The Best Tablets under $500 are budget tablets that can be used for a wide range of functions by both professionals and beginners. These affordable devices can be used for drawing, basic gaming, and streaming videos among other functions.
This price range offers many different tablet types to choose from for your needs. You can work with Android OS, Fire OS, or iOS tablets as well. Below are our top 8 picks.
Top Picks for Tablets Under $500
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S8: Best Overall
- 10th-gen iPad: Affordable iPad Tablet
- Lenovo Tab P12: Best Value
- Amazon Fire 10 HD: The best Fire tablet
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE
- OnePlus Pad: Long battery
- Xiaomi Pad 6: Best Under 400$
- Lenovo Tab P11 Pro 2nd Gen: Longest Battery Life
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8: Best Overall Tablets Under $500
- CPU: Snapdragon 8 Gen 1
- Display: 11-inch, 2560 x 1600 resolution
- Refresh Rate: 120 Hz LCD
- Storage: 128GB/256GB
- Memory: 8GB RAM
- Ports: USB-C, microSD
- Dimensions: 9.99 x 6.51 x 0.25 inches
- Weight: 1.1 pounds
The Samsung Galaxy S8, introduced in 2017, continues to be an intriguing device as we enter 2024. It features an 11-inch LCD with a crisp 2560 x 1600 resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, offering vibrant colors and sharp visuals that stand the test of time. Its modern design includes minimal bezels and a sleek glass back, retaining practical features such as a headphone jack and microSD card slot, valued by many users.
For tasks requiring a tablet camera system, the Samsung Galaxy S8 is ideal, with a single 12-megapixel rear sensor and an 8-megapixel front camera capable of 4K recording.
Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset and 8GB of RAM, its performance, while not cutting-edge by today’s standards, remains reliable for daily tasks and media consumption. Initially shipped with Android 7 and updated up to Android 9, its long-term usability is limited due to no longer receiving new software updates.
Despite its age, the Galaxy S8’s innovative features like Samsung DeX, enabling desktop-like functionality via monitor connection, continue to make it a distinctive choice, although newer models offer superior performance and ongoing software support.
Pros
- Good camera system
- Galaxy S8’s innovative features like Samsung DeX
- Large 11-inch screen with 2560 x 1600 resolution
Cons
- No new software is available
- Outdated processor chipset
10th Gen Apple iPad: Affordable iPad Tablet Under 500$
- Screen Size: 10.9-inch Liquid Retina Display
- Resolution: 2360 x 1640 Pixels
- Processor: A14 Bionic chip
- Brightness: 500 nits
- Storage Space: 64 GB to 256 GB
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, USB-C
- Camera: 12MP front/12MP Back Camera
- 1st Gen Apple Pencil
- Security: Touch ID
- Battery: 10 hours
The 10th-gen Apple iPad is one of the most affordable iPads available in the market. It features a large 10.9-inch screen with Liquid Retina Display. This ensures clean and clear viewing when combined with 500 nits brightness and 2360 x 1640 Pixels resolution.
For Processor power, you have a powerful A14 Bionic chip and 4 GB of RAM available. This is great for regular tasks but 8 GB and above is recommended for more complex tasks.
To save files you have a 64 GB to 256 GB storage space that is not upgradable due to lack of an external MicroSD card slot. To upgrade you have to buy a larger version which can be expensive. You will have Touch ID security options and up to 10 hours of battery life.
However, it is not compatible with new Apple Pencil versions like the Apple Pencil 2. You need to use it with the older Apple Pencil 1. Additionally, this pencil will have to be bought separately adding to the cost.
Overall this is a powerful but affordable device for many complex tasks including gaming.
Pros
- Powerful A14 Bionic chip and 4 GB of RAM available
- Long 10 hours of battery life
- Large screen with high-resolution display
- Bright screen for indoor and outdoor view
Cons
- No MicroSD slot to expand storage
- It is not compatible with new Apple Pencil versions like the Apple Pencil 2. You need to use it with the older Apple Pencil 1
Lenovo Tab P12: Best Value for Your Money
- Size: 12.6 inches
- Screen resolution: 2560 x 1600 pixels
- Screen technology: AMOLED Screen
- Stylus: Lenovo Precision Pen 3
- Pen pressure sensitivity: 4096
- Internal storage: 128GB, 256GB
- RAM: 6GB, 8GB
- Operating system: Android
The Lenovo Tab P12 is a mid-range tablet for under USD 400, making it a budget-friendly option for tech enthusiasts. It offers a high-resolution display, robust performance, sleek design, and ample storage capacity, making it a compelling choice in this price range. It can be compared to the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE in many ways.
Despite its large display, it appears thin and lightweight due to its metal casing, providing a premium feel. Additionally, it features a built-in fingerprint scanner on the power button for added security and convenience.
One downside is its 60Hz refresh rate, which may cause noticeable rolling shutter effects when held in portrait mode and scrolling. If this is a significant concern, consider the Tab P12 Pro, which offers a higher refresh rate.
Powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7050 processor with options of 4GB or 8GB of RAM and storage capacities of 128GB or 256GB, the Tab P12 caters to various user needs and preferences. Multitasking is smooth and efficient on this tablet, despite somewhat disappointing battery life and slower charging compared to some competitors.
Despite this, the Lenovo Tab P12 remains a strong contender in the budget tablet segment, holding its own with its features and performance.
Pros
- Built-in fingerprint scanner
- 4GB or 8GB of RAM options
- Powerful MediaTek Dimensity 7050 processor
- Large screen with high-resolution display
Cons
- Low screen refresh rate
Amazon Fire HD 10: The Best Amazon Fire Tablet
- CPU: 2.0 GHz octa-core CPU
- Camera Resolution: 5MP (rear), 2MP (front)
- Display: 10.1-inch, 1920 x 1200 pixels
- Storage: 32GB, 64GB
- Ports: 1x USB-C, headphone jack, microSD
- Dimensions: 9.7 x 6.5 x 0.4 inches
- Weight: 17.8 ounces/1.1 pounds
- Wi-Fi: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac
The Amazon Fire HD 10 2023 is Amazon’s latest budget-friendly 10-inch tablet, typically priced around $140. During shopping events like Black Friday and Prime Day, it can drop to as low as $80. While not a premium device, it offers several noteworthy features, including support for an active stylus.
Our review aims to answer whether the Fire HD 10 is a worthwhile investment or just another inexpensive gadget by highlighting its strengths and weaknesses. Made entirely of plastic, it feels somewhat cheap but is notably rugged, being 2.7 times more durable than the Samsung Galaxy Tab A8. Slim at 8.6 mm and lightweight at 434 grams, it includes a standard headphone jack and a microSD card slot for expandable storage. The device charges via a USB-C 2.0 port, though it does not support external monitors.
Featuring a 10.1-inch IPS display with a 1920 x 1200-pixel resolution, it provides sharp text and stable viewing angles. Brighter than the Samsung Galaxy Tab A8, it’s suitable for watching Netflix and other streaming services in HD.
With a MediaTek MT8186 processor, 3GB of RAM, and either 32GB or 64GB of internal storage, it handles casual games and basic apps smoothly. Fire OS 8, a version of Android 11 tailored by Amazon, runs the device, lacking Google services out of the box but allowing users to install the Google Play Store if needed.
The Fire HD 10, with a tested battery life of 10 hours, is an excellent budget tablet for media consumption and light usage. At a sale price below $100, it’s a solid bargain for those seeking affordability.
However, at its standard price of $140, it faces stiff competition from devices like the Xiaomi Redmi Pad SE, offering better features for a slightly higher price.
Pros
- Compatible with Amazon Store Apps
- Affordable price range
- Headphone jack and microSD available
- Decent 10-inch screen with Full HD resolution
Cons
- Compatibility issues with Google Play Apps
OnePlus Pad; Long Battery Life
- Display: 11.6 inches
- Resolution: 2800 x 2000, 7:5 aspect ratio, 144Hz
- OS: Android 13
- CPU: MediaTek Dimensity 9000
- RAM: 8GB LPDDR5
- Storage: 128GB
- Ports: USB-C
- Cameras: 13MP (rear), 8MP (front)
- Battery Life: 13.5 hours (tested)
- Size: 10.1 x 7.4 x 0.2 inches
The OnePlus Pad is a game-changing tablet offering incredible performance and value for its price. Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9000 processor, one of the fastest available, it handles demanding tasks like gaming and video editing effortlessly.
It features a sleek design with a metal frame and soft-touch back panel, available in three colors: Halo, Moonlight Silver, and Obsidian Black. With a massive 8,000mAh battery, it provides enough power for a full day’s use whether working, studying, or gaming.
The 11.6-inch IPS LCD boasts a 2800 x 1800 pixel resolution, delivering sharp, vibrant visuals perfect for enjoying movies, TV shows, and games. Additionally, it’s Dolby Vision certified for enhanced HDR content viewing.
Other features include a quad-speaker system for immersive audio, a 13MP rear camera, an 8MP front-facing camera for photos and videos, a microSD card slot for expandable storage, and a magnetic keyboard folio for productivity.
Overall, the OnePlus Pad is an excellent choice for anyone needing a versatile tablet with powerful performance, long battery life, and a stunning display. Its feature design and affordable price make it a great value.
Pros
- Excellent display at 11.6-inch IPS LCD with 2800 x 1800 showing vibrant colors
- Many accessories like a quad-speaker system, 13MP rear camera, 8MP front camera, microSD card slot, and magnetic keyboard folio
- Long battery life at an affordable price
Cons
- Few software updates are available
- No Headphone Jack
- Weak back panel made of plastic instead of metal
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE: Best Value for Money
- Screen Size: 10.9 inches
- Resolution: 2560 x 1600 pixels
- Processor: Snapdragon 600 Series
- RAM: 6GB
- Storage: 128GB
- IP68 water and dust-resistant
- Battery Life: 18 to 20 hours
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE is a mid-range
tablet with a sleek design and durable build. Featuring a 12.4-inch display with a fast 90Hz refresh rate, it’s water and dust-resistant.
Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 870G chipset and up to 8GB of RAM, it handles most tasks with ease. Running Android 13 with Samsung’s One UI overlay, it offers numerous useful features.
It includes an 8MP front-facing camera and an 8MP rear-facing camera with decent photo quality. The 10,090mAh battery provides excellent battery life, lasting a full day on a single charge, with support for 45W fast charging for quick refueling.
The Tab S9 FE also comes with an S Pen stylus, ideal for productivity and creativity. Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE offers great value for money with its powerful performance and versatility, suitable for students, professionals, and anyone needing a robust tablet.
Pros
- Cool and durable water and dust-resistant Sleek Design
- Fast screen refresh rate
- Powerful performance with 8 GB RAM
- Comes with a free S Pen
- Modern Android 13 OS
- Samsung’s One UI overlay is also available for a premium user experience
Cons
- The Snapdragon 870G is a midrange processor
- It does not have the best camera specs
- No Headphone Jack is available
Xiaomi Pad 6: Best Tablet Under 400$
- Display: 11-inch IPS LCD
- Resolution: 2880 x 1800 pixels
- Refresh rate: 144Hz
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 870
- RAM: Up to 8 GB
- Storage: Up to 256GB
- Operating System: Android 13 with MIUI 14
- Cameras: 8 MP front and Rear at 13MP
- Xiaomi Smart Pen stylus support
- Connectivity: USB-C port, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
The Xiaomi Pad 6 is a compelling mid-range tablet offering a well-rounded set of features and capabilities at a competitive price point. It boasts a sleek and modern design, a vibrant and responsive display, robust performance, and long battery life.
The Pad 6’s 11-inch IPS LCD display features a high resolution of 2880 x 1800 pixels and a speedy 144Hz refresh rate, delivering vivid, sharp visuals with excellent viewing angles and a smooth, fluid user experience. Additionally, it’s Dolby Vision certified for an enhanced HDR content viewing experience.
Powered by the potent Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 chipset paired with up to 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of storage, it effortlessly handles a wide range of tasks from gaming and video editing to multitasking. The tablet runs Android 13 with Xiaomi’s MIUI 14 overlay, adding a plethora of useful features and customization options.
While the Pad 6’s camera setup isn’t the most impressive, it delivers decent image quality with its 8MP front camera and 13MP rear camera.
The tablet’s generous 8,840mAh battery ensures all-day usage on a single charge, with support for 33W fast charging for quick refueling. One of its key highlights is support for the Xiaomi Smart Pen stylus, offering valuable productivity and creativity features such as note-taking, drawing, and photo and video editing. The stylus also supports air gestures for convenient tablet control.
Overall, the Xiaomi Pad 6 is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a versatile tablet with a powerful processor, long battery life, and a stunning display. Its feature-rich design and competitive price make it a compelling option in the mid-range tablet market
Pros
- Large, Vibrant, and Responsive Display
- Powerful processing with the Snapdragon 870 chipset paired with up to 8GB
- Long battery life and versatile specifications
- Affordable price
Cons
- Lacks a Headphone Jack
- Average Camera Quality
- Limited Software Updates
How to Choose the Best Tablet Under $500 for You
As mentioned in the intro, the tablet you choose is largely affected by your preferences and needs. Similarly, the factors to consider are also dependent on what you need. Below are some of the most important ones.
You need to consider general tablet specifications that can affect your user experience. These include screen size, processor speed, and storage capacity.
Although popular tablet brands like Samsung dominate the list, some little-known tablets that offer great value for money are now available. A good example is the OnePlus Pad and Xiaomi Pad 6.
Make sure to verify whether you want a tablet for work, gaming, or both. This will both affect the price and the kind of tablet you choose.
If you need a tablet for work, we found The Microsoft Surface Go 2, Apple iPad (9th Generation), and Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra to be the most powerful options available. They offer a wide range of OS options with Microsoft Surface Go 2 using Windows OS, Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra using an Android OS, and Apple iPad (9th Generation) using iOS.
For gaming, we recommend the Amazon Fire HD 10, Lenovo Tab P12, or Apple iPad (10th generation). The Fire tablet features a large 10.1-inch screen and runs on Android OS. It is ideal for basic gaming and is better than its previous versions with a Fire OS. The Lenovo Tab P12 has a larger screen and longer battery life.
Apple iPad (10th generation) is more powerful and will run more powerful games compared to Amazon Fire HD 10. It has a large 12-inch screen and features a long battery life. Its versatility allows it to be used for many different tasks like drawing or consuming content.
Best tablets under $500 Comparison Table
Here’s a simplified comparison table with only the information that is available for all tablets:
Feature | Samsung Galaxy S8 | Amazon Fire 10 HD | OnePlus Pad | Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE | Xiaomi Pad 6 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Size | 11 inches | 10.1 inches | 11.6 inches | 10.9 inches | 11 inches |
Resolution | 2560 x 1600 pixels | 1920 x 1200 pixels | 2800 x 1800 pixels | 2560 x 1600 pixels | 2880 x 1800 pixels |
Storage | 128GB/256GB | 32GB, 64GB | 128GB | 128GB | Up to 256GB |
RAM | 8 GB | 3GB | 8GB LPDDR5 | 6GB | Up to 8GB |
Operating System | Android | Fire OS | Android | Android | Android |
CPU | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | 2.0GHz octa-core CPU | MediaTek Dimensity 9000 | Snapdragon 870G | Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 |
Camera | 12MP (rear), 8MP (front) | 5MP (rear), 2MP (front) | 13MP (rear), 8MP (front) | 8MP (rear), 8MP (front) | 13MP (rear), 8MP (front) |
Ports | USB-C, microSD | USB-C, headphone jack, microSD | USB-C | USB-C, headphone jack | USB-C |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best tablets under $500?
The Samsung Galaxy S8 is our top pick for this category. It has a large 11-inch screen with 2560 x 1600 pixels resolution. It runs on Android OS and comes with a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 plus 8 GB RAM that ensures it runs different processes very fast.