How to choose the Android tablet that’s right for you
Apple and Android have both come a long way since their initial tablet models. Today, there’s a wide selection of Android tablets, some of which offer features that surpass those of Apple’s iPad.
As with Android smartphones, many manufacturers like Samsung, Google and Lenovo lend their names to suped-up tablets. With such a large number of producers, you’ll notice variations in style, function and price when shopping for the right device, but it’s all in the name of amazing features and capabilities.
Whether you’re new to tablets or are looking to upgrade, there are a few factors to consider first. Here’s a look at five of the highest-rated devices and what you can expect from each. And don’t forget to tap or click here for the 10 best apps to install on your new device.
Lenovo Smart Tab P10
This lightweight (.97lbs) tablet includes a host of features such as Amazon’s Alexa functionality and a long-lasting battery, up to two weeks on standby and 12 hours of browsing. In addition to a Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, the Lenovo Smart Tab P10 can support up to 256GB storage via MicroSD.
One unique element is the detachable charging dock. Set the tablet onto the stand and play videos and music with crisp sounds, ask Alexa questions or control your smart home devices with the tablet’s far-field voice pickup feature.
While the Smart Tab’s 10.1” screen isn’t the largest, it still offers a substantial HD experience with four speakers and Dolby Atmos. Its price falls in the middle of the road when compared to similar tablets.
This would be the perfect fit for casual use or a lightweight option for students to use when taking notes in class. Even if you don’t have internet access, there are still apps you can download to this device that can keep you on top of things. Tap or click here for 5 essential offline apps for Android when there’s no internet.
Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0
With an 8” display, the Wi-Fi-enabled Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 is a smaller option; however, this tiny device has some power thanks to its Quad-Core 2.0GHz, 2GB RAM and expandable memory up to 512GB with a MicroSD.
Its battery life is equally impressive, with up to 13 hours to browse and shop the internet or binge-watch your favorites. The relatively inexpensive Galaxy Tab A has a front-facing camera along with an 8MP rear-facing lens with 4x digital zoom and autofocus, which makes this tablet ideal for selfies or shooting sharp photos.
Perfect for the Instagram star in your home or the kid who just wants to relax with a few episodes of their favorite show.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S4
The second Samsung entry is the Galaxy Tab S4 with an Octa-Core processor, 4GB and 64GB Flash storage, which is expandable up to 400GB via MicroSD. This Galaxy Tab model ranks second highest in terms of price; however, it brings a bevy of useful features.
Along with a 16-hour battery life, 8MP front camera +13MP rear lens and its 10.5” AMOLED touchscreen display, the S4 proves to be a heavyweight among tablets. In addition, you’ll enjoy the updated S Pen and greater productivity as a result of Samsung’s DeX multitasking functionality, which made its tablet debut with this device.
This device is perfect for heavy users who require precision note-taking, drawing and more. It’s capable of downloading lots of apps without slowing down, can run longer without requiring a charge and takes amazing photos. Worth the price? Sounds like it.
Note: the tablet is shown with the keyboard, but it is sold separately.
Google Pixel Slate
The most expensive of the pack is the Google Pixel Slate, which boasts the largest screen at 12.3” and weighs 1.6 lbs.
This tablet is hefty compared to others; however, it comes with a host of features including a 64GB solid-state drive(SSD), fingerprint reader, Pixelbook Pen, dual front-facing speakers for superior surround sound and two mics for improved noise cancellation.
While the 10-hour battery life falls short of its competitors, the Pixel Slate offers Google Assistant along with split-screen and multi-window browsing features that allow you to multitask more easily than many Android models.
At this point, you’re basically carrying around a lighter, smaller laptop. Everything you need for work, school or just plain fun can come from this amazing device that also allows you to get the most bang for your buck with its very loud speakers and great mic that won’t pick up so much background noise.
Amazon Fire
Looking for an inexpensive tablet option? The 7” Amazon Fire may be the perfect tablet for you. With a price tag of $49.99, you may think this tablet lacks any worthwhile features, but you’d be wrong. Amazon’s Fire comes with 16GB of internal storage that is expandable with up to 512GB via MicroSD.
This 11oz tablet has front and rear-facing cameras, is Alexa enabled and has a battery life of up to seven hours, making this an ideal tablet for reading ebooks, watching videos or playing games.
Modeled after Android, the operating system for the Fire is Amazon’s own OS, which means you won’t have the familiar Google Play Store. But no worries, you can still expect a vast selection of content including millions of apps, videos, songs, ebooks and more in Amazon’s app store.
This device is perfect for readers, gamers and others who only want a tablet for basic functionality.
As an Android fan, you have a world of tablets from which to choose, and it doesn’t have to be an iPad. With a bit of comparison, you are sure to find the right one for your needs.
We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.
Tags: Amazon, Amazon Alexa, Android, Apple, Apple iPad, apps, battery/batteries, capabilities, comparison, features, Google, internet, Lenovo, operating systems, price, Samsung, speakers, tablet, upgrades, Wi-Fi
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