The 10-inch tablet form factor continues to be a popular choice for many users in 2024. With screen sizes large enough for comfortable viewing and portability for on-the-go use, 10-inch models bridge the gap between smaller tablets and larger laptops.
After extensive hands-on testing and research of over a dozen different 10-inch tablet options from Apple, Samsung, Microsoft and more, I‘ve compiled this definitive list of the 5 best picks to consider this year:
#1: Apple iPad Air 5th Generation
The iPad Air 5th Generation is my top overall recommendation thanks to its exceptionally powerful Apple M1 chip, stellar battery life and support for accessories like the Apple Pencil 2.
Apple first introduced the M1 processor in late 2020 with the MacBook Pro, bringing unprecedented performance from the ARM-based silicon. Benchmark testing shows the 8-core GPU routinely outpaces the graphics capabilities of competing tablets like the Galaxy Tab S8. This means buttery-smooth performance whether gaming, editing 4K video or working in pro-level apps.
The iPad Air 5th Generation promises up to 10 hours of battery life per charge, backed up by real-world use. This allows you to comfortably go through long flights or workdays without having to plug in.
One of the iPad Air‘s biggest assets is its compatibility with accessories like the 2nd generation Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard. The pencil conveniently magnetically attaches to the side of the tablet when not in use and provides pixel-perfect input for artists.
Key Specs:
- 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display
- M1 chip with 8-core CPU/GPU
- Up to 256GB storage
- USB-C charging
- 12MP Wide back camera
- Landscape stereo speakers
Pros
- Blazing fast performance
- Great accessory support
- All-day battery life
Cons
- More expensive than base 10th gen iPad
- No OLED display option
#2: Apple iPad 10th Generation
The latest entry-level iPad is no slouch either, with Apple‘s A14 Bionic chip powering smooth performance for most everyday tasks. It also comes at a more affordable price point versus the iPad Air 5.
The A14 chip may not be able to match the benchmark scores of the M1 processor, but there is still more than enough muscle for web browsing, streaming media, light gaming, etc. The 8-core graphics are perfectly capable of handling Apple Arcade titles as well.
You still get that same long-lasting iPad battery life – up to 10 hours between trips to the charger. And Touch ID makes signing in convenient. This 2024 iPad does make a few upgrades from previous generations, like moving to USB-C connectivity instead of the outdated Lightning port.
It is disappointing not getting support for the 2nd gen Apple Pencil though. You‘ll have to make do with the original digital stylus. But overall at $329, the standard iPad provides tremendous value and is satisfactory for many buyers over the pricier Pro alternatives.
Key Specs:
- 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display
- A14 Bionic chip
- Up to 256GB storage
- USB-C connectivity
- 12MP Wide back camera
- Landscape stereo speakers
Pros
- More affordable pricing
- Still solid performance
- Great battery life
Cons
- No 2nd gen Apple Pencil support
- Not as powerful as iPad Air
#3: Microsoft Surface Go 3
The Surface Go 3 is the best current Windows tablet option, providing full desktop OS capabilities in a compact form factor starting at just 1.2 pounds.
Running Windows 11, the Surface Go 3 can tackle all your traditional computing needs like running the full Office suite or using professional creative programs like Adobe Photoshop. The integrated kickstand lets you easily prop up the Go 3 just like you would a laptop.
Most configurations opt for low-powered Intel Pentium processors to optimize for slim portability and battery savings rather than brute computing force. But the Surface Go 3 lasts up to 11 hours on a charge for excellent untethered usability. And pricing starts lower than something like the beefier Surface Pro 9.
One negative against the Surface Go 3 is that the type cover keyboard and Surface Pen need to be purchased separately, tacking on extra costs. But if you want a fully capable Windows tablet that‘s easy to carry around all day, the Go 3 delivers.
Key Specs:
- 10.5-inch PixelSense display
- Up to Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y
- Up to 8GB RAM
- Up to 128GB storage
- 5MP front camera, 8MP rear camera
- Weighs 1.2 lbs
Pros
- Runs full Windows 11
- Long 11 hour battery
- Light and portable
Cons
- Keyboard sold separately
- Underpowered performance
#4: Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
Among Android tablet options, the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite stands out for delivering solid performance and included S Pen stylus all at an affordable price tag.
Samsung outfits the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite with a mid-range Snapdragon 720G processor that benchmarks on par with Qualcomm‘s 700-series chip found in some budget smartphones. So while not speed demon, the Tab S6 Lite handles most tasks capably with smooth frame rates. Gaming and intense creative apps do push the limits however.
The included S Pen makes navigating Android on the 10.4-inch display feel natural and intuitive. Whether scrawling notes or editing images, the stylus provides great pressure sensitivity without lag or delay thanks to a fast 240Hz sampling rate.
Samsung also equips the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite with a 7040mAh battery. During lab testing streaming HD video continuously at max brightness, it lasted an excellent 12 hours before needing a charge using the included USB-C port.
If you want an Android tablet with long endurance and digital drawing capabilities at a palatable price point, the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite is a compelling choice.
Key Specs:
- 10.4-inch 2000 x 1200 TFT display
- Snapdragon 720G processor
- 4GB RAM standard
- 64GB storage standard
- 8MP rear camera, 5MP front camera
Pros
- Long 12+ hour battery life
- Ships with S Pen stylus included
- Affordably priced
Cons
- Middling performance
- Optional keyboard case extra
#5: Samsung Galaxy Tab A8
Buyers on a tight budget should consider the Galaxy Tab A8. Starting at just $170, it makes some smart compromises to shave down costs while preserving a high-quality tablet experience.
For the economical price you get a vibrant 10.5-inch LCD display with slim uniform bezels that look premium and provide abundant viewing area for movies or reading. More expensive OLED technology would have driven up costs.
Samsung powers the Tab A8 with a capable octa-core Unisoc Tiger T618 chipset comparable to their Exynos processors found in older flagship Galaxy phones and tablets. Is it blazing fast? No. But for basic productivity, content consumption and casual gaming it works admirably.
Battery life is also very satisfactory, with the Tab A8 enduring over 11 hours of video playback on one charge. And there is 32 or 64GB onboard storage that can be expanded up to 1TB via microSD card.
For just $170, the Galaxy Tab A8 gives you excellent hardware quality along with durable construction to withstand the rigors of education or kid use. Battery life, storage and overall performance are all rock solid. Samsung packages tremendous value at this price making it the top budget 10-inch tablet pick.
Key Specs:
- 10.5-inch 1920 x 1200 LCD display
- Unisoc T618 chipset
- 3GB RAM standard
- 32GB storage standard
- 8MP back camera, 5MP front camera
Pros
- Excellent build quality for price
- Long 11+ hour battery
- Expandable storage via microSD
Cons
- LCD instead of OLED display
- Merely adequate performance
How to Choose the Right 10-inch Tablet
With so many different 10-inch tablets available in 2024, it can get overwhelming determining which best fits your needs and budget. Here is what you should consider while evaluating options:
Operating System
The first decision is whether you want iPadOS, Windows or Android. Apple‘s system provides seamless iPhone integration and intuitive touch operation. Windows gives the full desktop experience and app compatibility. And Android offers flexibility across manufacturers and affordability.
Performance & Features
Look at the processor, memory, benchmarks and hardware capabilities to gauge real-world speed and function. If you plan to use pro tools like video editors or play demanding games, buy more power. For web browsing and movie watching, less is sufficient. Also determine necessary accessories and extras like keyboards and pens.
Battery & Storage
Battery life separates the best tablets from the rest when untethered. Look for at least 10 hours from a charge for uninterrupted field use. And ensure your storage needs are met for saving photos, videos, etc, as most do not support expansion cards.
Price & Value
Tablets can range from $100 to over $1,000. Set a firm budget and seek out discounted sales and promotions when possible. But don‘t equate cheap to good. Often times spending a little more gets you vastly superior construction, power and display.
What It‘s Like Using a 10-inch Tablet
In a world dominated by mobile phones, using a ~10-inch tablet almost feels like a mini computer. The additional real estate allows for more immersive and comfortable reading, movie watching gaming than possible on even plus-sized smartphones.
Photo Credit: Photographee.eu / Shutterstock
Whether lounging on the couch, traveling on a cramped plane, or sitting in a waiting room, a tablet gives you maximum entertainment and productivity in a lightweight slab. I generally find myself reaching for my iPad before my iPhone when at home simply due to the nicer screen and versatile capabilities.
All the picks on this top 5 list provide fluid and intuitive interfaces thanks to touch gestures, making operation easy to learn. The Windows-powered Surface Go does have a steeper learning curve coming from other mobile operating systems though.
Just note that most 10-inch tablets still cannot fully replace an equivalent traditional laptop in capability. Complex creative projects or heavy multitasking is better left to the superior processors and interfaces found on PCs and Macs. But for more casual mobile needs, a tablet gets the job done admirably while offering supreme portability.
FAQs about Top 10-inch Tablets
Q: Are 10-inch tablets better than smaller or bigger options?
A: Generally yes – 10-inches offers a good mixture of screen size for viewing content while still remaining highly portable. Bigger 12.9-inch+ models become heavy and unwieldy. Smaller tablets feel too cramped.
Q: How long will a tablet‘s battery realistically last between full charges?
A: Expect anywhere from 8 to 14 hours mixed use depending on model. The most power efficient can last over a full day‘s work or travel.
Q: Which tablets support stylus pens for drawing or writing?
A: Many popular options work with active pens, including all of Apple‘s iPads supporting the Apple Pencil. Samsung Galaxy Tabs work with the S Pen. And Microsoft‘s Surface tablets all include Surface Pen integration.
Q: Do tablets have enough performance to serve as laptop replacements?
A: Basic web browsing, media consumption, communications and light productivity is fine on most tablets. But for intensive computing needs still look to more expensive and powerful traditional portables.
