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The Best Tablet 2026: The Best iPad and Android Tablets from Apple, OnePlus and Samsung

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Scott Stein/CNET
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Tablets are the ultimate mobile computers, blending the portability of a smartphone with the performance of a laptop. Whether for work, gaming, or media consumption, the right tablet can replace a bulky laptop without compromise. We’ve tested the top iPadOS and Android tablets, from Apple’s powerhouse M4 iPad Pro to budget-friendly options like the OnePlus Pad Go 2. Here’s a breakdown of the best slate for every type of user.


How We Test Tablets

Performance, battery life, display quality, and overall build are key metrics we examine. Our team evaluates:

  • Display accuracy and brightness
  • Processor power for work and gaming
  • Battery endurance
  • Versatility for creative or productivity tasks

From Apple and Samsung to newer contenders like OnePlus, we’ve tested every tablet extensively to determine which devices stand out in 2026.


Best Tablets by Category

1. Apple iPad 11-inch (2025) – Best iPad for Most People

(Image credit: Jacob Krol/Future)

Specs:

  • Weight: 475g | Dimensions: 24.9 x 17.95 x 0.7mm
  • OS: iPadOS 18 | Screen: 11-inch, 2360 x 1640 pixels
  • CPU: Apple A16 | Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB
  • Battery: 28.93Wh | Cameras: 12MP rear / 12MP front

Apple’s 11th-generation iPad remains the most reliable and user-friendly option. While it lacks the cutting-edge M4 or M3 chips, the A16 processor is more than capable for gaming, productivity, and media. Ideal for most users, it delivers smooth performance, excellent battery life, and the full iPadOS experience at an accessible price.


2. Apple iPad Pro 13-inch (2024) – Best Premium Grade iPad

(Image credit: Future)

Specs:

  • Weight: 579g | Dimensions: 281.6 x 215.5 x 5.1 mm
  • OS: iPadOS 17 | Screen: 13-inch OLED, 2420 x 1668 pixels
  • CPU: Apple M4 | Storage: 256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TB
  • Battery: Up to 10 hours | Cameras: 12MP rear + LiDAR / 12MP front

The iPad Pro 13 (2024) is Apple’s most powerful tablet yet, rivaling even some MacBooks. Its M4 processor boosts thermal performance and rendering speed, while the OLED display ensures stunning visuals. Creatives will benefit from Apple Pencil Pro support and the redesigned Magic Keyboard. Premium pricing is a consideration, but for power users, it’s unmatched.


3. OnePlus Pad 3 – Best Android for Most People

(Image credit: Future)

Specs:

  • Weight: 675g | Dimensions: 289.6 x 209.7 x 6mm
  • OS: Android 15, ColorOS 15 | Screen: 13.2-inch, 2400 x 3392 pixels
  • CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite | Storage: 256GB / 512GB
  • Battery: 12,140 mAh | Cameras: 13MP rear / 8MP front

The OnePlus Pad 3 positions Android at the premium level, offering a large 13.2-inch display with a 144Hz refresh rate, the fastest Snapdragon processor available, and a massive battery. It’s ideal for power users who want a portable, high-performance device. Though pricey, its display, battery, and multitasking capabilities make it the top Android pick for 2026.


4. Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Plus – Best Premium Android Tablet

(Image credit: Zachariah Kelly/TechRadar)

Specs:

  • Weight: 571g | Dimensions: 285.4 x 185.4 x 5.6mm
  • OS: Android 14, OneUI 6.1 | Screen: 12.4-inch, 1752 x 2800 pixels
  • CPU: MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ | Storage: 256GB / 512GB
  • Battery: 10,090 mAh | Cameras: 13MP (wide), 8MP (ultra-wide) / 12MP front

Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S10 Plus is a top-tier Android tablet, offering water resistance, an included S Pen, and a productivity-focused interface. The Dimensity 9300+ processor ensures excellent gaming and graphics performance, while multitasking software and desktop-like connectivity make it highly versatile. Compared to Apple, it offers more features in the same price range, making it a strong Android alternative.


5. OnePlus Pad Go 2 – Best Budget Tablet

(Image credit: Future)

Specs:

  • Weight: 597g | Dimensions: 266 x 192.8 x 6.8mm
  • OS: Android 16, OxygenOS 16 | Screen: 12.1-inch, 1980 x 2800 pixels
  • CPU: MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Ultra | RAM: 8GB | Storage: 128GB / 256GB
  • Battery: 16+ hours | Cameras: 8MP rear / 8MP front

The OnePlus Pad Go 2 is a standout budget option with a 12.1-inch 2.8K display, smooth 120Hz refresh, long-lasting battery, and a clean, intuitive interface. Reverse charging adds extra utility. Perfect for casual users, students, or media consumption, it rivals entry-level iPads at a fraction of the price.


6. Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE Plus – Best for Battery Life

(Image credit: Future/Jacob Krol)

Specs:

  • Weight: 668g | Dimensions: 300.6 x 194.7 x 6mm
  • OS: Android 15, One UI 7 | Screen: 13.1-inch, 2880 x 1800 pixels
  • CPU: Samsung Exynos 1580 | RAM: 8GB | Storage: 128GB / 256GB
  • Battery: 10,090 mAh | Cameras: 13MP rear / 12MP front

A powerhouse for long battery life and multitasking, the S10 FE Plus supports the included S Pen and IP68 water resistance. It handles creative apps, gaming, and productivity without compromise, making it ideal for users who prioritize endurance and durability.


7. Apple iPad Air 11-inch (2025) – Best for Gaming

(Image credit: Future/Jacob Krol)

Specs:

  • Weight: 460g | Dimensions: 247.6 x 178.5 x 6.1mm
  • OS: iPadOS 18 | Screen: 11-inch, 2360 x 1640
  • CPU: Apple M3 | Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB
  • Battery: 28.93Wh | Cameras: 12MP rear / 12MP front

Powered by Apple’s M3 chip, the iPad Air delivers an exceptional gaming experience. It handles AAA titles with ease, supports multitasking, and features high-quality stereo speakers. While it lacks ProMotion, its performance, display, and value make it an excellent choice for gamers.


8. Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra – Best Drawing Tablet

(Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

Specs:

  • Weight: 718g | Dimensions: 326.4 x 208.6 x 5.4mm
  • OS: Android 14, OneUI 6.1 | Screen: 14.6-inch, 1848 x 2960 pixels
  • CPU: MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ | Storage: 256GB / 512GB / 1TB
  • Battery: 11,200 mAh | Cameras: 13MP + 8MP rear / 12MP + 12MP front

The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra’s expansive display and robust multitasking software make it ideal for artists and creatives. Water resistance, microSD expansion, and high-performance specs provide versatility that surpasses most iPads in creative use, though it comes with a premium price tag.


9. Apple iPad Mini 8.3-inch (2024) – Best Compact Tablet

(Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)

Specs:

  • Weight: 293g | Dimensions: 195.4 x 134.8 x 6.3mm
  • OS: iPadOS 18 | Screen: 8.3-inch, 1488 x 2266 pixels
  • CPU: Apple A17 Pro | Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB
  • Battery: Up to 10 hours | Cameras: 12MP rear / 12MP front

For those seeking a compact, pocketable tablet, the iPad Mini remains unmatched. Despite its small size, it packs the A17 Pro chip for smooth gaming and app performance. Though battery life is modest, its portability and power make it the go-to small tablet.

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