Gaming tablets offer more than just a screen for play. These devices need to juggle productivity features and entertainment options to make their prices worthwhile, all while still offering a high quality gameplay across a variety of genres. That’s why costs can rack up so quickly on these purpose-built devices, you’re getting specs that don’t typically make their way into everyday tech. However, many mainstream tablets are well suited to your thumb-tapping titles, and with the advent of cloud gaming they’re only getting more and more useful as time goes on. The best gaming tablet right now is the Asus ROG Flow Z13 – a Windows 11 device packing an RTX graphics card with the option to boost up to an RTX 4090 with the help of an external GPU. However, its high price point may well place it outside of the majority of budgets. That’s why we’re rounding up all our favorite slabs across the full price range. If you’ve outgrown your gaming phone, or need something more versatile than a gaming handheld, there are plenty of options out there for you. Not only that, but the best gaming tablets are starting to rival gaming laptops for their performance and value for money these days. If you’re looking to invest in a high-end device there’s some seriously exciting stuff on the table right now.The quick list
Best overall
Best overallThis is the gaming tablet for those who mean business. Packing a full Windows 11 setup and an RTX 3050 graphics card, this 13.4-inch slab is a full PC in itself. Read more below
Best budget
Best budget The Amazon Fire HD 10 is one of the cheapest gaming tablets worth buying, and still manages to pack a 10.1-inch display of solid quality into its price point. It’s a little limited in its apps, but ideal for a budget buy. Read more below
Best mid-range
Best mid-rangeThe iPad Air sits in the middle of Apple’s tablet lineup, but it’s also the best mid-range option on the market. You’re getting that powerful M2 processor and a 11-inch display.Read more below
Best Apple
Best ApplePacking a 120Hz refresh rate, powerful M4 processor, and the option for a massive 13-inch display – there’s plenty to love here. Read more below
Best Android
5. Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
Best AndroidBoasting a massive 14-inch display, the S8 Ultra is the largest gaming tablet on our list, and it’s also the best for Android users.Read more below
Curated byCurated byTabitha BakerManaging Editor – HardwareI’ve been running as many games as I can on everything from cheap Amazon Fire tablets to iPads for years now, and testing these devices on GamesRadar+ for the last three. I use everything from PlayStation remote play to Apple Arcade, Xbox Game Pass streaming to Google Play Store, and use these tablets every day for work, streaming, and note-taking. October 25 – We have updated this page to include up to date specifications and features for the Asus ROG Flow Z13 and added a new section listing our previously reviewed tablets. All products within this page have also been stock and price checked. The best gaming tablet overallImage 1 of 5(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)1. Asus ROG Flow Z13The best gaming tablet overallSpecificationsOperating system: Windows 11Screen: 13.4-inch, 2560 x 1600, 165HzCPU: Intel i9-13900HStorage: 1TBRear camera: 13MPFront camera: 5MPWeight: 2.6 lbs (1.18kg) Battery: Up to 6 hoursReasons to buy+Unrivalled tablet specs and performance+2-in-1 form factor+Versatile design+Solid build qualityReasons to avoid-Can buy far cheaper laptops-Shorter battery lifeThe Asus ROG Flow Z13 goes where no gaming tablet has gone before. This is a hybrid tablet and Asus gaming laptop, packing Intel’s 13th generation processors and either an RTX 4050 or RTX 4060 graphics card.Buy it if:✅ You want the power of a PC in tablet form: With Windows 11 you can play anything you would on a PC here – and that’s not something we can say for other entries on this list. ✅ You need a flexible option for a full setup: The Z13 can function as a tablet, or slap on the keyboard for a full laptop. Hook it up to an Asus ROG eGPU and you’ve got a powerful PC to boot. ✅ You see yourself upgrading to an eGPU in the future: It’s going to cost a pretty penny to grab the eGPU at the same time as the Z13, but if you see a future where you’re using the external dock for desk-based play, this is an excellent first step. Don’t buy it if:❌ You already have a gaming laptop: The Z13 is an expensive alternative to a gaming laptop, so if you’re after something to compliment the PC you already have you can save some cash with a cheaper model. ❌ Battery life is important: With all that power at the helm, the battery inside doesn’t hold up to something like a Samsung or Apple model. Design: The ROG Flow Z13 is certainly chunky – and it’s the heaviest tablet you’ll find listed here. That’s because it’s got the components of a full PC to work with, though, so it’s actually surprising it’s not too heavy. One-handed use might be out of the question but this is still an incredibly portable device. Not only that, but we particularly enjoyed the subtle RGB window into the circuitry on the back – a premium touch that lets the whole world know exactly what this tablet is being used for. Features: There’s the whole world of PC gaming at your fingertips here thanks to Windows 11, which means more games and services open to you than any other gaming tablet on this list. Using the Asus ROG Flow Z13 in both tablet and laptop mode was a dream, with a responsive magnetic keyboard and a sturdy kickstand to keep everything safe. Performance: The RTX 4050 or RTX 4060 GPU isn’t going to perform as well here as it would in a full-blown gaming laptop, but you’re still going to feel the benefit over a full mobile SOC. It’s important to note that this is an incredibly well engineered piece of kit. Our unit had an i9 processor under the hood 16GB RAM, and a 1TB SSD – all working together to offer some serious performance without the temperature and noise concerns of similar slimline devices. While the price point will lock many out of this luxury experience – and won’t be worth it for those after a laptop – this is certainly the best gaming tablet on the market right now when it comes down to sheer power. Verdict: While we struggled to recommend it as a gaming laptop in its entirety (this thing is particularly expensive), those on the hunt for a high-end gaming tablet with PC-level performance should definitely take note. Read more: Asus ROG Flow Z13 reviewSwipe to scroll horizontallyRatingsValue★★★☆☆Screen quality★★★★☆Speed★★★★☆Game compatibility★★★★★Storage★★★★☆Back to topThe best budget gaming tabletImage 1 of 6(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)The best budget gaming tabletSpecificationsOperating system: Fire OSScreen: 10.1 inches, 1920 x 1200CPU: Octa-Core 2.0GHzStorage: 32GB / 64GBRear camera: 5MPFront camera: 5MPWeight: 0.95lb (433g)Battery: Up to 13 hoursReasons to buy+Low entry level price point +Solid colorful display+Minimal branding+Workable everyday performance+Luna gaming service works wellReasons to avoid-Limited to its own app store-No Google services-Larger bezels-Cheaper feelIf you’re on the hunt for a cheap gaming tablet that will see you through your favorite mobile games alongside web browsing and streaming, then the Amazon Fire HD 10 is really all you need.Buy it if:✅ You’ll make use of Fire apps: If the games you want to play have been converted into Fire apps you’re golden here. ✅ You want a 10-inch display without the price tag: Those after a gaming tablet for the big screen alone will do best with this cheaper model, you’re getting a 10-inch display without the cost. ✅ You play lighter titles on the go: This isn’t a tablet for more heavy duty gaming, so it’s best suited to those who play lighter titles. Don’t buy it if:❌ You want a productivity machine as well: Navigating between apps is tricky and there are few productivity-oriented features supplied by the Fire app store. ❌ You’re tied to Google Play or Apple App Store: Of course, if the games you want to play aren’t offered by Amazon, you’re going to need to opt for a different system. Design: The design is basic, you’re picking up a black slate with a screen after all. With thicker bezels than you’ll find on more expensive models, and a plastic construction this doesn’t feel like a premium product. It doesn’t need to, though, it’s a cheap chassis to hold everything you need at a price that won’t break the bank. Features: You’re picking up a high quality screen that will help your games shine and plenty of internal power for a smooth experience in lighter titles. That’s considerable value for money, especially considering just how often these devices go on sale. While the MSRP stands at $149.99 for the 32GB model, that’s by no means the cheapest you can find these tablets during sale events. Those speakers are a little tinny and the touchscreen doesn’t feel as smooth as some of the more premium options, but it’ll certainly do for budget light gameplay. Performance: The Amazon Fire HD 10 can do what it does very well. Running games from Amazon’s own Fire selection and across Luna’s streaming service feels slick and smooth, with very few bumps along the way. While navigation between apps can feel a little more cumbersome, once you’re there you’re good to go. Trying to push the Fire HD 10 past anything lighter left us a few stutters though – this one’s for thumb tappers on the big screen.Verdict: The Amazon Fire HD 10 is perfect for those who need a decent Minecraft or LEGO Star Wars machine but don’t need to sink pay cheques into an investment. Sure, you won’t be getting the gut-busting performance of a dedicated device like the Asus ROG Flow Z13, or the premium finish and experience of an iPad Pro – but you’re not spending anywhere near the costs of those devices. Swipe to scroll horizontallyRatingsValue★★★★☆Screen quality★★☆☆☆Speed★★☆☆☆Game compatibility★☆☆☆☆Storage★☆☆☆☆Back to topThe best mid-range gaming tabletImage 1 of 5(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)3. iPad Air The best mid-range gaming tabletSpecificationsOperating system: iPad OSScreen: 11-inch or 13-inch 2732 x 2048 Liquid Retina displayCPU: M2Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TBRear camera: 12MP wideFront camera: 12MP ultra wideWeight: 617gBattery: Up to 10 hoursReasons to buy+Lightweight+Powerful M2 processor+Larger screenReasons to avoid-13-inch model starts getting into Pro price territoryApple’s latest iPad Air lives in the Goldilocks ‘just right’ zone of the best gaming tablets. Thanks to a reasonable price – for Apple, anyway – and oodles of power beneath a chic design, it’s everything you could want from a mid-range device.Buy it if:✅ You want a solid all-round level of power: With the Apple M2 chip but fewer extra features to boost the price tag you’re getting enough power for everyday play without inflating the price tag. ✅ You don’t need the extra features of the Pro: If you’re not fussed about boosted refresh rates, won’t need bags of storage, and don’t mind a few extra mm on your chassis, it’s well worth sticking to the Air model. ✅ You don’t want to spend more than $600 / £600: The 11-inch Air’s price is still considerable – this is Apple we’re talking about – but these things last. If you’re investing long term but don’t want to push too close to $1,000 / £1,000 it’s an excellent option. Don’t buy it if:❌ You want a 120Hz display: Only the Pro models offer a slicker 120Hz refresh rate display at the time of writing, so if you’re after smoother motion handling you’d be better off upgrading. Design: The Air follows the same design language of most iPads released recently. The squared off sides, flat back, and range of color options give it a lightweight profile with a nice level of personalization at checkout. Of course, everything feels sturdy here – we’ve managed to drop ours several times over the last couple of years and everything is fine. Features: Besides that revolutionary M2 processor, it offers a handsome 11-inch or 13-inch Liquid Retina display that’ll show off your games, movies, and TV shows at their best. Because there’s no home button, that screen has a bit more real-estate to play with as well.Thanks to compatibility with Apple’s own keyboard and trackpad, the Air is also giving you the functionality of an iPad Pro without the associated price tag. That makes it an excellent choice for those who don’t want to destroy their bank balance for the best of the best, but equally aren’t keen on budget alternatives.Performance: The iPad Air often surprises us in its performance offerings. With that M2 processor at the helm, the majority of larger big releases can run smoothly with settings turned down and you’ll be able to enjoy all the App Store’s triple-A content as well. The lower refresh rate display compared to the Pro model does mean motion isn’t handled quite as well, but considering the Pro’s price we’re not arguing. With a solid battery life, bright, crisp display, and an impressive set of speakers there’s already plenty to love here. Verdict: While some older 2022 models are still hanging around on the shelves, we’d recommend keeping a closer eye on the 2024 version. It’s the best mid-range gaming tablet on the market right now, and older devices are harder to come by. Swipe to scroll horizontallyRatingsValue★★★★★Screen quality★★★☆☆Speed★★★★☆Game compatibility★★★☆☆Storage★★★☆☆Back to topBest Apple gaming tabletImage 1 of 2(Image credit: Apple)(Image credit: Apple)4. iPad ProThe best Apple gaming tabletSpecificationsOperating system: iPad OSScreen: 11-inch Ultra Retina XDR OLED (2420 x 1668) / 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR OLED (2752 x 2064)CPU: Apple M4Storage: 256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TBRear camera: 12MP WideFront camera: 12MP Ultra WideWeight: 446g / 582gBattery: Up to 10 hoursReasons to buy+Incredibly versatile+Features mouse support+Powerful chipsetReasons to avoid-Far more expensive than other Apple optionsWant the best Apple gaming tablet possible? You can’t beat the new generation of iPad Pro.Buy it if:✅ You want the best iPad gaming experience possible: The iPad Pro isn’t just a gaming machine – it’s more of a productivity tool – but it does offer the best gaming experience on an Apple tablet yet as a by-product. ✅ A 120Hz refresh rate is a must: Those chasing super slick motion will need to be looking at the Pro – it’s the only iPad offering that 120Hz speed.✅ You also need a tablet for work: As mentioned above, this is a device built for multi-tasking through demanding workflows first and foremost, so if you’re after a tablet for work this will be your first reason to buy – gaming will often come second. Don’t buy it if:❌ You won’t make the most of those specs: If you don’t need a tablet for productivity and streaming as well, then there’s little reason to splash out on an iPad Pro just for gaming. ❌ You’re on a stricter budget: These devices carry some hefty price tags, so if you’re working with a smaller budget you’ll be looking further down the price scale. Design: There’s no doubt about it, the iPad Pro is gorgeous. Between its sleek chassis and that giant Ultra Retina XDR OLED display staring up at you, these are seriously good looking devices. Of course, you’re getting the durability and craftsmanship you would expect from an Apple device (just watch those corners if you’re not using a bumper case), and a couple of different muted aesthetic options to choose from. Features: With a powerful Apple M4 processor, trackpad and keyboard functionality, and a truly gorgeous Ultra Retina display with ProMotion technology, this is one of the best gaming tablets on the market by a long shot. Elsewhere, the new Pro offers a dual-camera setup and lidar sensors. These boost the performance of augmented reality apps by allowing the iPad to better judge distances. When combined with an excellent Liquid Retina screen that’s perfect for games and movies, FaceID, and compatibility with the must-have Apple Pencil, this is pinnacle tech.Performance: That M4 processor boosts nearly every aspect of the iPad Pro experience, including the performance of your games. That means you’ll load up titles faster, experience less lag, and your device will manage its battery far better when playing intensive software as well. The 120Hz refresh rate display also comes in mighty handy when running faster titles, keeping up with your framerate beautifully for super slick gameplay. Verdict: The iPad Pro isn’t going to be used solely as a gaming tablet for the vast majority of buyers. Instead, this is an all-in-one productivity machines with the best gaming chops among Apple devices. It’s an investment, but if you need a creative tablet for media editing, demanding workflows, and impressive gaming you’re all set. Swipe to scroll horizontallyRatingsValue★★★☆☆Screen quality★★★★★Speed★★★★★Game compatibility★★★☆☆Storage★★★★★Back to topImage 1 of 3(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)iPad 10.2 (2021)The best cheap Apple gaming tabletSpecificationsOperating system: iPadOSScreen: 10.2-inch Retina (2160 x 1620)CPU: A13 BionicStorage: 64GB / 256GBRear camera: 8MPFront camera: 1.2MP FaceTime HDWeight: 1.07lbs (487g)Battery: Up to 10 hoursReasons to buy+More affordable+Excellent screen quality+Classy designReasons to avoid-Storage options are limitedYou don’t need an iPad Pro to experience everything Apple tablets have to offer. Its entry level cousin is brilliant in its own right, and the 2021 iPad 10.2 (9th generation) is an excellent budget all-rounder.Buy it if:✅ You play a few lighter games: The 9th generation model will get along with App Store games and the odd lighter streamed title best. ✅ You primarily want to browse the web and stream: If you need an everyday device for web browsing, streaming, and lighter note taking, there’s no reason to spend more on the expensive features you won’t use in other models. ✅ You’re on a tighter budget: These tablets have dropped as low as $249 in the past, which means you’re getting excellent value if you’re working with a smaller budget.Don’t buy it if:❌ You play more demanding games: If you need to run a Triple-A title from the App Store you might have a harder time pushing the iPad to keep up. ❌ You want to multi-task: With a weaker processor and a smaller screen, the 9th gen model can’t compete with more expensive devices for those who need to multi-task with split-screen.❌ You want to use the Apple Pencil 2nd Gen: Being an older device, the 9th generation iPad is only compatible with the first generation Apple Pencil. Design: The 9th generation iPad follows a slightly older Apple design language, with larger bezels at the top and bottom of the screen, a physical home button (with fingerprint reader), and a gently sloped back. It still feels like a luxury device, though, thanks to the solid construction and matte finish on the back.Features: Thanks to an A13 Bionic chip with more than enough grunt to handle most games, it offers everything you need – and then some – from an everyday tablet. Plus, that 10.2-inch Retina display makes sure everything looks its best at all times. What’s more, this iPad makes up for its lack of storage options and a disappointing selfie camera by being compatible with the Apple Pencil. The latter is a revelation for artists and doodlers alike, responding to pressure in a way that blows many digital drawing pads out of the water. A 20W plug also means the iPad 10.2 also charges much faster than earlier versions. Performance: The older A13 chip isn’t going to give Apple’s M1 a hard time, but it can still keep up with everyday thumb tapper games and plenty more larger titles from the App store. You might not experience such fast loading times as more expensive models, and the slightly smaller 10.2-inch Retina display doesn’t offer as much real estate or color depth as the Air model. However, for everyday note-taking, streaming, and App Store titles it’s a solid machine. Verdict: The 9th generation iPad still feels premium, with a bright screen, solid processing performance, and a solid chassis design. It’s perfect for lighter use with that Apple flair, just without the crippling price tag to match.Swipe to scroll horizontallyRatingsValue★★★★★Screen quality★★☆☆☆Speed★★★☆☆Game compatibility★★★☆☆Storage★★★☆☆Back to topBest Android gaming tabletImage 1 of 5(Image credit: GamesRadar / Brendan Griffiths)(Image credit: GamesRadar / Brendan Griffiths)(Image credit: GamesRadar / Brendan Griffiths)(Image credit: GamesRadar / Brendan Griffiths)(Image credit: GamesRadar / Brendan Griffiths)5. Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 UltraThe best Android gaming tabletSpecificationsOperating system: Android 12Screen: 14.6-inch Super AMOLED, 120HzCPU: Snapdragon 8 Gen 1Storage: 128GB / 256GB / 512GBRear camera: 13MP wide / 6MP ultrawideFront camera: 12MPWeight: 1.6lbs (726g)Battery: Up to 10 hoursReasons to buy+Gorgeous 14.6-inch display+Very thin and light+S Pen stylus includedReasons to avoid-Very expensive-Keyboard is an additional $350-OS holds it back as a laptop replacementThe Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra is a premium affair, but it’s the best gaming tablet using the Android operating system on the market right now.Buy it if:✅ You want as big a screen as possible: With a 14.6-inch display, the S8 Ultra is leading the pack in screen real estate right now.✅ But don’t want extra bulk in your bag: Considering the sheer size of that screen, it’s excellent to see a super thin chassis design. That means you won’t feel like you’re lugging a massive device around with you. ✅ You want to play games not available on Apple: Of course, Fortnite players will need to opt for this Android operating system. Don’t buy it if:❌ You want a laptop replacement: With an expensive keyboard to throw on and OS limitations with Google Play Store, the S8 Ultra isn’t going to replace a laptop for value.❌ You won’t make the most of that screen space: The massive screen on offer here is going to be excellent for those who will use it. If, however, you won’t be using the S8 Ultra for productivity, it feels a little over the top considering the price it carries. Design: Day to day, we loved the look and feel of the Tab S8 Ultra when browsing the web and catching up on YouTube content. Again, that larger screen came in clutch, requiring very little scrolling to read longer articles, however did grow a little too heavy when held vertically. We found the whole slab much easier to hold horizontally, when there’s less hardware to create a top-heavy feel, but if you’re after a one-handed device this certainly isn’t it. Features: Despite not offering a fully fledged OLED display, we were seriously impressed by the black levels on this screen. It’s the largest tablet screen (Asus ROG Flow included) we’ve had our hands on. That makes for a far more immersive experience than you’ll find elsewhere – even if you are paying for that luxury. The speakers pack a serious punch, especially once you switch on Dolby Atmos, you’re getting the S Pen stylus included for note-taking (Apple’s devices require a separate purchase), and you’re also benefiting from task bar app switching as well. Performance: We were able to maintain a solid refresh rate with Call of Duty Mobile set to max, even if Diablo Immortal struggled to reach the same heights. We would certainly recommend using a mobile controller for these endeavours, though. That larger display makes on-screen controls particularly difficult for anything too taxing, but did make light work of puzzlers like Monument Valley. That massive 14.6-inch display is certainly working hard for you as well, offering up a sense of immersion that can’t be matched by other entries on this list. Verdict: If you’re after on-the-go Fortnite on a massive 14-inch display, this is where you need to be. It outsizes Apple’s Pro line, and boosts performance over Samsung’s regular flagships, making it a go-to if you’re after an all-in-one device for play, streaming, and the odd bit of work. Read more: Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra reviewSwipe to scroll horizontallyRatingsValue★★★★☆Screen quality★★★★☆Speed★★★★☆Game compatibility★★★☆☆Storage★★★★☆Back to topImage 1 of 3(Image credit: Samsung)(Image credit: Samsung)(Image credit: Samsung)Samsung Galaxy Tab A7The best cheap Android gaming tabletSpecificationsOperating system: AndroidScreen: 10.4-inch (2000 x 1200)CPU: Octa-CoreStorage: 32GBRear camera: 8MPFront camera: 5MPWeight: 1.04lbs (476g)Battery: Up to 13 hoursReasons to buy+Cheaper Galaxy Tab+Fast processor+LightweightSure, you can get Android or Apple products that are flashier. But few provide the same level of bang for buck as the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7.Buy it if:✅ You play lighter games: The processing power under the hood here is only going to see you through lighter titles, but will do so with aplomb and without breaking the bank. ✅ You prioritize power over screen quality: Screen quality is a sacrifice for this kind of Android-based power, which means those keen on feasting their eyes will need to move further up the price scale. ✅ You’re happy to use a MicroSD for larger files: If you want to run past that 32GB of onboard storage you’re good to go with a MicroSD card. That’s not something we can say of the port-less iPad. Don’t buy it if:❌ You play demanding games: Of course, heavier titles just aren’t going to run well on this budget device. If you have a more substantial library it’s worth investing in something more powerful. ❌ Camera quality is a priority: The camera on a gaming tablet as cheap as this was never going to be Instagram worthy, so if you need a device for video meetings or streaming we’d invest elsewhere. Design: A sleeker design with smaller bezels helps maintain that image of quality; as well as looking modern, the Tab A7 allows more space for a larger screen than the iPad 9th generation. The whole affair is simple but lightweight, with the choice between dark gray, silver, and gold colorways all splashed across a standard but durable feeling back panel. You’re certainly upgrading over the Fire HD 10’s plastic construction here. Features: You get some cool toys to play with despite cutting costs, too. Namely, the A7 features facial recognition for faster unlocks. After using the feature for a while, it’s difficult to go back. However, we were more appreciative of the good old 3.5mm headphone jack. You’ll also find a MicroSD card slot to boost the 32GB internal storage running along the edge as well. The screen is far behind its siblings, rocking up with a 2,000 x 1,200 LCD panel, which means lower brightness and some odd viewing angle issues. However, you’re still getting a quad speaker and Dolby Atmos for a more cinematic experience. Performance: While its Qualcomm SM6115 processor won’t be able to keep up with more expensive competitors, the Tab A7 is still miles ahead of cheap and cheerful alternatives. That means it’ll be able to take most games in its stride. Indeed, it’ll only struggle when you ask it to run more demanding software, or lots of programs at once.Verdict: Anyone looking to save some cash without going down the Apple route should check out the A7. There are some tradeoffs in screen quality, but a 10.4-inch display and a budget-friendly approach means this is one of the best gaming tablets out there for entry level Samsung-ites. Swipe to scroll horizontallyRatingsValue★★★☆☆Screen quality★★★☆☆Speed★★★☆☆Game compatibility★★★☆☆Storage★☆☆☆☆Back to topAlso testedHow we test gaming tabletsWe live, work, and play with every gaming tablet that crosses our desks, be it through a full day’s note-taking or streaming the latest games through various available services. Every brand has different limitations, though, and sometimes those limitations come in the form of supported content. An Amazon Fire tablet, for example, can’t be tested in the same way as a Samsung Galaxy or Apple iPad – its store system is completely different. For the most part, then, we test all gaming tablets across Xbox Game Pass streaming, PlayStation Remote Play, and demanding native games like Genshin Impact, PUBG Mobile, and MTG Arena. Where these options are unavailable, we instead test across the most well-known titles playable on each tablet, as ranked by player count. We play all of these games at their maximum settings possible, for example where a tablet offers variable refresh rates, and run them both plugged in and off battery. We also run a series of synthetic benchmarks where possible, using 3D Mark’s mobile suite. Outside of gaming, we’re also looking to the display, battery life, form factor, speakers, connectivity, and extra accessories on each tablet. We measure display brightness at full settings as well as noting any difference these settings make towards battery and temperature. We fully charge every gaming tablet as soon as it’s taken out of the box and run it completely down over the course of a day’s constant use. During this time it is used at 50% screen brightness for streaming battery test movies. Our speaker tests are performed with Spotify, running a series of different genres, as well as everyday streaming and gameplay. At the end of our testing, each tablet is awarded a score based out of five categories; value, screen quality, speed, game compatibility, and storage. These scores are used to compare models within the same price points or use-cases. For more information on how we test gaming tablets, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy. Full comparisonIf you’re still unsure which tablet is right for you, we’re comparing everything in one shot just below. We’re ranking each gaming tablet above across a series of categories so that you can work out exactly what suits your needs best. These star ratings are all on a sliding scale relative to the rest of the models on show, so – for example – while the Amazon Fire HD 10 has solid speed considering its price point, it’s still slower than the others in the comparison.Swipe to scroll horizontallyRow 0 – Cell 0 ValueScreen qualitySpeedGame compatibilityStorageAsus ROG Flow Z13★★☆☆☆★★★☆☆★★★★☆★★★★★★★★★☆Amazon Fire HD 10★★★★☆★★☆☆☆★★☆☆☆★☆☆☆☆★☆☆☆☆iPad Air★★★★★★★★☆☆★★★★☆★★★☆☆★★★☆☆Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra★★★★☆★★★★☆★★★★☆★★★☆☆★★★★☆iPad Pro★★★☆☆★★★★★★★★★★★★★☆☆★★★★★How to choose a gaming tabletBuying a tablet explicitly for gaming means you’ll need to check out a few features that might not make it into your hit list of an every day device. There’s one big one, which is the games you can actually play on the device, but other than that things like processing power, WiFi versions, Bluetooth speeds, and refresh rates are more important here than for a more casual use. What game services does this tablet support? Different tablets will run on different operating systems, which means you’ll need to check out the games you can actually download and run on your device. While the majority of Apple and Android devices will be able to stream from cloud gaming services like Xbox and Nvidia, it’s worth having a nose through their app stores as well. Apple, for example, offers the Arcade subscription but doesn’t carry Fortnite on its store. After you’ve found an operating system, it’s time to make sure you’re getting enough juice under the hood to run these games properly. The next question you should ask yourself is: How much power do I need? The majority of recently released tablets from Apple and Samsung will be able to stomach running games smoothly from either streaming services or native download. However, if you’re going back in time for your purchase you’ll want to make sure your device has a good amount of RAM and a fairly new processor under the hood to avoid stutters. How much do I want to pay for my screen’s refresh rate? Brands often use the same displays across their devices, but you can often pay a little more for a 120Hz variable refresh rate display. This screen comes packed with an iPad Pro, for instance. That’s going to give you top shelf motion handling and make sure all your games are pristine. However, it’s a costly affair. At the budget end of the spectrum, we’d recommend making sure you’re getting at least a 60Hz refresh rate for a gaming-focused device. Do I want to stream my games? If you want to stream your experiences through Xbox Game Pass or Nvidia you’ll need to make sure you’ve got the internet strength to do so. That stars with the router and internet package that you actually have, but there are ways you can future-proof yourself. You’ll want to make sure you’re picking up a device with at least WiFi 6E installed. We’re also seeing WiFi 7 making its way to more gadgets these days as well. Do I want to use a wireless controller? Most tablets will require you to connect your wireless controller via Bluetooth, so you’ll need to make sure you’re getting a device that can carry high bandwidth Bluetooth signals. These are the minimum for getting a low-latency connection, especially considering 2.4GHz receivers rarely work on mobile. Best gaming tablet FAQs(Image credit: Future)What size tablet do you need for gaming?The best gaming tablets steer away from the smaller 7-inch displays of more entry level devices. That means we’d recommend picking up a screen size of at least 10-inches if you plan on spending a significant amount of time gaming on your tablet.How much RAM does a gaming tablet need?Cheaper gaming tablets can ship with as little as 2GB RAM. Because memory is needed far less in a tablet than a laptop or PC, we’d recommend aiming for at least 3GB and hopefully picking up 4GB. Of course, this all depends on your budget, and if you’re browsing in the upper echelons of the market you could be offered up to 16GB, though this is only reserved for more specialised devices.Which budget tablet is best for gaming?Budget tablets include the likes of the Samsung Galaxy Tab A7, Amazon Fire tablet, iPad base model, and Lenovo M-series devices. Of these brands, we’d recommend picking up an Amazon Fire HD 10 for an ultra-cheap gaming tablet experience, or upgrading to an entry level iPad for the best value if you’re looking to stream and browse the web as well. Want a bigger screen to game on after all? Don’t forget to take a look at the best gaming TVs or our guide to the best OLED TV. No matter whether you’re playing a console game on them or streaming something from Disney Plus, they’ll make your content look its best.Find out more about all the recommendations we make with our full GamesRadar+ Hardware policy.
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