When it comes to choosing a top-of-the-line tablet, the options are plentiful, but which one stands out in 2024? In our comprehensive comparison of the top 5 tablets of 2024, we put the Apple iPad Pro 2024, Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, Microsoft Surface Pro 9, and others to the test. We delve into design, display, performance, and more, making it easier for you to pick the best tablet for your needs.
1. Apple iPad 10th Generation
Apple’s iPad has long been a significant player in tablet technology. The latest release, the 10th Generation iPad (2022), lives up to this reputation by offering high-end features to a broader user base. This review delves into what makes this iPad a jack-of-all-trades in Apple’s lineup.
Design and Build
Pros:
- Modern Aesthetics: The new design introduces four vibrant colors—silver, pink, blue, and yellow—moving away from the traditional space gray and silver.
- USB-C Port: Replacing the Lightning port, the USB-C offers better compatibility with current tech standards.
Cons:
- Price Increase: The price hike from the last model makes this iPad a pricier investment.
Display and Visuals
Pros:
- Liquid Retina Display: The 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display features True Tone technology, ensuring crisp visuals and vibrant colors.
- Slimmer Bezels: The reduced bezels around the screen offer a more immersive viewing experience.
Cons:
- Reflective Screen: Some users found the screen to be more reflective than ideal, which could be distracting in brightly lit environments.
Performance
Pros:
- A14 Bionic Chip: Powered by the A14 Bionic chip with a 16-core Neural Engine, this iPad promises snappy performance and fluid multitasking.
- 5G Connectivity: Upgraded cellular support to 5G ensures faster internet on the go.
Cons:
- Storage: The base model starts at just 64GB, which might not suffice for power users or those looking to store large media files.
Camera and Audio
Pros:
- Camera Upgrades: Featuring a 12MP rear and front camera, this iPad takes decent photos and makes video calls more enjoyable.
- Enhanced Speakers: Reviews indicate improved speaker quality, contributing to a better multimedia experience.
Cons:
- Landscape Camera Positioning: While better for video calls, the repositioned front camera might be awkward for some traditional portrait-mode uses.
Battery Life
- Steady Endurance: With up to 10 hours of video playback, the battery life aligns with Apple’s claims.
Additional Features
- Biometrics: The Touch ID has been relocated to the power button for added convenience.
- Accessory Compatibility: Supports a wide array of accessories, including the 1st Gen Apple Pencil and a Magic Keyboard Folio with an adjustable kickstand.
Cons:
- Apple Pencil Compatibility: Supports only the 1st-gen Apple Pencil, requiring a dongle for charging, which could be a hassle for some users.
Final Thoughts
The 10th Gen iPad (2022) successfully makes high-end features accessible to the average consumer. While it comes with a higher price tag and some limitations, its advantages far outweigh the drawbacks. This tablet serves as an excellent alternative to the pricier iPad Pro and iPad Air, providing a more palatable price point. It fits right into our theme of “Comparing 5 Top Tablets of 2024,” offering a versatile option for a range of users.
Who is this for?
From students to professionals, and from entertainment enthusiasts to on-the-go multitaskers, this iPad is a versatile choice that offers something for almost everyone.
Should you upgrade from last year’s model?
If you’re looking for a more future-proof device with a design overhaul and performance boost, this is a worthy investment. But if you’re content with your current iPad, this isn’t a must-have upgrade.
The Verdict:
Whether you’re new to tablets or an existing iPad user, the 10th Generation iPad holds its own in our comparison of 5 top tablets of 2024, making it a versatile choice for a wide array of consumers.
2. Apple iPad Pro (6th Generation) — The Future-Proofed Powerhouse
Apple’s iPad Pro 2022 (6th Generation) sets new standards in tablet functionality, nearly blurring the lines between tablets and laptops. Here we discusse how this latest Pro model, with its advanced M2 chip and multitasking prowess, comes closest to being a laptop substitute—albeit at a premium price.
Specifications
- Display: 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion and True Tone
- Processor: Apple Silicon M2
- Storage: Options from 128GB up to 2TB
- Biometrics: Face ID
- Cameras: 12MP wide, 10MP ultrawide rear and 12MP TrueDepth FaceTime front
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
- Dimensions: 11.04 x 8.46 x 0.25 inches
- Weight: 1.5 pounds
- Connectivity: USB-C Thunderbolt/USB-4
- OS: iPadOS 16.1
The Good
A Multitasking Marvel
iPadOS 16.1’s new multitasking feature takes productivity to another level. The interface seamlessly adapts to the user’s needs, providing an experience that mimics the functionality of a full-fledged laptop.
Speed & Performance
The M2 chip, boasting 20 billion transistors and 25% more computational power than its predecessor, the M1, makes this iPad the fastest yet. Whether you are streaming high-definition videos, running resource-intensive apps, or playing graphics-rich games, the 2022 iPad Pro never stutters.
Stylus Support & Hover Feature
The 2nd-generation Apple Pencil isn’t just an add-on; it’s a game-changer. With its new hover feature, the iPad Pro’s interface reacts dynamically as you bring the stylus close to the screen. This comes particularly handy for designers and creatives.
Display & Aesthetics
The mini-LED screen of the 12.9-inch model offers unparalleled visual excellence. Coupled with ProMotion and True Tone technologies, the display provides vibrant colors and smooth animations.
The Bad
The Price Tag
Costing significantly more than its competitors and even its previous model, the 2022 iPad Pro is a big investment. Make sure you actually need its high-end features before taking the plunge.
Incremental Improvements
While powerful, the iPad Pro 2022 doesn’t bring many groundbreaking changes compared to its predecessor, especially concerning its design and battery life.
Battery Life & Storage
The 10-hour battery life, although respectable, doesn’t set new standards. Similarly, the base model offering 128GB of storage may be limiting for users needing more storage space for professional tasks.
The Verdict
Apple’s 2022 iPad Pro excels in multitasking and performance, thanks to its robust M2 chip, making it a strong contender for those who want a laptop replacement. However, its steep pricing and incremental advancements make it a choice primarily for power users and creatives. This high-performing tablet brings a lot to the table in our series “Comparing 5 Top Tablets of 2024,” making it a top pick for those willing to invest in its future-proof design.
If you’re on the hunt for a near-perfect tablet and are willing to pay a premium for advanced features, the Apple iPad Pro 2022 is an excellent match. This tablet holds a special place in our comparison of 5 top tablets of 2024, especially for power users and creatives who need top-tier capabilities.
3. Amazon Fire HD 10: A Budget-Friendly Powerhouse with Some Limitations
In a tablet landscape filled with options at various price points, the Amazon Fire HD 10 (2021) serves as a refreshing alternative for budget-conscious consumers. This 11th generation Fire tablet from Amazon offers a robust multimedia experience without draining your wallet.
Why It’s Worth Your Attention
1. Expansive Display: The 10.1-inch, 1080p Full HD display is perfect for binge-watching your favorite shows and diving into ebooks. At 224 ppi and over 2 million pixels, it’s an impressive offering for a sub-$200 tablet.
2. Impressive Performance: Armed with an octa-core 2.0 GHz processor and 3 GB of RAM, this device is plenty capable for most casual tasks and even outperforms some pricier counterparts.
3. Extended Battery Life: A long-lasting 12-hour battery makes it an excellent choice for on-the-go usage, from reading and browsing to video streaming and music listening.
Who Should Consider Buying This?
If you’re in the market for a tablet mainly for media consumption, basic productivity tasks, and don’t want to spend more than $200, the Amazon Fire HD 10 (2021) should be on your shortlist.
Specifications
- Display: 10.1” Full HD (1920 x 1200)
- CPU & RAM: Octa-core 2.0 GHz with 3 GB RAM
- Storage: 32 GB or 64 GB, expandable up to 1TB via microSD
- Battery Life: Up to 12 hours
- Connectivity: Supports 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz WiFi networks
- Camera: 2 MP front and 5 MP rear
- Ports: USB-C for charging; microSD slot
- Audio: 3.5 mm jack, dual integrated speakers
- Size & Weight: 247 x 166 x 9.2 mm, 465 grams
- Colors: Black, Denim
- Generation: 11th generation, 2021 release
The Good
Fast and Efficient
With its octa-core processor and 3 GB of RAM, the Fire HD 10 offers an experience that is surprisingly fluid and responsive for its price point.
Durable Design
Thanks to its strengthened aluminosilicate glass, the Fire HD 10 is 1.7x more durable than the latest iPad 10.2 and twice as durable as the Samsung Galaxy Tab A8.
Alexa Integration
The tablet doubles as an Alexa smart display, offering convenient voice commands and making it a versatile addition to your smart home ecosystem.
The Bad
Limited App Selection
The Fire HD 10 relies on Amazon’s Appstore, which, although improving, doesn’t match the vast selection available on Google’s Play Store.
Amazon-Centric Ecosystem
If you’re not already invested in Amazon’s ecosystem, the interface might feel overly focused on pushing Amazon services and products.
Final Thoughts
The Amazon Fire HD 10 (2021) proves that a modest budget doesn’t mean sacrificing performance or features. This tablet makes a strong showing, standing out for its impressive performance, large display, and extended battery life. While its app ecosystem and heavy Amazon-centric interface can be drawbacks, these are minor when you consider the overall value this tablet offers, especially if you’re already invested in the Amazon ecosystem.
Pros:
- Fast processor for the price
- Plenty of RAM
- Acts as an Alexa smart display
Cons:
- Poor app selection
- Very Amazon-centric interface
The Verdict
For those focused on budget-friendly media consumption and basic productivity, the Amazon Fire HD 10 (2021) offers significant value. It’s an exceptional contender in our comparison of the top 5 tablets of 2024 for anyone looking to get the most bang for their buck.
4. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra: A Behemoth with a Touch of Elegance
The term “ultimate” is often carelessly used when discussing tablets, but the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra may genuinely deserve such a description. With its colossal 14.6-inch OLED display and top-tier Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, it raises a compelling question: Is this the pinnacle of Android tablets? Let’s explore further:
Design & Build
The first thing that strikes you about the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is its awe-inspiring 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen. Housed in a body of Armor Aluminum, this tablet is as robust as it is elegant. Sporting ultra-slim bezels and a refined finish, Samsung has created a tablet that not only performs well but is a marvel to behold. And let’s not forget, it comes with an IP68 rating, making it one of the only premium tablets that can endure water and dust exposure.
Display
Samsung’s tradition of vivid, vibrant displays continues. The 14.6-inch screen boasts a resolution of 2208 x 1768 pixels, making it ideal for gaming, productivity, and media consumption. The Vision Booster feature automatically adjusts brightness and contrast, ensuring the display is always legible—even under harsh sunlight.
Performance
Under the hood, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset coupled with 12GB of RAM ensures a seamless performance, whether you’re gaming, multitasking, or streaming. The tablet runs on Android, offering you a plethora of apps to choose from, and its DeX mode offers a desktop-like experience, albeit not perfectly mirroring Windows 11.
S-Pen Experience
For those who enjoy jotting down notes or sketching, the included S-Pen feels like writing with a real pen. It brings a tactile, analog experience to the digital canvas and opens up new possibilities for capturing your thoughts and doodles.
Extras
The tablet comes with an array of extras such as a free book cover, with optional keyboard cover and Buds2 Pro available for purchase. Though keep in mind, the keyboard cover can add a significant cost to an already premium-priced tablet.
Downsides
No product is perfect, and the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is no exception. The DeX mode still falls short of providing a full-fledged desktop experience, mimicking but not quite capturing the essence of Windows 11. Also, its size, while offering an expansive screen real estate, can be cumbersome for prolonged handheld use. Finally, the cost can be prohibitive for some, especially when you consider the price of optional accessories like the keyboard cover.
Final Thoughts
For those who want to make a statement with their technology and are ready to invest in a premium device, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra could very well be the ultimate Android tablet on the market today.
The Verdict
The Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra proves that sometimes, going “ultra” is worth it. As we continue to compare the top 5 tablets of 2024, this Samsung device stands out for its combination of high-end performance, luxurious design, and practical utility. Despite a few drawbacks, such as the DeX mode’s limitations and the tablet’s somewhat unwieldy size, its advantages vastly overshadow its flaws.
5. Microsoft Surface Pro 9 with 5G: Iterative but Impactful
Next, Microsoft’s Surface Pro 9 with 5G comes into focus. Being a trendsetter in the 2-in-1 market, Microsoft aims to fortify its position with this latest release. Featuring a Microsoft SQ3 ARM processor and 5G connectivity, the Surface Pro 9 aims high. But does it bring anything revolutionary to the table or remain overshadowed by its predecessor? Let’s dive in.
Design and Build
At a first glance, you could easily mistake the Surface Pro 9 for its older sibling, the Surface Pro 8. Sporting the same slim, light design, and Platinum color, the tablet doesn’t bring anything new to the table design-wise. But, as the saying goes, if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it. The in-built kickstand and USB-C ports, which also support accessory charging and docking to displays, remain practical features for both casual users and professionals.
Display
The Surface Pro 9 features a 13-inch PixelSense touchscreen with a resolution of 2880×1920 pixels. While the display is responsive and vibrant enough for daily tasks and media consumption, it falls short of being remarkable. It serves its purpose well but doesn’t break any new ground.
Performance
What makes the Surface Pro 9 stand out is its dual personality. The device comes in two flavors: one with a 12th-gen Intel Core CPU and another with the new Microsoft SQ3 ARM processor. Our review focuses on the latter, which also comes with 5G connectivity and boasts features driven by a new neural processing unit (NPU). With 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, it’s more than capable of handling everyday computing tasks with finesse.
Battery Life
One of the standout features of this 2-in-1 is its impressive battery life, which according to Microsoft, can last up to 19 hours. While we didn’t stretch it to the limit, the device comfortably saw us through a full workday and then some.
Extras
The Surface Slim Pen 2 and Surface Pro Signature Keyboard are, unfortunately, sold separately. However, if you opt for these additional accessories, you’ll be pleased to find that the Slim Pen 2 can be stored and charged directly in the keyboard—a nifty and convenient feature.
The Downsides
- Unchanged Design: While the design remains sleek, some might find the lack of innovation disappointing.
- Display: A good but not groundbreaking display.
- Accessories Sold Separately: The cost can add up if you decide to go for the pen and keyboard.
Final Thoughts
For those who need a device that can switch effortlessly between a laptop and a tablet while offering robust performance and exceptional battery life, the Surface Pro 9 with 5G makes a compelling case, despite its few drawbacks.
The Verdict
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 doesn’t rewrite the rulebook for 2-in-1 devices, but it is a worthy competitor in a crowded market. As we examine more tablets in our series, it’s clear that the Surface Pro 9 is a versatile and reliable device that balances power, design, and functionality well.
Conclusion
As we wrap up this review, it’s evident that each tablet has its own set of pros and cons—there is no one-size-fits-all. Whether you prioritize display quality, performance, or versatile functionality, our comprehensive comparisons provide you with the insights you need. If you’re in the market for a tablet this year, you now have a clearer idea of what the top contenders offer, making your decision-making process that much easier.
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