The best affordable tablets for gaming in 2024
In 2024, there are plenty of options for the best affordable tablets for gaming. These devices are no longer just purpose-built; they offer great value across a range of prices, fitting most budgets.
Our current pick for the best affordable gaming tablet is the Apple iPad 10.2, though the Apple iPad Pro has earned Editors’ Choice accolades from The Maze Solution. Apple has led tablet manufacturing for nearly 20 years, ensuring that their best affordable tablet for gaming delivers reliable performance.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 is still a popular slab for people who want to use older models. It has a bright screen and can handle challenging games, which makes it a good choice for gamers on a budget.
The Amazon Fire HD 10 is another cheap tablet worth considering. It’s available through third-party retailers, and buying one means you get access to any number of apps and entertainment options.
High-end slates specifically for gaming like the Asus ROG Flow Z13 are also available. With powerful CPU power and GPU power, including options to boost up with an external GPU, it can run seriously exciting stuff like the latest games.
These gaming tablets can rack up quickly in price, but they offer more than phones ever could. They enable you to play on a larger screen and bear some similarities to gaming laptops.
Think about things like battery life, storage space, and extras when making your choice. Based on years of tablet reviews, our guide aims to highlight the features that make these tablets ideal for gaming.
The quick list
Best cheap Amazon tablet
1. Amazon Fire HD 10 (2023)
The Amazon Fire HD 10 is a small upgrade over its predecessor, but it manages to pack a solid quality 10.1-inch display. It’s one of the cheapest gaming tablets worth buying for streaming, gaming, and web browsing at this price point, though it doesn’t exactly set the tablet world on fire.
Best Apple
2. Apple iPad Pro
This device has a multitude of benefits, including a frame rate of 120Hz, a fast M4 engine, and the choice of a huge 13-inch screen.
Best overall
3. iPad 10.2 (2021)
The Apple iPad 10.2 (2021) is not the cheapest tablet on our list, but it’s the best cheap tablet overall. Featuring a fantastic 10.2-inch screen and handy video call features, it’s a device you can afford and be set for years to come, as it’s still being supported with iPadOS updates.
Best cheap Samsung tablet
4. Samsung Galaxy Tab A8
If you prefer a versatile Android tablet, the Samsung’s Galaxy Tab A8 is among the best bargain tablets from the premiere Android manufacturer. It offers strong battery life to keep you working or entertained, making it great for watching movies.
Best small
5. Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus
Amazon’s 8-inch Fire HD 8 Plus is the best cheap small tablet. This pint-sized wonder, used with an optional dock, essentially becomes an Echo Show, though its screen quality isn’t great.
Most Affordable iPad for Gaming
6. Apple iPad (10th Generation)
The entry-level iPad with A14 chip isn’t Apple’s latest, but powerful enough to handle most games from App Store. Weighing 1.07 pounds, it’s lightweight and supports optional 5G connectivity at an additional cost.
Read more below
Load the next products…
best affordable gaming tablet
7. Apple iPad mini (2021)
The Apple iPad mini (2021) is an 8.3-inch, 0.65-pound tablet that’s easy to carry around with plenty of power to run anything from the App Store or Apple Arcade. It’s pricier than standard iPad due to paying extra for added portability.
Best Android Tablet for Gaming
8. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is Android’s answer to high-end iPads, offering tons of power to handle any game you throw at it. Highlights include a vivid 14.6-inch display, speedy Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy processor, 12GB of RAM, and a minimum of 256GB of storage. Excellent multitasking software, an included stylus, and an IP68 durability rating round things out.
Best generally
9. Asus ROG Flow Z13
The Asus ROG Flow Z13 is a gaming tablet that means business, packing a full Windows 11 setup and RTX 3050 graphics card; this 13.4-inch slab is a full PC in itself.
The Best affordable tablets for gaming 2024
The best cheap Amazon tablet
1. Amazon Fire HD 10 (2023)
The best affordable tablet for gaming
Device Specifications
Operating System:
Fire OS
Dimensions:
9.69 by 6.49 by 0.34 inches
Weight:
15.3 oz
Display:
10.1 inches, 1920 x 1200
CPU:
Mediatek MT8186A
Storage:
32GB/64GB
Battery Life:
up to 10 hours
Rear camera:
5MP (wide)
GET IT NOW
Reasons to buy
+ Low price point and entry–level performance that works well for everyday use.
+ Incredibly colorful display with minimal branding for a hardy, workable device.
+ Handy Alexa integration turns it into an Echo Show mode command center.
+ Access to services like Luna that works seamlessly.
Reasons to avoid
– Tinychanges since 2021 mean the model may feel the same.
– Stuck in the Amazon ecosystem with limited app selection and no Google services.
– Largerbezels give a cheaperfeel.
– Focused on Amazoncontent, limiting access to your own apps.
– Confined to the Amazonstore, making the experience limited.
The Amazon Fire HD 10 is an excellent choice for those seeking a tablet with decent enough specs without spending a ton of money. It features a Full HD 10.1-inch display, perfect for playing games and watching movies. During testing, it recorded up to 13 hours of battery life, offering impressive endurance for lengthy trips. Its tough design can weather bumps and knocks, though the design is rather dated and may not earn admiring looks.
While the device operates within Amazon’s walled garden, which is limited to the Amazon Appstore and includes some unremovable apps, you can sideload apps from Google Play for a broader selection. This allows the tablet to handle most titles, making it a fairly solid option for gamers. However, it’s important to note that it’s limited to games from Amazon Appstore by default.
There are some caveats to consider. If you own the 2021 model, the tiny changes in this version may not be a compelling upgrade. Despite its strong specs, it’s a no-frills device. Still, the Fire HD 10 is worth considering in 2024 for those who want a reliable tablet not a lot of money.
Best Apple gaming tablet
2. Apple iPad Pro
Most Powerful iPad
Device Specifications
Operating System:
Apple iPadOS 17
Dimensions:
11.09 by 8.48 by 0.20 inches
Weight:
1.28 lbs
Display:
11-inch Ultra Retina XDR OLED (2420 x 1668)
/ 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR OLED (2752 x 2064)
CPU:
Apple M4
Storage:
256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TB
Battery Life:
10 hours (est.)
Rear camera:
12MP Wide
GET IT NOW
Reasons to buy
+ actually very flexible
+ supports mouse and has a powerful chipset
+ Brilliant OLED screen Unbeatable performance
+ Different ways to connect
+ The best tablet cameras
Reasons to avoid
– Costs a lot more than other Apple products
– Accessories that cost a lot
– The iPad OS can be buggy.
The 12.9-inch iPad Pro is the best Apple gaming tablet possible for those who want to game on the go. This tablet runs on a powerful M4 chip and features four quality speakers, providing excellent sound for games and media. It comes with up to 2TB of storage, so you can store plenty of content. The mini-LED backlit display offers excellent brightness and contrast and supports adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz, ensuring smooth visuals. Plus, it is available with 5G connectivity, making it perfect for staying connected anywhere. You can’t beat the new generation of iPad Pro when it comes to performance and features in an Apple device.
Features:
The iPad Pro is one of the best tablets for gaming because it has a powerful Apple M4 processor that provides lightning-fast technology. It has a great Liquid Retina screen that works great for movies and games thanks to its Ultra Retina XDR OLED display with ProMotion technology. The tablet has a keyboard, a mouse, and works with the must-have Apple Pencil, which makes it easier to get work done. Adding lidar sensors and two cameras to augmented reality apps makes them run faster and better, letting users properly judge distances.
Design:
The new Pro shows off Apple’s famous workmanship with its beautiful and sleek body. Different people will like the different muted design choices this nice-looking device has to offer. Even though the tablet is durable, it’s best to protect its sides with a bumper case. The iPad Pro is not only a powerhouse, but it also has well-thought-out design elements, like FaceID, which makes it safer and easier to use.
Performance:
The iPad Pro has an M4 processor, which makes it faster and better able to run heavy apps with less lag. You’ll have a great time playing games and having great gaming adventures. It’s very easy to keep track of speed with the 120Hz display, especially when playing faster games. This creative tablet has some of the best gaming specs of any Apple device. It can load games faster and handle batteries much better. This all-in-one workstation is great for getting things done, whether you’re editing media or working on complicated processes.
Verdict:
The iPad Pro is more than just a gaming computer for most people who buy it. An investment in a creative computer that can be used for work and play at the same time. This tablet is perfect for editing video, doing hard work, and playing games. The iPad Pro is one of the best Apple products because it’s great for both work and play. It can be used for almost any job because it is so flexible. It costs more, but its great gaming features and performance make it worth thinking about.
Buy it if:
✅ You want to play games on your iPad in the best way possible. The iPad Pro isn’t just a game machine; it’s more of a tool for getting work done. However, it has the best gaming experience of any Apple tablet so far.
✅ It must have a rotation rate of 120Hz. If you want really smooth movements, you’ll have to look at the Pro because it’s the only iPad with a 120Hz speed.
✅ For work reasons, you also need a tablet. As was already said, this device’s main purpose is to help people multitask while working hard. If you’re looking for a tablet for work, this should be your first choice, with games coming in second.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You won’t use those ECs to their maximum potential. If you don’t require a tablet for productivity and streaming purposes, it’s not advisable to purchase an iPad Pro solely for gaming.
❌ You’re following a more disciplined diet. These devices come with significant costs, so if you’re on a tighter budget, you’ll need to explore options that are more affordable.
Ratings
The best cheap tablet overall
3. iPad 10.2 (2021)
The best cheap tablet overall
Device Specifications
Operating System:
iPadOS 15
Dimensions:
250.6 x 174.1 x 7.5mm
Weight:
487g
Display:
10.2-inch 1620 x 2160
CPU:
A13 Bionic
Storage:
64/256GB
Battery Life:
10 hours (est.)
Rear camera:
8MP Wide
Front camera:
12MP
GET IT NOW
View at Amazon (64GB)
View at Amazon (256GB)
Reasons to buy
+ Great value.
+ Enhanced selfie camera for video calls.
+ The best tablet cameras.
Reasons to avoid
– No Face ID. Lacks support for newer accessories.
– Does not include recalibrating speakers.
The Apple iPad 10.2 (2021) is a great all-rounder that takes the crown as the best cheap tablet to buy in 2024. Even though it’s over three years old, it remains capable and is hard to fault. Its gorgeous 10.2-inch screen with True Tone technology ensures that colors and brightness automatically adjust to suit the light, making it ideal for outdoor use. In bright sunlight, where visibility might pose a challenge, the True Tone proves especially useful.
The iPad has been recorded to have 10 hours of battery life, which is decent enough for daily use, though not the best compared to some competitors like the Amazon Fire HD 10. While there’s no Face ID, the tablet just works, offering a smooth experience. The handy Center Stage feature for taking video calls means the camera keeps you in frame at all times, enhancing communication.
Running on iPadOS 15 but compatible with iPadOS 18, the latest version of Apple’s OS, it ensures future software updates until at least 2026. With the A13 Bionic chipset, it keeps things running well for most everyday tasks. Its easy-to-use multitasking features and the ability to place widgets anywhere on the screen make it versatile and user-friendly.
Buy it if:
✅ If you’re on a budget and seeking excellent value for money, the iPad 10.2 (2021) is the one to get. As Apple’s entry-level iPad, it is simple to use and perfect if you don’t need Apple’s top tablet features. It’s a great choice for those looking to replace an older iPad that doesn’t support iPadOS 15 with a new iPad.
✅ For users who regularly use your tablet for staying in touch, the improved front-facing camera and handy Center Stage feature make video calling an enjoyable experience. The camera ensures you’re always in the frame, enhancing communication. This is the first time these features are available on an entry-level iPad.
✅ If you often use your tablet outdoors, the True Tone technology provides the best viewing experience. The display automatically adjusts based on ambient lighting, making it easier to see in different environments. This feature enhances usability and comfort during outdoor use.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ If you already have the iPad 10.2 (2020), the improved selfie camera and True Tone display might not be enough of an upgrade. With iPadOS 15 and some additional storage, your current tablet offers similar features.
❌ For sketching or drawing, the iPad Air (4th generation) is a better choice. It supports the Apple Pencil (2nd generation), which is easier to charge and store and has a customizable control button.
❌ If you crave better audio, this iPad’s two speakers are perfectly functional but basic. The iPad Mini or iPad Air offers speakers that automatically calibrate based on the orientation of the slate for a better experience in gaming or watching movies.
Ratings
The best cheap Samsung tablet
4. Samsung Galaxy Tab A8
The best cheap Samsung tablet
Device Specifications
Operating System:
Android 11
Dimensions:
246.8 x 161.9 x 6.9mm
Weight:
508g
Display:
10.5-inch 1920 x 1200
CPU:
Unisoc Tiger T618
Storage:
64GB
Battery Life:
7040mah
Rear camera:
8MP Wide
Front camera:
5MP
GET IT NOW
Reasons to buy
+ A reasonable price.
+ Up to 1TB of extra memory.
Reasons to avoid
– A long time to charge.
– It crashes when the power is low.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 has been replaced by the newer Galaxy Tab A9, which we are currently testing. While the Galaxy Tab A9 offers better specs with more RAM and is 176g lighter, the still-excellent Tab A8 is cheaper than ever in 2024. This makes it a great budget option if you’re looking for an Android-powered iPad rival.
Running on Google’s Android operating system, the Galaxy Tab A8 provides the flexibility that Android users enjoy. It has a large HD display and a 10.5-inch screen, making it ideal for movies and web browsing. This slate is worth considering if you want an affordable tablet with a solid display for basic entertainment.
The Galaxy Tab A8 also benefits from a long battery life, allowing you to enjoy a movie marathon without frequent charging breaks. However, it can take some time to charge, and it’s not the most powerful tablet available. For media and basic app use around the house, though, this is a strong choice.
Buy it if:
✅ If you want an affordable tablet to stream movies, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 is a great choice. It provides a sharp, detailed picture and built-in speakers. Plus, with a 3.5mm audio jack and Bluetooth connectivity, there’s a variety of options for listening out and about.
✅ For those needing lots of storage, the Galaxy Tab A8 offers up to 1TB of expandable storage through a microSD card slot, so you’re not limited by the onboard storage.
✅ If you’re on a budget but still want a capable tablet, this is one of the most affordable Android tablets available. With a 10.2-inch screen that displays everything well, it provides good value and can handle a variety of tasks with ease.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ If you need better cameras, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 has only an 8MP main and 5MP front camera. For better options at a similar price point, consider the Apple iPad 10.2 (2021) with its 12MP TrueDepth selfie camera.
❌ For longer performance and top-end performance, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 might not be enough. While it performs well for its price point, premium devices like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 provide more power—you get what you pay for here.
Ratings
The best cheap small tablet
5. Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus
The best cheap small tablet
Device Specifications
Operating System:
Fire OS
Dimensions:
202 x 137 x 9.7mm
Weight:
355g
Display:
8-inch 880 x 1280
CPU:
quad-core
Storage:
32/64GB
Battery Life:
12 hours
Rear camera:
2MP Wide
Front camera:
2MP
GET IT NOW
Reasons to buy
+ Optional dock apes an Echo Show.
+ Wireless charging.
Reasons to avoid
– Low screen quality.
– Locked to Amazon’s ecosystem
The 8-inch Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus is a slightly made better version of the Amazon Fire HD 8 (2020), making it one of the best cheap tablets. With more RAM at 3GB, it supports wireless charging and has an optional dock that turns it into an Echo Show. It also comes with a speedier charger than the standard Fire HD 8.
Apart from these upgrades, it’s similar to its cheaper sibling. This version is faster than the previous generation and offers much more storage, giving users ample space for apps and files. These small but effective improvements make it a great choice for those on a budget.
In testing, the Amazon Fire HD 8 Plus proved to hold its own for its price, though it isn’t the fastest. As a small-sized tablet with the added benefit of being a smart display, it’s a top choice. However, if you only need the tablet part, the standard Fire HD 8 is also worth considering.
Buy it if:
✅ If you want a smart display, the Wireless Charging Dock transforms the Fire HD 8 Plus into a full Show Mode experience with Alexa. This bundle may be more expensive than a standalone Echo Show 8, but it’s more versatile.
✅ For those who prefer wireless charging, the switch to USB-C ports lets both new Fire HD 8 tablets recharge more quickly. If you dislike cables or already own a QI-certified wireless charger, the Plus model is the one to pick.
✅ If you’re upgrading from the Fire HD 8 (2018), the Plus, at £20 more, includes 1GB of extra RAM. While this doesn’t transform the tablet, it creates a slightly faster experience, especially with the new Game Mode.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ If you only need a basic 8-inch tablet for web browsing or media streaming, the standard Amazon Fire HD 8 works almost as well and costs £20 less. The Plus is only worth it for its wireless charging smarts or extra speed.
❌ For keen gamers, the Game Mode and 3GB of RAM help, but the underpowered processor can struggle with demanding games. With a limited selection of Android titles in the Amazon Appstore, a faster Samsung tablet or a refurbished iPad might be a better choice.
❌ If you’re not an Amazon Prime customer, the Prime subscription service won’t add value. It’s deeply integrated into the user experience of the Fire HD 8 Plus, and without a membership, you’ll miss the content library and face payment prompts.
Ratings
Most Affordable iPad for Gaming
6. Apple iPad (10th Generation)
Most Affordable iPad for Gaming
Device Specifications
Operating System:
Apple iPadOS 16
Dimensions:
9.79 by 7.07 by 0.28 inches
Weight:
1.1 lb
Display:
10.9 inches 2,360 by 1,640 pixels
CPU:
Apple A14 Bionic
Storage:
64GB
Battery Life:
6 hours
Rear camera:
12MP
Front camera:
12MP
GET IT NOW
Reasons to buy
+ appealing look like the iPad Pro
+ USB-C port
+ Top-notch cameras
+ Good speakers
+ Very fast speed
Reasons to avoid
– There is no Touch ID button.
– No Face ID
The entry-level iPad with the A14 chip is powerful enough to handle most games on the App Store. Though it isn’t Apple’s latest processor, it delivers solid gaming performance for a well-rounded 10-inch gaming tablet that won’t break the bank. At just 1.07 pounds and with optional 5G connectivity (for an additional cost), it’s lightweight and suitable for on-the-go gaming.
The 10th-gen Apple iPad looks like pricier models, such as the iPad mini ($499), iPad Air ($599), and iPad Pro ($999). It has dropped the circular Touch ID button below the screen, replacing the chunky top and bottom bezels with a uniform edge-to-edge look. Its large glass panel, aluminum chassis, and flat side edges make it a solid piece of hardware that feels well-made and looks modern.
The A14 Bionic is a six-core chip with two performance cores and four efficiency cores, plus a four-core GPU. It features 16 Neural Engine cores, double that of the previous A13 Bionic. With 4GB of RAM—half of the 8GB in the iPad Air—this slim slate offers modest performance gains. Apple pitches 10 hours of battery life on Wi-Fi, and nine hours over cellular, enough for browsing and watching videos, but it could be better.
Buy it if:
✅ The Apple iPad (10th Gen) is ideal for those who want a modern design at a reasonable price. Its vibrant 10.9-inch display and A14 chip make it perfect for streaming, gaming, or work.
✅ USB-C connectivity and a landscape-positioned camera make it great for video calls and faster data transfer.
✅ With a side-mounted Touch ID, it’s secure and easy to use. This iPad balances performance, convenience, and affordability.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You Need Pro-Level Power
For heavy multitasking or advanced creative tasks, the A14 chip might feel limiting compared to the iPad Pro’s M-series processors.
❌ You Prefer Face ID
If you’re used to Face ID on other Apple devices, the absence of it here may feel outdated.
❌ You Need Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) Support
This model only supports the first-gen Apple Pencil, which might be a drawback if you want more advanced stylus capabilities.
Ratings
best affordable gaming tablet
7. Apple iPad mini (2021)
Best Small Gaming Tablet
Device Specifications
Operating System:
Apple iPadOS
Dimensions:
7.69 by 5.31 by 0.25 inches
Weight:
10.4 oz
Display:
8.3 inches 2,226 by 1,448 pixels
CPU:
Apple A15 Bionic
Storage:
64GB
Battery Life:
7 hours
Rear camera:
12MP
Front camera:
12MP
GET IT NOW
Reasons to buy
+ Excellent performance.
+ prolonged battery life
+ Works using Apple Pencil of second generation.
Reasons to avoid
– Apple OS lacks a multi-user feature.
– more expensive than earlier models
The 8.3-inch iPad mini is Apple’s best small gaming tablet for those who prefer a portable device. Weighing only 0.65 pounds, it’s easy to carry and packs plenty of power for games on the App Store and Apple Arcade. While it’s pricier than the standard iPad, the mini provides extra portability and a premium experience for extended gaming sessions.
This sixth-generation mini tablet has been redesigned in the iPad Pro line style, featuring an A15 chipset (similar to the iPhone 13 Pro) and double the storage of its predecessor. It also supports the second-generation Apple Pencil and sub-6GHz 5G connectivity for seamless internet use. Though it costs $100 more (starting at $499), it’s a great pick for those who want something smaller and more powerful.
With a Pro-style makeover, the iPad mini boasts an aluminum enclosure and measures 7.7 by 5.3 by 0.3 inches. It’s one of Apple’s most powerful small tablets, with an A15 Bionic chipset, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage (expandable to 256GB for $150 extra). This device is ideal for traveling, thanks to LTE and sub-6GHz 5G connectivity and options like physical SIMs, eSIMs, and the Apple SIM for convenient data coverage.
Buy it if:
✅ You prioritize portability: Its 8.3-inch display and lightweight design make it easy to carry and use on the go.
✅ You need strong performance: Equipped with the A15 Bionic chip, it handles multitasking, gaming, and productivity tasks efficiently.
✅ You use the Apple Pencil: Compatibility with the second-generation Apple Pencil enhances note-taking and creative work.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You require a larger display: For extensive media consumption or multitasking, a larger iPad model might be more suitable.
❌ You need advanced multitasking: While capable, its smaller screen may not be ideal for split-screen or intensive multitasking compared to larger iPads.
❌ You prefer Face ID: The iPad mini uses Touch ID; if Face ID is essential, consider other iPad models.
Ratings
Best Android Tablet for Gaming
8. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra
Best Android Tablet for Gaming
Device Specifications
Operating System:
Android 13
Dimensions:
12.85 by 8.21 by 0.21 inches
Weight:
1.6 lbs
Display:
14.6 inches 2,960 by 1,848 pixels
CPU:
14.6 inches 2,960 by 1,848 pixels
Storage:
256GB
Battery Life:
10 hours
Rear camera:
8MP
Front camera:
12MP
GET IT NOW
Reasons to buy
+ Super fast speed
+ Gorgeous screen
+ Strong Samsung integration; good productivity tools; IP68 rating; S Pen stylus included
Reasons to avoid
– It’s pricey and hard to hold because of its size.
– Android on screens is still limited.
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra is Android’s answer to high-end iPads. With tons of power from the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, 12GB of RAM, and 256GB storage, this tablet handles all tasks with ease. The vivid 14.6-inch display with a refresh rate of 120Hz and 930 nits of brightness makes games and media look amazing. The included S Pen stylus is perfect for artists who need an immersive canvas.
Built to be durable, the Tab S9 Ultra has an IP68 rating, meaning it’s dust and waterproof for up to 30 minutes. The Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protects the gorgeous screen from scratches and drops. With Samsung integration, this tablet is a productivity powerhouse. You can open three apps at once with One UI’s multitasking software, use the taskbar and desktop features, or place apps in a floating window.
Although it’s pricey at $1,199.99 and somewhat awkward to handle due to its large size, it’s still the best big Android tablet. The 11,200mAh battery provides around 9 hours and 30 minutes of use, and it supports 45W fast charging. Bluetooth 5.3 and Wi-Fi 6E keep you connected, while quad speakers with Dolby Atmos make for a great audio experience.
Buy it if:
✅ You desire a large, high-quality display: The 14.6-inch screen is ideal for media consumption, gaming, and creative work.
✅ You need robust performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and ample RAM handle intensive tasks efficiently.
✅ You value stylus support: The included S Pen is perfect for note-taking, drawing, and precise input.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ You prefer a compact device: Its large size may be cumbersome for those seeking portability.
❌ You’re on a tight budget: Priced at $1,199.99, it may not suit all budgets.
❌ You require a desktop-like experience: While Samsung’s DeX mode offers enhanced productivity features, it may not fully replace a traditional desktop environment.
Ratings
The best affordable gaming tablet overall
9. Asus ROG Flow Z13
The best affordable gaming tablet overall
Device Specifications
Operating System:
Windows 11
Graphics Coprocessor:
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050
Weight:
2.6 lbs (1.18kg)
Display:
13.4-inch, 2560 x 1600, 165Hz
CPU:
Intel i9-13900H
Storage:
1TB
Battery Life:
7 hours
Rear camera:
13MP
Front camera:
5MP
GET IT NOW
Reasons to buy
+ The best tablet specs and performance
+ 2-in-1 shape
+ A style that can be used in many situations.
Reasons to avoid
– Less battery life
– Can get computers for a lot less money
The Asus ROG Flow Z13 is a powerful gaming tablet and hybrid tablet that combines the best of an Asus gaming laptop. With Intel’s 13th generation processors and an RTX 4050 or RTX 4060 graphics card, it handles demanding games effortlessly.
Design: The ROG Flow Z13 is a bit chunky and probably the heaviest tablet here, but that’s due to its powerful components of a full PC. Surprisingly, it’s not too heavy and remains an incredibly portable device. One-handed use may be out of the question, yet it’s designed for gaming enthusiasts. The subtle RGB window on the back adds a premium touch and reveals the inner circuitry, letting the whole world know that this tablet means serious gaming.
Features: The Asus ROG Flow Z13 opens up the whole world of PC gaming right at your fingertips with Windows 11. This gives you access to more games and services than any other gaming tablet here. Switching between tablet mode and laptop mode feels like a dream thanks to the responsive magnetic keyboard and sturdy kickstand that keep everything safe and stable for seamless gaming.
Performance: The Asus ROG Flow Z13 is powered by either an RTX 4050 or RTX 4060 GPU. While it doesn’t perform exactly like a full-blown gaming laptop, it still provides an impressive benefit over typical mobile setups. Under the hood, you’ll find an i9 processor, 16GB RAM, and a 1TB SSD, delivering serious performance without the temperature and noise concerns of other slim devices. This well-engineered piece of kit might be a luxury experience at a higher price point, but it’s the best gaming tablet on the market for those who want sheer power.
Verdict: In our verdict, while we struggled to fully recommend the Asus ROG Flow Z13 as a gaming laptop due to its expensive price, it’s still a top choice for those seeking a high-end gaming tablet with PC-level performance. Gamers wanting this level of power should definitely take note.
Buy it if:
✅ If you want the power of a PC in a tablet form, the Z13 is for you with Windows 11.
✅ Need a flexible option? The Z13 can function as a tablet or a full laptop with a keyboard attachment.
✅ If you see yourself upgrading to an eGPU for desk-based play in the future, this is an excellent first step.
Don’t buy it if:
❌ If you already own a gaming laptop, the Z13 might be too expensive as an alternative. Save cash by choosing a cheaper model instead.
❌ Battery life is important if you want long use. The Z13’s power doesn’t match Samsung or Apple models in this area.
Ratings
FAQ
What is the best cheap tablet?
The best cheap tablet on the market right now is Apple’s iPad 10.2 (2021). Despite its age, it offers a gorgeous 10.2-inch screen, great app support, and handy video call features. If you prefer an Android device, we recommend the Samsung Galaxy Tab A8.
How to choose the best cheap tablet
When choosing the best cheap tablets, remember that compromises are common with cheaper products. Identify what matters to you most, whether it’s the battery, screen, or other variables. Some may prefer a relatively small, light, portable tablet with an 8-inch screen and weight of under 400g, while others want a big, immersive 10-inch display. Consider operating systems too, like Apple’s iPadOS, Android, or Amazon’s Fire OS. You won’t find a master of all trades at a low price, but you can find the balance you need.
What is the best tablet for gaming?
Currently, the Apple iPad Pro and Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra are leading choices for gaming tablets due to their powerful processors and high-quality displays. The iPad Pro is favored for its robust performance and 120Hz refresh rate, while the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra stands out with its expansive 14.6-inch display and Android versatility.
Are tablets any good for gaming?
Yes, tablets can be excellent for gaming, offering larger screens than smartphones and more portability than laptops. Tablets like the iPad Pro and Samsung Galaxy Tab series provide powerful CPUs and GPUs, making them capable of running most modern games smoothly.
How much RAM is needed for gaming on a tablet?
For a good gaming experience, look for tablets with at least 4GB of RAM. However, for more intensive games and multitasking, 8GB or more is recommended. This ensures smoother gameplay and better handling of multiple applications.
What does a gaming tablet need?
For smooth gaming, a tablet should have enough RAM to handle system responsiveness and keep frame rates steady. 6GB of RAM is generally enough for most games, but 8GB is better for newer, more demanding games that may otherwise cause lag problems. Android devices often need more RAM, with some tablets offering 12GB for enhanced performance. iOS devices can manage with 4GB due to their lightweight operating system. For gaming tablets, aim for 6-12GB of RAM for a balanced experience across various games.
What is the difference between a gaming tablet and a regular tablet?
Gaming tablets are typically equipped with more powerful processors, higher RAM capacity, and enhanced graphics capabilities to handle demanding games. They often have features like higher refresh rates and better cooling systems compared to regular tablets that may not prioritize gaming performance.
What device do most gamers use?
While many gamers enjoy the versatility of gaming tablets, the majority still prefer dedicated gaming consoles like the Nintendo Switch or handheld devices for serious gaming. However, tablets are gaining popularity due to advancements in mobile game development and cloud gaming services.
What size tablet do you need for gaming?
For gaming, it’s best to avoid smaller 7-inch displays often found in entry-level devices. If you plan on spending a significant amount of time gaming on your tablet, a screen size of at least 10-inches is recommended. Larger screens provide a more immersive experience, making them ideal for the best gaming tablets. Choosing a larger size helps bring out more details and enhances gameplay, especially for graphics-heavy games.
Which budget tablet is best for gaming?
For an affordable gaming tablet, options like the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7, Amazon Fire tablet, iPad base model, and Lenovo M-series offer great choices. Among these brands, the Amazon Fire HD 10 provides an ultra-cheap gaming experience. If you want the best value and plan to stream and browse the web, consider the entry-level iPad. Looking for a bigger screen for a more immersive feel? Check out gaming TVs or even the best OLED TV for stunning visuals, whether you’re enjoying a console game or streaming your favorite Disney Plus content.
