• OnePlus is expected to release a new high-end tablet, likely named the OnePlus Pad 2, which will supposedly be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset.
• The tablet appeared on Geekbench with the model number OPD2404, scoring 2,079 in single-core and 6,077 in multi-core tests.
• The tablet will apparently have at least 8GB of RAM and run Android 14.

A new OnePlus tablet seems to be on the way, and a recent benchmark listing suggests it could be a high-end device, likely named the OnePlus Pad 2, featuring a flagship processor from Qualcomm.

According to a Geekbench listing, the OnePlus Pad 2 will be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, the same processor that will likely power the OPPO Pad 3 (via 91mobiles). This aligns with earlier leaks from Max Jambor, which indicated the new tablet would sport Qualcomm’s latest and greatest chipset.

Given that OPPO and OnePlus are owned by the same parent company, they often share technology, making it reasonable to expect the OPPO Pad 3 and OnePlus Pad 2 to have identical specs.

The upcoming OnePlus tablet appeared on Geekbench with the model number OPD2404, while the original OnePlus Pad had the OPD2203 model number. The new device scored 2,079 points in the single-core test and 6,077 points in the multi-core test, presumably thanks to the upgraded processor.

The original OnePlus Pad, launched last year, featured a MediaTek Dimensity 9000 chipset. While decent, using 2021 hardware for a 2023 tablet was unusual. The OnePlus Pad 2 could rectify this with a more modern and powerful chipset.

In addition to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, the benchmark listing reveals the tablet will have at least 8GB of RAM and will run Android 14 out of the box. This tablet is also expected to have a huge 9,510mAh battery, likely with fast charging support.

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 marks a significant improvement over MediaTek's  Dimensity 9000, potentially leading to other exciting upgrades like switching from an LCD to an AMOLED panel—a staple of today's premium tablets.

Although these enhancements might increase the OnePlus Pad 2’s price, the company could still offer strong value compared to Samsung’s tablets.

✅Recommended if: you're looking for a good tablet at an economy price point; you prefer a lightweight tablet with a decently large screen, but not one that's too big; battery life is a priority to you.

❌Skip this deal if: you're looking for a tablet you can use with Samsung's S Pen; you need a tablet with more than 128GB of built-in storage.

There are at least a handful of reasons why the Galaxy Tab A9 Plus has become one of our favorite cheap tablets, not the least of which is its long-lasting battery. If that isn't enough, it also offers pretty decent performance compared to other tablets near this price point, and it boasts a vibrant 11-inch display with a 90Hz refresh rate.

One major downside is that the Galaxy Tab A9 Plus isn't compatible with Samsung's S Pen stylus, and that its built-in storage is only 128GB. However, you can still upgrade storage through the microSD slot, letting users access up to 1TB of expandable storage.

All that usage has taken a toll on the battery life; I used to get a week's worth of use between charges, but these days, the battery barely lasts long enough to read one book. While that isn't as big a problem at home, I'm not confident in its ability to last a transatlantic flight (not that I'm making those journeys anymore, but that's a matter for another day).

The other issue I have with the Oasis is that it charges via Micro-USB. This wasn't a problem back in 2019, but nowadays, the Oasis is the only device in my daily rotation that still uses the Micro-USB port. I didn't think much of it at the time, as I figured Amazon would launch a follow-up model with USB-C.

But it's clear that Amazon has no intention of doing so. The 10th Gen Kindle Oasis is still on sale in India as of writing, but it's unavailable everywhere else, and unlikely to be restocked. Amazon lists the international edition for just $135, and while that is a stellar price, it isn't eligible for delivery in the U.S. Given that Amazon has refreshed all the other models in the series, it's evident that there are no plans to do so with the Oasis. That's annoying, because even after half a decade, the Oasis continues to be the best e-reader around.

A lot of what makes the Oasis stand out is the asymmetric design and the aluminum build; it just feels better to hold and use than any other e-reader. But what I like the best about the device — and why I continue to use it daily — is the page turn buttons. Physical page turn buttons absolutely make a difference when reading an e-book, and the ability to change orientation and use the buttons with either hand is the reason I use the Oasis over other e-readers.

The Oasis nails the dimensions as well, and the 7-inch screen is ideally suited for reading books. Coming in at 194g, it isn't too heavy to hold one-handed either. Essentially, what I'm trying to get at is that the Oasis is still the best e-reader ever made, and it's frustrating that Amazon has no interest in making a new one.

Amazon is instead focusing its attention on the Kindle Scribe and the Paperwhite Signature, with the latter in particular taking up the mantle of the Oasis. The Paperwhite Signature is more affordable at $189, charges via USB-C and the Qi standard, and has E Ink's Carta 1200 panel with 300ppi pixel density. But there are no page turn buttons, and the plastic design isn't anywhere as nice to hold as the Oasis.

If you're a long-time Oasis user and are looking for a new e-reader, the best option may be the Onyx Boox Page. It also has a 7-inch E Ink Carta 1200 panel, physical page turn buttons, and weeks-long battery life. Onyx's software has a lot going for it as well — that was evident after using the Note Air 3 — and at $249, the Boox Page slots in at the same price point as the Oasis. While I haven't used Kobo's e-readers, the Libra Colour looks like a decent alternative, offering a color E Ink screen along with page turn buttons.

That said, I exclusively used Kindles for over a decade because of the convenience. While I buy from smaller publishers these days, a chunk of my e-book library is tied to my Amazon account, and the Kindle e-store — along with Kindle Unlimited — makes buying and reading e-books a breeze. But with Amazon unwilling to release a new high-end e-reader, it is becoming increasingly clear that I'll need to switch to Onyx or Kobo's products once my Oasis becomes unusable.

Make sure everything is up-to-date

After you go through the initial setup process, you'll want to make sure that both your Pixel Tablet and Charging Speaker Dock are running the latest software. Not only does this ensure that you have the latest Android Security Patch, but you'll also enjoy any new features that have been released.

1. Open the Settings app.

2. From the left sidebar, scroll down and tap System. 

3. On the right, tap Software updates. 

4. Tap System update. 

5. Tap the Check for updates button.

6. If an update is available, tap the Download and install button.

Register your fingerprints

Google's onboarding process already takes you through the necessary steps to register your fingerprints. But, you'll likely find yourself wanting to register more than one. This is because when the Pixel Tablet is docked, the Power button/fingerprint scanner is on the top right. But, when you pick up the tablet and want to use it vertically, quickly unlocking it is better suited for a finger on your left hand. 

1. Open the Settings app.

2. Tap Security & privacy in the left sidebar.

3. On the right side, tap Device Unlock. 

4. Tap Fingerprint Unlock. 

5. When prompted, enter your PIN.

6. Tap + Add fingerprint. 

7. Follow the on-screen steps.

8. Repeat the process to add more fingerprints.

Set up and enable Hub Mode

Although Google continues to claim that the Pixel Tablet is not a Nest Hub Max replacement, it really kind of is. Not only can you add the Charging Speaker Dock to the Home app, but there's even a dedicated Hub Mode. 

When docking the tablet for the first time, you might see a window appear that takes you through the setup process. However, there are a bunch of options to configure from the Settings app. 

Opening the Settings app and selecting Hub Mode presents you with the different features to configure. This includes setting up a screen saver, making adjustments to the At a Glance widget, and setting up the default music or video services for "Assistant on Hub Mode."

We recommended taking a few minutes and messing around with the various options, tailoring it to your needs. 

Add your Pixel Tablet to the Google Home app

Adding further credence to the idea of the Pixel Tablet replacing the Nest Hub Max, is the ability to add the Charging Speaker Dock to the Google Home app. While we wish the Dock would operate as a Nest Audio speaker on its own, that's unfortunately not the case. 

However, when you attach the Pixel Tablet, it's capable of so much more. By adding it to the Home app, you can add it to a Speaker Group, and add new automations, further improving your Google-powered smart home.

1. Attach your Pixel Tablet to its Charging Speaker Dock.

2. Open the Google Home app. 

3. Follow the on-screen steps to log into the app for the first time. 

4. Once logged in, tap Devices. 

5. In the bottom right corner, tap the + Add button.

6. If your Dock is not automatically recognized, tap Google Nest or partner device.

7. Select your Home. 

8. Scroll through the list of device options and select Dock.

9. Follow the on-screen steps to add the Charging Speaker Dock to the Google Home app.

Grab a case, keyboard, and stylus

We're still holding out hope for Google to release some first-party accessories, like a keyboard case and USI stylus. Thankfully, there are plenty options out there to fill the void, allowing you to reply to some emails, play a few games, or use your Pixel Tablet as a digital notebook. 

Familiarize yourself with multitasking

One of the big reasons why the Pixel Tablet came to fruition was to show other OEMs "how it's done" in the multitasking department. Google implemented a different floating dock that appears when you swipe up from the bottom and hold. 

From there, you can open an app pinned to your dock, access your app drawer, or even drag and drop another app into split-screen mode. Not to mention the fact that you can easily copy and paste things from one app to another, like dropping a picture in an email, or dragging a link into a chat. 

There's still a bit of work to be done, as you are currently limited to only having two apps on screen at the same time. Nevertheless, it's a big step in the right direction and comes in quite handy even if you just want to switch to another app without closing the one that you're in. 

Get recommendations on what to watch

The Pixel Tablet is great as a smart home hub or just a really big clock for your desk. But it's also great for enjoying some movies or TV shows, as it can offer recommendations based on what you like. Once your apps are downloaded and everything is set up, these recommendations will appear in the Google Feed when you swipe to the right on your Home Screen.

1. With your Pixel Tablet unlocked, swipe to the right to show the Google Discover feed.

2. Tap your profile image in the top right corner.

3. From the menu that appears, tap Settings. 

4. On the left, tap Personalization. 

5. Tap App recommendations. 

6. Download and/or enable any video streaming apps that you are subscribed to.

Add your Pixel Tablet to the Find My Device network

Early in 2024, Google revamped its Find My Device network for Android. Along with including support for Bluetooth tags, Google's made it possible to locate your various devices, even if they are offline. The only "catch" is that you'll first need to enable it. Otherwise, you might leave your Pixel Tablet on the train and have no idea where it ended up.

1. Open the Settings app.

2. Scroll down and tap Google in the left sidebar.

3. On the right side, tap Find My Device. 

4. Make sure that Use Find My Device is enabled.

5. Tap Find your offline devices. 

6. Select: Without network, With network in high-traffic areas only, or With network in all areas. 

7. When prompted, tap the Enter screen lock button.

8. Enter the password or PIN of your device and tap Next. 

Check out some tablet-optimized apps

One of the primary complaints with apps on tablets and foldable phones has been that they haven't offered an optimized experience. Apps designed for slab phones are basic stretched, and don't take advantage of the extra screen real estate.

Thankfully, Google has been trying to lead by example, as many of its own applications are now tablet-optimized. Since this announcement at I/O 2023, we've seen many more developers get on board with this push to make apps better on larger screens.

Google has even gone so far as to introduce a new filter in the Play Store, letting you browse and discover apps that are properly optimized. This is a great addition, and many of the best Android apps work perfectly on the Pixel Tablet. 

• Back to the top ^

Knowing is half the battle

As we've mentioned, the Pixel Tablet isn't going to outperform something like the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra. While there are times that we wish that were the case, it doesn't mean that the Pixel Tablet is a bad device. In fact, one could argue that this is a good thing, as you don't have to try and turn the Pixel Tablet into something it's not.

Provided that you've picked up the Pixel Tablet knowing its limitations, you'll probably find yourself enjoying what it has to offer. Whether it just sits on the counter, operating as a digital picture frame, or becoming your go-to when you just want to chill and watch something on the couch. 

We're hopeful that Google will release a more powerful and feature-rich successor, but for now, the Pixel Tablet is still pretty great. 

But Xiaomi is always at its best when making budget products, and this is true when it comes to tablets as well; last year's Redmi Pad was one of the best budget tablets around, and the latest Redmi Pad SE has a few tweaks to the design and upgraded hardware. Xiaomi is building on that foundation with the introduction of the Redmi Pad Pro, which has a larger 12.1-inch panel with an increased QHD resolution, 10000mAh battery, and a new design that uses aluminum liberally.

What's interesting is that Xiaomi has retained the 3.5mm jack and MicroSD slot, and the Redmi Pad Pro is still aimed at the budget segment, making it one of the best value-focused tablets you can buy today. My favorite feature is that it runs Android 14 out of the box; Xiaomi has been underhanded in this regard, launching several devices — including the Redmi Pad SE and Redmi Note 13 Pro+ — with Android 13 so it wouldn't have to roll out as many software updates, and that thankfully isn't an issue with the Redmi Pad Pro.

If you're looking to buy a budget tablet with a massive screen, here's why the Redmi Pad Pro may just be the best option currently available.

Redmi Pad Pro: Pricing and availability

Xiaomi unveiled the Redmi Pad Pro in China on April 10, 2024, and the tablet made its global debut on May 20. It is available in three configurations: a base model with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, an 8GB/128GB version, and a model with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage.

Xiaomi sells the Redmi Pad Pro with the keyboard case and stylus as a bundle in China, but that isn't the case in global markets. The tablet starts at £269 ($340) for the 6GB/128GB version in the U.K., going up to £299 ($380) for the 8GB/256GB model. Xiaomi is bundling a case as well as the Redmi Buds 5 with every order in the U.K. The stylus costs an additional £59 ($75), and the Redmi Smart Keyboard is debuting at £89 ($113).

In other countries in the region, the Redmi Pad Pro is set to start off at €299 ($325), with pre-orders kicking off May 21 and general availability from June 3. Xiaomi will launch the tablet in India, but as of now, there's no telling when that will be the case.

Redmi Pad Pro: Design

The Redmi Pad SE has a distinct resemblance to the Xiaomi 12 series, and while the Redmi Pad Pro has a similar aesthetic, the new camera housing is visually distinctive. The oversized rings around the camera evoke memories of the Zenfone 10, and they dominate attention at the back.

There's a single 8MP camera at the back, so the LED flash gets the same adornment, and considering the camera lens and flash module are rather small, the outsizes housing looks almost comical. But what matters is that it doesn't protrude too much from the chassis, so there is no wobble when using the Redmi Pad Pro on a table.

Xiaomi sells the Redmi Pad Pro in three color variants — Grey, Mint Green, and Ocean Blue — and the green and blue models have very subtle pastel shades. That's understandable given that tablet designs tend to be more conservative, and to Xiaomi's credit, there are absolutely no issues with the build quality.

Although the tablet is aimed at the budget segment, you get an aluminum chassis that feels great to hold and use. The rounded edges and beveled sides make a big difference in this area, and while it is heavy at 571g, the tablet balances the weight evenly, so it doesn't get uncomfortable with extended use.

The power button is located at the top, with the volume buttons on the right. You don't get the ability to slot in a SIM card and connect to cellular networks, but there is a MicroSD slot that lets you extend the storage by an additional 1.5TB. What I like is that the Redmi Pad Pro has a 3.5mm jack, and there are no issues when using IEMs like the Fiio FA19.

On the audio side of things, Xiaomi offers four speakers on the Redmi Pad Pro — two on either side — and they sound great in their own right. Overall, the tablet gets a lot right on the design front, and it doesn't feel like a budget product.

Redmi Pad Pro: Screen

The Redmi Pad Pro comes with a 12.1-inch IPS LCD panel that is ideal for streaming content. The panel has a resolution of 2560 x 1600 with a standard 16:10 ratio, and it has Dolby Vision integration and a layer of Gorilla Glass 3. The maximum brightness isn't particularly high at 500 nits, but I didn't have any issues using the Redmi Pad Pro outdoors. The tablet goes up to 600 nits in HBM mode, but there's no noticeable difference when streaming videos.

On that note, the Redmi Pad Pro has Widevine L1, and it is able to stream 1080p and HDR content from the likes of Netflix and YouTube without any hassle. While color fidelity isn't obviously as good as an OLED panel, the Redmi Pad Pro has plenty to offer in this area, and Xiaomi's factory calibration continues to be among the best around. The default Vivid mode has vibrant colors and good contrast, and you can tweak the color balance according to your tastes.

Larger tablets are great for reading, and the Redmi Pad Pro includes Xiaomi's excellent Reading mode. The feature allows you to change the intensity of the colors, or switch to a monochrome palette, and this is ideal if you want to read an e-book. The tablet is decent enough when it comes to playing games as well — you can connect a Bluetooth controller with ease — but the hardware doesn't have as much grunt, limiting the potential to enjoy demanding titles.

The best part about the screen on the Redmi Pad Pro is that it has a 120Hz refresh rate; navigating the UI is smooth, and the difference is noticeable even when switching from the 90Hz Redmi Pad SE. That said, you'll need to go into the settings to enable 120Hz mode, as it is set to Auto out of the box.

I don't have any issues with the panel on the Redmi Pad Pro, and my only quibble has to do with the considerable bezels around the screen. I get that this is a budget tablet, but Xiaomi should have done more to trim the bezels. Talking about the bezels, the front camera is located on the leading edge, and while it isn't the best I've used, it holds up well in video calls.

Redmi Pad Pro: Hardware

Xiaomi outfitted the Redmi Pad Pro with a Snapdragon 7s Gen 2, and although the chipset is good enough in daily use, it isn't exactly powerful. I noticed lag sporadically in mundane tasks like browsing in Chrome or switching between apps, and while it doesn't hinder usability too much, it is irksome.

The memory and storage modules are similarly dated, with Xiaomi using LPDDR4X modules with both the 6GB and 8GB models, and UFS 2.2 storage across the board. Thankfully, there's Wi-Fi 6 this time around, and you get Bluetooth 5.2. There's no NFC, you don't get any high-res codecs, and there's no ingress protection.

Annoyingly, you don't get fingerprint authentication on the Redmi Pad Pro either; you'll need to use face unlock or the usual passcode to log in to the device, and that's annoying. Xiaomi uses a side-mounted fingerprint reader that's baked into the power button on plenty of its budget and mid-range phones, and that would have been ideal on the tablet. That said, face unlock has been reliable, and while it isn't as secure,

The cameras are strictly average as well, and outside of video calls, the 8MP camera at the front doesn't have much utility. The 8MP camera at the back has a dedicated Night mode and takes usable shots in daylight, but you're better off using your phone cameras instead.

Switching over to the battery, the Redmi Pad Pro has a 10000mAh unit that is among the largest in this segment. I haven't used the tablet enough to judge battery life, but in less than a week of usage, it has lasted considerably longer than the Redmi Pad SE and any other budget tablet I used recently. I also like the fact that it has 33W charging, and while it takes nearly two hours to charge, it is noticeably faster than the 18W tech that Xiaomi offers on the rest of its budget tablets.

Redmi Pad Pro: Accessories

Xiaomi sells two accessories with the Redmi Pad Pro: a standard folio case that has decent protection, and a keyboard accessory dubbed the Redmi Smart Keyboard. I used the Xiaomi Pad 6 extensively with its keyboard case, and Xiaomi is doing things a bit differently with the Redmi Pad Pro; the case doesn't connect to the tablet using pogo pins at the back, instead relying on Bluetooth.

Pairing the case to the Redmi Pad Pro is about as seamless as it gets; there's a toggle on the right that enables Bluetooth connectivity, and it automatically shows up in the device list. The case securely holds the Redmi Pad Pro, and the keys have good tactility. There's no backlighting, but outside of that, the Redmi Smart Keyboard nails the basics.

The other accessory is a stylus called the Redmi Smart Pen, and it is similarly decent. It has 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, and there's no noticeable latency when using the stylus to take notes or doodle. The bundled sketching utility is pretty basic, but you can use something like Infinite Painter and make detailed sketches.

While the stylus itself is quite good, it doesn't attach magnetically to the Redmi Pad Pro, and that limits its usability. I also noticed connectivity issues, and had to toggle the Bluetooth modem on the tablet to be able to use the stylus again. 

Redmi Pad Pro: Software

There isn't too much to talk about on the software side of things, with Xiaomi offering HyperOS 1.0.3.0 based on Android 14 out of the box. That in itself is a big deal, as Xiaomi has thus far been unwilling to pre-install Android 14 on its 2024 budget devices.

You get most of the same features as the phone build, and there is a decent amount of customizability. Xiaomi doesn't include many tablet-focused utilities; you still get a split notification pane with the toggles accessible via the right side, and there isn't a gesture to launch split-screen multitasking.

You will need to press down on an app card within the overview menu and select the mode manually, but once you pull up two windows side-by-side, you can easily resize and change the width of each window, and close both at the same time. The overview menu uses Xiaomi's standard vertical configuration, and there isn't a setting to switch it to horizontal scrolling.

The leftmost pane shows Google's Discover feed, and there's no way to disable it. The interface is in need of a visual overhaul, but it is better optimized than MIUI; Xiaomi now needs to turn its attention to polishing the visuals. On the whole, it is easy to navigate and use, and although there is a lot of overt styling, it isn't anywhere as cumbersome as previous versions of the skin. My biggest quibble is that the toggles in the Control Center don't have any labels.

When it comes to updates, the Redmi Pad Pro will get two platform updates along with three years of security updates. That is in line with other budget tablets, but considering Xiaomi's lackadaisical attitude when it comes to platform updates, the tablet is unlikely to make the switch to Android 15 sometime this year — or even in Q1 2025. That said, at least you'll get the update at some point, as well as Android 16 when that becomes available.

Redmi Pad Pro: The competition

There's no shortage of budget tablets, and if you're looking to maximize value, Xiaomi's Redmi Pad SE ticks a lot of the right boxes. It also has a large screen, and while the hardware isn't as powerful as the Redmi Pad Pro and you miss out on the accessories, it is much more affordable. 

If you need powerful hardware, the Xiaomi Pad 6 is still a great choice in 2024. It has a brighter panel, is terrific at gaming, and while the battery doesn't last as long, it has a leg up over the Redmi Pad Pro in all other areas.

Redmi Pad Pro: Should you buy it?

You should buy this if:

• You need a large tablet
• You want the best battery life in this segment
• You want a good keyboard accessory

You shouldn't buy this if:

• You need biometric authentication
• You want long-term updates

Xiaomi did all the right things with the Redmi Pad Pro. The switch to a larger screen, 120Hz panel, and increasing the battery size gives the tablet a distinct advantage over the Redmi Pad SE. While it won't dethrone the iPad, it is noticeably better to use than most budget tablets, and that in itself is a sizeable achievement.

The Redmi Pad Pro does a great job at the basics, and while you don't get the accessories bundled with the tablet, the keyboard is worth the investment if you need a budget tablet for productivity. In a similar vein, the stylus is a good choice if you want to sketch on the go.

I don't have many negatives to share; the hardware isn't ideal for gaming, and the lack of a secure authentication system is irksome. But outside of that, there really isn't much missing here, and if you need a reliable budget tablet with a 12.1-inch screen, the Redmi Pad Pro is a standout option.

In 2023, worldwide tablet shipments declined 17.4% year over year in the fourth quarter, the largest decline since 2016. For the calendar year 2023, tablet shipments totaled 128.5 million units worldwide, a decline of 20.5% compared to 2022 and the lowest annual volume since 2011.

"With no significant improvements to the economy and consumers allocating their money to things beyond consumer electronics, tablets may not be very high on the priority list," said Anuroopa Nataraj, senior research analyst with IDC's Mobility and Consumer Device Trackers. 

Recent numbers suggest that after over two years of decline, worldwide tablet shipments posted a year-over-year growth of 0.5% in the first quarter of 2024; even though this may seem small, the sales were about 30.8 million units, but it doesn't look good for Samsung and Apple.

Samsung vs. Apple vs. the world

Samsung saw a decline in tablet shipments this quarter, with around 6.7 million units sold—a decrease from the 7.1 million units sold in the same quarter of 2023. Research manager Jitesh Ubrani at IDC points out this could be due to the slower economy. "It's essentially due to a slowdown in consumer demand in the U.S. for tablets, especially the premium tier," Ubrani told me over email. "Beyond that, there's also been an uplift in PCs, which steals a share of wallet."

It's not for a lack of trying on Samsung's part. Last year, Samsung launched the Galaxy Tab A9, Galaxy Tab A9 Plus, Galaxy Tab S9 FE, and Galaxy Tab S9 FE Plus in the last quarter of 2023, later introducing the Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (2024) in the first quarter of 2024. According to Samsung's Q4 earnings report, the company seeks to maintain sales momentum by expanding Galaxy AI to existing and new flagship products across foldable devices and tablets.

However, Samsung might face challenges keeping up with the premium range and the features that users may find appealing on iPads. Additionally, Ubrani says that even in the mid-lower tiers, Samsung faces competition from Amazon and TCL in the U.S.

"To turn things around, Samsung can resort to bundling, which they have done and continue to do with wearables today. Beyond that, enabling new use cases—which is one of the toughest things to do for tablets—or servicing niche audiences (e.g., What iPad Pro is doing) is likely the only other way out."

On the other hand, Apple has also seen a similar decline in iPad sales this quarter. Even though it's at the top of the list, Apple faced a bit of a lull last year as sales declined 8.5% year over year. Per IDC's report, Apple focused on clearing out inventory of older models before the expected launch of new models. However, it could still ship out 9.9 million units this quarter. Ubrani feels that Apple's recent refresh of the iPad Air and iPad Pro will go a long way and turn things around for the tablet business.

While Samsung and Apple may be at the top of the charts, Huawei held third place this quarter with impressive year-over-year growth of 43.6% and shipments of 2.9 million units. IDC interprets that the Chinese tech giant likely benefitted from the resurgence of its smartphone business and grew its market share by 2.8 basis points compared to last year.

Xiaomi also retained its spot in the top five, with a remarkable yearly growth of 92.6% and 1.8 million units in shipment. According to Ubrani, a few factors have helped the company boost tablet shipments.

"Xiaomi has been focusing on promotions, and most importantly, demand in Asia is recovering quicker than in the US. Asia also has lower penetration rates, so an uptick in demand is expected." The report stated that even outside China, its largest market, Xiaomi grew by triple digits across almost all regions where it ships.

How can these top players shake things up?

While Samsung and Apple continue to dominate the smartphone market, analysts suggest they have to start focusing on consumer spending habits and trends as they seem to be shifting.

One crucial area of improvement could be innovation, as year-on-year tablet upgrades mainly focus on hardware changes like faster processors, better screens (iPad Pro's OLED upgrade), or sleeker designs—but these may not be enough for customers to spend the extra money on tablets. 

These tech giants could explore software upgrades like implementing AI features that will address why tablets are bought in the first place—accessibility and ease of multitasking on the go. Integrating features like Galaxy AI into tablets could help benefit students, a demographic that could benefit from more accessible tablet options. This would provide a portable computing option with a smart assistant that summarizes lectures or helps them organize their day.

It's worth noting that this demographic focuses on value. With the surging prices of smartphones, consumers are likely more interested in spending less on a tablet or not buying one at all. This is where bundling and promotions come into play, as Ubrani pointed out, especially for families looking for cost-effective options for kids and teens.

Finally, the sheer number of tablet options available could lead to "decision paralysis." By considering users' needs and budgets, Samsung could benefit from simplifying its lineup while ensuring it continues to introduce unique features that make the choice less stressful. Nevertheless, it's clear that the current strategy isn't panning out, and Samsung may need to rethink its tablet strategy going forward if it wants to better compete with smaller brands.

When you buy the discounted S8 Ultra from Best Buy, you can also get bonus gifts of a free one-month membership of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, three months of Google One and YouTube Premium, and Norton 360 Internet Security protection for three devices.

✅Recommended if: you want a high-performing tablet at a slightly lower price; you're looking for a tablet with a large screen that's still slim and lightweight; having a tablet that can run some games is a priority for you.

❌Skip this deal if: you're looking for the latest-generation tablet available and wouldn't mind paying more for the S9 Ultra;  you need a tablet with a 3.5mm jack.

Despite its age, the Samsung Galaxy S8 Ultra is a remarkably strong tablet, offering 8GB of RAM and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, along with a massive 11,200mAh battery. All of these make it able to handle most gaming applications, and the 14.6-inch Super AMOLED is great for everything from video streaming to working in the office (or maybe both at the same time).

While many of Samsung's devices land in our best Android tablets, most are from the company's newest generation. But if you don't mind going with the older generation and you go with this deal, you'll get a tablet that's almost as good as the S9 Ultra—without the $1,199.99 price tag.

• Circle to Search is now available on the Pixel Tablet running Android 14, allowing users to circle items on their screens to search the web instantly.
• Following its announcement in January alongside the Galaxy S24 series launch, Circle to Search has been progressively introduced to Pixel smartphones.
• Currently, the feature does not work in split-screen mode, but support for this is expected in a future update.

Circle to Search is now rolling out on the Pixel Tablet with Android 14, meaning you can circle things on your screen to instantly search the web.

It was inevitable that Google would bring Circle to Search to its Android tablet after hints of its upcoming release. Back in January, when the Galaxy S24 series launched, Google announced plans to expand Circle to Search to its Pixel devices. Since then, it has gradually made its way to the Pixel smartphones.

9to5Google reports that all Pixel Tablet users now have access to the handy feature. Previously, it was only available to users in the Android 15 beta.

During the Pixel Tablet's re-launch a few days ago, Google confirmed that Circle to Search would be added in late May, so this latest update isn't too surprising.

Google has introduced many features over the years, but Circle to Search has really caught everyone's attention. It offers more control over on-screen information with unmatched ease. Just press and hold on the bottom navigation bar, circle what you're curious about, and instant web search results will instantly show up.

For now, the Circle to Search feature only works when you're not using split screen. However, support for split screen should be available in a future update, as it has already been tested in beta.

Meanwhile, Circle to Search isn't available for iPhone users. However, Google is offering Apple fans a similar solution that essentially replicates the function.

Users of the latest iPhone models can now set up a shortcut for the Action Button to take a screenshot of their current screen and open it in the Google Lens app for analysis. Although it's not the exact same process as Circle to Search, it effectively achieves the same result.

It's common to see something on our phone screens that piques our interest, and Google is always looking to streamline how we get information. That's where Circle to Search comes in, offering a new method to look up information on mobile devices.

When the rumors began mounting about Google's return to the tablet market, I was beyond excited. I immediately thought back to the glory days of the Nexus 7 and hoped that it would spark some innovation. One could argue that Google delivered, as the Pixel Tablet doubles as a smart home hub. However, Google just proved that it doesn't really care, and neither should you. 

Instead of waiting until I/O 2024, Google decided to announce the new Pixel 8a and a price reduction (of sorts) for the Pixel Tablet. It's not actually lowering the price, but you can finally just buy the tablet, saving $100 and opting against having the Charging Speaker Dock at your disposal. Groundbreaking.

This kind of solves one of the biggest gripes that I had with the Pixel Tablet with its value proposition for the $499 price tag. For the most part, it's just a Pixel 5 that's been stretched to accommodate an 11-inch screen. Sure, it's great to have a 2560 x 1600 resolution, but Google skimped out by going with an LCD panel. 

The 16:10 aspect ratio is great for using apps in split view and multitasking, but Google still doesn't sell a first-party keyboard case or even a stylus. Not to mention that the Pixel Tablet isn't great for gaming, as the LCD panel is locked to a 60Hz refresh rate.

Admittedly, I don't often use the Pixel Tablet as a tablet. It remains docked 99% of the time, only to be removed when I need to update the software or the installed apps. I have to imagine that I'm not the only one who opts for this use case and wouldn't be surprised if this is the case for a lot of people. 

However, I'm only being further convinced that Google doesn't have much of a sense of direction with this product. Re-releasing the Pixel Tablet sans the Dock or any relevant first-party accessories roughly a year after the initial release has me wondering what in the world is happening. On top of that, the $399 price tag is still too damn high for what you're getting.

Yes, it's a Pixel Tablet running Google's version of Android. But thanks to Google's own gate-keeping of features, it's running into the same problem as the Pixel Fold. All of those cool AI features? Yeah, they have only recently started to become available on the Pixel Tablet. Hell, Circle to Search was announced at the start of 2024 and still won't be arriving for Pixel Tablet owners until "later this month."

I'm not going to re-hash all of my feelings on that here, as I've already done so a couple of times. But that doesn't negate the point that Google is lost, as it's pretty obvious that it's stretching itself in too many directions.

It's all about AI and where Google can throw Gemini while blaming the hardware for those features not being available on a Google-released device. "Oh, it'll get there....eventually." Well, at least when Samsung or Apple says a new feature is coming, most of the time, those companies follow through.

This revelation about re-releasing the Pixel Tablet without the dock should've happened already. By no means am I an analyst, but I have to assume that the dockless Pixel Tablet would've been a hot-ticket item over the 2023 holidays. But instead, Google opted to throw it in as an afterthought when announcing a brand-new product.

I probably wouldn't feel the way I do if Google either held off on this tomfoolery until the G3 (or G4) Pixel Tablet was ready or lowered the price to around $299. To put this into perspective, take a look at what Amazon did with the Fire Max 11 tablet. For about $285, you can get the Fire Max 11, bundled with the Amazon Stylus Pen and the Keyboard Case. Oh, and that's with paying extra for the "Without Lockscreen Ads" version. 

With the Pixel Tablet, you'll pay $399 and get a charging cable, along with some regulatory paperwork. Not to mention that despite being rumored since last year, there aren't any new first-party accessories. It's beyond frustrating to see these decisions being made, especially when it's so obvious that they're wearing blinders and can't see the forest for the trees.

I've just about lost hope in Google's product strategy, and maybe I should just give it up. It's apparent that Google has, and I won't be surprised if the Pixel Tablet 2 never sees the light of day. 

E Ink tablets are a weird breed. Most people associate them with the best e-readers, but some of the best electronic ink tablets offer a host of assorted functions. Modern paper displays have advanced beyond the confines of limited usage and now many can be used for writing, reading comic books, and even drawing in color.

The best E Ink tablet that offers all these features in one unified body is the Onyx Boox Tab Ultra C Pro, the successor to the Onyx Boox Tab Ultra C. It has a large and beautiful screen that can display color and has writing functionality that delivers a satisfying pen-and-paper feel. If you love the look and feel of traditional reading and writing mediums, this tablet will surely capture your heart. There are plenty more e-paper tabs out there, but the Tab Ultra C Pro gives you the most value for money and performs consistently well.

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At a glance

Best overall

While most E Ink displays tend to focus on doing one thing, the Onyx Boox Tab Ultra C Pro does it all. Successor to the Tab Ultra C, the Tab Ultra C Pro displays 4,096 colors on its 10.3-inch Kaleido 3 display, which is unusual for most E Ink tablets. Comics can be viewed in full color and you can even draw, highlight, or jot down notes in different shades thanks to the accompanying stylus. The Tab Ultra C Pro's touch function for the stylus is powered by Wacom, the company that makes the best drawing tablets. It imitates the true blue traditional feel of writing on paper with a pen.

Onyx Boox really took things to the next level by adding more gear under the Tab Ultra C Pro's hood. This stunningly slim tablet runs Android 12 out of the box so you can actually install and use apps from the Google Play Store. It has 6GB of RAM, 128GB of onboard storage, a microSD slot, a 16MP camera, stereo speakers, a mic, a USB Type-C port that supports fast charging, and a set of speakers. Amazingly, the 4,600mAh battery can last for a week or two with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth in full use. The Boox Tab Ultra C Pro is the complete package; it is almost a full-blown Android tablet.

Unfortunately, if you want the complete package, you'll have to pay for it since this tablet isn't exactly cheap in comparison to "normal" tablets. It also lacks water and dust resistance, which is a bummer, and E Ink displays are famously dim in the sun. We believe you can live with these shortcomings as the combination of features in the Tab Ultra C Pro is just too good. As opposed to the Kindle Scribe, it provides more value and has so much more to offer.

Best for reading

For many years, Amazon has dominated the e-reader market with its Kindle line of reading tablets, and for good reason: Kindle e-readers are excellent devices and their displays have LED backlighting. The Kindle Paperwhite is the absolute best Amazon Kindle e-reader, which makes it the best E Ink tablet for reading.

The 2021 iteration of the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite has IPX8 waterproof certification so you don't have to worry about getting it wet. You also get five adjustable LED backlights in the Kindle Paperwhite so it's fairly bright in sunlight. Its 6-inch 300ppi E Ink screen is a delight to look at and replicates paper very nicely. Audible integration makes it the perfect companion for lazy beach days when you want to sunbathe with your eyes closed. You can connect a pair of Bluetooth wireless earbuds and listen to audiobooks in peace.

Amazon introduced a bunch of different colors for the Kindle Paperwhite so you have a lot of variety. There's 8GB or 16GB of internal storage, which is enough to store thousands of e-books. The battery life is excellent and you get a USB-C charging port. Amazon sweetened the deal by setting a low price but you'll need to spend a little extra cash for the ad-free version. If you're an avid reader, you won't be disappointed by the Kindle Paperwhite. Some file formats aren't supported, though Amazon did introduce EPUB compatibility to compensate.

Best premium writing tablet

If you're searching for a more writing-focused E Ink tablet, the ReMarkable 2 is your best bet. Built from the ground up for this purpose, the ReMarkable 2 offers a premium writing experience. It has a 10.3-inch e-paper display that cannot display colors beyond black and white. It has Wi-Fi, USB Type-C charging, 8GB storage, a 3,000 mAh battery, and a cool magnetic accessory dock where you can store your stylus. Notes and other documents can be saved over the cloud, although the companion apps are a little buggy.

The software caters to handwritten notes and processing them for multiple purposes. You can take notes directly on PDF files or use OCR to scan your notes taken by hand. To jot down digital notes, you need to use the compatible stylus. It comes with the Marker Plus that has an eraser on the opposite end, so it functions just like a standard pencil. It's extremely fun to use.

The downside of getting the E Ink digital notebook from ReMarkable is that you'll have to break the bank to get one with all its accessories. Mercifully, the price of the ReMarkable 2 writing tablet has decreased quite a lot since its launch, but there's still the matter of finding one. And there's another hard pill to swallow as well. Because you can't access the Play Store on the ReMarkable 2, it's no good for any other task beyond jotting down notes.

If you're looking for the ultimate handwriting experience on an e-ink tablet, these pains are worth undertaking though.

Best for writing overall

The ReMarkable 2 tablet is great for writing, but it is also ridiculously expensive. On top of that, the stylus isn't even included in its base price. If you want better value, the Onyx Boox Note Air 3 is a better buy overall. Onyx Boox tablets beat Amazon, Kobo, and every other competitor easily because they all have the Google Play Store and run Android 12.

The Onyx Boox Note Air 3 has a 10.3-inch black and white E Ink HD Carta 1200 display that has excellent contrast and a lovely crispness to it. It comes with a battery-free stylus that registers 4,096 degrees of pressure and you get native optical character recognition (OCR). This is such a vital feature for any tablet, whether it's an e-ink device or a full-blown traditional Android or iOS tablet. Unbelievably, the Kindle Scribe doesn't come with OCR which makes the Onyx Boox Note Air 3 the obvious answer when comparing the two devices.

Apart from the stylus and excellent e-paper screen, the Note Air 3 has all the advantages of e-ink tablets and e-readers as well as a few extras. You get weeks of battery life from its 3,700mAh cell, a USB-C port with OTG support, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, support for tons of file formats, speakers, and even a microphone!

When looking for a writing tablet with an e-paper display, the Onyx Boox Note Air 3 is easily the winning contender. This is saying something, considering the Note Air 3's foes include the Amazon Kindle Scribe and the ReMarkable 2. If you don't mind the price tag and lack of water resistance, this is the e-ink tablet to get for writing.

Best Amazon flagship

The Amazon Kindle Scribe isn't the best value tablet on this list, nor does it offer the most amazing features and specs. It does, however, have that legendary Kindle build and insane battery life backing it. This thing lasts for several weeks on a single charge, which is exactly what you'd expect from any decent Kindle.

For Kindle users, the Amazon Kindle Scribe is the perfect e-paper tablet. It doesn't have the Google Play Store and it doesn't support a lot of e-book formats. But the Kindle Store has an excellent collection of e-books and Audible brings you audiobooks in a portable form factor.

Now that Amazon has brought EPUB compatibility to Kindle devices, the Kindle Scribe is a lot more likable. You can easily send files to the e-reader slash tablet using the Send to Kindle feature and there's Bluetooth pairing for audiobooks.

The compatible Kindle Pen works well, there are no lags, and it feels really good to use. You can get a lot better e-paper tablets for the same price, but those who prefer Amazon's Kindle ecosystem will be very happy.

Best entry-level

E Ink tablet lovers out there on a budget can still get one for a nifty price. The entry-level Amazon Kindle (2022) is a budget e-reader sporting a 6-inch 300ppi e-paper display. It doesn't have many fancy features like a waterproof rating or Sudoku, but it can support a healthy number of file formats and looks brilliant.

It isn't that bright in sunlight but the adjustable front light is handy for late-night reading. The basic Amazon Kindle has some more no-nonsense specs like 16GB of storage, an insanely good battery life, Wi-Fi, and audiobook support. If you don't want to use the Kindle app, you can transfer files to the Amazon Kindle (2022) e-reader from your PC.

In comparison to almost every other e-paper device out there, the Amazon Kindle is the winner hands down when it comes to the price. The base model Kindle performs a tad bit slower and it doesn't have waterproofing, but it is still the best E Ink tablet for reading on a tight budget.

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The best all-around E Ink tablet is multifunctional

After staring at bright screens day in and day out, your eyes really need a break. The best E Ink tablet will not only provide relief but also allow you to carry out various tasks. The Onyx Boox Tab Ultra C Pro is the best E Ink tablet owing to its fabulous soft colors, extremely sleek and lightweight build, and multitasking capabilities. It isn't limited to just being an e-reader, but if you want, you can use it for that purpose. But if need be, you can also use it to take down notes, sketch some lovely drawings, or underline passages of text.

Let's also not forget that you get native optical character recognition with the Onyx Boox Tab Ultra C Pro, enabling you to convert your handwriting into digital text in real-time, whether it's to use the search bar in the Google Play Store or to use the search function in your handwritten notes. This alone is a great feat for any decent tablet that comes with a stylus.

The Tab Ultra C Pro accommodates office use as well as home use. You don't have to sacrifice battery life or connectivity. It even has stereo speakers and a mic, something that no other electronic ink tablet on this list offers. What's even more brilliant is its ability to run almost any Android app. You can actually use it as a full-fledged tablet for most tasks related to reading and writing. The Tab Ultra C Pro pushes the boundaries of an E Ink tablet in the best sense, and that is why it is the very best one you can buy.