If you don’t own a tablet yet, you may be one of the few holdouts left. Tablets are growing so popular that they are anticipated to outsell computers, both laptops and desktops, within the next two years.
Tablets are popular because of their affordability and portability – you can take them anywhere. The wide availability of mobile apps makes them easy and versatile to use for work, school or for fun.
When shopping for a new tablet, you have an overwhelming number of options. The key is finding the tablet that suits your budget, preferences and computing needs.
Features to consider include:
- Table size
- Internal storage
- Battery power
- Wi-Fi or 3G capabilities
- Open source platform, like Android, or closed, like Apple
- Compatibility with your existing devices
- Camera quality
- Cost
Here’s a look at the top 10-rated tablets on the market:
- iPad (Fourth Generation). It’s hard to go wrong with this Apple product that outsells the competition. The iPad, which starts around $499, has a powerful processor, an unmatched retina display and offers more than 300,000 mobile apps. If you already own an iPhone and Mac computer, it may make sense to stay within the Apple family. You’ll already feel familiar with the device.
- Google Nexus 10. This table is Android’s version of the iPad. The screen is sharp and its processor is fast. Starting at $399, Google Nexus 10 is less expensive than its Apple competitor.
- Amazon Kindle Fire HD (7-inch). This tablet features a sharp display, excellent sound quality and a clean interface. Starting at $199, this tablet is one of the best low-cost tablets on the market. It’s a great buy for the reader in the family who also wants to watch streaming internet movies.
- Microsoft Surface with Windows 8 Pro. At $799, the tablet is just as expensive as a laptop but offers an ultrabook experience that rises above the competition.
- Barnes & Noble Nook HD+. While the Nook has no camera, it is the perfect gateway tablet if you want to buy a low-cost device. At only $149, the Nook is a great value.
- Samsung Galaxy Note 8.0. This is a versatile Android tablet that is ideal for taking notes or drawing. It features deep pen integration and could be a nice option for college students. Prices start around $399.
- Asus Transformer Pad Infinity. At around $440, this Android tablet is fast and features a large LED screen. Wi-Fi is necessary for internet access.
- Hisense Sero 7 Pro. If you want a smaller 7-inch tablet, this is an affordable, high performance device for $149.
- Fuhu Nabi 2. Many families are buying tablets for their children and this is one of the best kid-friendly tablets on the market. The tablet features a durable rubber bumper in case someone drops it. For only $199, the price is affordable. The mobile device offers kid safety features and parental controls and is Android compatible.
- Sony Xperia Tablet. Around $500, this Android table is a well-designed and practical. It also is Sony PlayStation certified and is great for gaming.
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