Tablets sit neatly between a phone and a laptop. They're great for streaming in bed, reading, video calls, kids' learning apps, note-taking and light work. With so many sizes and models available, this tablet buying guide helps you work out what matters for how you'll use it.
Start with how you'll use it
| Main use | What to prioritise |
|---|---|
| Streaming, browsing and reading | A good screen, decent speakers and enough storage for downloads |
| Kids' games and learning | Durability, parental controls, a protective case |
| Study and note-taking | Stylus support, comfortable screen size, battery life |
| Work and productivity | Keyboard support, multitasking features, more memory |
| Travel | Light weight, offline downloads, optional cellular connectivity |
Screen size and display
Tablets commonly range from around 8 inches to 13 inches or larger.
- Around 8 inches: Compact and light, good for reading, kids and travel.
- Around 10 to 11 inches: The most popular all-rounder size for streaming, study and browsing.
- 12 inches and above: Great for split-screen work, drawing and movies, but heavier to hold for long periods.
Higher refresh rate screens, such as 90Hz or 120Hz, make scrolling feel smoother. Brighter screens help near windows or outdoors. Also look at speaker placement; stereo or quad speakers make movies far more enjoyable.
Storage and memory
Storage holds your apps, photos and downloaded shows. Entry-level tablets with modest storage can fill up quickly with games and offline video. If a tablet supports a microSD card, you can add storage later; check the product details. Memory (RAM) affects how smoothly the tablet handles multitasking. For work and heavy apps, more memory makes a noticeable difference.
Wi-Fi only or cellular?
Wi-Fi tablets connect through your home network or a phone hotspot. Cellular models, sometimes labelled 4G or 5G, take a SIM or eSIM so you can get online anywhere with mobile coverage, usually with a separate data plan. If you mostly use a tablet at home, Wi-Fi only is usually enough. If you travel often or want maps and streaming on the road without tethering, cellular is convenient. A strong home network helps too; our mesh Wi-Fi vs router guide covers fixing black spots.
Operating systems
The operating system shapes the apps and features you'll use. Android tablets come in a wide range of sizes and price points and work well with Android phones and Google services. Consider which phone and computer you already use, as tablets from the same ecosystem often share files, messages and apps more easily.
Stylus and keyboard support
A stylus turns a tablet into a notebook and sketchpad, which is excellent for students, designers and anyone who likes handwritten notes. Some tablets include a stylus in the box, while others sell it separately. A keyboard case makes typing emails and assignments much easier, and some tablets offer a desktop-style mode for multitasking. If you mainly need a device for long documents, a laptop may still be the better tool; see our laptop buying guide.
Battery life and charging
Most tablets comfortably last a day of mixed use. Check whether a fast charger is included, as some tablets ship without one. USB-C charging means you can share chargers and cables with phones and laptops. On long trips, a power bank keeps you going; our power bank buying guide explains capacity and charging speed.
Choosing a tablet for kids
- Parental controls: Use the built-in family settings to manage screen time, app downloads and content.
- Protection: A rugged, shock-absorbing case and a screen protector are worth adding from day one.
- Kids' profiles: Some tablets offer a dedicated kids' mode with age-appropriate apps.
- Storage: Kids' games and downloads take up space, so don't go too small.
Balance screen time with hands-on play. Our STEM toys guide has ideas for learning away from screens.
Tablets for seniors and first-time users
A tablet can be a friendly way for grandparents and first-time users to video call family, browse photos and read the news. A larger screen, clear speakers and simple settings make a big difference. Most tablets let you enlarge text, increase contrast and simplify the home screen. Setting up video calling apps and favourite contacts in advance makes the first few weeks much easier, and a stand-style case keeps the screen at a comfortable angle on the kitchen table.
Buying checklist
- Decide on your main use and choose a screen size to suit it.
- Pick enough storage for your apps and downloads, or check for a memory card slot.
- Choose Wi-Fi only or cellular based on where you'll use it.
- Check stylus and keyboard compatibility if you'll study or work on it.
- Add a case and screen protector, especially for kids and travel.
- Check how many years of software updates the manufacturer offers, if listed.
Protecting your tablet
A case and screen protector are inexpensive insurance against drops and scratches, especially for kids and travel. Our tablet accessories include protective cases from brands such as OtterBox and UAG, and our screen protectors range covers many popular models.
Keeping your tablet running well
- Install software and security updates when prompted.
- Remove apps you no longer use and offload old downloads.
- Back up photos and files to cloud storage or a computer.
- Restart the tablet occasionally if it feels sluggish.
Tablet brands to compare
Our tablet range includes Samsung Galaxy Tab models and Kogan tablets, and you can browse Android tablets and our wider phones and tablets collection. Add protection from our tablet accessories. You can see every brand we stock on our brands page.
Related guides: Laptop Buying Guide, Power Bank Buying Guide, STEM Toys That Are Actually Fun.
Frequently asked questions
What size tablet is best?
Around 10 to 11 inches is the most versatile size for streaming, study and browsing. Smaller tablets suit reading and kids, while larger ones suit work and drawing.
How much storage do I need on a tablet?
Light users who stream rather than download can manage with less, but games, offline shows and photos fill storage quickly. Choose more if the tablet has no memory card slot.
Do I need a cellular tablet?
Only if you want internet access away from Wi-Fi without using your phone's hotspot. Most home users are fine with Wi-Fi only.
Is a tablet a good replacement for a laptop?
For browsing, streaming, email and notes, often yes. For long documents, specialised software or heavy multitasking, a laptop is usually more practical.
