Choosing the right tablet for college can be overwhelming, especially with the various models available. Students need versatile, portable, and powerful devices to handle academic and extracurricular tasks. Whether for note-taking, research, multimedia projects, or leisure activities, the ideal tablet should balance performance, portability, and price.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best tablets for college students in 2024, focusing on performance, features, pros and cons, and why each one is a great option for college life. Our focus will be on tablets that offer excellent multitasking capabilities, long battery life, and integration with productivity tools—all while being budget-friendly for students.

What is a Tablet?

A tablet is a portable, flat, lightweight computing device with a touchscreen interface for ease of use and mobility. It functions similarly to a smartphone but with a larger display, making it ideal for tasks like reading, browsing, taking notes, or watching videos. Tablets can range in size, typically between 7 to 13 inches, and often come with features such as wireless connectivity, built-in cameras, and compatibility with accessories like keyboards and styluses. Many tablets run operating systems like iOS, Android, or Windows, allowing users to download apps, multitask, and even perform laptop-level functions. Their versatility makes them popular for casual use and productivity, appealing to students, professionals, and casual users alike.

Characteristics to Look For

When choosing a tablet for college students, several key characteristics must be considered. First, portability is crucial, as students need a lightweight device that is easy to carry between classes and study sessions. Another important consideration is performance; the tablet should be able to multitask by running academic or creative apps, taking notes, and conducting internet research quickly, thanks to its quick CPU and ample RAM. Battery life is essential for ensuring the tablet lasts through long study sessions or lectures without needing a charge. Compatibility with accessories, such as a stylus for note-taking or a detachable keyboard for typing, can significantly enhance productivity. The tablet should also offer a high-quality display, providing clear and sharp visuals for reading textbooks, watching lectures, or working on projects. Additionally, storage capacity is essential, especially for students who need to store large files like presentations, e-books, and multimedia. Finally, students should consider software compatibility—whether the tablet supports the apps and tools required for their coursework and its overall durability to withstand the rigors of daily use.

Apple iPad Air (5th Generation)

Overview:

The iPad Air (5th Gen) is a powerful, sleek, and versatile device, making it an excellent choice for college students. Powered by Apple’s M1 chip, it delivers desktop-level performance in a portable package. Whether you’re taking notes, editing videos, or multitasking between research tabs, the iPad Air handles it easily. One of the significant advantages of the iPad Air is its ability to transform from a lightweight tablet into a productivity powerhouse when paired with accessories like the Apple Pencil or Magic Keyboard. Students who prefer handwriting their notes will appreciate the seamless experience of jotting down ideas with the second-generation Apple Pencil.

Additionally, the iPad Air integrates smoothly with the Apple ecosystem, which means students using iPhones, MacBooks, or Apple Watches will find it easier to sync data and stay organized. The iPadOS supports multitasking features like Split View and Slide Over, enabling students to open multiple apps simultaneously—whether writing a paper while referencing a PDF or video chatting with classmates while taking notes. The tablet’s portability and excellent battery life make it perfect for moving between lectures, libraries, and study spots.

Key Features:

• Display: 10.9-inch True Tone Liquid Retina display
• Processor: Apple M1 chip
• Storage: Options of 64GB or 256GB
• Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
• Compatibility: Supports Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) and Magic Keyboard

Pros:

• Due to its excellent performance, the M1 microprocessor is appropriate for demanding jobs like graphic design and video editing.
• Excellent integration with the Apple ecosystem—perfect for students already using other Apple devices like iPhones or MacBooks.
• The 10.9-inch display offers vibrant colors and is large enough for reading and note-taking.

Cons:

• The base model’s limited storage (64GB) may not be enough for students with large media files or apps.
• Accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil are sold separately, meaning you’ll need to buy them in addition, which raises the overall price.

Why It’s Great for Students:

The iPad Air combines performance, portability, and versatility, making it a perfect all-rounder for college students. From note-taking with the Apple Pencil to running demanding apps, this tablet can easily handle most academic and creative tasks. Whether an art major is looking for a digital sketchbook or a science student managing multiple research papers, the iPad Air offers the flexibility and power to excel in college life.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9

Overview:

Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S9 is one of the best Android tablets on the market, offering a premium display, powerful processor, and excellent multitasking capabilities. With the included S Pen and Dex mode for desktop-like functionality, the Galaxy Tab S9 is ideal for students looking for a tablet that can also serve as a productivity powerhouse. This device is perfect for those who prefer the Android operating system and want a high-quality device that can easily transition from entertainment to academic use.

The Galaxy Tab S9’s Dex mode is particularly useful for students who want a more desktop-like experience. It allows users to connect the tablet to a keyboard and use apps in a more traditional PC layout. This is perfect for writing essays or preparing presentations, as students can benefit from a familiar interface without the need for a separate laptop. The vibrant AMOLED display also makes it a great option for media-heavy studies, such as film, photography, or visual arts, where color accuracy and detail matter.

For students juggling multiple assignments or tasks, the Galaxy Tab S9 excels in multitasking. With split-screen functionality, students can run multiple apps side by side, making it easier to research, take notes, and stay organized. With the S Pen built into the tablet, taking notes, drawing, and navigating are smooth and straightforward tasks.

Key Features:

• Display: 11-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
• Storage: Starts at 128GB, expandable via microSD
• Battery Life: Up to 14 hours
• Compatibility: Comes with S Pen included

Pros:

• The vibrant and sharp AMOLED display is perfect for watching lectures, reading, and multimedia editing.
• The included S Pen is great for note-taking, drawing, and tablet navigation.
• Dex mode allows the tablet to function like a laptop with a connected keyboard, making it ideal for multitasking.
• Expandable storage via microSD card is a big plus for students with large media libraries or app collections.

Cons:

• The software can feel bloated with Samsung-specific apps and features that may not be useful to all users.
• The keyboard cover is an additional cost, which adds to the overall price.

Why It’s Great for Students:

With its powerful processor, multitasking features, and S Pen, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 is an excellent choice for students needing an Android device to handle productivity tasks. Its stunning display and long battery life make it ideal for work and leisure. This tablet offers the best of both worlds, from taking lecture notes to watching movies during downtime.

Microsoft Surface Pro 9

Overview:

For students who need the functionality of a laptop in tablet form, the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is a fantastic option. With its elegant, portable appearance, this 2-in-1 gadget combines a tablet’s functionality with a computer’s power. Whether you’re writing papers, conducting research, or attending online classes, the Surface Pro 9 can do it. Running Windows 11, this tablet ensures a seamless experience for students who prefer the Windows ecosystem.

One of the Surface Pro 9’s significant advantages is its powerful Intel processors, which provide the same level of performance as many high-end laptops. This makes it ideal for students pursuing fields that require more computational power, such as computer science, engineering, or architecture. Students may transition easily between more focused tasks like writing or coding and more informal note-taking thanks to the ability to convert between tablet and laptop modes.

The Surface Pro 9 also includes several other peripherals, like the Surface Pen and Surface Keyboard. These tools further enhance productivity, especially for students who must handwrite notes or sketches. The long battery life and high-resolution display make it a perfect device for working on projects, attending virtual classes, or watching tutorials and lectures.

Key Features:

• Display: 13-inch PixelSense Flow Display
• Processor: 12th generation Intel Core i5 or i7
• Storage: Starts at 128GB, up to 1TB
• Battery Life: Up to 15.5 hours
• Compatibility: Supports Surface Pen and Surface Keyboard

Pros:

• The 13-inch display provides ample space for multitasking, whether writing essays or reading PDFs.
• Thanks to the 2-in-1 architecture, it’s simple to transition between tablet and laptop modes for taking notes and writing papers.
• Excellent battery life ensures you can work all day without needing to recharge.
• The performance of the 12th Gen Intel processors can handle demanding tasks like coding, video editing, and graphic design.

Cons:

• The keyboard and Surface Pen are sold separately, adding to the overall cost.
• The price can be higher than that of other tablets on this list.

Why It’s Great for Students:

The Surface Pro 9 is perfect for students who need a laptop’s power but a tablet’s portability. Its versatile design, excellent performance, and integration with Windows 11 make it a great choice for productivity, research, and creativity. Whether drafting a research paper, coding a project, or attending virtual classes, the Surface Pro 9 provides all the tools you need to stay productive throughout the day.

Apple iPad Pro (12.9-inch, 6th Generation)

Overview:

For students who need the absolute best performance and a large display, the iPad Pro (12.9-inch) is the top choice. With the powerful M2 chip and a stunning display, the iPad Pro is ideal for creative students studying graphic design, video production, or other media-intensive subjects. It’s more than just a tablet—it’s a powerhouse capable of handling tasks typically reserved for desktops.

The 12.9-inch iPad Pro’s Liquid Retina XDR display is one of the most impressive tablet screens available, offering exceptional brightness, color accuracy, and contrast. This makes it perfect for creative students who need the highest display fidelity, such as those studying photography, video editing, or animation. The M2 chip delivers industry-leading performance, making demanding tasks like 4K video editing, 3D rendering, or augmented reality (AR) work seamless and fast.

Additionally, the iPad Pro is highly compatible with the Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) and Magic Keyboard, transforming it into a full-fledged workstation for students who need a high-performance device for coursework, creative projects, or presentations. Its superior hardware also ensures that students who multitask between various apps—writing, research, and media editing—can do so without lag.

Key Features:

• Display: 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display
• Processor: Apple M2 chip
• Storage: Options from 128GB to 2TB
• Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
• Compatibility: Supports Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) and Magic Keyboard

Pros:

• The M2 chip delivers top-tier performance, making this tablet perfect for demanding tasks like 4K video editing, 3D modeling, and graphic design.
• The 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display offers unmatched color accuracy and brightness, ideal for visual arts and media studies.
• Excellent ecosystem integration with other Apple products and full support for the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard.

Cons:

• It is expensive, especially when factoring in accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil.
• Depending on your needs, the large size may not be as portable as smaller tablets.

Why It’s Great for Students:

If you’re studying a creative field and need a professional-level performance in a portable device, the iPad Pro (12.9-inch) is unbeatable. Its power, display quality, and accessory support make it the best option for art, design, and multimedia students. Whether creating detailed illustrations, editing high-definition video, or working with 3D models, the iPad Pro provides the performance needed to handle complex projects efficiently.

Lenovo Tab P11 Pro (2nd Gen)

Overview:

The Lenovo Tab P11 Pro (2nd Gen) is a wonderful alternative for students on a budget who still want a powerful and versatile tablet. It features a large OLED display and decent processing power and supports the Lenovo Precision Pen 3, making it a solid choice for note-taking, media consumption, and light productivity tasks. The Lenovo Tab P11 Pro is perfect for students who want a device that provides excellent value for money without sacrificing essential features.

The OLED display on this tablet provides sharp contrast and brilliant colors, making it perfect for students who read a lot or watch lectures regularly. Precision Pen 3 is an excellent addition for those who prefer digital note-taking or sketching. Whether you’re jotting down notes in class or creating diagrams, the stylus adds a layer of functionality to the tablet. Despite being a budget-friendly option, the Lenovo Tab P11 Pro still delivers enough performance for most academic tasks, such as writing essays, browsing the web, or attending virtual classes.

One of the standout features of this tablet is its expandable storage, allowing students to easily add more space for files, apps, and media without breaking the bank. For students who want a tablet for entertainment, the Lenovo Tab P11 Pro offers an immersive experience with its vibrant screen, making it perfect for watching movies or streaming content during downtime.

Key Features:

• Display: 11.2-inch OLED display
• Processor: MediaTek Kompanio 1300T
• Storage: 128GB, expandable via microSD
• Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
• Compatibility: Supports Lenovo Precision Pen 3

Pros:

• The OLED display offers rich colors and deep blacks, making it great for watching videos and reading.
• The Lenovo Precision Pen 3 is great for students who want to take digital notes or sketch.
• Expandable storage via microSD card is ideal for students needing extra media or document space.
• Affordable price compared to premium models from Apple and Samsung.

Cons:

• The performance suits basic tasks but may need help with more demanding apps like video editing or gaming.
• The Android software experience may not be as polished as iPadOS or Windows on higher-end tablets.

Why It’s Great for Students:

The Lenovo Tab P11 Pro (2nd Gen) is a great, budget-friendly option that still performs everyday academic tasks well. Its OLED display and included stylus makes it ideal for note-taking and media consumption, perfect for students who need an affordable yet capable device. Whether you need a reliable tablet for studying, reading, or entertainment, this tablet offers excellent value for students on a budget.

Best Tablets Prices

Tablet	Price (USD)
Apple iPad Air (5th Generation)	$599
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9	$799
Microsoft Surface Pro 9	$999
Apple iPad Pro (12.9-inch, 6th Generation)	$1,099
Lenovo Tab P11 Pro (2nd Gen)	$399

FAQs

What is the best tablet for note-taking?

The Apple iPad Air (5th Generation) is great for note-taking with its Apple Pencil support.

Which tablet is best for students on a budget?

The Lenovo Tab P11 Pro (2nd Gen) is affordable and offers excellent features at a lower price point.

Can a tablet replace a laptop for college?

The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 gives you the best of both worlds, seamlessly switching between a tablet and a laptop. Its versatile 2-in-1 design and powerful features make it a top choice!

What tablet has the best display for creative tasks?

The Apple iPad Pro (12.9-inch) offers a stunning Liquid Retina XDR display, perfect for design and multimedia projects.

Is Android or iOS better for students?

Both are great, but iOS offers better app optimization and a more seamless ecosystem for students already using Apple devices—experience Android tablets’ enhanced customization and flexibility, including the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9.

Conclusion

Choosing the best tablet for college students ultimately depends on individual needs and preferences. If you’re an Apple enthusiast looking for a versatile and robust option, the iPad Air or iPad Pro are fantastic. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 offers excellent performance and multitasking features for those who prefer Android. Meanwhile, students who need a 2-in-1 device that doubles as a laptop will find the Surface Pro 9 ideal.

Budget-conscious students should consider the Lenovo Tab P11 Pro for its affordability and solid performance. Whatever your needs, these tablets provide excellent tools to help you stay productive, organized, and entertained throughout your college years.