Last Updated on February 23, 2024 9:41 am by Jeffrey Powers
Tablet Buying Guide
Jeffrey Powers – @geekazine
Intro
Believe it or not, the tablet was created long before the iPad came out. The firt tablet demonstrated happened in 1956. When we talk consumer tablets, the PDA could have been considered – Palm Pilot, Compaq iPaq, and Apple Newton. However, we identify the first tablets for market to originate around 2000 – almost a decade before the iPad brought it into the consumer’s home.
I remember seeing the first tablet computer, which was basically a hybrid laptop that flipped around to a single screen with stylus. I thought how cool it was, but rather bulky. I tried to write on it, and the recognition was very jarring. Not to mention my drawings on screen were very shaky.
No doubt, it was Apple that made a device within reach of the consumer. Getting rid of the stylus for your finger to maneuver around the screen. Using the knowledge of the iPhone and iPod technologies to make this 10 inch wonder. Since that point, the tablet has been a part of our lives.
Apple, Android, and Microsoft all have been working hard in the tablet market to give you the next powerful mobile device. For some, a tablet has been a way to replace a desktop or laptop computer. For others, a tablet has become a powerful extension to their computer and phone.
Each year the processor, memory, and graphics continue to improve to a point where higher end applications such as Adobe Photoshop and games like NBA 2k are now available on the newer devices. The iPad ditched Lightning connectors for USB-C so you can also bring in multiple USB, Ethernet, power, and HDMI.
iPad Pro, Surface, Galaxy Tab, and (soon) Pixel Slate are going to be competing for your dollars in the next few years. These high-compute devices will allow you to be mobile and functional in any situation.
But not all people need the power. Therefore, lower end devices are also available so you can play Candy Crush, check your email, and surf the web from your recliner, coffee shop chair, in the car waiting for kids to finish practice, or wherever.
The tablet is also an extension to the connected world – holding your audio library, sending video to your TV, controlling your lights or thermostat, making phone calls to family and friends, and more. Ultimately, replacing those old folio pads you might have taken with you to meetings, containing your business contacts, notes, a calculator, and more.
Now, it’s all about how charged your phone and tablet are.
This article will be focusing on what you might be looking for in a tablet for 2019 and beyond. We will focus on both parts of the spectrum – the high end tablets, and those under $100.
Tablet Minimum Specs (11-2018)
If you are looking for a tablet to occasionally surf the internet, check email, and maybe play a simple game or two, then you don’t need a lot of power. But you do want something that will not frustrate you when you’re doing it.
Searching on Amazon for a tablet can come back with many options. Tablets that are very affordable, to devices that cost more than your refrigerator. Of course, Fire tablets are at the top of that list. But is that the device you want or need?
All current model tablets should have a quad-core or better processor. When looking for that gift for you or loved ones, you should look for:
- Quad-core at 1.2 GHz or better – Graphics processor supporting OpenGL 2.0
- iPad, Android: 1 GB RAM, 16 GB of storage (or 8 GB with an SD card slot)
- Windows: 4 GB RAM, 32 GB Storage with SD card slot
- WIFI b/g/n (Dual-mode preferred), Bluetooth 4
- 1024×600 Screen that can be seen when you angle the tablet
- Battery that can charge from 0-100% in about 2 1/2 hours
- Battery life of at least 6 hours (when active, simple apps installed)
- OS Version: Android 7.0 (Nougat), Windows 8, iOS 10 or better
Tablets for the Kids
Buying something for your toddler or teen? There are many tablets out there with parental controls so they don’t go buying e-gifts for their favorite game, or accidentally purchase that million dollar app.
Hand-me-down devices are not always the best for your children. You want something that will do the job for them, or else they’ll get just as frustrated as you did (which prompted the upgrade).
For the Toddler
Some manufacturers build more durable tablets for the kids – some with durable cases for the abuse it will receive. Sometimes the tablets look like fun characters, or just have some sturdy, rubber handles to them.
A good learning tablet is the LeapFrog Epic. At under $100, it will have a lot of kid-safe apps. It is perfect for the 3-9 year old crowd that’s working on building their skills.
Young Teens
Your teenager might want something with a better camera (since many teens love to take selfies and group photos, not to mention the video call to the bff). Therefore, you want to get them a tablet that will last for part of their school experience.
Audio: Looking for something with good speakers, Bluetooth or a headphone jack for listening will be key.
Camera: Keep in mind, a camera might come with some of these devices. It may be a good idea to either tape, or buy a camera shield cover for additional privacy.
I believe if I had a tablet back in my HS days, I would have tons of sheet music on it, along with pages of notes from my classes.
Speaking of which, OneNote for Android will be coming out soon. Otherwise, you can organize with Evernote – which allows you to move documents to a laptop, then phone, and back.
Concerns when Buying Tablets (Especially Older Devices)
Use and Health
I mentioned earlier with children, a hand-me-down tablet might not always be the best solution. There have also been health risks associated to certain devices.
Each tablet does have a battery running, and many antennas that are trying to get WiFi or cellular signal. There have been concerns these antennas emit radiation. In some cases, people have developed symptoms such as Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity.
Then there is the question of screen time. When I was a child, we couldn’t sit too close to the TV. At night, we needed flashlights to read or play pretend under the sheets. Today, many people actually sleep with their devices – tablet or phone – in their bed.
Security
One big factor, especially with choosing an older tablet, is security. When a manufacturer moves to the next version of OS, or update the model of tablet, they will rarely update previous versions unless a major security issue is detected (and in a lot of cases, that is not done, either). It’s not a good idea to do your banking on an iPad 1 or 2 using the Safari browser, for example.
For older devices, you can get 3rd party versions of software that will protect your data better. A good rule of thumb is if (and when) browser applications decide to stop supporting your device, you should upgrade.
Battery
Used tablets, or even tablets that are new-in-box, but manufactured a few years ago, can have battery issues. They may not keep a charge that well, or need to be replaced outright.
Once you’ve received your tablet, you should do a battery check. Apps are available to test out things like battery, screen, and more. Another way to do it is to simply time the battery drain. Play a long-form YouTube video (which will keep the screen from going to sleep), and mark where the battery level is after a certain time. Same thing when you’re charging the device.
Keep in mind, the types of apps could also drain your battery more. Facebook can be known for taking large amounts of battery, which some people choose not to install the app – they just log in via a web page.
FCC ID
Look on the back of your device. If it’s approved by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), then you will have an FCC ID. You can run a search on that FCC ID to make sure your device is legit.
Other OS Tablets
You don’t see it too often, but there are other operating systems you can get for certain tablets. You can’t always be able to load them into the tablet of your choice, and others might be using them already.
Tizen is a Linux based mobile OS that Samsung has used in the past.
Other tablets can have Plasma Mobile, pmOS, LineageOS, and Librem.
Don’t expect to find these when shopping for devices. If you choose to tinker for your next tablet, and do something like a DIY Tablet project, then these operating systems would be fun experiments to load on.
Tablet, or E-Reader?
If you’re getting a device simply to read, then an E-reader might be the better solution. It’s flat-white text without blue light in the background will be easier on the eyes.
The e-reader, such as the Kindle, will have a battery that lasts for weeks at a time. You will also be able to listen to books, something I like to do when I read.
The Paperwhite adds a built-in light to the device for reading in low-light situations, and 300 ppi screen. It also adds IPX8 waterproofing, so you can read in the bathtub, or at the beach.
Dual Boot Tablets
A dual boot tablet gives you more than one option. Maybe you need Windows on your tablet, but also like to play a game that only Android offers. With some alternate mobileOS out there, you can load to test apps, check out games, and more.
Keep in mind, iOS does not install on other devices, nor does dual-boot. An app was available at one time to remote-desktop into a virtual Windows machine, but that company has gone out of business. You can set up a remote desktop with your home computer, or use a program like Team Viewer, which also makes a remote connection to your Mac or PC (and has a consumer free-ware version).
Tablet OS Buying Guide
What to look for in iOS, Android, Windows, and More
Apple iPad Buying Guide
Apple has been creating iPad since 2010. Using their own branded processor (based off ARM architecture), the iPad has grown to be one of the most wanted tablets. Many functions can be performed with this tablet, which allowed people to exclusively use this device for their main computer.
In November, 2018, the latest iPad released (iPad Pro 2018) added facial recognition, USB-C (for more external functionality to dock a device to keyboard, mouse, monitor, and more). Full-sized games such as Creed’s Assassin and NBA 2k are available for this newest model, as the GPU/GPU can match that of an XBox One.
Older iPad models are still useful. However, it’s best to make sure you can get a 4th generation or better iPad for regular use. Price range starts at $100-$200. Getting a refurbished iPad from Gazelle or the Apple Certified Store will assure you get a working device.
iPad Mini
iPad Mini is another version of the tablet. At 7.9 inches, the mini has gone through 4 versions. This is a dual-core processor, but runs fairly well in the iOS environment.
You can get a refurbished iPad Mini here. Keep in mind, mini versions 2-4 can be updated with iOS12. Mini 1 will have iOS 9 (which is still functional for a lot of apps) and you can find for under $100.
iPad Pro 12.9 Inch
If you need more screen space, the largest iPad (12.9 inch) is also available. It debuted in 2016, and only has 2 versions out there at this time. The newest version also has no home button, faceID, and a large 2732×2048 screen.
Windows Tablet Buying Guide
Windows tablets are similar to your desktop or laptop. Some companies like HP, Dell, Acer, and more, create hybrid machines. 2-in-1 laptops where the keyboard detaches or flips into the machine allow you to do more.
The Windows Surface Pro, for example, can give you the same functionality as any laptop or desktop. The advantage over iPad is that Windows tablets usually come with more than one input connection. Docks will still be needed if you want to connect up to external monitors and wired networks.
A good low-end Windows 10 tablet will start at $150 or better. Many used and refurbished models (like Surface 3) are great examples.
Minimum specs for a low-end Windows tablet include 4 GB RAM, 64 GB storage (in which about 50 GB will be available), USB 2.0, SD card slot, Intel X5 Atom or Core i5 processor, 5.0 GHz WiFi b/g/n, Bluetooth 4. Added bonus if it can dual-boot into Android.
Check out the CHUWI H8 for tablet only
Android Tablet Buying Guide
Google Android can be found as the cheapest of the tablets due to the open source of the OS. Current Amazon Fire Tablets, for example, start at $50, run Android 7.0, but with the FireOS overlay, give you a completely different experience than that of Android. For some users, the FireOS tablet will be a hindrance, for the Google Play Store is not available, and some popular apps as well.
This also can be a confusing market, as many different companies can make an Android tablet. You can find tablets at discount stores such as Dollar General for $50 or less.
Google Pixel Slate (coming 11/22/18) will give you some of the best support of any Android tablet. It will also allow you to pair to the Pixelbook and Pixel phone.
Used and refurbished tablets could also be a option, for example, the Galaxy Tab is a great tablet, and a used or refurbished model can cost between $100-$200. Once again, make sure the tablet can be upgraded to Android 7 or better.
Tablet Buying Guide
Jeffrey Powers – @geekazine
Intro
Believe it or not, the tablet was created long before the iPad came out. The firt tablet demonstrated happened in 1956. When we talk consumer tablets, the PDA could have been considered – Palm Pilot, Compaq iPaq, and Apple Newton. However, we identify the first tablets for market to originate around 2000 – almost a decade before the iPad brought it into the consumer’s home.
I remember seeing the first tablet computer, which was basically a hybrid laptop that flipped around to a single screen with stylus. I thought how cool it was, but rather bulky. I tried to write on it, and the recognition was very jarring. Not to mention my drawings on screen were very shaky.
No doubt, it was Apple that made a device within reach of the consumer. Getting rid of the stylus for your finger to maneuver around the screen. Using the knowledge of the iPhone and iPod technologies to make this 10 inch wonder. Since that point, the tablet has been a part of our lives.
Apple, Android, and Microsoft all have been working hard in the tablet market to give you the next powerful mobile device. For some, a tablet has been a way to replace a desktop or laptop computer. For others, a tablet has become a powerful extension to their computer and phone.
Each year the processor, memory, and graphics continue to improve to a point where higher end applications such as Adobe Photoshop and games like NBA 2k are now available on the newer devices. The iPad ditched Lightning connectors for USB-C so you can also bring in multiple USB, Ethernet, power, and HDMI.
iPad Pro, Surface, Galaxy Tab, and (soon) Pixel Slate are going to be competing for your dollars in the next few years. These high-compute devices will allow you to be mobile and functional in any situation.
But not all people need the power. Therefore, lower end devices are also available so you can play Candy Crush, check your email, and surf the web from your recliner, coffee shop chair, in the car waiting for kids to finish practice, or wherever.
The tablet is also an extension to the connected world – holding your audio library, sending video to your TV, controlling your lights or thermostat, making phone calls to family and friends, and more. Ultimately, replacing those old folio pads you might have taken with you to meetings, containing your business contacts, notes, a calculator, and more.
Now, it’s all about how charged your phone and tablet are.
This article will be focusing on what you might be looking for in a tablet for 2019 and beyond. We will focus on both parts of the spectrum – the high end tablets, and those under $100.
Tablet Minimum Specs (11-2018)
If you are looking for a tablet to occasionally surf the internet, check email, and maybe play a simple game or two, then you don’t need a lot of power. But you do want something that will not frustrate you when you’re doing it.
Searching on Amazon for a tablet can come back with many options. Tablets that are very affordable, to devices that cost more than your refrigerator. Of course, Fire tablets are at the top of that list. But is that the device you want or need?
All current model tablets should have a quad-core or better processor. When looking for that gift for you or loved ones, you should look for:
- Quad-core at 1.2 GHz or better – Graphics processor supporting OpenGL 2.0
- iPad, Android: 1 GB RAM, 16 GB of storage (or 8 GB with an SD card slot)
- Windows: 4 GB RAM, 32 GB Storage with SD card slot
- WIFI b/g/n (Dual-mode preferred), Bluetooth 4
- 1024×600 Screen that can be seen when you angle the tablet
- Battery that can charge from 0-100% in about 2 1/2 hours
- Battery life of at least 6 hours (when active, simple apps installed)
- OS Version: Android 7.0 (Nougat), Windows 8, iOS 10 or better
Tablets for the Kids
Buying something for your toddler or teen? There are many tablets out there with parental controls so they don’t go buying e-gifts for their favorite game, or accidentally purchase that million dollar app.
Hand-me-down devices are not always the best for your children. You want something that will do the job for them, or else they’ll get just as frustrated as you did (which prompted the upgrade).
For the Toddler
Some manufacturers build more durable tablets for the kids – some with durable cases for the abuse it will receive. Sometimes the tablets look like fun characters, or just have some sturdy, rubber handles to them.
A good learning tablet is the LeapFrog Epic. At under $100, it will have a lot of kid-safe apps. It is perfect for the 3-9 year old crowd that’s working on building their skills.
Young Teens
Your teenager might want something with a better camera (since many teens love to take selfies and group photos, not to mention the video call to the bff). Therefore, you want to get them a tablet that will last for part of their school experience.
Audio: Looking for something with good speakers, Bluetooth or a headphone jack for listening will be key.
Camera: Keep in mind, a camera might come with some of these devices. It may be a good idea to either tape, or buy a camera shield cover for additional privacy.
I believe if I had a tablet back in my HS days, I would have tons of sheet music on it, along with pages of notes from my classes.
Speaking of which, OneNote for Android will be coming out soon. Otherwise, you can organize with Evernote – which allows you to move documents to a laptop, then phone, and back.
Concerns when Buying Tablets (Especially Older Devices)
Use and Health
I mentioned earlier with children, a hand-me-down tablet might not always be the best solution. There have also been health risks associated to certain devices.
Each tablet does have a battery running, and many antennas that are trying to get WiFi or cellular signal. There have been concerns these antennas emit radiation. In some cases, people have developed symptoms such as Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity.
Then there is the question of screen time. When I was a child, we couldn’t sit too close to the TV. At night, we needed flashlights to read or play pretend under the sheets. Today, many people actually sleep with their devices – tablet or phone – in their bed.
Security
One big factor, especially with choosing an older tablet, is security. When a manufacturer moves to the next version of OS, or update the model of tablet, they will rarely update previous versions unless a major security issue is detected (and in a lot of cases, that is not done, either). It’s not a good idea to do your banking on an iPad 1 or 2 using the Safari browser, for example.
For older devices, you can get 3rd party versions of software that will protect your data better. A good rule of thumb is if (and when) browser applications decide to stop supporting your device, you should upgrade.
Battery
Used tablets, or even tablets that are new-in-box, but manufactured a few years ago, can have battery issues. They may not keep a charge that well, or need to be replaced outright.
Once you’ve received your tablet, you should do a battery check. Apps are available to test out things like battery, screen, and more. Another way to do it is to simply time the battery drain. Play a long-form YouTube video (which will keep the screen from going to sleep), and mark where the battery level is after a certain time. Same thing when you’re charging the device.
Keep in mind, the types of apps could also drain your battery more. Facebook can be known for taking large amounts of battery, which some people choose not to install the app – they just log in via a web page.
FCC ID
Look on the back of your device. If it’s approved by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), then you will have an FCC ID. You can run a search on that FCC ID to make sure your device is legit.
Other OS Tablets
You don’t see it too often, but there are other operating systems you can get for certain tablets. You can’t always be able to load them into the tablet of your choice, and others might be using them already.
Tizen is a Linux based mobile OS that Samsung has used in the past.
Other tablets can have Plasma Mobile, pmOS, LineageOS, and Librem.
Don’t expect to find these when shopping for devices. If you choose to tinker for your next tablet, and do something like a DIY Tablet project, then these operating systems would be fun experiments to load on.
Tablet, or E-Reader?
If you’re getting a device simply to read, then an E-reader might be the better solution. It’s flat-white text without blue light in the background will be easier on the eyes.
The e-reader, such as the Kindle, will have a battery that lasts for weeks at a time. You will also be able to listen to books, something I like to do when I read.
The Paperwhite adds a built-in light to the device for reading in low-light situations, and 300 ppi screen. It also adds IPX8 waterproofing, so you can read in the bathtub, or at the beach.
Dual Boot Tablets
A dual boot tablet gives you more than one option. Maybe you need Windows on your tablet, but also like to play a game that only Android offers. With some alternate mobileOS out there, you can load to test apps, check out games, and more.
Keep in mind, iOS does not install on other devices, nor does dual-boot. An app was available at one time to remote-desktop into a virtual Windows machine, but that company has gone out of business. You can set up a remote desktop with your home computer, or use a program like Team Viewer, which also makes a remote connection to your Mac or PC (and has a consumer free-ware version).
Tablet OS Buying Guide
What to look for in iOS, Android, Windows, and More
Apple iPad Buying Guide
Apple has been creating iPad since 2010. Using their own branded processor (based off ARM architecture), the iPad has grown to be one of the most wanted tablets. Many functions can be performed with this tablet, which allowed people to exclusively use this device for their main computer.
In November, 2018, the latest iPad released (iPad Pro 2018) added facial recognition, USB-C (for more external functionality to dock a device to keyboard, mouse, monitor, and more). Full-sized games such as Creed’s Assassin and NBA 2k are available for this newest model, as the GPU/GPU can match that of an XBox One.
Older iPad models are still useful. However, it’s best to make sure you can get a 4th generation or better iPad for regular use. Price range starts at $100-$200. Getting a refurbished iPad from Gazelle or the Apple Certified Store will assure you get a working device.
iPad Mini
iPad Mini is another version of the tablet. At 7.9 inches, the mini has gone through 4 versions. This is a dual-core processor, but runs fairly well in the iOS environment.
You can get a refurbished iPad Mini here. Keep in mind, mini versions 2-4 can be updated with iOS12. Mini 1 will have iOS 9 (which is still functional for a lot of apps) and you can find for under $100.
iPad Pro 12.9 Inch
If you need more screen space, the largest iPad (12.9 inch) is also available. It debuted in 2016, and only has 2 versions out there at this time. The newest version also has no home button, faceID, and a large 2732×2048 screen.
Windows Tablet Buying Guide
Windows tablets are similar to your desktop or laptop. Some companies like HP, Dell, Acer, and more, create hybrid machines. 2-in-1 laptops where the keyboard detaches or flips into the machine allow you to do more.
The Windows Surface Pro, for example, can give you the same functionality as any laptop or desktop. The advantage over iPad is that Windows tablets usually come with more than one input connection. Docks will still be needed if you want to connect up to external monitors and wired networks.
A good low-end Windows 10 tablet will start at $150 or better. Many used and refurbished models (like Surface 3) are great examples.
Minimum specs for a low-end Windows tablet include 4 GB RAM, 64 GB storage (in which about 50 GB will be available), USB 2.0, SD card slot, Intel X5 Atom or Core i5 processor, 5.0 GHz WiFi b/g/n, Bluetooth 4. Added bonus if it can dual-boot into Android.
Check out the CHUWI H8 for tablet only
Android Tablet Buying Guide
Google Android can be found as the cheapest of the tablets due to the open source of the OS. Current Amazon Fire Tablets, for example, start at $50, run Android 7.0, but with the FireOS overlay, give you a completely different experience than that of Android. For some users, the FireOS tablet will be a hindrance, for the Google Play Store is not available, and some popular apps as well.
This also can be a confusing market, as many different companies can make an Android tablet. You can find tablets at discount stores such as Dollar General for $50 or less.
Google Pixel Slate (coming 11/22/18) will give you some of the best support of any Android tablet. It will also allow you to pair to the Pixelbook and Pixel phone.
Used and refurbished tablets could also be a option, for example, the Galaxy Tab is a great tablet, and a used or refurbished model can cost between $100-$200. Once again, make sure the tablet can be upgraded to Android 7 or better.
Tablet Buying Guide Jeffrey Powers - @geekazine
Intro
Believe it or not, the tablet was created long before the iPad came out. The firt tablet demonstrated happened in 1956. When we talk consumer tablets, the PDA could have been considered – Palm Pilot, Compaq iPaq, and Apple Newton. However, we identify the first tablets for market to originate around 2000 – almost a decade before the iPad brought it into the consumer’s home.
I remember seeing the first tablet computer, which was basically a hybrid laptop that flipped around to a single screen with stylus. I thought how cool it was, but rather bulky. I tried to write on it, and the recognition was very jarring. Not to mention my drawings on screen were very shaky.
No doubt, it was Apple that made a device within reach of the consumer. Getting rid of the stylus for your finger to maneuver around the screen. Using the knowledge of the iPhone and iPod technologies to make this 10 inch wonder. Since that point, the tablet has been a part of our lives.
Apple, Android, and Microsoft all have been working hard in the tablet market to give you the next powerful mobile device. For some, a tablet has been a way to replace a desktop or laptop computer. For others, a tablet has become a powerful extension to their computer and phone.
Each year the processor, memory, and graphics continue to improve to a point where higher end applications such as Adobe Photoshop and games like NBA 2k are now available on the newer devices. The iPad ditched Lightning connectors for USB-C so you can also bring in multiple USB, Ethernet, power, and HDMI.
iPad Pro, Surface, Galaxy Tab, and (soon) Pixel Slate are going to be competing for your dollars in the next few years. These high-compute devices will allow you to be mobile and functional in any situation.
But not all people need the power. Therefore, lower end devices are also available so you can play Candy Crush, check your email, and surf the web from your recliner, coffee shop chair, in the car waiting for kids to finish practice, or wherever.
The tablet is also an extension to the connected world – holding your audio library, sending video to your TV, controlling your lights or thermostat, making phone calls to family and friends, and more. Ultimately, replacing those old folio pads you might have taken with you to meetings, containing your business contacts, notes, a calculator, and more.
Now, it’s all about how charged your phone and tablet are.
This article will be focusing on what you might be looking for in a tablet for 2019 and beyond. We will focus on both parts of the spectrum – the high end tablets, and those under $100.
Tablet Minimum Specs (11-2018)
If you are looking for a tablet to occasionally surf the internet, check email, and maybe play a simple game or two, then you don’t need a lot of power. But you do want something that will not frustrate you when you’re doing it.
Searching on Amazon for a tablet can come back with many options. Tablets that are very affordable, to devices that cost more than your refrigerator. Of course, Fire tablets are at the top of that list. But is that the device you want or need?
All current model tablets should have a quad-core or better processor. When looking for that gift for you or loved ones, you should look for:
- Quad-core at 1.2 GHz or better – Graphics processor supporting OpenGL 2.0
- iPad, Android: 1 GB RAM, 16 GB of storage (or 8 GB with an SD card slot)
- Windows: 4 GB RAM, 32 GB Storage with SD card slot
- WIFI b/g/n (Dual-mode preferred), Bluetooth 4
- 1024×600 Screen that can be seen when you angle the tablet
- Battery that can charge from 0-100% in about 2 1/2 hours
- Battery life of at least 6 hours (when active, simple apps installed)
- OS Version: Android 7.0 (Nougat), Windows 8, iOS 10 or better
Tablets for the Kids
Buying something for your toddler or teen? There are many tablets out there with parental controls so they don’t go buying e-gifts for their favorite game, or accidentally purchase that million dollar app.
Hand-me-down devices are not always the best for your children. You want something that will do the job for them, or else they’ll get just as frustrated as you did (which prompted the upgrade).
For the Toddler
Some manufacturers build more durable tablets for the kids – some with durable cases for the abuse it will receive. Sometimes the tablets look like fun characters, or just have some sturdy, rubber handles to them.
A good learning tablet is the LeapFrog Epic. At under $100, it will have a lot of kid-safe apps. It is perfect for the 3-9 year old crowd that’s working on building their skills.
Young Teens
Your teenager might want something with a better camera (since many teens love to take selfies and group photos, not to mention the video call to the bff). Therefore, you want to get them a tablet that will last for part of their school experience.
Audio: Looking for something with good speakers, Bluetooth or a headphone jack for listening will be key.
Camera: Keep in mind, a camera might come with some of these devices. It may be a good idea to either tape, or buy a camera shield cover for additional privacy.
I believe if I had a tablet back in my HS days, I would have tons of sheet music on it, along with pages of notes from my classes.
Speaking of which, OneNote for Android will be coming out soon. Otherwise, you can organize with Evernote – which allows you to move documents to a laptop, then phone, and back.
Concerns when Buying Tablets (Especially Older Devices)
Use and Health
I mentioned earlier with children, a hand-me-down tablet might not always be the best solution. There have also been health risks associated to certain devices.
Each tablet does have a battery running, and many antennas that are trying to get WiFi or cellular signal. There have been concerns these antennas emit radiation. In some cases, people have developed symptoms such as Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity.
Then there is the question of screen time. When I was a child, we couldn’t sit too close to the TV. At night, we needed flashlights to read or play pretend under the sheets. Today, many people actually sleep with their devices – tablet or phone – in their bed.
Security
One big factor, especially with choosing an older tablet, is security. When a manufacturer moves to the next version of OS, or update the model of tablet, they will rarely update previous versions unless a major security issue is detected (and in a lot of cases, that is not done, either). It’s not a good idea to do your banking on an iPad 1 or 2 using the Safari browser, for example.
For older devices, you can get 3rd party versions of software that will protect your data better. A good rule of thumb is if (and when) browser applications decide to stop supporting your device, you should upgrade.
Battery
Used tablets, or even tablets that are new-in-box, but manufactured a few years ago, can have battery issues. They may not keep a charge that well, or need to be replaced outright.
Once you’ve received your tablet, you should do a battery check. Apps are available to test out things like battery, screen, and more. Another way to do it is to simply time the battery drain. Play a long-form YouTube video (which will keep the screen from going to sleep), and mark where the battery level is after a certain time. Same thing when you’re charging the device.
Keep in mind, the types of apps could also drain your battery more. Facebook can be known for taking large amounts of battery, which some people choose not to install the app – they just log in via a web page.
FCC ID
Look on the back of your device. If it’s approved by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), then you will have an FCC ID. You can run a search on that FCC ID to make sure your device is legit.
Other OS Tablets
You don’t see it too often, but there are other operating systems you can get for certain tablets. You can’t always be able to load them into the tablet of your choice, and others might be using them already.
Tizen is a Linux based mobile OS that Samsung has used in the past.
Other tablets can have Plasma Mobile, pmOS, LineageOS, and Librem.
Don’t expect to find these when shopping for devices. If you choose to tinker for your next tablet, and do something like a DIY Tablet project, then these operating systems would be fun experiments to load on.
Tablet, or E-Reader?
If you’re getting a device simply to read, then an E-reader might be the better solution. It’s flat-white text without blue light in the background will be easier on the eyes.
The e-reader, such as the Kindle, will have a battery that lasts for weeks at a time. You will also be able to listen to books, something I like to do when I read.
The Paperwhite adds a built-in light to the device for reading in low-light situations, and 300 ppi screen. It also adds IPX8 waterproofing, so you can read in the bathtub, or at the beach.
Dual Boot Tablets
A dual boot tablet gives you more than one option. Maybe you need Windows on your tablet, but also like to play a game that only Android offers. With some alternate mobileOS out there, you can load to test apps, check out games, and more.
Keep in mind, iOS does not install on other devices, nor does dual-boot. An app was available at one time to remote-desktop into a virtual Windows machine, but that company has gone out of business. You can set up a remote desktop with your home computer, or use a program like Team Viewer, which also makes a remote connection to your Mac or PC (and has a consumer free-ware version).
Tablet OS Buying Guide What to look for in iOS, Android, Windows, and More
Apple iPad Buying Guide
Apple has been creating iPad since 2010. Using their own branded processor (based off ARM architecture), the iPad has grown to be one of the most wanted tablets. Many functions can be performed with this tablet, which allowed people to exclusively use this device for their main computer.
In November, 2018, the latest iPad released (iPad Pro 2018) added facial recognition, USB-C (for more external functionality to dock a device to keyboard, mouse, monitor, and more). Full-sized games such as Creed’s Assassin and NBA 2k are available for this newest model, as the GPU/GPU can match that of an XBox One.
Older iPad models are still useful. However, it’s best to make sure you can get a 4th generation or better iPad for regular use. Price range starts at $100-$200. Getting a refurbished iPad from Gazelle or the Apple Certified Store will assure you get a working device.
iPad Mini
iPad Mini is another version of the tablet. At 7.9 inches, the mini has gone through 4 versions. This is a dual-core processor, but runs fairly well in the iOS environment.
You can get a refurbished iPad Mini here. Keep in mind, mini versions 2-4 can be updated with iOS12. Mini 1 will have iOS 9 (which is still functional for a lot of apps) and you can find for under $100.
iPad Pro 12.9 Inch
If you need more screen space, the largest iPad (12.9 inch) is also available. It debuted in 2016, and only has 2 versions out there at this time. The newest version also has no home button, faceID, and a large 2732×2048 screen.
Windows Tablet Buying Guide
Windows tablets are similar to your desktop or laptop. Some companies like HP, Dell, Acer, and more, create hybrid machines. 2-in-1 laptops where the keyboard detaches or flips into the machine allow you to do more.
The Windows Surface Pro, for example, can give you the same functionality as any laptop or desktop. The advantage over iPad is that Windows tablets usually come with more than one input connection. Docks will still be needed if you want to connect up to external monitors and wired networks.
A good low-end Windows 10 tablet will start at $150 or better. Many used and refurbished models (like Surface 3) are great examples.
Minimum specs for a low-end Windows tablet include 4 GB RAM, 64 GB storage (in which about 50 GB will be available), USB 2.0, SD card slot, Intel X5 Atom or Core i5 processor, 5.0 GHz WiFi b/g/n, Bluetooth 4. Added bonus if it can dual-boot into Android.
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Android Tablet Buying Guide
Google Android can be found as the cheapest of the tablets due to the open source of the OS. Current Amazon Fire Tablets, for example, start at $50, run Android 7.0, but with the FireOS overlay, give you a completely different experience than that of Android. For some users, the FireOS tablet will be a hindrance, for the Google Play Store is not available, and some popular apps as well.
This also can be a confusing market, as many different companies can make an Android tablet. You can find tablets at discount stores such as Dollar General for $50 or less.
Google Pixel Slate (coming 11/22/18) will give you some of the best support of any Android tablet. It will also allow you to pair to the Pixelbook and Pixel phone.
Used and refurbished tablets could also be a option, for example, the Galaxy Tab is a great tablet, and a used or refurbished model can cost between $100-$200. Once again, make sure the tablet can be upgraded to Android 7 or better.
