The touchscreen tablet offers a good compromise between the smartphone and the laptop. That's why many consider it a real assistant for work, leisure and communication. But not everyone can afford the latest models, which often cost more than 600 euros. In order to help you find a cheap tablet or one that fits your tight budget, we have put together this buying guide.
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Our selection
"The Huawei MediaPad T5, a cheap touchscreen tablet with a 10.1-inch display, has 32GB of internal memory. This tablet of the Chinese giant shows interesting…"
"With the Fire 7 16GB Tablet Black, a truly affordable model, you can connect to the Internet and watch streaming videos via Amazon Prime Video…"
"Want to buy a cheap and well-made tablet? Choose the Apple iPad 2020, a model specifically designed for professionals. You'll be delighted by its performance."
"The Lenovo TAB M10 is an affordable and powerful tablet. You can use it in the office, but also at home, especially if you want…"
The Huawei MediaPad T5, a cheap touchscreen tablet with a 10.1-inch display, has 32GB of internal memory. This tablet of the Chinese giant shows interesting performances.
118 £ on AmazonThe Huawei MediaPad T5 tablet is offered at a very good price. It's a mid-range model that has nothing to envy to the iPad and Galaxy Note, which are usually sold for 6 to 12 times more. The one presented here is equipped with an 8-core 2.36 GHz processor backed by 3 GB of RAM. The 32 GB internal storage space is expandable up to 256 GB via a micro SD card.
Its 10.1-inch screen has a Full HD 1080p display. It is big enough for you to watch movies and streaming series easily. This screen offers 5 display modes that improve viewing comfort while limiting eye strain. The experience is complemented by clear sound produced by Huawei Histen speakers.
With the Fire 7 16GB Tablet Black, a truly affordable model, you can connect to the Internet and watch streaming videos via Amazon Prime Video with stunning visual comfort.
55,99 £ on AmazonThe Fire 7 16GB Black tablet has been developed by Amazon, the online sales giant. Like the other products of the American giant, it was designed to make your life easier while limiting your expenses. And the formula works well. The Fire 7 is one of the most affordable tablets on the market in terms of price. Yet the device gives easy access to Amazon Prime video or Netflix.
You can also install apps and games to keep you entertained during your break time and on your days off. Of course, you can use this cheap tablet to connect to social networks and interact with other members around the world. No more unpleasant battery failures, the device itself has up to 7 hours of autonomy.
Want to buy a cheap and well-made tablet? Choose the Apple iPad 2020, a model specifically designed for professionals. You'll be delighted by its performance.
296 £ on AmazonWhether you're doing business or pleasure, the Apple iPad 2020 will satisfy you. Its A12 Bionic processor with Neural Engine is capable of performing several tasks simultaneously without any noticeable drop in performance. Indeed, this powerful tablet gives for example the possibility to download your files on Cloud while making a video call to your colleagues.
Its 10.2-inch Pro Retina screen ensures a high-quality display. Viewing your photos and videos will be in the best conditions. Even better, the Apple iPad 2020 has a battery life of up to 10 hours. Despite being a high-end tablet, its price remains within the reach of everyone.
The Lenovo TAB M10 is an affordable and powerful tablet. You can use it in the office, but also at home, especially if you want to control your other connected devices.
115 £ on AmazonThis cheap tablet from Lenovo runs on a Qualcomm SnapDragon 450 chip clocked at 2 GHz coupled with 2 GB of RAM. The tablet enough power for HD streaming on your favorite platforms. The pair of Dolby Atmos speakers ensures incredible audio quality. Among other things, you could use it as a control center for various connected devices in your home or office.
The 2MP front camera is ideal for video conferencing sessions with your co-workers or loved ones. The 5MP back camera, on the other hand, will capture your best memories. The files will be stored in the internal memory of 16 GB expandable with a micro SD card. The Lenovo TAB M10 promises an autonomy of 8 hours in video playback mode.
Any specific needs?
The best entry-level cheap tablet
The best high-end cheap tablet
Your guide :
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| TOP OF THE LINE | CHEAP | TOP OF THE LINE | EXCELLENT | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
9/10 |
7/10 |
9/10 |
8/10 |
| OUR SELECTION |
Huawei MediaPad T5
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Fire 7 16 GB Black
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Apple iPad 2020
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Lenovo TAB M10
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The Huawei MediaPad T5, a cheap touchscreen tablet with a 10.1-inch display, has 32GB of internal memory. This tablet of the Chinese giant shows interesting performances.
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With the Fire 7 16GB Tablet Black, a truly affordable model, you can connect to the Internet and watch streaming videos via Amazon Prime Video with stunning visual comfort.
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Want to buy a cheap and well-made tablet? Choose the Apple iPad 2020, a model specifically designed for professionals. You'll be delighted by its performance.
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The Lenovo TAB M10 is an affordable and powerful tablet. You can use it in the office, but also at home, especially if you want to control your other connected devices.
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Screen size
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10.1-inch
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7-inch
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10.2 inch
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10.1 inch
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Operating system
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Android 8.0 Oreo
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Fire OS 5.3.3
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iPadOS 14
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Android 8 Oreo
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Storage space
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32GB expandable up to 256GB via micro SD
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16GB expandable to 512GB via microSD
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32 GB
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16 GB
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Raw memory
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3GB
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1GB
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3 GB
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2 GB
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Weight
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460g
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286g
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490 g
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480 g
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The diameter of a cheap tablet varies between 7 inches and 12 inches. The choice depends mainly on the uses and the level of comfort required. A cheap 7-inch tablet will be compact. You won't have much trouble carrying it since it is hardly bigger than an ordinary smartphone. On the other hand, the display will not be as large as on a 10 to 12 inch tablet.
Opt for these devices with large screens if you want to prioritize comfort of use over ease of carrying. In addition to screen size, consider the resolution of the screen as well. A minimum resolution of 1080p in high definition is preferred to enjoy a better viewing experience.
Whatever you use your tablet for, you should store data in its internal memory. Inexpensive models offer 8GB to 128GB of storage memory. It's rarer to see cheap tablets offering more than 128GB of memory. Choose based on the amount of data you plan to store on the tablet. Look for devices that offer a memory card slot. This would allow you to expand the storage memory of your tablet by using a micro SD card.
The cheap tablet is used, among other things, to take pictures and capture your best moments. So the performance of the back camera is something to consider. If you're picky about the quality of the shots, choose a cheap tablet with high resolution and definition. Do the same for the front sensor if you like to take selfies or plan to use it for video conferencing.
Unlike smartphones, cheap tablets can't always be used with a SIM card. Some models are not equipped with slots for this purpose. In this case, they only connect to an Internet network through Wifi. You would also not be able to make calls and send or receive SMS on a cheap tablet without a SIM card.
Make the choice based on your needs. If you plan to make and receive calls on the tablet, choose a model with a SIM card. If you don't need the services of a mobile operator, a SIM-free model will suit you just fine.
Battery life is an important selection criterion. An average autonomy of 8 h is already reasonable. Below this duration, the use of the device can be restrictive since it will have to be recharged very regularly. This autonomy depends on the capacity of the battery expressed in "mAh". The higher the capacity, the longer the autonomy. Pay attention to the charging time. The models that offer the fast charge function are more interesting.
The cheap tablet is used like a smartphone, but with a larger screen. Generally speaking, an Android tablet works like a smartphone that uses the Google OS. The same is true for iPhones and iPads running iOS or iPadOS. Just note some optimizations for the larger tablet size.
The device is designed to be easy to use, regardless of its operating system. Turn on the screen and unlock. Then use the touch screen to navigate through menus and applications. Of course, you can configure the device and customize it by going to the "settings".
You can install applications via Play Store or App Store. Avoid installing applications from other non-secure sources. Accessories like the stylus and the physical keyboard will be very useful. Don't forget to use a protective cover if you want to limit the risk of the screen cracking in case of shocks.
Charge the battery properly before using your tablet. In addition, read the manufacturer's instructions carefully to understand the basics of using your tablet. You will then just have to get used to the various operations.
This is the most common type of tablet. The Android operating system is used by almost all manufacturers except Apple. There are some variants of the OS like Fire OS for Amazon tablets. Its advantage lies in the infinite choice of compatible applications.
Google Play Store has a very rich catalog of free applications that you can install on your device. The operating system also offers a host of convenient features and an intuitive and simple interface. Cheap Android tablets also have a wide compatibility with other connected devices such as smart TVs or robot vacuum cleaners.
Cheap iOS tablets are made exclusively by Apple. They are the famous iPad which are very popular around the world. They are known for their quality, power and performance. Apple makes it a point to manufacture high-end devices that meet all the needs of both individuals and professionals.
A lot of applications can be installed on these cheap iOS tablets. The list is not as extensive as that of the Android Play Store, but it is still satisfactory. In addition, the interface of the Apple OS has an excellent ergonomics, which greatly facilitates the use of the tablet.
Compatibility with other devices is more limited. Ideally, iPads are used with other devices in the Apple environment. Pairing with other brands of devices is much more restrictive than with Android-based tablets. Therefore, choose iPads if you already own other Apple devices (iPhone, MacBook...).
Cheap tablets are offered at prices below 400 €. You will find tablets of all brands under this price limit. Buying them is a good idea if you want to limit your expenses for a tablet. Generally, these are entry-level or mid-range models. Their power is quite limited with a RAM of less than 3 GB. The storage space of cheap tablets is also limited to 128 GB, but is still, in most cases, expandable by using a microSD card.
The quality of photos is correct or lower on some entry-level models. As for the screen size, it is less than 10 inches. It is rarer to find a cheap tablet with a screen of 11 or 12 inches. However, this type of tablet allows you to surf the Internet, connect to social networks and access various VOD services like Netflix. The most powerful models, such as the iPad 2020, can even be used for professional purposes.
The high-end tablet represents the best models for each manufacturer. These devices are equipped with the best processors. They use a RAM of 6 GB or more and sometimes allow up to 1 TB of storage memory. The photo modules take excellent pictures and the screen resolution is optimal (FHD, 4K...).
These devices are so powerful that they meet the requirements of professionals. They are also excellent companions for your leisure activities (games, audio or video streaming, selfies...). On the other hand, they are expensive. You have to spend more than €700 to buy a high-end tablet. The most powerful models with screens larger than 12 inches can cost up to 1000 €.
If you have a large budget, you may want to consider a high-end tablet. But if you're looking to spend less money on a tablet, a low-cost model is sure to suit your needs. By following our tips for choosing, you'll find a device that's affordable and powerful enough to meet your needs.
Cheap tablets are the best options if you plan to buy a tablet while keeping your expenses down. You can buy this type of touchscreen tablet for less than €100, while high-end models can be purchased for more than €700.
You can choose from a very long list of cheap tablets of different brands and models. Samsung, Apple, Huawei, Lenovo and many other manufacturers offer several ranges of affordable tablets.
Thanks to its larger screen than a smartphone, the cheap tablet offers a better display and increased visual comfort. It's the perfect model for watching video content at home, on public transport and wherever you go. Yet the device costs much less than a laptop or smart TV. It's even easier to carry than a notebook.
By using a cheap tablet, you will use your smartphone less. Indeed, some tasks usually performed on the smartphone will be launched on the tablet. The lifespan of both devices will be prolonged thanks to this sharing of tasks that produces a limitation of the duration of daily use.
The cheap tablet is the best device for playing mobile games. The display is larger than on a smartphone. Even better, you will have more room for buttons, which improves comfort when playing your favorite mobile games.
In our opinion, the best brands of cheap tablets in 2022 are :
Apple is considered the brand that invented the touchscreen tablet in its current format. It is also the leader in the global tablet market with its popular iPad lines. Whether you choose the iPad Air, iPad Pro or iPad mini, you will certainly be won over.
The Korean brand is among the biggest sellers of touch tablets in the world. Its models are marketed under the Galaxy Tab range. Among these mainstream tablets, there is something for every taste and budget.
The Chinese brand Lenovo, known for its computers, phones and connected TVs, is on the3rd step of the podium among the best sellers of tablets in the market. Its cheap tablet models are known for their excellent value.
Amazon makes popular touch tablets. Its models stand out from those of other manufacturers because of their unbeatable prices. The American giant is now among the top 5 biggest sellers of tablets in the world.
In 2020, Huawei sold no less than 16 million tablets worldwide. The Chinese giant now offers several models of cheap tablets ranked among the best in the market. Thanks to its competitive smartphones, it accedes, since that same year, to the top of the list as the best in the world, dethroning the Samsung brand at the same time.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
A micro SD card for extra storage space
In general, the internal storage memory of a touch tablet is limited to 32 GB. It can be as large as 128 GB, although this is quite rare. Opt for a model that can take a micro SD card. This way, you will have extra storage space for your data and all your files.
A touchscreen tablet for the little ones
If you plan to offer a tablet to your child, choose the models that are specially dedicated to them. Some models are suitable for children between the ages of two and five, while others meet the needs of older children. Note that tablets for children are even more affordable and secure thanks to parental control systems, among other things.
A cheap tablet of at least 10 inches for streaming
If your cheap tablet is mainly used to watch streaming videos, prefer a model with a screen larger than 10 inches. This will give you a better viewing experience when watching movies on Netflix or other VOD platforms. Choose Full HD screens of about 1920 x 1080 or, if possible, 2048 x 1536.
A physical keyboard and a stylus to facilitate the use of the tablet
You can add a physical keyboard and a stylus to your tablet. This way, you'll be able to use the device as a small touchscreen laptop. You can choose between a wired or Bluetooth-connected keyboard. The case can be used as a stand for the tablet.
An external battery to power the tablet
To avoid battery failure, it is advisable to equip yourself with an external battery. This will be able to recharge the built-in battery so that you can continue to use your tablet for a long time. So don't forget to recharge it before you take your device out. More importantly, an external solar battery will provide you with free energy.
Yes, but only if the cheap tablet is equipped with a SIM card slot. Models without a SIM card will not be able to use the calling and texting services offered by phone operators. The operating mode remains the same as with a smartphone.
It all depends on the use you intend to make of it. Note, however, thatAndroid or iOS, the operating systems of tablets, cannot perform certain tasks that can be done on a PC or Mac. The same is true for software, whose mobile versions generally offer more limited functionality.
The charging time depends on the battery built into your cheap tablet. To shorten this charging time, choose models that are compatible with fast recharging. This way, it will be possible for you to bring the battery level up to 100% in less than 60 min. You should know that a completely discharged battery requires a charging time of up to 4 h.
No, not necessarily. On the other hand, the use of devices of the same brand can be more advantageous in some cases. This is for example the case for iPads and iPhones, whose compatibility is optimal. If you are particularly fond of the Android operating system, you should know that you can perform the same task on a tablet and a smartphone just by logging into your Google account.
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