can find it at a steep discount, like during Black Friday.

Satechi aluminum iPad stand

Great Tablet Accessories

Tablets often don't come with kickstands or enough ports, so it's a good idea to snag a few accessories to enhance your experience. These are some of our favorite tablet accessories, many of which you can also find in our Best iPad Accessories guide .

Satechi Aluminum Desktop Stand for $45 : This is my favorite tablet stand, so much so that I've taken it with me on trips. It packs down relatively well, and it is very stable—there's no wobbling around here. You can also adjust the angle quite a bit. It can handle huge sizes too—it worked perfectly with my 12.9-inch iPad Pro.

Twelve South Compass Pro Stand for $50 : This is made for iPads, but I've had no trouble using it for plenty of other tablets. It's more travel-friendly than the Satechi above and fairly stable, but when I lift the tablet off, the back leg tends to change positions. You can angle it pretty low for sketching or keep it upright for watching movies. Unlike the Satechi, it's not a great option for keeping the tablet upright on a mattress.

Twelve South StayGo Mini USB-C Hub for $60 : This works with iPads and other tablets just fine. You can either plug it in and keep it flush with the edge of a slate or use the included cord to keep it extended. You get a USB-C port you can use for pass-through charging, a USB-A, an HDMI, and a headphone jack.

Lamicall Gooseneck Tablet Holder for $26 : I've used this on my bed frame to hold up various tablets for more than a year. The gooseneck requires a bit of finagling to get to the right position, and if you're constantly tapping the tablet, it will jiggle around. But it's a great hands-free way to watch movies. You can affix the clamp to any surface, like a desk or kitchen counter.

Twelve South HoverBar Duo Mount/Stand for $80 : You can use this as a stand or as an arm mount, and Twelve South makes it really easy to switch between the two. That means you can easily affix your tablet to your bedside arm mount, and then put it on the stand in your home office in the morning. Both are sturdy, and the arm mount is decently adjustable. Best of all, it doesn't wiggle around as much as the Lamicall above when you tap the screen.

Keychron K3 Pro Mechanical Bluetooth Keyboard for $100 : If you want to use a third-party Bluetooth keyboard with your tablet, a cheap one ( like this Logitech ) will do the job perfectly. But if you're a mechanical keyboard snob like me, this Keychron is an upgrade that's pretty easy to tote around. You can connect it to multiple devices and switch between them quickly; the keys light up in different, configurable colors; and best of all, it delivers the clickety-clackety experience you want with a mechanical keyboard. It needs to be recharged every three to four days, but you can also use it plugged in.

Anker Nano 3 30-Watt Charging Adapter for $20 : Most tablets charge at around 18 watts, so this 30-watt charger from Anker is more than capable. The plugs fold up, and it's pretty compact. If your tablet does support faster charging, then I recommend Satechi's 108-watt three-port USB-C charger ($75) . This will let you charge your phone, tablet, and laptop all off the same plug.

Einova Ultra Fast Power Bank for $47 : This power bank is slim enough to store next to a tablet in your bag, and it has enough capacity (20,000 mAh) to recharge an 11-inch tablet twice. You can fast-charge with the USB-C port and use the two USB-A ports to recharge other devices.

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23 Best Travel Electronics, According to Tech Experts

Make your next trip easier with these useful gadgets and tech accessories.

Best Travel Gadgets

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

That’s why we've put together this list of the best travel electronics and tech gadgets to save some extra room for in your luggage.

Our top picks:

Jetpack MiFi 8800L

Best Travel Gadget for WiFi

Verizon jetpack mifi 8800l.

325 Power Bank (PowerCore 20K)

Best Travel Gadget for Smartphones

Anker 325 power bank (powercore 20k).

Osmo Mobile 6

Best Travel Gadget for Filming Content

Dji osmo mobile 6.

40W 4-Port USB Wall Charger

Best Wall Charger for Travel

Anker 40w 4-port usb wall charger.

Rohm Portable White Noise Sound Machine

Best Travel Gadget for Sleeping

Marpac rohm portable white noise sound machine.

AirTag

Best Travel Gadget for Luggage

Apple airtag.

Luggage Scale

Etekcity Luggage Scale

Wonderboom 3

Best Portable Speaker for Travel

Ultimate ears wonderboom 3.

6

Best Travel Gadget for Charging

M2 Mini Project Steam Iron with Solemate

Best Travel Gadget for Clothing

Oliso m2 mini project steam iron with solemate.

At the Good Housekeeping Institute , we review and test all types of travel gear in our Labs, from luggage trackers and noise-canceling headphones to carry-on suitcases and packing cubes . Our recommendations here include products we've tested first-hand in our own travels and swear by, as well as popular picks we found by researching seasoned travelers' rave reviews online.

Read on to learn more about the most useful travel gadgets to bring along on your next adventure, and find more information about how we make our recommendations at the bottom of this guide. Looking for more travel tips? Check out our best travel tips for families and our guide to the best luggage brands for every type of traveler .

If you need solid coverage and strong Wi-Fi on your next trip, consider this Verizon Jetpack that enables you to connect up to 15 devices to your very own personal WiFi network in over 200 countries . Our tech experts like that it works on a reliable Verizon network and has impressive battery life (in our Lab tests, the battery lasted a full day, holding up to the brand's claims). Plus, it can even charge your phone if you can't get find an empty outlet at the airport. Just keep in mind that you'll have to purchase a separate data plan from Verizon to use.

Having your phone die on you while you're exploring a new place is never ideal, especially if you want to snap a photo or access Google Maps. This portable charger will be there to give you enough juice to stay connected. We love its slim, compact design, which should easily fit into any size travel backpack . We also like that it can charge two devices at once via its USB-A ports . When you've used up all the battery life, we found it easy to recharge the power bank via micro-USB or USB-C.

RELATED: The Best Travel Items to Buy on Amazon

Pack this lightweight, compact gadget if you want smooth, stabilized footage of your vacation. The gimbal stabilizer is designed to hold your phone securely in place and has built-in controls that allow you to rotate it in one sweeping motion — a.k.a. the image will be way steadier than your shaky hand. Our tech pros love that this device not only helps create professional-looking footage, but it comes with a tripod and a magnetic clamp to make attaching your phone super easy.

Doesn't it always seem like hotel rooms never have enough outlets? This charger has a whopping four USB plugs, making it a great choice for a family or anyone who wants to charge their phone, tablet, headphones and smartwatch all at once . We also like the Anker 735 charger if you want to leave your bulky MacBook charger at home and use the compact design to power your computer, phone and more.

If you or your little ones are used to sleeping with a sound machine on at home, you'll want to bring along this top-rated portable white noise machine. This model has three different sound options to help drown out any noises that could disturb your sleep, like noisy neighbors or honking city horns. Best of all, it's super small (just 3.8 ounces) and doesn't require an outlet, since it can be recharged via USB.

If you're worried about losing your luggage, we suggest investing in a luggage tracker . Just tuck one of Apple's compact AirTags inside your suitcase, wallet or even passport holder so you can keep tabs on everything right from your phone . Though you need to use Apple's ecosystem, we love that AirTags offer easy real-time tracking and a one-year battery lifespan.

If you're notorious for overpacking or shopping on vacation, bring this lightweight and compact gadget on your next trip to avoid extra luggage fees for overweight suitcases . Just hook it on your suitcase to get an instant read. Lexie Sachs , the executive director of the Textiles Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, says she's gotten tons of use out of this luggage scale over the years and it's helped her figure out how to divvy up her belongings between bags to avoid going over the weight limit on the way home.

There's nothing worse than arriving at your Airbnb only to realize you forgot your Bluetooth speaker . Our tech experts recommend bringing along this portable option from Ultimate Ears. Not only does its compact size make it easy to stuff in your bag, but we found that it packs a surprisingly loud punch . It's waterproof (it can even float in the pool!), has a long 14-hour battery life and can be paired up with another Wonderboom 3 speaker for stereo sound.

Why travel with tons of different cables when all you need is this handy multi-charger keychain that you can attach to a purse or keys? We love that it's designed to not get tangled up in your bag and that it features multiple outputs and inputs (like USB-C, USB-A, micro-USB and a lightning port for your iPhone) so you can power up all your devices. Just keep in mind that the cable is on the shorter side, so your device will need to be close at hand.

If you're tired of dealing with wrinkled clothing after a long day of travel, we've found that this steam iron is great for tackling small jobs on the go . In testing, our Cleaning Lab pros were impressed with the iron's ability to press out heavy creases as well as how lightweight it is ( only 2.2 lbs.). We found that it's easy to maneuver and comes with a useful silicone rest.

JOOMFEEN Travel Adapter

Travel Adapter

If you plan on traveling abroad, you'll want to pack a universal charger so you don't end up having to go out and buy a new one for your phone, tablet or computer. Our pros like this compact pick that can be plugged into most countries' respective outlets . Once you've plugged the adapter into the wall, all you need to do is plug your U.S. charger in and say goodbye to dead batteries. It also features two USB ports for simultaneous charging of multiple devices.

Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet

Fire HD 10 Tablet

With a Fire tablet, you can download Kindle books or stream your favorite shows to stay entertained in the car or at the airport . It's lightweight and gives you the many benefits of a traditional tablet , minus the hefty price tag. Plus, it claims to have a battery life that lasts up to 12 hours. We also like the Fire HD 10 Kids model if you're looking for a tablet for your children.

Bose QuietComfort 45 Headphones

QuietComfort 45 Headphones

Our testers found these noise-canceling headphones super comfortable, making long flights a lot more bearable. They f eature excellent sound quality, and we like that you can easily switch between Quiet and Aware modes , so you can hear important flight announcements without taking them off. Just don't forget to bring along the included cable so you can use the plane's audio jack if needed.

Sony WF-1000XM4 Noise-Canceling Wireless Earbuds

WF-1000XM4 Noise-Canceling Wireless Earbuds

If you're someone who struggles to find earbuds that remain comfortable after a few hours, our tech experts recommend these wireless earbuds from Sony. They're an excellent AirPods alternative featuring impressive battery life and soft silicone ear-tips . And on top of the fantastic sound quality, they also come with noise-canceling features so they're a good choice for planes.

Amazon Paperwhite

Paperwhite

On trips, you probably don't have the space in your bag to carry around heavy, bulky books. We love this travel-sized Kindle Paperwhite e-reader , which makes downloading all kinds of books from anywhere in the world (in your language) so simple. We especially love that this model is IPX8-rated , so you don't have to worry if it accidentally falls in the pool or the bathtub . This IP (ingress protection) rating signifies that it can handle continuous water submersion. It's also so lightweight that you likely won't even notice it in your bag.

GoPro HERO9

HERO9

Leave behind your iPhone and take photos and videos on your next adventure with this tiny camera. It's made to capture the action as you ski, dive, hike, bike and more with its super durable, waterproof design (you can take it down to 33 feet deep according to GoPro). It has tons of compatible accessories to help you film, like a helmet strap and a chest mount . Our tech pros love that it shoots in 5K so you're guaranteed sharp, high-quality memories once your trip is over. If you want the most up-to-date GoPro technology and features, consider the pricier GoPro HERO11 .

LifeProof FRĒ

FRĒ

A waterproof phone case can save your phone from serious damage should it accidentally fall in the pool while you're snapping some photos. We like this LifeProof model because we're confident it will keep your phone dry and unharmed thanks to its built-in screen cover and solid construction: In our tests, it even survived an hour of full submersion in 6.5 feet of water !

Joby GripTight ONE GorillaPod Stand

GripTight ONE GorillaPod Stand

It can be frustrating when no one is around to take a family photo for you. Fortunately, this popular tripod from Joby comes with a clamp for your phone (no matter which model you have) as well as flexible legs that you can wrap around objects like a tree branch.

BUBM Electronic Organizer

Electronic Organizer

This super affordable electronic organizer will keep you from losing track of any cables, chargers, memory cards and more . Offered in ten different colors, we love that it folds up into a flat shape that will easily fit into a backpack or suitcase. There's also a convenient zipper closure for items that you want to store more securely.

Case-Mate Marine Waterproof Floating Pouch

Marine Waterproof Floating Pouch

Though most smartphones these days are waterproof, most of us still don’t feel comfortable taking our precious devices into a body of water. But if you plan on doing any water sports during your trip, bring along this waterproof pouch. Though we haven’t tested it in our Labs, it's rated IPX8 which means that it's been tested to withstand continuous water submersion without risking harm to your device . Our experts like that it features a touchscreen window so you can easily take photos and that, according to the brand, it floats.

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  • Best Laptop
  • Best Upper Mid-Range
  • Best Mid-Range
  • Best Budget
  • Best Compact
  • Best Gaming

Notable Mentions

Recent updates, all reviews, the 6 best travel laptops - spring 2024 reviews.

Best Travel Laptops

When shopping for a travel laptop, a couple of requirements immediately come to mind: size, weight, and battery life. Finding a thin and light laptop isn't so much a problem when it comes to general productivity and media consumption devices, but finding a relatively portable mobile workstation or gaming laptop can still be challenging. You must also ensure that portability doesn't come at the cost of a flimsier, cheaper-feeling build. Screen brightness is another thing to consider, as you want a display that can overcome glare in bright settings, and you'll want a good keyboard and touchpad, as they're your primary input methods. A good port selection is a must if you don't want to carry around a hub or dock, and webcam quality is important if you're often on video calls. Biometrics isn't necessary but nice to have, especially if you don't like typing out your password or PIN in a public area.

We've bought and tested over 105 laptops. Below are our recommendations for the best laptops for travel you can buy. You can also see our recommendations for the  best laptops , the  best business laptops , and the best laptops for college .

Best Laptop For Travel

Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3, 2023) Design Photo

The best travel laptop we've tested is the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3, 2023). This 14-inch workstation has nearly everything you could ask for in a premium model: a sturdy all-metal chassis, a compact design, tons of processing power, and a long battery life. It sports a bright 120Hz Mini LED display, a spacious keyboard, and a gigantic, easy-to-use haptic touchpad. The display is suitable for color work, as it has full DCI P3 coverage and superb factory calibration. Its 1080p webcam is excellent, so your colleagues can see and hear you clearly on video calls.

New in this generation of MacBook Pro is the addition of a base M3 model, similar to the discontinued 13-inch model with Touch Bar. This can be a great option if you don't need all the processing power but still want the 'Pro' features, like the display and up-firing speakers. The main downside is that the RAM and storage aren't user-replaceable, and upgrading them increases the total cost considerably.

The  Dell XPS 15 (2023) is our recommendation for Windows users. It's a larger 15.6-inch device but weighs the same as the MacBook Pro 14. It provides a great user experience and can easily handle demanding tasks like programming and video editing. Unlike the MacBook Pro, the RAM and storage drive are user-replaceable, so you can upgrade or add more space later. Unfortunately, there are a couple of tradeoffs, like its display's basic 60Hz refresh rate and its terrible 720p webcam. Port selection is also a slight downgrade compared to the MacBook Pro, as there's no HDMI port. Lastly, Dell has released new XPS models in 14- and 16-inch sizes, so if you're a fan of the 15-inch size, this is a good time to get one because it's often on sale on  Dell's website .

See our review

Best Upper Mid-Range Laptop For Travel

Apple MacBook Air 13 (2022) Design Photo

If your workload includes lighter tasks like text processing, web browsing, spreadsheets, and video playback, get the Apple MacBook Air 13 (2022) instead. It's also a high-end model that provides a premium user experience; however, it doesn't have as much processing power, so you aren't overpaying for performance you don't need. Don't worry; its M2 SoC is fast and can stand toe to toe with current-generation Intel and AMD CPUs. While its IPS panel isn't as impressive as the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3, 2023) 's 120Hz Mini LED display, it's still pretty and bright enough for outdoor use. The main drawback is the port selection, which comprises two USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 ports with support for a single external display.

As you may have heard, Apple has released a new MacBook Air with its M3 chip. There are only a few changes, including a slightly faster SoC, Wi-Fi 6E, and support for two external displays, though the latter has a caveat, as you can only get two external displays with the laptop's lid closed. We'll have a full review of the new model soon. If you don't need these upgrades, Apple still sells the M2 model as a more budget-friendly option with a starting price of $999 USD. The Apple MacBook Air 15 (2023) is also a good option if you want more screen space and don't mind paying more. It's still very portable for a 15-inch model, but it might not fit into smaller messenger or sling bags.

A Windows alternative would be the LG gram 14 (2023) . At 2.1 lbs, this 14-inch ultraportable is even lighter than the MacBook Air 13. It provides a good user experience overall, and while its battery life is shorter, it's still enough to get through a typical workday. It also has a wider port selection that includes two USB-C/Thunderbolt 4s, allowing you to connect up to two 4k displays at 60Hz with a single cable. Naturally, there are compromises, like a worse dimmer, lower-resolution FHD+ display, and a less premium-feeling magnesium alloy build.

Best Mid-Range Laptop For Travel

Acer Chromebook Spin 714 (2022) Design Photo

Our best mid-range pick is the Acer Chromebook Spin 714 (2022), a 14-inch 2-in-1 convertible Chromebook. It's a very compact device that's easy to carry around, and its battery lasts over 13 hours of light use. The display gets bright enough for use in most indoor settings, and since it's a 2-in-1 convertible, you can set it up in tent mode for media consumption or flip the screen all the way around and use it as a tablet. If you want to take handwritten notes, it supports pen input and comes with a stylus that you can dock into its charging slot at the front of the device. Ports include one USB-A, two USB-C/Thunderbolt 4, and an HDMI port.

Spec-wise, this laptop has various Intel 12th Gen CPUs, from a Core i3 to a P-series Core i7. However, only the Core i5 model with 8GB of memory and 128GB of storage is widely available, and even that model is getting hard to find. There's a newer 2023 model, which we haven't tested but expect to be very similar. The upgrades include a faster Intel 13th Gen CPU and a 1440p webcam. You can get the 2023 model on Amazon or at  Best Buy . Lastly, if you're new to Chrome OS, know that the type of applications you can install is limited, so you need to ensure you can do everything through a Chrome browser or Android apps.

Best Budget Laptop For Travel

Acer Swift 3 14 (2020) Design Photo

For those on a tighter budget, get the Acer Swift 3 14 (2020), a 14-inch Windows ultraportable. Acer's Swift models are typically more expensive, but since this is a 2020 version, you can get it much cheaper. It has a nice FHD display, a decent keyboard, and a wide port selection, including two USB-As, one USB-C/Thunderbolt 4, a full-size HDMI, and a headphone jack. It's available with an Intel 11th Gen Core i5 or i7 CPU and up to 16GB of memory and 512GB of storage.

The Intel 11th Gen CPUs are two generations behind Intel's latest offerings but can still easily handle general productivity tasks like web browsing, text processing, spreadsheets, and video playback. Plus, the battery life is amazing at over 13 hours of light use. Its 720p webcam is its main weakness; the image is underexposed, and the microphone sounds staticky.

Best Compact Laptop For Travel

Microsoft Surface Go 3 (2021) Design Photo

If you need something compact to browse the web or answer emails on the go, get the Microsoft Surface Go 3 (2021), a 10.5-inch tablet PC with a built-in kickstand and a detachable keyboard. It's super compact, and its battery lasts a little over seven hours of light use. Its FHD+ display looks very sharp, gets bright enough to combat glare, and supports pen input. You get an excellent 1080p webcam, a second back-facing camera, and a facial recognition IR camera for quick logins. Like all Microsoft 2-in-1 tablets, you must buy the keyboard and stylus separately. The keyboard is worth getting, as it's much more comfortable to type on than an on-screen keyboard, and it protects the screen from scratches.

The Surface Go 3 is available with an Intel Pentium Gold or Core i3 CPU. They perform well enough for this tablet PC's intended use, which is to say simple tasks like web browsing, emails, and video playback, but don't expect to do anything remotely intensive. If your budget allows, it's worth upgrading the memory to 8GB, as you'll get a much smoother experience with fewer slowdowns when multitasking. Port selection is limited; you only get a USB-C, a headphone jack, and a proprietary Surface Connect charging port.

Best Gaming Laptop For Travel

Razer Blade 14 (2022) Design Photo

We recommend the Razer Blade 14 (2022) for gaming on the go. This 14-inch model is surprisingly thin and light for a gaming laptop, and aside from its green logo on the lid, it has a fairly understated design, so it doesn't stick out in a professional environment if you use it for work. It's available in three preset configurations: a 1080p 144Hz display with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 GPU, a 1440p 165Hz display with an RTX 3070 Ti, or a 1440p 165Hz display with an RTX 3080 Ti. All three configurations deliver a smooth gaming experience in demanding AAA titles.

We don't have many complaints about the keyboard; the keys have a good amount of travel and tactility, but they could be more stable. And, of course, it has per-key RGB backlighting. As for upgradeability, the storage drive is replaceable, but not the memory, as all three configurations come with 16GB of soldered RAM.

A newer model of the Blade 14 is available. Its design remains largely unchanged, as the upgrades are internal. The CPU is now an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS, and GPU options include an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 and 4070. These new GPUs bring a new feature called Frame Generation, which boosts performance by inserting AI-generated frames. Few games currently support this feature, but as we've seen with DLSS, the adoption rate will likely grow quickly. There's also a new display option: a 240Hz QHD+ panel with a matte finish and VRR support. See  here  for more details about the new Razer Blade 14.

  • ASUS Zenbook 14 Flip OLED (2023): The ASUS Zenbook 14 Flip OLED (2023) is a great 2-in-1 Windows convertible and a good alternative to the Apple MacBook Air 13 (2022). It feels as well built as the MacBook Air and has a gorgeous, albeit slightly dimmer, OLED display. It also has a wider port selection, including two USB-C/Thunderbolt 4s with support for multiple external displays. It's heavier, though, and its battery life is shorter at around eight hours of light use. See our review
  • Framework Laptop 13 (2023): The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) is a good alternative to the Apple MacBook Air 13 (2022) if you want a laptop that's easy to repair or upgrade. You can replace any component in the laptop, even the CPU and motherboard. All the parts are available via Framework, and the company provides manuals to guide you through the replacement process. It also has a modular port system that lets you swap out the ports on the fly. However, its keyboard, touchpad, speakers, and webcam aren't as good. Also, depending on where you live, it might be harder to get one because you can only get it via Framework's website. See our review
  • Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11 (2023): The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11 (2023) is a great ultraportable alternative to the Apple MacBook Air 13 (2022). It has a wider port selection and Thunderbolt 4 support, and its SSD is user-replaceable. However, it's slightly bulkier, and its battery doesn't last as long. It's also more expensive. See our review
  • Lenovo Yoga 7i 16 (2023): The Lenovo Yoga 7i 16 (2023) is a good alternative to the Acer Chromebook Spin 714 (2022) if you prefer Windows. It provides a great user experience, and its battery lasts around 12 hours of light use. It's a pretty thin laptop, but ultimately, it's still a 16-inch device, so it might not fit into some bags. It also weighs considerably more at 4.4 lbs. See our review
  • Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 (2021): The Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 (2021) is a good alternative to the Microsoft Surface Go 3 (2021) if you only need a device for media consumption. It has a much nicer OLED display, and its battery lasts longer. It's a 13-inch device, though, so it isn't as portable as the Surface Go 3. See our review

Mar 15, 2024: Removed the Lenovo Slim Pro 7 14 (2023) from the Notable Mentions because it's discontinued. Added the Framework Laptop 13 (2023) as a Notable Mention. Minor text changes to provide information about new models of the Dell XPS 15, Apple MacBook Air 13, and Razer Blade 14.

Jan 23, 2024: Replaced the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M2, 2023) with the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3, 2023) because Apple no longer sells the M2 model.

Nov 16, 2023: Minor text changes to provide information about the new M3 MacBook Pro and to add the Dell XPS 15 (2023) as a Windows alternative to the MacBook Pro. Added the Lenovo Slim Pro 7 14 (2023) and Lenovo Yoga 7i 16 (2023) as Notable Mentions.

Sep 18, 2023: Replaced the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (2021) with the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (2023) because the M1 model is no longer available. Small text changes to include the Lenovo Slim Pro 7 14 (2023) as an alternative to the MacBook Pro 14. Replaced the Lenovo Chromebook C340 15 (2020) with the Acer Swift 3 14 (2020) because the Acer is a better value.

Jul 18, 2023: Verified that the picks are valid and available. Added the ASUS Zenbook 14 Flip OLED (2023) as a Notable Mention.

Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the best travel laptops you can get. We factor in the price (a cheaper laptop wins over a pricier one if the difference isn't worth it), feedback from our visitors, and availability (no laptops that are difficult to find or almost out of stock everywhere).

If you prefer to make your own decision, here’s the list of all of our laptop reviews. Keep in mind that most laptops are available in various configurations, and the table only shows the results of the model we tested, so it’s best to see the full review for information about other variants.

The best Android tablets in 2024

The best Android tablets are great iPad alternatives

  • Best overall
  • Best affordable
  • Best Samsung
  • Best smart home
  • Best big screen
  • Best laptop replacement
  • How to choose
  • How we test

1. The list in brief 2. Best overall 3. Best affordable 4. Best Samsung 5. Best smart home 6. Best big screen 7. Best pseudo-laptop 8. How to choose 9. How we test

The best Android tablets are great alternatives to the best iPads . These well-designed devices pack enough power to run apps and games with minimal or no slowdown. They're also power-efficient enough to last long on a single charge. And with a keyboard attachment, some Android tablets can make for decent laptop replacements.

To find the right Android tablet for you, we tested many in the lab, measuring battery life, performance and screen quality. When it comes to app quality (something of a lingering question for even the best Android tablets) we've found that your decision might start with how many apps you want — and not all of these Android tablets get the same apps.

Here are the best Android tablets, based on our hands-on testing and review of dozens from Amazon, Samsung, Nokia and even OnePlus.

Tony Polanco author photo

Tony is a senior writer at Tom’s Guide covering laptops, tablets, Windows, and iPadOS. During his off-hours, Tony enjoys reading comic books, playing video games, reading speculative fiction novels, and spending too much time on Twitter. His work has appeared in publications such as Laptop Mag, PC Mag, and various independent gaming sites.

The quick list

Here's a quick overview of the best Android tablets you can buy right now based on our testing and reviews.

The best Android tablet overall With a huge 13MP rear camera, curved edges and a unique 7:5 aspect ratio, OnePlus’ first slate makes a statement. Videos and ebooks look great on its vivid 11.6-inch 144Hz display. Its MediaTek Dimensity 9000 CPU and  Android 13  OS make apps and games run smooth and fast. It's an overall winner.

Read more below

The best affordable Android tablet

The Amazon Fire HD 8 represents the sweet spot in terms of price, power, and functionality. This 12th-generation Fire HD 8 tablet packs roughly 30% more power than the  last model . It’s also lighter yet more durable. This is an amazingly solid tablet for the price ($100). Read more below.

The best Samsung tablet The Galaxy Tab S9 is the best overall Samsung tablet thanks to its versatility. This OLED-equipped slate is great for both work and for play. If you need a solid premium Android tablet, you can't go wrong with the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9. Read more below.

The best smart home Android tablet The Google Pixel Tablet stands out from every other on this list by being the only one to come with its own speaker/charging dock. No other tablet on the market doubles as an out-of-the-box smart home hub in quite the same way, and we found it works quite well.

Read more below.

The best big screen Android tablet

The Lenovo Yoga Tab 13 is an entertainment-focused Android tablet with an impressive 13-inch display and quality speakers. Thanks to the Snapdragon 870 processor and 8GB of memory, playing games is a delight. Its 2K screen is also great for watching videos or acting as a secondary display.

The best laptop replacement

Samsung took “go big or go home” to heart when creating the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra. This 14.6-inch beast is easily one of the largest tablets we’ve ever reviewed. But beyond its monstrous size, the Tab S9 Ultra has enough power packed into its thin chassis to potentially turn it into a laptop replacement.

The best Android tablets you can buy today

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

The best Android tablet overall

1. oneplus pad.

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The OnePlus Pad is an Android tablet worth getting excited about. With a huge 13MP rear camera, curved edges and a unique 7:5 aspect ratio, OnePlus’ first slate stands out from the competition. It's one of my favorite tablets of 2023.

This tablet has plenty going for it besides its distinctive design. Videos and ebooks look great on its vivid 11.6-inch 144Hz display, and thanks to its MediaTek Dimensity 9000 CPU and  Android 13  OS, apps and games run smooth and fast. The lightweight OnePlus Pad also has exceptional battery life, lasting over 13 hours in our testing.

The OnePlus Pad looks great and runs even better. If you’re looking for an excellent Android tablet for under $500, you can’t go wrong with the OnePlus Pad.

Read our full OnePlus Pad review .

2. Amazon Fire HD 8

Amazon’s tablets have long maintained the reputation of being shockingly good for their low prices, and the middle-sized device — the Amazon Fire HD 8 — represents the sweet spot in terms of price, power, and functionality. That’s unchanged with the new 2022 model, although it comes with some nice tweaks and upgrades from the last edition.

This 12th-generation Fire HD 8 tablet packs roughly 30% more power than the  last model , helping to smooth out some of the spurts of lag we saw when we reviewed the older hardware. It’s also lighter and feels more durable. Granted, it’s also $10 more expensive than before.

But the overall experience and value equation are much the same: this is an amazingly solid tablet for the price ($100) if you can deal with modest performance, along with more pressing annoyances like lock screen ads and the limitations of Amazon’s app ecosystem. If that doesn't bother you, this is a good budget tablet to get.

Read our full Amazon Fire HD 8 review.

The best Samsung tablet

3. samsung galaxy tab s9.

The Galaxy Tab S9 is good at a lot of things, but it's best at being a premium Android tablet. You can use it to get work done in a pinch, but in our experience, it's best enjoyed as a speedy all-purpose device for making work and play a bit more enjoyable.

Though basically identical to last year's model, the S9 is more powerful and has a beautiful new AMOLED display that makes everything you do on it look great. On the couch, it's great for gaming or reading comics. At work, it's nice to have as a note-keeping device or secondary display, especially if you go through the trouble of investing in the Galaxy ecosystem and making your workspace DeX-friendly.

If you absolutely must have the biggest, baddest Android slate possible you probably want the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra , but if you just need a great premium Android tablet the Galaxy Tab S9 delivers — and in the process, sets a new standard for what we should expect from the category.

Read our full Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 review .

The best smart home Android tablet

4. google pixel tablet.

The Google Pixel Tablet stands out from every other on this list by being the only one to come with its own speaker/charging dock. It's both a tablet and a smart home device.

It's a clear attempt on Google's part to help the tablet stand out from the pack, and it pays off. No other tablet on the market doubles as an out-of-the-box smart home hub in quite the same way, and we found it works quite well.

The speakers on the tablet's charging dock are also great, delivering more satisfying bass at the expense of some treble. It's a solid Android tablet too, comparable to Apple's base iPad despite costing $50 less. However, its support for various smart home technologies varies, and it can't match the capabilities or sound quality of a good dedicated smart home hub like the Nest Hub Max. 

Read our full Google Pixel Tablet review .  

5. Lenovo Yoga Tab 13

The Lenovo Yoga Tab 13 is an entertainment-focused Android tablet with an impressive 13-inch display and quality speakers. It makes you feel like you’re watching movies and shows on a proper TV instead of a bulky tablet. Playing games is a delight too, thanks to the speedy Snapdragon 870 processor and 8GB of memory. The slate can even act as a secondary monitor for your laptop or tablet, giving its 2K screen a bit of extra versatility.

Though great at what it does, it’s not the most portable device out there. It’s also all but impossible to find a protective cover due to its unusual design. The lack of 5G support is also a letdown, as is the lack of a headphone jack. Still, if you’re looking for an entertainment-focused tablet that you don't plan to cart around much, the Yoga Tab 13 is a good choice. That said, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra might be a better choice.

Read our full Lenovo Yoga Tab 13 review .

6. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is the ultimate Samsung tablet for those who absolutely need a ginormous slate.

Like its predecessor, the  Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra , this model features a gorgeous 14.6-inch OLED display, an ultra-slim svelte design and plenty of power thanks to its speedy Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor. If you’re ingrained in the Samsung ecosystem and need a tablet with laptop-like functionality, the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra will serve you well.

Of course, Samsung’s monstrous tablet isn’t flawless. While you can use it as a laptop when it’s paired with the Samsung Book Cover Keyboard, the accessory adds an extra $349 cost to an already pricey $1,200 machine. And while the Tab S9 Ultra is a light 1.6 pounds, its large size can make it cumbersome to use when compared to a smaller tablet.

Read our Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra review .

How to choose the best Android tablet

When it comes to picking the best Android tablet for you, start by thinking about the apps you want. Yes, battery life and performance are so similar across many of these tablets that you can easily cross off half of this list by thinking about if you need your next Android tablet for more than just Netflix and Spotify .

Those who want every single application on their Android phone should probably look away from the Amazon Fire tablets, as those require jumping through hoops (and disabling security protection features) to get Gmail or any of the Google apps as apps. If you don't need those apps on your tablet, or could stand to use older, less-than-stellar versions of those applications in a web browser, then you can consider the Fire tablets.

If you want all of the apps, you have three questions, each with its own answer. Are you mainly going to be consuming content? Get the Galaxy Tab S9. Looking for a machine where you can crank out a Word document and possibly replace your laptop? The Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is right for you. 

Those OK with the limitations of Amazon tablets should grab a Fire 7 for less demanding uses, and the Fire HD 8 if they're shopping for folks with slightly higher standards. And if you're looking for the best of the budget bunch, the Fire HD 10 is right for you.

If you need more guidance, we have detailed buying guides for the best Samsung tablets , the best Amazon Fire tablets and the best cheap tablets .

How we test the best Android tablets

The first thing we do to separate the great tablets from the jokers is to test all their different facets. Our web-surfing-based battery test times how long a tablet can browse the internet for, with its display set to 150 nits of brightness. But in order to figure out what percentage of brightness equals 150 nits, we perform a series of display tests to measure how colorful the panel can get (measured with its sRGB output number) as well as how bright it can get. Then, we run benchmark tests on said tablet, including the latest version of the Geekbench general performance benchmark.

Another thing we do to evaluate Android tablets is check out the app store to see if you're getting a true Android experience or some company's vision thereof. The latter is a major disappointment — though we don't expect anything different from Amazon at this stage. On tablets with parental controls settings, we try and find the loopholes in said limitations, to find red flags before your kids can.

Then, we just use the tablets like we would if we owned them. Opening tab after tab and app after app to see if we can multitask without hiccups. We also watch YouTube videos because the color output (sRGB) and brightness (nits) measurements don't tell the whole story. Only through all of these tests, can we be sure that we're giving you a complete assessment of a tablet's value.

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Tony Polanco

Tony is a computing writer at Tom’s Guide covering laptops, tablets, Windows, and iOS. During his off-hours, Tony enjoys reading comic books, playing video games, reading speculative fiction novels, and spending too much time on X/Twitter. His non-nerdy pursuits involve attending Hard Rock/Heavy Metal concerts and going to NYC bars with friends and colleagues. His work has appeared in publications such as Laptop Mag, PC Mag, and various independent gaming sites.

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The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Tablet PCs in 2024

tablet PC

In 2024, the tablet PC landscape has undergone a remarkable transformation, becoming an indispensable tool in both personal and professional realms. With the integration of cutting-edge technologies, these devices now offer unprecedented versatility and power, catering to a wide range of needs and preferences. The market brims with options, from high-performance models suited for intensive tasks to compact, user-friendly tablets ideal for everyday use. As the line between laptops and tablets continues to blur, the role of tablet PCs as both a creative and productivity hub is more pronounced than ever. This evolution not only reflects technological advancements but also a shift in consumer expectations, demanding greater flexibility and efficiency from their devices.

Table of Contents 1. Market overview 2. Things to consider when selecting products 3. Best products and their features

1. Market overview

tablet PC

The tablet PC market in 2024 presents a dynamic and growing landscape, reflecting the continuous evolution of consumer electronics. According to Statista, the global tablet market is expected to generate a revenue of $53.7 billion in 2024. This projection indicates the significant role that tablet PCs play in the tech world, catering to a diverse range of users with varying needs and preferences.

The market is projected to experience an annual growth rate of 2.74% (CAGR) from 2024 to 2028, suggesting a steady increase in the popularity and adoption of tablet devices. This growth is driven by factors such as advancements in technology, the increasing demand for portable computing solutions, and the diversification of tablet functionalities.

In terms of market shares, key regions like the United States lead in revenue generation, with a forecasted revenue of $9.67 billion in 2024. This highlights the significant market presence and consumer demand for tablet PCs in these regions. The per-person revenue in the tablet market is estimated to be $6.94 in 2024, illustrating the widespread adoption and usage of tablets across different demographics.

tablet PC

Market changes in the tablet PC sector are influenced by various factors, including the introduction of new technologies, changing consumer preferences, and the emergence of new market players. The surge in remote work and online learning has contributed to the increased sales of tablet PCs in key markets like the United States. The market is also characterized by a diverse range of products, from high-end models geared toward professional use to more affordable options designed for casual consumption.

Overall, the tablet PC market in 2024 continues to expand and evolve, offering consumers a wide array of choices to meet their specific needs, whether for work, education, entertainment, or general use.

2. Things to consider when selecting products

When selecting a tablet PC in 2024, there are several critical factors to consider, ensuring that the device aligns with your personal or professional needs.

Operating system compatibility

The choice of the operating system (OS) is pivotal in determining the tablet’s functionality and compatibility with other devices. Android, iOS, and Windows offer distinct ecosystems, each with unique benefits. Android tablets, known for their versatility, provide a wide range of hardware options and customization. iOS, used in Apple’s iPads, offers a seamless integration with other Apple devices, making it a preferred choice for users already invested in the Apple ecosystem. Windows tablets cater to users seeking a PC-like experience with stronger multitasking capabilities and compatibility with Windows software. Each OS has its own set of applications and services, and the choice often depends on the user’s existing digital environment and specific use cases.

tablet PC

Screen size and resolution

The screen size and resolution of a tablet are crucial factors that impact its usability. Screen sizes typically range from compact 7-inch models to larger 12-inch versions. Smaller tablets are more portable and convenient for reading and casual browsing, while larger screens provide an enhanced experience for tasks like graphic design, video editing, and watching multimedia content. High-resolution displays offer sharper and clearer images, which is essential for creative work and entertainment. According to CBS News, models like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra and the Apple iPad Pro emphasize large, high-resolution screens, catering to users seeking premium visual experiences.

Processor and performance

The processor is the heart of a tablet’s performance. High-performance processors, such as the Apple M2 chip in the iPad Pro and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon in the Galaxy Tab S9 series, are capable of handling intensive tasks, multitasking, and running complex applications smoothly. Users needing tablets for professional work, gaming, or multimedia editing should prioritize devices with powerful processors to ensure seamless operation and responsiveness.

Storage capacity

Storage capacity is another vital aspect, as it determines how much data, applications, and multimedia content can be stored on the device. While some tablets offer expandable storage via microSD cards, others, like Apple’s iPad range, do not, necessitating a careful consideration of internal storage capacity based on the user’s requirements.

tablet PC

Battery life and portability

Battery life and portability are interrelated factors. Tablets with longer battery life are more suitable for users who need to work or stay entertained on the go, without frequent recharging. Portability is not just about the weight and dimensions of the tablet but also its battery endurance. Engadget suggests considering how the tablet will fit into daily routines or commutes, as well as its battery capacity, to ensure it meets mobility needs.

Connectivity options

Connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular capabilities, are essential for staying connected. Wi-Fi is standard, but cellular connectivity is crucial for users who need internet access on the go. Bluetooth facilitates the connection with peripherals like keyboards and headphones.

Additional features

Finally, additional features like camera quality, stylus compatibility, and accessory support can greatly enhance the tablet’s functionality. High-quality cameras are vital for video conferencing and content creation, while stylus compatibility, as seen in tablets like the Galaxy Tab S9 with its included S Pen, expands the tablet’s use in creative and note-taking applications.

3. Best products and their features

tablet PC

In 2024, the tablet PC market will be dominated by several standout models, each offering unique features catering to diverse user needs. Among the leading contenders are the Apple iPad Pro, Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, Google Pixel Tablet, and Microsoft Surface Pro 9.

Apple iPad Pro (12.9″ & 11″)

The Apple iPad Pro, available in 12.9″ and 11″ models, is a powerhouse in the tablet market. According to CBS News, the iPad Pro is equipped with the Apple M2 processor, known for its exceptional speed and efficiency. This makes the iPad Pro ideal for demanding applications, from professional graphic design to video editing. The Liquid Retina display, with its high resolution and vibrant color accuracy, provides an immersive viewing experience, making it perfect for creative professionals and multimedia enthusiasts. Additionally, the iPad Pro’s compatibility with the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard extends its functionality, transforming it into a versatile tool for artists and professionals who require precision and flexibility in their work.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is another top contender, renowned for its large Dynamic AMOLED display. This display offers vivid colors and deep contrasts, making it excellent for media consumption and creative work. Powered by a Snapdragon processor, the Tab S9 Ultra delivers smooth performance for multitasking and high-end gaming. Another notable feature is the inclusion of the S Pen stylus, as highlighted by CBS News, which enhances the user experience for note-taking, drawing, and navigating the interface. The S Pen’s responsiveness and precision make the Tab S9 Ultra a solid choice for users who value productivity and creativity.

tablet PC

Google Pixel Tablet

The Google Pixel Tablet stands out with its unique charging speaker dock, providing a seamless integration between charging and multimedia use. This feature, along with its Google Tensor G2 processor, ensures that the tablet is not only a powerful computing device but also a hub for entertainment and smart home control. The integration with Google services, such as Google Assistant and various Google apps, makes the Pixel Tablet a central part of the Google ecosystem, offering a cohesive experience for users who are already invested in Google’s products and services.

Microsoft Surface Pro 9

The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is celebrated for its versatility as a 2-in-1 device. Running on Windows 11 OS, it blurs the line between tablet and laptop, catering to users who need a portable device that can handle traditional computing tasks. The range of Intel processors available with the Surface Pro 9, as mentioned by CBS News, provides options for different performance levels, from basic tasks to more demanding applications. Its ability to function as both a tablet and a laptop, combined with the support for Microsoft’s ecosystem of software and services, makes the Surface Pro 9 a top choice for business professionals and students.

The tablet PC market in 2024 offers an array of sophisticated options, each tailored to meet specific consumer demands. The key to making the best choice lies in understanding personal or professional requirements and aligning them with the features offered by these leading models. Whether it’s for advanced computing, creative work, entertainment, or everyday use, the tablets of 2024 deliver not just cutting-edge technology but also open up exciting possibilities for users to explore and enjoy. As the tablet market continues to evolve, these devices are set to become even more integral to our digital lives, blending functionality with innovation.

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  • Deals and sales

The 80+ Best Deals From Amazon's Big Spring Sale (And Across the Internet) This Week

A collage of a Brother p-touch cube label maker, the North Face Wawona 6 tent, and a person wearing gray ankle socks.

Amazon’s Big Spring Sale kicked off on Wednesday and lasts through Monday, March 25.

The introduction of yet another Amazon-manufactured sale event sees the online retail giant promising savings on cleaning gear, outdoor essentials, electronics, clothing, and home goods.

But does the sale live up to the hype? We’ve assessed the deals on offer (so far). Most didn’t make the grade, so we dug in to find those that are truly worth the spend.

Below, we’ve rounded up the best deals from Amazon and other retailers offering competing sales, including REI, to find you only the best spring deals on our expert-approved picks.

The best deals on:

Lawn and garden, outdoor, camping, and hiking, luggage and travel, kitchen and appliance, tech, laptops, and tv, spring clothing and shoes, home, furniture and personal care.

Our pick for best garden hose that offers better quality for a higher price, the Eley 5/8-inch Polyurethane Garden Hose.

Eley 5/8-inch Polyurethane Garden Hose (50 Feet) — Upgrade Pick Eley deal price: $103 ; street price: $122

What we like: Our upgrade garden hose pick. Much lighter, easier to loop, more durable, and resists folding or kinking compared to other options. Large brass fittings at the ends are easy to tighten by hand or wrench. Absolutely hosetastic—the best we’ve ever tested.

Other things to know: Pricey—even when on sale—but if you want a hose that's better in every way and are willing to pay for it, this is the one to get. 10-year warranty. Deal price is for the 50-foot length.

Read our review of the best garden hose and hose reel .

Govee Outdoor String Lights (96 Feet) — Another Good Option Amazon deal price: $65 with clipped on-page coupon ; street price: $90

What we like: Another good string light in our guide to the best smart outdoor lighting. Affordably priced and available in a 48-foot set and a 96-foot set. They provide far more special-effects options than our string light pick.

Other things to know: Very overwhelming app. The strands have fewer bulbs per foot than our string-lights pick, and they don’t feel as sturdy. Frosted bulbs. Deal is for the 96-foot length; be sure to clip the on-page coupon.

Read our review of the best smart outdoor lighting .

Ego LM2135SP Power+ 21″ Select Cut Lawn Mower with extra battery — Runner-Up Lowe’s deal price: $600 ; street price: $950

What we like: Our runner-up pick for the best lawn mower, bundled with an extra Ego battery. Battery-powered self-propelled mower can run for about an hour on a single battery charge. No need for gas, oil checks, or fuel storage, and no noxious emissions. Considerably quieter than gas mowers.

Other things to know: First deal we’ve seen since Black Friday. Minimal maintenance compared with gas models. A little less powerful and shorter run time than our top pick, but additional battery easily makes up for primary battery’s capacity. Extra Ego BA2800T battery has 56-volt, 5 Ah, 280 Wh capacity, usually between $200 and $300 when purchased separately.

Read our review of the best lawn mower .

Ego ST1511T Power+ 15″ Powerload String Trimmer — Top Pick Amazon deal price: $153 ; street price: $220

What we like: Our top pick for the best string trimmer. Outperformed the other brands’ trimmers in run time and power. Telescoping shaft and handle are easy to adjust and make the tool comfortable to use.

Other things to know: New low. The charger can deliver a full battery in about 40 minutes.

Read our review of the best string trimmers .

A blue Yeti Tundra Haul Hard Cooler.

Yeti Tundra Haul Hard Cooler — Our Pick Moosejaw deal price: $340 with single-use discount and free Dick's ScoreCard account ; street price: $425

What we like: Our pick for the best cooler with wheels. Easy to haul across long distances. Durable wheels. Thick-gauge welded aluminum handle won't strain or bend. Feels similar to wheeling around high-end luggage.

Other things to know: No internal divider. Contents may shuffle a bit when tipped at an angle. Available in six colors. You have to sign in with your free Dick's ScoreCard account to get the discount on a single full-price item from Moosejaw. Shipping is free.

Read our review of the best coolers .

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Water Bottle (16 Ounces) — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $17 in select colors ; street price: $25

What we like: A wider-mouth version of our simple stainless steel water bottle pick. Insulated double-walled stainless steel kept drinks hot for six hours or cold for a full day in our tests. Pleasant to sip from, simple to carry, and completely leakproof. Wide mouth makes it easy to add ice.

Other things to know: No silicone boot like our other picks. Includes detachable BPA-free Flex Sip lid. Not dishwasher-safe. Limited lifetime warranty. On sale in select colors in 16-ounce size. Not the lowest price we've seen, but still a good value.

Read our review of the best water bottles .

Leatherman Free P2 Multi-Tool — Also Great Moosejaw deal price: $104 with single-use discount and free Dick's ScoreCard account ; street price: $130

What we like: Our pick for the best full-sized multi-tool. Wider tool selection than our top pick, we found the added scissors and a package opener routinely useful day to day. With its handles closed, all of the tools can be accessed with a single hand. Slender, streamlined design. Included pocket clip.

Other things to know: Bit heavier than top pick. Combo blade with serrations (which we don't prefer). You have to sign in with your free Dick's ScoreCard account to get the discount on a single full-price item from Moosejaw. Shipping is free.

Read our review of the best multi-tool .

Supergoop Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50 (18 Ounces) — Our Pick Supergoop deal price: $54 with code WC24 ; street price: $68

What we like: One of our chemical sunscreen picks that's available in bulk. Good for face and body. Rubs in easily and is nearly transparent once applied. Light, pleasant scent. SPF 50 rating offers a high level of protection. User-friendly pump bottle.

Other things to know: None of Wirecutter’s testers experienced a white cast, but some reported that it left them feeling greasy. The 18-ounce jug is the most affordable size on a per-ounce basis. Use code WC24 .

Read our ode to Supergoop sunscreen .

The North Face Wawona 6 Tent (2023) — Upgrade Pick REI deal price: $350 in select colors ; street price: $500

What we like: Our upgrade pick camping tent. Dome-style with nearly vertical walls, high ceilings, and a single mudroom-sized vestibule. Straightforward to pitch, and made with sturdy, light materials.

Other things to know: Expensive, but you get value for your money. The Wawona 6’s footprint, or protective groundsheet, is sold separately. We recommend setting up with two people, but one person can manage in about 15 minutes. Limited lifetime warranty. Available in orange/tan.

Read our review of the best camping tents .

NiteRider Swift 300 Bike Light — Budget Pick REI deal price: $24 with single-use code MEMBER24, REI membership required ; street price: $30

What we like: Our headlight budget pick for the best commuter bike light is small and sturdy, with a swiveling strap and decent side visibility. Can emit 300 lumens for up to two hours and flash for 12. Adjusts to fit most sizes and shapes of handlebars.

Other things to know: Not suited to longer or darker routes. Lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects, one-year warranty on its rechargeable battery cells. Already affordable but rarely sees discounts. On sale for REI members with single-use promo code MEMBER24.

Read our review of the best commuter bike lights .

Blundstone Original 500 Series Boot — Staff Favorite REI deal price: $168 with single-use code MEMBER24, REI membership required ; street price: $210

What we like: A casual leather boot loved by Wirecutter staff and many others around the world. Pull-on, ankle-high, with an elastic panel. Comfortable, durable rubber sole. Uppers made of extra-thick leather. Ergonomically engineered to reduce fatigue. Can last for years with daily wear.

Other things to know: Exceptionally light for a pair of boots, about 14 ounces per pair. Unisex. Best price and size availability is for the stout brown color. On sale for REI members with single-use promo code MEMBER24.

Read our ode to the Blundstone boots .

Panel Sound USAPA Approved Fiberglass Pickleball Paddles — Staff Favorite Amazon deal price: $20 in select colors ; street price: $35

What we like: A staff-favorite pickleball paddle set. Lightweight and comfortable to hold. Grippy handles and rubbery faces absorb some of the ball’s velocity. Good for beginners.

Other things to know: Set includes two paddles, four indoor balls, a carrying case, and two cooling towels. Deal is for the red paddle set.

Read our review of the best pickleball equipment for playing at home .

Vasque Breeze Waterproof Hiking Boot (Men’s Sizes) — Also Great REI deal price: $96 with single-use code MEMBER24, REI membership required ; street price: $140

What we like: Our more flexible hiking boot pick. Offers all the comfort of a trail-running shoe with the ankle support of a hiking boot. Lighter weight (just over 2 pounds per pair) is good for longer hikes. Substantial enough to support you while carrying a heavy pack.

Other things to know: Runs narrow—we recommend ordering at least a half-size up from your street-shoe size. Takes longer to break (about 10 miles) in than our top pick. On sale in nutria color for REI members with single-use promo code  MEMBER24 .

Read our review of the best hiking boots .

Snow Peak Ti-Single 600 Cup With Hotlips — Staff Favorite REI deal price: $34 with single-use code MEMBER24, REI membership required ; street price: $43

What we like: A larger version of an ultralight titanium mug we like for campfire cooking and making coffee on the go. Durable, smooth titanium design. Roomy flip-out handle. Attach to a carabiner for external storage. Food-grade silicone HotLips help mitigate potential scorching.

Other things to know: Cup may be too hot to drink from on its own at first pour. Can also be used as a single-serving pot for boiling water. Hotlips only fit on Snow Peaks mugs. Use single-use coupon code MEMBER24 . REI membership required.

Read our review of our favorite campfire cooking tips tricks and gear .

Sawyer Products Permethrin Fabric Treatment (24 Ounces) — Also Great Amazon deal price: $14 ; street price: $18

What we like: Our bug repellent pick for clothing and gear (but not your skin). As effective as similar formulas at repelling ticks and mosquitoes, and its trigger spray is easier to control and apply evenly. Each application provides about six washings (or six weeks, whichever comes first) of protection.

Other things to know: The 24-ounce bottle should be enough to treat four outfits (shirt, pants, socks). The set of two 24-ounce bottles offers a slightly better price per ounce if you need to stock up.

Read our review of the best bug repellents .

An opened Monos Hybrid Trunk lying flat on its back.

Monos Hybrid Trunk — Also Great Monos deal price: $410 with code ANOTHERYEAR ; street price: $455

What we like: Our pick for the best trunk for checking. Made of a robust polycarbonate with aluminum corner guards and an aluminum frame around the center seam that reinforces the body of the luggage. Has two TSA locks, which close with a satisfying latch.

Other things to know: Due to the design, some travelers consider trunks to be easier to pack and to maneuver. Does away with the standard zipper closure. Doesn’t have a ton of built-in organization. Lifetime warranty. Use code ANOTHERYEAR . Sold out in silver, but available in champagne and black colors.

Read our review of the best suitcases for checking .

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Carry-On Travel Backpack — Our Pick REI deal price: $160 with single-use code MEMBER24, REI membership required ; street price: $200 Moosejaw deal price: $160 with single-use discount and free Dick's ScoreCard account ; street price: $200

What we like: Our pick for the best small carry-on travel backpack for most situations. Easy-to-pack clamshell design and highly adjustable straps. Has handles on all four sides. Protected by a full lifetime warranty and has the build quality to back that up. Made with 1,680-denier ballistic nylon and includes a rain fly.

Other things to know: Minimal amount of administrative organization. We’d love to see a permanent all-nylon alternative to the TPU-lined front panel, which can flake over time. On sale for REI members with single-use promo code MEMBER24 (only the color river remains in stock at REI) or for the public at Moosejaw with a single-use promo and free Dick's ScoreCard account (river color only).

Read our review of the best carry-on travel backpacks .

Apple AirTag Bluetooth Tracker — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $24 ; street price: $29

What we like: Our pick for the best Bluetooth tracker for iOS users leverages Apple’s huge network of devices to find lost goods. Impressively accurate. Replaceable coin battery. If you lose an AirTag (or an item containing or attached to one), you can use the Find My app to see its location or ask Siri to trigger an audible alert.

Other things to know: Doesn’t have any way to ring your phone. No built-in method of attaching to anything. Solid deal for an individual tracker but sales for sets of four typically offer a better price per tracker.

Read our review of the best Bluetooth tracker .

Bellroy Tokyo Tote Second Edition — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $89 in select colors ; street price: $129

What we like: Our pick for a durable, water-repellent polyester laptop tote bag. Tough yet polished. Transitions perfectly from the coffee shop to the conference room. Thoughtfully designed, with features like internal popout bottle pockets and leakproof zippers.

Other things to know: Fabric shell is abrasive and may make some sweaters and blouses pill. The weave also attracts pet hair like a magnet. Available in bronze and ranger green. Lowest price we've seen so far.

Read our review of the best laptop tote bags .

The sleek, white Cuisinart Frozen Yogurt-Ice Cream & Sorbet Maker (ICE-21), our pick for best ice cream maker.

Cuisinart Frozen Yogurt-Ice Cream & Sorbet Maker (ICE-21) — Top Pick Amazon deal price: $56 ; street price: $60

What we like: Our top ice cream maker pick. Made some of the smoothest and most delicious ice cream in our tests. More affordable than a compressor model. Churns ice cream faster than the competition.

Other things to know: Bowl insert must be pre-frozen overnight, which requires planning. Extra freezer bowls, required to make multiple batches in a row, sold separately.

Read our review of the best ice cream maker .

OXO Easy-Clean Compost Bin (1.75 Gallon) — Pick Variant Bloomingdale's deal price: $26 ; street price: $32

What we like: A larger version of our simple, compact compost bin pick. A lightweight, no-nonsense plastic pail. Easy to clean. Hinged handle for carrying.

Other things to know: Attached lid isn't airtight. Worked well in our freezer (to go a couple weeks between compost drop-offs). Price reflects in cart.

Read our review of the best kitchen compost bins we love .

OXO Good Grips Glass 9" Pie Plate with Lid — Top Pick Bloomingdale's deal price: $12 ; street price: $15

What we like: Our top pick for the best pie plate. Simple and sturdy. Holds more filling than the competition. Handy lid allows for easier storage and transport. Minimalist design.

Other things to know: Made of borosilicate glass. Two inches deep. A little too big for store-bought crust. Price reflects in cart; free shipping.

Read our review of the best pie plate .

Thermos Funtainer Food Jar (10 Ounces, 2-Pack) — Also Great Amazon deal price: $15 for a 2-pack ; street price: $22

What we like: A two-pack of our kids pick for best food thermos. Durable and easy for small hands to open. Never leaked in our tests, and the lid never cracked during drop tests.

Other things to know: 10-ounce container is best for kids (or for a small adult lunch). Doesn't retain heat for as long as our top pick (130 °F after 6 hours, vs 144 °F for our top pick). Best suited for keeping foods hot, not great for keeping foods cold. Deal price is for a 2-pack.

Read our review of the best food thermos .

Zojirushi NS-TSC10 Rice Cooker (5.5 Cups) — Another Good Option Amazon deal price: $150 ; street price: $180

What we like: Another good rice cooker that costs less than our top pick and performs almost as well. Makes superb white, long-grain, and sticky rice. Has a solid quick-cook setting. $65 cheaper than the current price of our top pick in the same size.

Other things to know: Former pick top pick (we prefer the Neuro Fuzzy’s pot because it has handles and a more advanced fuzzy-logic chip that can turn an atrociously mis-measured batch of rice into something edible). For big families and voracious eaters, the 10-cup version of this cooker on sale for $165.

Read our review of the best rice cookers .

YouCopia StoraLid Lid Organizer (Large) — Staff Favorite Amazon deal price: $16 ; street price: $20

What we like: A staff-favorite lid organizer we like for keeping things tidy in the cabinet. Keeps food-storage container lids organized and easily accessible with minimal human effort. Adjustable tabbed dividers for separating lid sizes.

Other things to know: Only as useful as your willingness to use it and organize. Needs large empty space to fit into a cabinet. Deal for the large size, recurring sale price.

Read our ode to the YouCopia StoraLid Lid Organizer .

YouCopia Storemore Expandable Adjustable Pan and Lid Rack — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $18 ; street price: $30

What we like: A variant of our adjustable bakeware rack pick. We recommend the bakeware rack in several of our articles on kitchen organization; this pan-and-lid rack has a similar design but extends up to 22 inches, and the wire dividers are shaped to account for lid handles. Easy way to organize a variety of kitchen items.

Other things to know: Comes with 10 adjustable dividers. At 13 inches wide without expanding, it’s not as compact as our recommended bakeware rack. Additional and replacement dividers are sold separately by the merchant.

Read our review of the best small kitchen ideas to create more space .

Simple Modern Trek Tumbler (40 Ounce) — Staff Favorite Amazon deal price: $24 in select colors ; street price: $30

What we like: Our favorite high-quality, budget-friendly Stanley tumbler dupe. Performed just as well as its costlier competitors. Kept ice frozen for over 24 hours and stopping leaks with its screw-top lid. Available in over 20 colors and patterns, more than the competition offers.

Other things to know: Most Trek tumblers are dishwasher-safe, though some of the patterned options are hand-wash-only to preserve their design. On sale in a few multi-color options.

Read our review of the best Stanley dupes .

Atlas Coffee Club 2-Bag Subscription — Gift Pick Atlas Coffee Club deal price: $14 with code WCMARCH50, new subscribers only ; street price: $28

What we like: A coffee subscription service we recommend in multiple gift guides. Atlas Coffee Club delivers satisfying coffee at a low price, with plenty of customization, and you always have something new to try. Sources beans from countries all over the world. Each bag of coffee includes a postcard with fun facts about the country’s coffee industry.

Other things to know: The subscription is highly customizable. New subscribers can use code WCMARCH50 for 50% off their first two-bag subscription. Matches the best previous pricing we've posted.

Read our review of the best gifts for coffee lovers .

Hamilton Beach Temp Tracker 6 Quart Slow Cooker — Also Great Costco deal price: $50 shipped, Costco membership required ; street price: $70

What we like: Our slow cooker pick for longer cook times. Similar to our top pick but offers more precise temperature control. 24-hour timer instead of 14 hours. More built-in slots for a probe thermometer. Settings include high, medium, low, and warm.

Other things to know: Ran a little hotter than our top pick in our tests, and we’re not convinced that everyone needs the extras. Costco membership required. Price includes shipping.

Read our review of the best slow cooker .

Cuisinart CPT-122 2-Slice Compact Plastic Toaster — Top Pick Amazon deal price: $24 in select colors ; street price: $30

What we like: Our longtime top pick for the best two-slot toaster. Produced the most evenly browned bread in our testing. Wide range of settings and easy-to-use controls. Wide slots for thick-cut bagels.

Other things to know: Three-year warranty. Available in white. Plastic body and levers don’t look quite as nice as a metal finish. Heating-element wires of modern toasters are subject to corrosion over time.

Read our review of the best toaster .

Gracula Garlic Crusher — Gift Pick Amazon deal price: $15 ; street price: $25

What we like: A Dracula-inspired kitchen gadget recommended in multiple Wirecutter gift guides. Any cooking-inclined classic-horror fan, kid, or year-round Halloween celebrant would “vant” this as a gift. Plop a few cloves into the base (his cape), pop on the top (his head), and twist at the neck to mince.

Other things to know: Make sure to remove chopped garlic quickly—vampires can’t tolerate garlic for long (plus, it’s a nightmare to clean when dried).

Read our review of the best Valentine’s Day gifts under $25 .

Philips GoZero Sparkling Water Maker — Budget Pick Amazon deal price: $54 ; street price: $64

What we like: Our budget soda maker pick has a sleek and attractive no-frills look. Makes good-tasting seltzer with lively bubbles. Surprisingly good quality for the price.

Other things to know: Assembly can be a pain. CO 2 cylinder is sold separately for around $30. If you have empty cylinders, you can exchange them for a discount.

Read our review of the best soda maker .

OXO Brew 8-Cup Coffee Maker — Another Good Option Amazon deal price: $140 ; street price: $180

What we like: A speedy drip coffee maker we like that can make pour-over-quality single servings in addition to full pots. Small footprint and simple design. Brews coffee with well-rounded flavor. Can brew directly into the thermal carafe or a mug.

Other things to know: Lacks auto-brew function, clock, and timer.

Read our review of the best drip coffee maker .

Tovolo Dino Popsicle Molds (Set of 4) — Also Great Amazon deal price: $10 ; street price: $16

What we like: A small-ish dinosaur-shaped popsicle mold we love for kids (or dino-loving adults). Slightly smaller size and cute shape are perfect for fun frozen treats and experimenting with new flavors. Dishwasher-safe, so they're super easy to clean.

Other things to know: A little fussy to fill. Silicone mold is easy to peel off frozen pops—doesn't require pre-soaking or rinsing in warm water.

Read our review of the best popsicle molds .

Cuisinart CPT-142 4-Slice Compact Plastic Toaster — Top Pick Bloomingdale's deal price: $40 in cart ; street price: $50

What we like: Our longtime top pick for the best four-slot toaster. Consistently produces four slices of perfectly golden brown toast. Offers a wide range of settings and easy-to-use controls. Housing remains cool to the touch, even after multiple batches.

Other things to know: Heating element wires of modern toasters are subject to corrosion over time. Only available in white. Price reflects in cart.

A Roborock Q5+ in its self-emptying dock.

Roborock Q5+ Robot Vacuum — Our Pick Roborock deal price: $370 with code ROBOROCKS ; street price: $550

What we like: Our self-emptying robot vacuum pick. Better battery life, app navigation, mapping, and voice command response to Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant than other bots. Large bin. Excels at cleaning hard floors and low- to medium-pile carpets.

Other things to know: Comes with a charging station that empties debris into a disposable bag. Like nearly all bots we tested, it struggles with debris near thresholds and baseboards. A new low price, but not by much. Use coupon code ROBOROCKS .

Read our review of the best robot vacuums .

A pair of Soundcore Space A40 earbuds, one bud laying outside of the case and one nestled in its compartment.

Anker Soundcore Space A40 Earbuds — Top Pick Amazon deal price: $50 ; street price: $80

What we like: Our top pick for best wireless Bluetooth earbuds. Solid sound quality, great battery life, and active noise cancellation. Each earbud can be used independently. Dual-device connectivity. Should fit most ears comfortably.

Other things to know: Does not support voice-activated assistants like Alexa and Siri. IPX4 water-resistance. 18-month warranty. Limited touch controls. This deal lacks the $5 gift card we typically see bundled with these earbuds.

Read our review of the best wireless Bluetooth earbuds .

Sony PlayStation 5 Slim Digital Edition + Marvel's Spider-Man 2 Bundle (No Disc Drive) — Also Great Target deal price: $400 ; street price: $450 Best Buy deal price: $400 ; street price: $450

What we like: The new "Slim" version of our top PlayStation game console pick without a disc drive, plus the new Spider-Man 2 2 game we loved in our recent review . Slightly narrower and shorter than the OG. 1 TB storage (up from 825 GB).

Other things to know: The Digital Edition doesn’t include a disc drive, so you can’t watch Blu-rays or take advantage of new or used games, or old PS4 discs. Still some backwards compatibility issues with PS4 games and exclusives. No Dolby Vision or or DTS:X support. Despite being called the "Slim," it's still quite large and bulky. Marvel's Spider-Man 2 digital code included.

Read our review of the best game consoles .

Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 2 Instant Photo Printer — Top Pick Best Buy deal price: $90 ; street price: $100 Target deal price: $90 ; street price: $100

What we like: Our top pick for best instant photo printer. Ultra-portable and compact. Quickly delivers vibrant, credit-card-sized film-like prints. Easy to set up and use with an intuitive app.

Other things to know: Printer body feels fragile. Prints take four to six minutes to fully develop and may lack fine detail and clarity. Uses the same film packs as Fujifilm’s Instax cameras. Recurring deal price, but has yet to drop lower. Available in black, white, and pink.

Read our review of the best instant photo printer .

Sonos Move Speaker (First Gen) — Our Pick Costco deal price: $280, Costco membership required ; street price: $400

What we like: Our pick for a portable smart speaker for your outdoor space. High-quality and wireless. Sounds good. All the benefits of the Sonos system. Supports Airplay 2, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant. IP56-rated water resistance. Solid 10-hour battery life.

Other things to know: Audio is notably directional, with a dead spot directly behind it. The charging base is not waterproof. No stereo separation. Sonos released the second generation model last year. Available in black for Costco members.

Read our review of the best smart devices for making the most of your backyard and garden .

Nebula Mars 3 Air Portable Mini Projector — Top Pick Amazon deal price: $450 with clipped on-page coupon ; street price: $600

What we like: Our top pick for the best portable mini projector. 1080p projector that offers good image brightness and contrast with above-average sound and easy setup. Runs off an internal battery for true portability (up to 3.5 hours of runtime in our tests). Uses the Google TV streaming platform, which is our favorite.

Other things to know: Main downsides include the lack of a USB-C port and the awkwardly designed underside, which limits the tripods and mounts it can attach to. Clip the on-page coupon to get the deal.

Read our review of the best portable mini projector .

Apple MacBook Air (M1, 2020, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD) — Budget Pick (For Now) Walmart deal price: $700 in select colors ; street price: $750

What we like: Our soon-to-be-replaced budget pick from our guide to the best MacBooks. Still enough memory and storage for most day-to-day work. Approximately 14-hour battery life. Lightweight with solid construction, a comfortable keyboard, and industry-leading customer support. M1 processor still good enough for everyday tasks, non-power users.

Other things to know: M3 processor is finally out and the M1 is starting to show its age after three years. Still a worthwhile everyday laptop, but we will likely see better deals in the future as M3 adoption becomes more widespread. Comes with 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD, 13.3-inch Retina display, one 3.5mm jack, and two Thunderbolt 3 ports. Available in select finishes. $30 below the previous lowest price.

Read our review of the best MacBooks .

Vantrue N4 Dash Cam — Top Pick Vantrue deal price: $175 with code WIREVAN4 ; street price: $220

What we like: Our top pick for best dash cam. Crisp, super-high-resolution footage day and night. Front-facing, interior, and rear-facing cameras. 24-hour parked-car monitoring. Compact and relatively unobtrusive. Includes 12-volt car charger.

Other things to know: Performance suffers in temperatures below 14 degrees Fahrenheit. Lacks app connectivity to remotely view and download video. Use code WIREVAN4 for deal from Vantrue. Matches low.

Read our review of the best dash cam .

Google Pixel 8 (128 GB, Unlocked) — Top Pick Amazon deal price: $500 ; street price: $620

What we like: Our top pick for the best Android smartphone offers the best version of Android with guaranteed security updates through fall 2030. Has one of the best smartphone cameras we’ve tested. Excellent build quality. Crisp 6.2-inch OLED display and solid wrap-around aluminum frame.

Other things to know: More expensive than previous models. Videos can often look a little grainy but have good color reproduction. Deal is for an unlocked phone with 128 GB of internal storage.

Read our review of the best Android phones .

Soundcore Space One Noise-Cancelling Headphones — Budget Pick Amazon deal price: $80 ; street price: $100

What we like: Our budget pick for the best over-ear noise-cancelling headphones offer impressive noise cancellation and good sound for less than $100. Comfortable and lightweight. 40-hour battery life with ANC on. Offers dual-device connectivity, hear-through mode, and quick-charge feature.

Other things to know: The three noise-reducing microphones can make voices sound compressed and somewhat distant to callers. Sound is customizable via the Soundcore app.

Read our review of the best noise-cancelling headphones .

Garmin Forerunner 255S GPS Running Watch — Runner-Up Amazon deal price: $250 ; street price: $350

What we like: One of our runner-up picks for the best GPS running watch. One of the most feature-packed, top-performing models we’ve tested. Accurate distance and route tracking. Solid heart-rate monitoring. Multiband GPS.

Other things to know: Decent battery life (about 14 days), but much shorter than that of our top pick. No touchscreen. Not quite as accurate at tracking road runs as our top pick. One-year warranty.

Read our review of the best GPS running watches .

Garmin Forerunner 255S Music GPS Running Watch — Runner-Up Amazon deal price: $300 ; street price: $380

What we like: Our runner-up pick for the best GPS running watch if listening to music is important for your workouts. Still one of the most feature-packed, top-performing GPS running watches we’ve tested. Includes music streaming and storage capabilities.

Other things to know: Accurate distance and route tracking. Solid heart-rate monitoring. Multiband GPS. Decent battery life, about 14 days. Lacks touchscreen. Much shorter battery life than our top pick. In tracking road runs, it’s not quite as accurate as our top pick. One-year warranty.

Soundcore Motion 300 Bluetooth Speaker — Runner-Up Amazon deal price: $64 ; street price: $80

What we like: Our runner-up pick for the best portable Bluetooth speaker. Good sound quality comparable to that of our top pick but with an emphasis on instruments over vocals. Offers IPX7 waterproofing and had 12 hours of battery life during our tests. USB-C charging.

Other things to know: Larger than our top pick but slimmer. Not as ruggedly built as our top pick. Bluetooth range is shorter than we’d like (60 feet during tests), which is adequate but not impressive these days.

Read our review of the best portable Bluetooth speaker .

Cricut Explore 3 Electronic Cutting Machine — Top Pick Amazon deal price: $228 ; street price: $300

What we like: Our top for the best electronic cutting machine. Intuitive and easy-to-use software is great for beginners. Superior selection of images and ready-to-make projects.

Other things to know: Faster than other cutting machines but significantly louder. Doesn’t come with a cutting mat and can only cut materials that are 6 inches or longer. Only the second deal we’ve posted on the Explore 3 so far. After another drop, now down to the lowest price we've seen to date.

Read our review of the best electronic cutting machines .

Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 Smartwatch — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $228 ; street price: $350

What we like: Our pick for a long-lasting Android smartwatch. Compact, comfortable design. Runs nearly seven days between recharges. Low-power mode maintains basic functionality for weeks. Dual-layer display. Fast, powerful Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 processor.

Other things to know: Uses an older version of Wear OS. Phone app is clunky. Amazon Alexa is the only voice-assistant option.

Read our review of the best smartwatch for Android phones .

Brother P-Touch Cube Label Maker — Budget Pick Amazon deal price: $45 ; street price: $60

What we like: Our budget pick for the best label maker. Easy to use. Good for occasional label making. Produces the same high-quality labels and uses the same great design suite as our top pick.

Other things to know: A stripped-down version of our top pick. Lacks automatic cutter and built-in rechargeable battery. Recurring deal price, but rarely drops lower.

Read our review of the best label makers .

Aura Carver Mat Digital Photo Frame — Pick Variant Amazon deal price: $143 in select colors ; street price: $180

What we like: A variant of our top digital photo frame pick. Offers easy setup, vivid display, pleasing design, and near-zero pillarboxing. Loading photos and videos remotely is a breeze. Features two frame layers that give the look of a mat picture frame.

Other things to know: The 16:10 aspect ratio isn’t our preferred 4:3. Free Aura app works with iOS and Android phones. Available in black or clay color with white mat.

Read our review of the best digital photo frame .

Smartish Gripmunk with MagSafe for iPhone 15 Case — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $16 in select colors ; street price: $20

What we like: Our pick for the best basic phone case for the iPhone 15. A one-piece case made of soft, rubber-like plastic (TPU, or thermoplastic polyurethane), and provides more than adequate coverage and protection. Easy to install but won't stretch out. Affordable but doesn’t feel cheap.

Other things to know: Has been our pick for the best basic iPhone case for years now and continues to maintain that spot, but is a plain case with not much going on. Select colors on sale. The iPhone 15 Plus, Pro, and Pro Max versions are also on sale in a few colors.

Read our review of the best iPhone cases .

The A.L.C. Renzo Pleated Midi Dress, shown on a model.

A.L.C. Renzo Pleated Midi Dress — Our Pick Bloomingdale's deal price: $446 ; street price: $595

What we like: Our pick for the ultimate little black cocktail dress. Delicate pleats, a high neck, and exposed shoulders make this a refined choice for an evening out. Breathable polyester felt softer and more luxurious than many silk dresses we tested.

Other things to know: The priciest dress we recommend, but worth the investment. Designed to hit midcalf, but may hit closer to ankle level if under 5-foot-5. Sold in sizes 00 to 14.

Read our review of the best little black dresses .

Sungait Vintage Round Sunglasses (Polarized Lenses, 2-Pack) — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $15 for a 2-pack select colors with clipped on-page coupon ; street price: $18

What we like: Our cheap round sunglasses pick. Also recommended in gift guides and outdoor guides. Comfortable and sturdy. Complements a variety of face shapes. Keyhole nose bridge. Mini screwdriver provided with purchase. Logo-free and unisex.

Other things to know: Lifetime warranty (rare at this price). Some Sungait pairs sold on Amazon don't have polarized lenses, double-check before buying. Deal is for a 2-pack in select frame colors. Clip on-page coupon to get deal for some colors.

Read our review of the best cheap sunglasses .

Paige Cindy Jeans — Top Pick Paige deal price: $164 with code PAIGEFAMILY24 ; street price: $219

What we like: Our decadently soft and stretchy women's jeans pick. Straight-leg, high-rise style, fitted through the waist and hips. Body-conscious yet totally lounge-able. Testers of different sizes and shapes found these jeans flattering and wildly comfortable.

Other things to know: Stretchier denim tends to (you guessed it) stretch out over time. 28-inch inseam may be too short for some. Destroyed hem isn't for everyone. Run slightly large; we recommend sizing down if between sizes. Use code PAIGEFAMILY2024 . Doesn't quite compare to deals we saw over Black Friday, but still a good value.

Read our review of the best women's jeans .

Nike Blazer Mid '77 Vintage Sneakers (Men's) — Staff Favorite Nike deal price: $72 in select colors with code SPRING, free Nike membership required ; street price: $105

What we like: A staff favorite alternative to Nike Air Force 1s. Versatile mid-height sneakers with a vintage feel. Sleek, leather upper with suede details. Solid rubber sole provides strong foot support and traction.

Other things to know: Free Nike membership required to use coupon code SPRING and for free shipping. Several colors are on sale, but the tan option offers a wide range of sizes for a neutral color.

Read our ode to the Nike Blazer Mid '77 Vintage Sneakers .

Universal Standard Next-to-Naked Legging — Our Pick Universal Standard deal price: $15 for new customers with code WIRECUTTER (limit 1 per customer) ; street price: $96

What we like: Our lightweight leggings pick for layering (or to replace your everyday pants). Soft, stretchy, and comfortable enough to wear all day. Thinner than most pairs we tried. Waistband didn’t pinch and stayed put for all of our testers. Good for lounging about or even working out.

Other things to know: Formerly known as the Core Legging. Sizing conversions don’t follow standard conventions—please refer to on-page chart to ensure you get the correct size. Use code WIRECUTTER (new customers only, one use per customer). Extremely limited sizes, colors, and styles remaining.

Read our review of the best leggings .

Crocs Dylan Clog — Gift Pick Amazon deal price: $33 in select colors ; street price: $55

What we like: A more sophisticated pair of Crocs we recommend in several of our gift guides. Belies the brand's ugly reputation. Textured to look like full-grain leather. Clean profile with a notably unperforated toe box.

Other things to know: Easy to wash thanks to proprietary resin construction. On sale in select colors in women's and men's sizes. New low.

Read our review of the best gifts for boyfriends (that are great for anyone) .

Big Claw Clips (8-Pack) — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $7 for an 8-pack in select colors ; street price: $10

What we like: A staff-favorite claw clip for wrangling curly and unruly hair. Stays put even during sleep. Extremely durable and sturdy.

Other things to know: Includes eight clips in multiple colors and two styles. Clips are about 4 inches long and open to 3.54 inches. Made from soft matte plastic.

Read our review of our favorite hair ties, scrunchies, bows, and clips .

Bonobos Soft Everyday Tee (pack of two) — Our Pick Bonobos deal price: $50 when you add two to cart ; street price: $70

What we like: Our boxier, more relaxed white T-shirt pick. Extremely soft with some stretch and sturdily constructed. Especially loved by our plus-size testers for quality, fit, and comfort. 100% cotton.

Other things to know: Generous fit may not work for people with smaller frames. Available in a variety of colors and sizes. Choose between crew neck or V-neck and slim or standard cut. Add two to your cart to get the deal price.

Read our review of the best men’s white T-shirts .

What we like: A casual leather boot loved by Wirecutter staff and many others around the world. Pull-on, ankle-high, with an elastic panel. Comfortable, durable rubber sole. Uppers made of extra-thick leather. Ergonomically engineered to reduce fatigue. They can last for years with daily wear.

Etsfmoa Unisex Beanie with Light — Gift Pick Amazon deal price: $13 in select colors ; street price: $15

What we like: A combination beanie and headlamp recommended in multiple Wirecutter gift guides. A bright, rechargeable light embedded in a soft, warm hat. Light charges in about two hours via USB port and has three brightness settings. Beanie comes in 24 different colors and patterns.

Other things to know: Great for walking the dog after dark or staying hands-free during house projects (also makes a good Father’s Day gift). The black and gray hats, the typical colors we see on sale, are both down to $13.

Read our review of the best gifts under $25 .

Idegg No Show Socks (Unisex, Six Pairs) — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $12 for a 6-pack in select colors and sizes ; street price: $15

What we like: Our thin and inexpensive no-show socks pick. Made from a lightweight and breathable cotton blend. Terrific value, especially when on sale. Great for wearing with snug-fitting shoes. Won’t slip or bunch.

Other things to know: Thin material doesn’t provide much padding or support. Not as soft and smooth as our other no-show sock picks. Deal is for a medium six-pack combination of black, gray, and whites (add $1 for large).

Read our review of the best no-show socks .

Several individually packed Crest 3D Whitestrips and a toothbrush placed inside a small plastic container.

Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects Kit (22 Treatments) — Staff Favorite Amazon deal price: $30 ; street price: $46

What we like: An at-home teeth-whitening solution that is a staff favorite. Low-tech, effective, and very affordable. No dentist visits required. Comes with 10 days' worth of Professional Effects treatments and two 1-Hour Express treatments.

Other things to know: Slower than professional treatments—results take several sessions over the course of a few weeks. Not as good as the typical Costco Crest 3D Whitestrips deals we see, but a good discount for those without a Costco membership.

Read our ode to Crest 3D Whitestrips .

Yamazaki Home Tower Shoe Rack — Upgrade Pick Amazon deal price: $94 in select colors ; street price: $115

What we like: The investment-worthy upgrade pick from our guide to the best shoe racks. Slim enough to fit in a closet, but sleek enough for an entryway. Stores up to 24 pairs of shoes. Steel and wood veneer. Top could double as an entryway shelf. Two hooks on the side for keys or an umbrella.

Other things to know: The rack assembles quickly but will require using a screwdriver. Only holds adult-sized shoes; tiny shoes will tumble through. Only on sale in white.

Read our review of the best shoe rack .

Sabai The Essential Sofa — Our Pick Sabai deal price: $1,408 shipped ; street price: $1,640

What we like: Our favorite eco-friendly three-seater sofa pick. Cushions remain plump and unworn after years of use. Available in multiple configurations, fabrics, and colors. Many components are replaceable and recyclable.

Other things to know: Low back and shallow seating may not be the comfiest for lounging. Deal price reflects sample configuration with included shipping cost. The Essential Sofa is made to order and ships within two to four weeks.

Read our review of the best the best sofas you can buy online .

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer (Refurbished) — Upgrade Pick Walmart deal price: $220 ; street price: $300

What we like: Our longtime upgrade hair dryer pick. Unique design makes for an extraordinarily pleasant user experience. No vibration whatsoever. Simple-to-switch magnetic attachments make styling a breeze. Consistently our favorite hair dryer to use since we first tested it in 2016.

Other things to know: Pricey, and doesn’t make your hair look any different than cheaper options. Available in the select finishes. Manufacturer refurbished. One-year Dyson warranty and 30-day returns.

Read our review of the best hair dryer .

Threshold White Waffle Weave Shower Curtain — Our Pick Target deal price: $20 with store pickup (free shipping for RedCard holders) ; street price: $25

What we like: Our longtime pick for the best classic waffle-weave shower curtain. Simple, timeless, and durable. Easy to clean. Neutral design will complement just about any bathroom.

Other things to know: Available in white or gray. Select store pickup or make a combined order of $35 or more to avoid shipping fees. RedCard holders get free shipping and save an extra 5%.

Read our review of the best shower curtains .

GoYouth 2 in 1 Under Desk Electric Treadmill — Also Great Amazon deal price: $240 in select colors with clipped on-page coupon ; street price: $340

What we like: Our better-warranty under-desk treadmill pick. Easy to set up. Offers a smooth ride, a deck screen with Bluetooth speaker, and a belt size mirroring that of our top pick. Comes with a one-year warranty, which is substantially better than tour top pick's 90-day warranty.

Other things to know: Walking pad tops out at 3.7 mph. Can only support up to 220 pounds. In our testing, its belt started to fray after just a few weeks of use—damage that isn’t covered by the warranty. The red and blue colors are down to $240 with the clipped on-page coupon.

Read our review of the best under-desk treadmills .

Apotheke Charcoal Candle — Our Pick Bloomingdale's deal price: $33 in cart ; street price: $44

What we like: Our elegant, monochromatic pick for a warm and woodsy scented candle. Notes of charred sandalwood and cedar after a heavy rain. Fragrant but not heavy or overpowering. Sleek matte-black vessel is as stylish as it is adept at hiding soot streaks, fingerprints, and other smudges.

Other things to know: About 70-hour burn time. We wish it came with a lid or dust cover. Jar is reusable, but the company name is printed on the glass, so it’s impossible to remove. Price reflects in cart. We've seen better deals for the 3-wick size, but this is a solid deal for this size.

Read our review of our favorite scented candles .

Lutron Caséta Wireless In-Wall Smart Dimmer Switch (2-Count Kit) — Another Good Option Amazon deal price: $136 ; street price: $170

What we like: A good smart light dimmer switch if you don’t have great Wi-Fi. Easy-to-use keypad for dimming and powering lights manually. Easy to install. Works reliably with many smart-home devices. A pick when we started this guide, and we will continue to sing its praises.

Other things to know: Includes two switches, required Lutron Caséta Smart Bridge, and two wireless remotes. Uses ClearConnect wireless. Neutral wire required (which may be an issue in homes with old wiring).

Read our review of the best in-wall smart light switch and dimmer .

Akron Street Mysa Bed (Queen) — Our Pick Akron Street deal price: $1,166 in cart with code TOTHETRADE ; street price: $1,295

What we like: Our pick for a no-frills, all-oak modern bed. Supremely simple, clean aesthetic with a low profile. Solid white oak construction. Supported by 15 acacia pine slats. Easy-to-assemble. Built to last. Works especially well with tall mattresses and small bedrooms.

Other things to know: Has 11.5-inch height, with an under-bed clearance of 6.8 inches. No warranty. Price reflects in cart or use code TOTHETRADE . Standard shipping is free.

Read our review of the best modern bed frames to dress up your bedroom .

Homeasy Fabric Shaver — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $22 ; street price: $25

What we like: Our favorite electric fabric shaver. Features six sharp blades, a wide head, and intuitive controls. Very effective at getting rid of fuzz during our tests. Quiet and comfortable to hold. USB-rechargeable.

Other thing to know: Three to six hour battery life on a full charge. Includes two replacement blades. About $2 higher than the lowest sale price we've seen, but still a good value.

Read our review of the best laundry aides to help your clothes look better and last longer .

Eufy Security Video Doorbell S220 (Battery-Powered) — Our Pick Amazon deal price: $100 with clipped on-page coupon ; street price: $180

What we like: Our pick for the best battery-operated smart doorbell camera. Solid performance with exceptional battery life. Sharp 2K image with local or cloud storage options. (Cloud offers 30 days of history for $3 per month or $30 per year, per camera.)

Other things to know: Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Recordings are limited to 60 seconds. Gaps between recordings can last around 8 seconds. Includes Eufy HomeBase. Make sure to clip the on-page coupon to get the deal price.

Read our review of the best smart doorbell camera .

Winix 5500-2 Air Purifier — Also Great Amazon deal price: $128 ; street price: $150

What we like: An exceptional air purifier with a brutalist (or, if you prefer, minimalist) design. Venerable model with years of proven reliability. Performs similarly to the top-pick Coway Mighty and usually costs less up front.

Other things to know: No display shutoff except in lowest-purification sleep mode. Slightly elevated electrical use and larger visual footprint compared with our top pick.

Read our review of the best air purifier .

Revival Rugs - 25% Off Jute Area Rugs — Our Pick Revival deal price: $219 with code WCJUTE25 ; street price: $290

What we like: Our pick for a natural-fiber rug that comes in several colors. Flexible and finely woven, giving it a more delicate, flat appearance. Feels soft underfoot and barely sheds. Easy to vacuum and lightweight enough to shake out outside.

Other things to know: Best for dining rooms, kitchens, hallways, or layering in living rooms or bedrooms. Spot-clean only, as jute is very susceptible to water and humidity. Use code WCJUTE25 to save 25% on all jute rugs. Deal price is for the 5-by-8-foot size, but pricing varies depending on total cost; no minimum spend.

Read our review of the best area rugs .

Waterpik Aquarius Water Flosser — Runner-Up Amazon deal price: $58 ; street price: $80

What we like: Our runner-up pick for the best water flosser is just as effective as our top pick and comes with a similar three-year warranty. Easy to use and clean. Ten pressure settings, including a “massage” setting that emits pulses of water.

Other things to know: This is a corded model and requires a power outlet during use. Takes up more counter space than our top pick. Recurring deal price; $10 more than the deal we saw during Cyber Week.

Read our review of the best water flossers .

A cat lying on a blanket next to the Black+Decker Pet Hair Remover.

Black+Decker Pet Hair Remover — Staff Favorite Walmart deal price: $10 with store pickup ; street price: $16

What we like: A lint roller for pet hair recommended by the Wirecutter staff. Reusable and tape-free. Effectively catches stray fur on fabric surfaces. The brush is made of velvet and silicone that grips the fur and traps it in a bin behind the roller. Works great on bedding.

Other things to know: Roll it back and forth on your bedding, couch, or clothing to pick up hair, and press the button to empty it once the bin is full. Opt for store pickup to avoid shipping fees or add to a combined order over $35 for free shipping.

Read our review of the best pet hair removers .

PetKit Eversweet Solo 2 Water Fountain — Upcoming Pick Amazon deal price: $40 ; street price: $50

What we like: An upcoming pick in our pet water fountain guide. Only five main parts to keep track of. The easiest fountain to take apart and clean in testing. Nearly silent wireless pump has a convenient auto shut-off feature, so it doesn’t burn out when the water level gets too low.

Other things to know: Also comes with a companion app, which lets you set up cleaning and refill reminders, but it has a limited feature set.

Read our review of the best water fountain for cats and dogs .

Potaroma Flopping Fish Toy — Gift Pick Amazon deal price: $10 ; street price: $14

What we like: A rechargeable motorized fish toy recommended in our guide to the best gifts for cats (and the humans they tolerate). Built-in motor has a motion sensor; as soon as you touch it, the fish wiggles around. Comes with a little bag of catnip.

Other things to know: A padded fabric toy. Charges via included USB cable. Several fish patterns are on sale for $10.

Read our review of the best gifts for cats .

PetFusion Jumbo Cat Scratcher Lounge — Upgrade Pick Amazon deal price: $68 ; street price: $80

What we like: Our pick for the best cat bed for multicat households, this doubles as a scratcher, too. Both the largest bed we tested and the nicest scratcher we found. Big enough to sleep four cats comfortably. You can flip it over and use the underside when the top side shows wear and tear, prolonging its lifespan.

Other things to know: Large, about 39 by 14 inches. Cardboard may be too densely packed for some cats to comfortably scratch.

Read our review of the best cat beds (according to our cats) .

Editor’s note: The photo at the top of this article may reflect previous deals that are no longer valid and have been removed. Check out our Deals page for more great discounts on Wirecutter’s expert-approved picks.

This article was edited by Janie Campbell and Nathan Burrow.

Meet your guide

Wirecutter Staff

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  1. The 7 Best Tablets for Travel of 2024

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