While tablets have shown promise, they have not completely replaced laptops for most users. This reluctance to fully embrace tablets may stem from the premium price tags associated with some of the top models available. If you find yourself hesitant to invest in a high-end tablet, you are in the right place. This article presents a review and ranking of the top 10 budget tablets available for purchase.
The budget tablet market is dominated by Android and Amazon Fire tablets, all priced under £300/$300. Apple’s iPad models, while not as affordable, do offer a more budget-friendly option compared to the high-end models. For a wider selection of inexpensive tablets, you can refer to our guide on the best refurbished tablet deals.
Why trust us: Tech Advisor has been providing tablet reviews and buying advice since the introduction of the original iPad and Samsung Galaxy Tab in 2010. Over the years, we have witnessed significant advancements in tablet hardware, software, and performance. Our team conducts thorough real-world testing on every new tablet, including budget devices, to provide you with the most reliable buying advice.
Best budget tablets 2024
1. Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 – Best overall
Pros
- Slick, compact design
- Solid performance
- Impressive display
- Great value for money
Cons
- Slow charging
- Disappointing cameras
- Blurry scrolling at times
- Not available in the US
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly tablet, the Galaxy Tab A9 is a top choice. Priced at just £169, it offers solid everyday performance, an attractive 8.7-inch display, and reliable battery life. With a design that rivals more expensive tablets and Samsung’s intuitive One UI software, this tablet is a great option.
However, there are some drawbacks, such as slow charging, subpar cameras, and occasional issues with scrolling. Despite these shortcomings, the Tab A9’s focus on essential features makes it a recommended choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Read our full
Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 review
2. Apple iPad 10.2in (2021) – Best cheap iPad
Pros
- Best selection of tablet-optimized apps
- Large, bright 10.2in display
- Support for Apple Pencil
Cons
- Dated design
- More expensive than other budget tablets
Price When Reviewed:
$329 (64GB) | $479 (256GB)
The 9th-gen regular iPad, released in 2021, remains a great tablet option. With prices often below £350/$350, it offers a premium iPad experience at a more affordable price point. iPadOS provides tablet-focused features and functionality, along with the largest selection of tablet-optimized apps.
The iPad’s A13 Bionic chip ensures smooth performance for most apps, while the 10.2-inch display, enhanced by TrueTone technology and Apple Pencil support, delivers an excellent user experience. Despite being a more premium budget tablet, the iPad offers the best overall experience compared to its competitors.
Read our full
Apple iPad 10.2in (2021) review
3. Xiaomi Redmi Pad SE – Excellent Android option
Pros
- Lightweight and refined design
- Excellent audio
- 90Hz display
- Great battery life
Cons
- Slow charging
- Only two major OS updates
- Some bloatware
- Not available in the US
Offering a comprehensive tablet experience at just £199, the Redmi Pad SE features a sleek design and an 11-inch Full HD LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate. The tablet is powered by a Snapdragon 680 chipset, providing adequate performance for daily tasks. With expandable storage, impressive audio quality, and extended battery life, the Redmi Pad SE stands out as a compelling budget tablet option.
Despite minor drawbacks like slow charging and limited Android version updates, the Redmi Pad SE is still a recommended choice for users seeking a budget-friendly yet feature-rich tablet.
Read our full
Xiaomi Redmi Pad SE review
4. Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ – Great large tablet
