Finding a great tablet doesn't mean emptying your wallet. In 2025, the market is brimming with fantastic budget-friendly options that offer impressive performance and features. Whether you need a tablet for catching up on your favorite shows, handling work emails, diving into casual games, or helping with school projects, there's a budget tablet perfect for you. We've sifted through the noise to bring you the top five best budget tablets available this year, ranking them from fifth to first to help you make an informed choice.
For quick reference, here are the top picks we'll be discussing in detail:
- Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ (Check Prices)
- Blackview Tab 9 (Check Prices)
- Fusion5 232 Pro N5 (Check Prices)
- Apple iPad 10th Generation (Check Prices)
- Lenovo Tab Plus (Check Prices)
Let's dive into the specifics of each to see which one stands out for your needs.
Our Top 5 Best Budget Tablets
It's tough to pick just one, but we've evaluated these tablets based on their display quality, performance, battery life, build, and overall value. You'll find a detailed breakdown for each, helping you understand where they shine.
Lenovo Tab Plus: Ranked #5
The Lenovo Tab Plus earns its spot at number five. This tablet truly shines if you prioritize media consumption. Its standout feature is an 8-speaker JBL audio system. This delivers rich, immersive sound that makes movies and music sound incredible.
The tablet features an 11.5-inch 2K display, providing sharp visuals. You'll also appreciate the smooth 90 Hz scrolling, which makes navigating content feel fluid. Keep in mind that outdoor visibility is only average due to its peak brightness.
Under the hood, the Lenovo Tab Plus is powered by a MediaTek Helio G99 chip and 8 GB of RAM. This setup handles daily tasks and light gaming without major issues. The 8600 mAh battery is another highlight, offering over 11 hours of video playback. It also supports rapid 45W charging, so you won't be tethered to an outlet for long.
This tablet has a premium feel thanks to its aluminum build. A built-in kickstand adds convenience for hands-free viewing. You also get a micro SD slot to expand its 128 GB or 256 GB storage, which is a great bonus. It runs Android 14 smoothly, and Lenovo guarantees updates through 2028, ensuring long-term usability. The 8 MP cameras are basic but work well for video calls. Just note, it lacks cellular connectivity.
The Lenovo Tab Plus strikes an impressive balance between entertainment features and practical performance. It's a great choice if you're looking for a budget tablet with excellent audio and a large screen for media.
Check out the Lenovo Tab Plus.
Apple iPad 10th Generation: Ranked #4
Coming in at number four is the Apple iPad 10th Generation. This slightly older iPad still offers a surprisingly modern tablet experience. Its vibrant 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display delivers sharp visuals and plenty of screen space for streaming or multitasking.
The iPad 10th Gen runs on the A14 Bionic chip. This processor handles everyday tasks smoothly, from gaming to video editing, all while maintaining efficient battery life for all-day use. Apple redesigned its chassis, giving it slimmer bezels and a convenient USB-C port. This aligns it with newer accessories like the Magic Keyboard Folio and the Apple Pencil for improved productivity.
One thoughtful design choice is the landscape front camera. This improves video calls by positioning users more naturally during meetings or family chats. While the display isn't laminated, it remains bright and responsive. This makes it ideal for casual note-taking or creative projects. With 5G connectivity on cellular models and stereo speakers for immersive audio, this iPad balances functionality and portability. It's a strong contender for those seeking reliable performance without needing the absolute latest premium features.
Starting storage is 64 GB, which might require cloud management if you handle a lot of media. The iPad 10th Generation offers Apple's ecosystem and reliable performance without the premium price tag of its newer siblings.
Find the Apple iPad 10th Generation.
Fusion5 232 Pro N5: Ranked #3
The Fusion5 232 Pro N5 secures the third spot on our list. This tablet stands out with its vibrant 10.1-inch Full HD display. This offers crisp visuals, improving both productivity and media consumption. It brings the power of Windows to a budget-friendly tablet.
The Pro N5 is driven by an Intel N100 processor that can reach up to 3.4 GHz, paired with 8 GB of RAM. This combination allows for smooth multitasking. The 256 GB SSD ensures quick app launches and fast boot times. For even more space, storage is expandable via a microSD card or an additional M.2 SATA drive, providing excellent flexibility.
Connectivity options like USB-C, HDMI, and dual-band Wi-Fi make it versatile for various peripherals and external displays. Running Windows 11 Pro, it supports professional software and efficient workflow management, making it suitable for light work tasks. The durable touchscreen and lightweight design add to its portability. While the built-in speakers and 2 MP cameras are basic, they are functional for video calls and essential media needs.
The Fusion5 232 Pro N5 is a practical choice for anyone seeking an affordable Windows tablet capable of everyday tasks without compromising on essential features. It's especially useful if you need a tablet that integrates seamlessly with your Windows-based workflow.
Explore the Fusion5 232 Pro N5.
Blackview Tab 9: Ranked #2
Our runner-up, the Blackview Tab 9, is a pleasant surprise in the budget tablet space. It sports a surprisingly vibrant 11-inch Full HD display with sharp colors and wide viewing angles, making it ideal for streaming and casual reading. Its lightweight design is a plus, and it even includes a practical headphone jack, a feature increasingly rare on modern devices. You can expand its storage up to 1 TB, catering to users who carry a lot of media.
The octa-core processor handles everyday tasks like web browsing and document editing smoothly. However, graphically intensive games might show some stuttering during rapid animations. Where the Blackview Tab 9 truly impresses is its battery life. It boasts up to 37 hours of calling time, supported by a robust 8200 mAh cell that outlasts many competitors.
Dual-band Wi-Fi ensures stable connectivity for video calls, and the 8 MP front camera provides clear quality for conferences and selfies. Android 14's clean interface enhances usability, complemented by eye comfort modes for extended reading sessions. While the plastic build feels budget-friendly, the included folio case adds durability and protection.
The Blackview Tab 9 strikes a functional balance for those prioritizing screen size, exceptional battery life, and essential features over premium performance or materials. It’s a solid option for general use and media consumption.
Check out the Blackview Tab 9.
Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 Plus: Ranked #1
Taking the crown as the best budget tablet of 2025 is the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 Plus. When you compare its price to its performance, this tablet is unbeatable. It delivers reliable performance for everyday use with its Snapdragon 695 processor and a smooth 90 Hz display. This combination makes it a strong contender in the budget tablet space.
Its 11-inch screen offers sharp visuals and vibrant colors, making it ideal for streaming content or casual gaming. While demanding titles like Genshin Impact require lower settings for optimal performance, regular games run well. The 8 GB RAM variant handles multitasking efficiently, allowing three apps to run simultaneously without significant lag. Expandable storage up to 1 TB ensures ample space for all your media and files.
Built with a sleek metal chassis, the tablet feels premium, defying its affordable price tag. Battery life consistently lasts through a full day of mixed usage, providing peace of mind. The inclusion of quad speakers provides decent audio immersion, enhancing your entertainment experience. Samsung's software enhancements, including split-screen functionality and four years of security updates, add long-term value.
While it lacks a fingerprint sensor, the Galaxy Tab A9 Plus balances essential features for users seeking practicality over premium specs. It's the best budget tablet for anyone looking for a versatile, well-rounded device that delivers excellent value.
Discover the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ yourself.
How to Choose the Best Budget Tablet for Your Needs
Picking the best budget tablet involves more than just looking at the price tag. Your specific needs should guide your decision. Consider these key factors to make sure you get the right device for you:
Intended Use
- Media Consumption: If you plan to watch a lot of movies, TV shows, or YouTube videos, prioritize a vibrant display with good resolution and quality speakers. The Lenovo Tab Plus, with its JBL audio, is a prime example.
- Work and Productivity: For tasks like email, document editing, or video conferencing, look for good processing power, sufficient RAM, and compatibility with external keyboards or pens. The Apple iPad 10th Gen or Fusion5 232 Pro N5 with Windows 11 Pro could be great fits.
- Gaming: Casual games will run on most budget tablets. For more graphically intense games, look for a more capable processor (like the Snapdragon 695 in the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9 Plus) and a higher refresh rate display.
- Education/School: Portability, durability, and decent battery life are key. Consider tablets with good front-facing cameras for online classes and enough storage for educational apps.
Display Quality
The screen is your primary interface. Think about:
- Size: Tablets range from 8 inches to 12 inches. A larger screen (10-11 inches) is better for media and productivity, while smaller ones are more portable.
- Resolution: Full HD (1920x1080) or 2K for sharp, clear images.
- Refresh Rate: A higher refresh rate (like 90 Hz or 120 Hz) makes scrolling and animations smoother.
Performance
The processor and RAM determine how smoothly your tablet runs.
- Processor: A capable processor ensures apps open quickly and multitasking is fluid.
- RAM: 4 GB of RAM is usually enough for basic use, but 6 GB or 8 GB will provide a much better experience for multitasking.
Battery Life
If you're often on the go, battery life is crucial. Look for tablets that offer a full day of mixed usage or impressive video playback hours. The Blackview Tab 9 particularly excels here.
Build Quality and Portability
Consider what material the tablet is made from (plastic or metal) and how durable it feels. A lightweight design is important if you'll be carrying it around often.
Storage Size and Expandability
How much storage do you need for apps, photos, and videos? Many budget tablets come with 64 GB or 128 GB, but some offer microSD card slots for easy expansion up to 1 TB, preventing you from running out of space.
Connectivity Options
Most tablets offer Wi-Fi, but some have cellular versions for internet access everywhere. Check for essential ports like USB-C and headphone jacks.
Software Ecosystem and Update Policy
Consider the operating system (Android, iPadOS, Windows) and how often it receives software updates. Longer update support ensures your tablet stays secure and compatible with new apps.
By weighing these factors against your daily habits, you'll be well on your way to choosing the best budget tablet that truly meets your needs.
Where to Buy and Price References
Prices for budget tablets can change, so it's always a good idea to check the latest deals. We've provided convenient links to each product below, which will take you directly to their current listings. These are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. This helps support our work in bringing you these guides.
- Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+: Our top pick for overall value and performance. Check Prices
- Blackview Tab 9: Great for large screen and exceptional battery life. Check Prices
- Fusion5 232 Pro N5: Your go-to for a budget-friendly Windows tablet. Check Prices
- Apple iPad 10th Generation: For a reliable Apple experience without the premium price. Check Prices
- Lenovo Tab Plus: Perfect for media enthusiasts who prioritize audio. Check Prices
Happy tablet hunting!