Best Tablets for Students on a Budget

Gone are the days of toting hefty laptops to classes; sleek and modern tablets, such as the Apple iPad (2021), have taken center stage. The best tablets for students not only lighten their load but also enhance academic performance.

However, the quest for a quality yet budget-friendly tablet is a student dilemma, addressed in our guide striking the perfect balance between affordability and performance. 

Whether you’re a tech-savvy college student or a novice with your inaugural tablet, our top picks accommodate every requirement. This definitive guide aims to simplify your tablet shopping experience. Let’s explore the optimal student tablets of 2024; but first, a glance at our top recommendations.

Top Picks

5 Best Tablets For Students

Selecting a student tablet requires attention to productivity features like E-Ink displays and stylus support. Whether for note-taking in class or handling research projects, our curated list ensures affordability and versatility. 

Choose a tablet that best fits your educational requirements. Let’s explore some of the best tablets for students below.

1. Apple iPad (2021) — Top Choice for Students

Today’s Price: $253.00 (View on Amazon)

Crafted with an education-centric design, the Apple iPad (2021) boasts classroom adaptability with a headphone jack and lightning port. Its 12MP webcam and Center Stage feature enhance group calls, while the A13 Bionic chip ensures lasting speed. Supporting the first-gen Apple Pencil, it excels in note-taking, making it the all-around best tablet for students’ academic needs.

Pros 

• Vivid display
• Enhanced front-facing camera
• Swift performance
• Solid battery life

Cons

• Outdated design featuring large bezels
• Lack of storage for Apple Pencils

2. Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 — Best Android Students Tablet

Today’s Price: $114 (View on Amazon)

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 excels as the premier Android tablet for students, providing a commendable 13-hour battery life comparable to premium models. With facial recognition similar to Apple’s iPad, it stands out at a budget-friendly price. While not the fastest, its authentic Android experience via the Google Play store makes it an ideal tool for student tasks.

Pros and 

• Impressive battery longevity
• Convenient facial recognition
• USB-C charging for added versatility

Cons

• Diminished screen brightness
• Subpar performance

3. Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 — Best Chrome Tablet for Students

Today’s Price: $136 (View on Amazon)

The Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 stands out as the optimal Chrome tablet for students, boasting a stylish design, a vibrant 10.6″ full HD display, and an octa-core CPU ensuring sustained performance throughout the day. Equipped with Dolby Atmos-enhanced quad speakers and offering seamless connectivity via WiFi and Bluetooth, it proves ideal for a blend of entertainment and productive study sessions.

Pros 

• Bright and sharp display
• Impressive 10+ hours of battery life
• Decent packed-in keyboard cover
• Surprisingly loud audio for a Chrome tablet

Cons

• Lack of a headphone jack
• Cameras are lackluster
• The keyboard cover can be uncomfortable

4. New Microsoft Surface Go 2 — Prime Affordable Tablet Pick for Students

Today’s Price: $265.00 (View on Amazon)

The New Microsoft Surface Go 2, an affordable Windows tablet, with a 10.5” touchscreen, is an ideal student companion, excelling in browsing, emails, and homework with a remarkable 10-hour battery life. Its adjustable Kickstand and Signature Type Cover enhance portability and versatility. Connectivity is seamless with a USB-C port and headphone jack. Full HD cameras ensure clear calls and quality photos, making it a perfect tool for academic and entertainment needs.

Pros 

• Enhanced battery life
• Bright, vibrant, and larger display
• Streamlined design with thinner bezels
• Outstanding webcam quality

Cons

• Unimpressive performance
• The learning curve with the Type Cover

5. COOPERS Tablet — Best 2 in 1 Tablet PC for Students

Today’s Price: $68.00 (View on Amazon)

The COOPERS 2 in 1 Tablet, designed with students in mind, features ample storage, a powerful multitasking processor, and dual cameras for photos and videos. Running on Android 11, it offers easy setup and includes essential accessories such as a pen and screen protector. An ideal, budget-friendly choice for students handling basic tasks and studies.

Pros 

• Comes with accessories like a keyboard, wireless mouse, and foldable case
• Google certified for app variety
• Long battery life (8-10 hours mixed use)

Cons

• Occasional slowness in video chat apps
• The screen isn’t the most sturdy part
• Sluggish performance with multiple simultaneous apps

Wrapping Up

The COOPERS 2 in 1 Tablet proves a budget-friendly standout with essential features, while the Microsoft Surface Go 2 excels for Windows enthusiasts. The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 offers a true Android experience, Apple’s iPad (2021) shines with education-friendly features, and the Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 impresses with its sleek design and versatility. 

The ideal choice for the best tablets for students relies on individual needs, budget considerations, and platform preferences. Each tablet provides a unique blend of performance, affordability, and features catering to the diverse demands of students.

FAQs