How to Choose a Tablet
There are hundreds of tablets to choose from on the market today. The devices vary in size, operating system, equipment, performance, and also in what activities they're suitable for. Which tablet is best for casual users, for children or for professionals? What should you look out for when shopping for a new tablet? We are here to help you choose the right one.
Some Tips for Choosing a Tablet
First, you have to choose the platform. Android is open-source, iOS iPads are well-tuned, and Windows tablets are great for work.
The storage capacity of your future tablet is also important. Not every device can be expanded by an external micro SD card.
How will you connect to the Internet? Is your home WiFi sufficient, or do you need to be online out of the house too?
What will you use the tablet for? Choose the appropriate resolution and display size.
The basic iPad (also known as iPad 2021) is suitable for beginners or less demanding consumers of multimedia content. Thanks to the closed iPadOS operating system, using the tablet is completely safe and hassle-free. The design of the tablet itself is top-notch. The 10.2" screen is the size of A4 paper. This makes the tablet great for reading books or watching movies, for example. It is also often the weapon of choice for schools as a teaching aid.
Pros & Cons
Don't want to use a phone with a large display, but still want to enjoy the convenience of, for example, reading books? The iPad mini 2021 offers a range of features, including 10 hours of battery life. It boasts an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 2,266 x 1,488 pixels. It's an absolutely fantastic screen housed in an aluminium chassis that's just 6.3mm thick. The display itself offers a wide P3 colour gamut, brightness up to 500 nits and an anti-glare coating for seamless readability. And just like on iPhones, True Tone technology takes care of the display's color temperature depending on ambient lighting conditions.
Pros & Cons
The look is still the same iPad Air, but some colour options are new. Now in its 5th generation, iPad Air is the first tablet in the series to boast the super-powerful M1 chip, which outperforms its predecessor by up to 60%. The nimble system is backed up by 8GB of RAM and the cellular version gets support for the fastest 5G mobile data. The new iPad Air furthermore supports the 2nd generation of Apple Pencils as well as the ability to connect accessories using the Smart Connector. The front-facing camera claims the spotlight with a 12MP sensor with HDR support and the ability to centre the image on the subject.
Pros & Cons
iPad Pro M1 2021
The new iPad Pro M1 is available in two display sizes, 12.9" and a smaller 11". The larger variant gets a brand new Liquid Retina XDR display, with mini-LED technology. The new display contains roughly 10k of these tiny LEDs. In addition, it will offer a brightness of up to 1,600 nits and a refresh rate of 120 Hz. As a result, it will offer an ultra-premium movie-watching experience while supporting the most demanding professional work. The smaller iPad Pro 2021 will have to make do with the already attested Liquid Retina.
The biggest change from the last generation is the deployment of Apple's M1 chip. This means a dramatic performance boost - a 40% increase in graphics performance, up to 1,500x over the first generation iPad, and a 50% increase in CPU performance. You can even choose the ultimate configuration with up to 16GB of RAM, 2TB of storage and 5G connectivity. Pairing it up with the 2nd generation Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard turn the iPad into a fully equipped laptop with uncompromising performance.
Pros & Cons
What to Know When Looking for a new iPad
iPadOS
iPadOS is a big advantage of all iPads. Because Apple is behind the development of the operating system and hardware, everything is perfectly compatible. This is reflected, for example, in the fact that the iPads are extremely fast in real-world use and do not crash even when running a large number of applications.
High security is an absolutely essential advantage for every iPad. Apple itself issues instant patches and responds to any security holes immediately. So it has complete control over its products and can send a new version of the operating system to them immediately. With Android, by contrast, it is entirely up to the manufacturer to release new versions of the system and add-ons for its products. Unfortunately, this is often not the case.
One of the biggest assets of iPadOS is definitely the App Store, a store with apps and games, similar to Google Play on Android tablets. The iPad also gets positive points for its seamless integration with other Apple products. This way, when at home, for example, you can put down your iPhone and take incoming messages or calls straight from your iPad.
The downside of iPadOS is that it's more closed. This means that, unlike Android tablets, you can't set the graphical appearance of many parts of the system on the iPad:
In general, iPads are also very often used in companies due to their very easy management and quick deployment. However, you'll appreciate this at home too, as it only takes a few minutes to migrate from an older iPad to a new one, for example. Simply bring the two devices closer together and the files of all applications transfer completely within a few minutes.
Size Matters - Display Size and Type
All current iPads have an IPS LCD display and differ mainly in diagonal size:
Comparison: iPad – Which iPad Is Best for Me?
| Type | iPad mini 2021 | iPad 2021 | iPad Air 2022 | iPad Pro 11" M1 | iPad Pro 12,9" M1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Display size | 8,3" | 10,2" | 10,9" | 11" | 12,9" |
| Resolution | 2 266 × 1 488 px | 2 160 × 1 620 px | 2 360 × 1 640 px | 2 388 × 1 668 px | 2 732 × 2 048 px |
| Processor | A15 Bionic | A13 Bionic | Apple M1 | Apple M1 | Apple M1 |
| Storage | 64 / 256 GB | 64 / 256 GB | 64 / 256 GB | 128 GB / 256 GB / 512 GB / 1 TB / 2 TB | 128 GB / 256 GB / 512 GB / 1 TB / 2 TB |
| Networks supported | WiFi/Cellular 5G | WiFi/Cellular | WiFi/Cellular 5G | WiFi/Cellular 5G | WiFi/Cellular 5G |
| Colours | Space grey, pink, purple, Starlight | Space grey, silver | Space grey, white, pink, purple, blue | grey, silver | grey, silver |
Power
As for performance, the different variants are graded according to price. The base iPad uses the generation's oldest chip, but Apple will continue to support it for a long time with iPadOS updates. The iPad Pro, on the other hand, already includes Apple's latest M1 chip, which is used in desktop PCs or laptops. This means that app developers can easily optimize their software to take full advantage of the available power.
Storage capacity
The internal storage capacity has a significant impact on the final price of the iPad and unfortunately cannot be increased in the future. So you need to consider all options. If you can, get a level more capacity than you currently need now. In 4 years, you may regret not getting the 128GB option instead. Also bear in mind that the operating system itself takes up several GB. Specifically, it's about 6GB.
Data Connection
Connectivity
Tip: iPads, like iPhones, work very well with Bluetooth wireless headphones AirPods. Just activate Bluetooth on your iPad, open the AirPods package and your iPad pairs up with the headphones immediately.
Creative Control Using Styluses
iPad's large screens invite for use of the stylus. Whether for drawing or quick notes, Apple Pencils of the first or second generation are a big help. What is the difference between them?
The Apple Pencil smart stylus bridges the gap between the electronic and analogue worlds, bringing new capabilities to native iPad and third-party apps. It's like writing or drawing on real paper.
Tip: Please note that Apple Pencil is always compatible with the iPad family. For example, you can't use the 2nd generation Apple Pencil on an older iPad.
Commonly Asked Questions When Choosing iPads
Tablet comparison - are iPads expensive?
Apple iPads are widely known for their high-quality build. They have above-average performance, a high-quality display, a wealth of features and a customised iPadOS operating system. Everything works exactly as it should, and that's the reason for the higher purchase price. However, once you start your iPad, you won't regret the higher price. The iPad user is also protected against most attacks due to its secure system, and it's very difficult to misuse stored data. iPads are protected by fingerprint (Touch ID) or facial recognition (Face ID).
Are iPads suitable for children?
It certainly is. iPad is an easy-to-use tablet, easy to use and can run almost all games and apps, even demanding ones. You'll find thousands of them in the App Store, even the free ones. Many of them are educational, developing your child's basic skills.
Do I need a case or protective glass for the display?
You can surely purchase a tempered glass or a case. These products will provide your iPad with the protection it needs to stay in good shape for long.
Android tablets are very widespread as many companies like Samsung, Lenovo and others make them, although the Android operating system is developed by Google. There are very cheap models, but also high-performance and more expensive ones, so anyone can find their weapon of choice. They also come with the advantage of being well integrated with Google services. However, manufacturers do not update their devices very often, so few tablets have the latest Android, including the latest security patches. Here's how to choose the best Android tablet.
Pros & Cons
What to Be Careful About When Selecting Android Tablets?
Android OS
Android is the most widely used mobile operating system because it is installed not only on tablets but also on mobile phones. Our first practical tip is that if you have a good experience with a Samsung smartphone, get a tablet from the same brand. In fact, each manufacturer uses customised graphical Android superstructures with slightly different controls.
However, this is the biggest pain point for virtually all Android devices - the lack of updates to new versions. Only a small percentage of manufacturers will let you update Android 10 to the latest Android 11, which is a shame. And it's also a potential security threat, as missing updates can open up access to various malicious attacks. Also, beware of installing apps outside the Google Play store. You'll find everything you need there, including a plethora of games or educational apps. Even without paying.
Android is also highly customisable. This means that you can customise almost everything in the settings. For example, the appearance of the home screen, the colour and scheme of the entire environment, the layout of the notification grid, the location and design of the soft buttons, and much more. Android's openness is also reflected, for example, in the greater integration of third-party apps with the system itself than is the case with iPadOS.
Display Size
Display Resolution and Tablet Size
The resolution tells us how many pixels (pixels) we can find on the display, and therefore how sharp the image will look. The higher the resolution, the more pixels, so more sharpness.
Current tablet resolutions start at 800×480 pixels and end at roughly 2 560 × 1 600 pixels. For small tablets up to 8" we recommend at least 1,024 × 720 pixels, any larger screen sizes should have at least 1 920 × 1 080 px, i.e. Full HD resolution. With this, the image looks much better and much smoother (in terms of the amount of pixels per overall surface).
The larger the display, the higher resolution it should have. Which resolution is suitable for which display size?
| Display size | Minimum suitable resolution | Ideal recommended resolution |
|---|---|---|
| 7" to 8" | 1 024 × 720 px | 1 920 × 1 080 px |
| 9" to 10" | 1 024 × 720 px | 1 920 × 1 080 px |
| 10" and above | 1 920 × 1 080 px | 2 560 × 1 600 px |
Display Type
This figure gives us information about the technology used to produce the display. This determines the ability to faithfully display colours, contrast, viewing angles and response speed.
Power
There is no need to stress too much about the processor as many other factors also play a role in performance. You can help yourself more by choosing a tablet with more RAM. For general use, 1 to 2 GB of RAM is sufficient, especially for children's or senior tablets; for more demanding use, choose from 3 or more GB of RAM. With Android, the more the merrier.
Inner Storage
The larger the storage capacity, the more expensive the tablet. Unlike iPads, Android tablets have the advantage that their storage can often be expanded with a memory card. So if you buy, for example, an 8GB tablet, you just need to buy an SD card and the capacity of your device will expand by several dozens of GB.
Battery Life
The best Android tablets can last more than 10 hours. But often it's much less. The cheapest ones often don't last more than 3-4 hours. So if you don't want to plug your tablet into the charger too often, keep an eye on this parameter too.
Tip: do you travel often? Get a power bank with your tablet. At least 6 000 mAh, to ensure sufficient amount of power for more charges.
Android Tablets Pricing
The cheapest tablets start at a few thousand, the most expensive ones exceed the 20 thousand mark. Be guided by what you'll be doing on the tablet.
Frequently Asked Questions when Choosing an Android Tablet
Tablets comparison - are Android tablets worth it?
The quality of Android tablets varies. As with all other products, a well-known proportionality applies to Android tablets on average. The more expensive the tablet is, the more powerful and higher quality it is. However, this does not apply absolutely and always depends on the specific model.
Even on the cheapest tablets around CZK 2,000, however, you can play undemanding games, chat with friends on social networks or read the news. However, you can expect occasional glitches and slower environmental reactions.
But if you plan to use your tablet intensively every day, don't be afraid to pay extra. It's not easy to determine the threshold at which a tablet is already "high quality". However, if you choose between models above 10,000 crowns, you will most likely already have a reliable tablet.
Is Android a secure operating system?
Android itself is secure. Google regularly releases security patches - but even then, it's up to the tablet manufacturers to decide whether or not to send a patch to their devices. Sometimes they do, sometimes they don't. But as long as you visit verified websites and use apps with good ratings, you have nothing to worry about.
Tip: You can set up parental controls on various Android tablets to keep an eye on what your child is doing on the device.
The classic children's tablet is equipped with the Android operating system and is packaged directly from the manufacturer in a protective case. We give positive points for this because without the case, do not give the tablet to children at all. If you choose a particular tablet in advance, make sure to check the available accessories. Tablets designed specifically for children are often designed in the colours of popular fairy tale heroes. Similarly, manufacturers often pre-install several simple games. However, thanks to the Android platform, virtually anything from the Google Play store can be installed additionally. Every parent should also pay their attention to setting time limits or limiting access to certain websites. This too can be arranged directly in the tablet settings.
Pros & Cons
Windows tablets are very close to classic laptops or desktops because they run the same operating system - Windows 10. Thanks to this, you can use almost any desktop application on tablets and perform the same activities as on a computer. They are therefore particularly suitable for work. In addition, many Windows tablets can be bought with a keyboard that makes it easier to type longer texts. Here's some advice on how to choose the right Windows tablet.
Pros & Cons
What to look at when looking to buy Windows Tablet
Windows OS
Windows is the final part of the trio of big players in the tablet operating system field. It differs from previous systems in design, as it is the only one that uses an identical system to a full-fledged PC. With it a few challenges in terms of control, but the pros definitely outweigh that if you use a free Microsoft account on both devices, which automatically syncs documents, photos, passwords and other settings.
The Windows 10 operating system allows for a certain transformation of the tablet into a smaller laptop, thanks to the possibility of installing classic computer programs (including office packages). It's no coincidence that many Windows 10 tablets have the option of adding an external keyboard for more comfortable typing.
The Achilles heel of the Windows 10 operating system is the very limited selection of apps and games compared to iPadOS and Android. The most well-known and successful apps can also be found here, but by no means all of them. In this respect, Microsoft is paying the price for the completely cancelled mobile branch of its products.
Display Size
Display Resolution and Tablet Size
The higher the resolution of the display, the sharper the image. It starts at 1,024 × 768 pixels on the cheapest tablets and goes up to 3,000 × 2,000 pixels on the most expensive tablets, such as Microsoft Surface Book 2. However, many users are happy with the Full HD resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 pixels.
The larger the display, the higher resolution it should have. Which resolution is suitable for which size?
| Display size | Minimum suitable resolution | Ideal recommended resolution |
|---|---|---|
| 7" to 8" | 1,024 × 720 px | 1,920 × 1,080 px |
| 9" to 10" | 1,024 × 720 px | 1,920 × 1,080 px |
| 10" and more | 1,920 × 1,080 px | 2,560 × 1,600 px |
Power
Storage Size
Battery Life
The best Windows tablets can run for more than 10 hours. This is generally true for the thinner models. For cheaper ones, it's usually less. If you travel a lot and the battery life of your tablet PC is not enough, a good solution is to buy a power bank. We recommend buying a power bank with no less than 6 000 mAh of capacity to ensure that you can charge your tablet several times.
Connectivity
Connectivity is quite important in Windows tablets, as the ability to connect other devices defines the practicality of a tablet.
Price
The cheapest Windows tablets cost a few thousand, the most expensive ones cost 70 thousand. These are already high-performance tablet PCs with keyboards that can handle even very demanding work. They also have high-quality metal construction.
Frequently asked questions when choosing a Windows tablet
Comparing tablets - how do different versions of Windows differ?
Previously, the Windows RT operating system was used for tablets, but Microsoft discontinued its development over time and replaced it with Windows 8. Even that didn't stay on the scene very long and after a year it was replaced by Windows 8.1, which is now completely a thing of the past and you'll find exclusively Windows 10 in tablets. This is the latest version of the operating system with regular updates and improvements.
What is a docking station?
This is an add-on module to the tablet (to the screen itself). It usually includes a keyboard along with an expansion battery, other connector equipment and sometimes a disk.
Are Windows tablets suitable for children to play with?
We do not recommend Windows tablets as the first tablet for children. Their design is more suited for work than for play. There are also few games for Windows 10 tablets.
Glossary
Display size
Indicates the distance between the bottom left and top right corners of the display (diagonal). It is expressed in inches, where 1" = 2.54 cm. Models with a larger diagonal will provide more working space. Notebooks with smaller diagonal sizes are suitable for frequent carrying.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is a wireless data transfer protocol used to pair up two or more electronic devices, such as tablets, mobile phones, headphones, fitness trackers and others. Bluetooth is also used to transfer audio, video and other files wirelessly.
RAM
The operating memory of a computer is commonly referred to by the abbreviation RAM (Random Access Memory). This is a type of memory that allows random access. It allows you to read or write data to any location in memory, making it extremely fast. However, all data is lost when the computer is turned off. Therefore, it serves as temporary storage for computers, laptops, as well as mobile phones and tablets.
Docking Connector
The docking connector is used to connect the laptop to the docking station. It contains ports for connecting a monitor, keyboard, mouse, external hard drive and other devices. This solution comes in handy if you frequently move your laptop between home and office.
Glossary